Home education guidance in the four UK nations

The next step depends on the nation you live in, whether your child is already on a school roll and any special arrangements that apply. When speaking to a school or authority, have the school type and details of any attendance order or additional support plan to hand.

England

Parents are responsible for providing a suitable full-time education. They can choose how to deliver it, including whether to use the national curriculum. Government guidance says to tell the school if you plan to take a child out to home educate. It sets out separate permission requirements for children at a special school or attending under a school attendance order. Check the circumstances with your council before setting a leaving date. Read the GOV.UK guide for parents.

Wales

Welsh Government guidance says parents should tell the school in writing when withdrawing a child to home educate. A special-school placement involves an additional consent step. Read the Welsh guidance on a local authority’s role and how it considers whether a child is receiving suitable education. Read the Welsh Government guidance.

The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 contains measures concerning children who are not in school. The timing of individual measures matters. Check the current notice for your nation when making a decision. Welsh Government explains the Act and home education.

Scotland

When taking a child out of a public school they have been attending, parents normally need the local authority’s consent. The Scottish Government explains circumstances where consent is unnecessary, including when a child has never attended a public school. Read the withdrawal section before changing attendance, particularly if your child is moving between areas. Read the Scottish Government’s withdrawal guidance.

Northern Ireland

Parents must arrange education suitable for their child’s age, ability, aptitude and any special educational needs. The Education Authority publishes its own guidelines for families and schools. Its elective home education team can answer questions about leaving a school, records and support. Read the Education Authority’s guidance for parents.

Guidance checked on 8 November 2026. For an individual case involving a formal order or a dispute, seek case-specific advice before taking action.