Elective Home Education

Elective Home Education is sometimes also referred to as Education Other than in/at School, Education Otherwise, or Home Education.

Elective Home Education (EHE) is an option that you may choose for your child as an alternative to school. 

There are a variety of reasons why some families decide EHE is the best option for their child.  These reasons might include:

• distance or access to a local school
• religious or cultural beliefs
• philosophical or ideological views
• dissatisfaction with the system
• as a short-term intervention for a particular reason
• a parent's desire for a closer relationship with their child

You do not need any formal qualifications, or be a teacher, to educate your child at home. Parents may choose to engage private tutors or other adults to assist them, but it is not a requirement to do so.  Section 7 of the Education Act 1996 states:

"The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable-
(a) to his age, ability and aptitude, and
(b) to any special needs he may have,
either by regular attendance at school or otherwise."

Bexley respects parents' rights to opt for EHE.  However, if the decision has been made as a result of a dispute with your child's school, you are encouraged to contact the school's Education Welfare Officer or Attendance Officer for advice on resolving the issues in order that your child can remain at, or return to school.

Before you make the final decision to remove your child from the school roll, it is advisable to contact the Local Authority's EHE Liaison Officer for an informal discussion regarding further information, including the procedure to be followed and guidance on the law.