School Attendance and Pupil Welfare
Elective Home Education
Educating your child at home
Some parents choose to educate their children at home for a variety of personal, educational, philosophical, or practical reasons. Pembrokeshire County Council recognises and respects the right of parents to electively home educate their children.
Parents who wish to withdraw their child from a school roll to educate them at home should notify the school in writing. The school will update its records and notify the Local Authority of the parents decision.
Parents' responsibilities
Parents have a legal right to educate their children at home, provided they fulfil the requirements of Section 7 of the Education Act 1996, which states:
"The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him or her to receive efficient full-time education suitable to his or her age, ability and aptitude, and to any additional learning needs they may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise."
It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that the education provided is suitable and effective. Home education in Wales is not required to follow the Curriculum for Wales. However, parents must ensure that the education provided if efficient, full-time and suitable for their child's age, ability, aptitude and any additional learning needs they may have.
Parents may also wish to consider future opportunities for their child, including access to qualifications, further education, training, and employment.
Welsh Government EHE Handbook for Home Educators (opens in a new tab)
Support from the local authority
Pembrokeshire County Council is committed to working positively and collaboratively with families who choose Elective Home Education.
The Local Authority's Elective Home Education Advisors can offer support, information, guidance, and opportunities to discuss the educational provision being made for your child. The council seeks to develop positive relationships with home educating families based on mutual trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.
For further information or advice, please contact:
The Elective Home Education Team
email: ehe@pembrokeshire.gov.uk
Phone: 01437 764551
Independent information, advice and support
Families seeking impartial information, advice, and support can contact the Parent Partnership Service. The service helps parents and carers make informed decisions about their child's education and provides advice on the options available to them.
Parent Partnership Service
email: pps@pembrokeshire.gov.uk
Phone: 01437 776354