Homeschooling is a growing movement across the globe, and in Australia, 40% of children are homeschooled. But what does it mean to homeschool your child? First of all, it means that your child is learning at home rather than in a classroom. This is a huge time and money saving decision, but it also requires a significant commitment.
Home-schooling is a “massive” commitment
Home-schooling is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Australian families with school-age children. In fact, 22 per cent of Australian households – or nearly two million people – home-school their children. This growing trend is largely driven by fears that the education system is failing to meet the special learning needs of many children. But parents should be aware that home-schooling involves a “massive” time commitment and requires significant resources.
While many institutions are now recognizing the importance of home-schooling for the education of children, many still have reservations about home-schooled students. However, some universities are easing their criteria for remote students and accepting home-schoolers as students. For example, universities often offer entry boosts for students who are home-schooled, and a number of scholarships are available for those who meet these criteria.
It saves time
Homeschooling in Australia can save time and money. It is legal to homeschool your children in most states. You can even get government subsidies if you want. The costs involved in homeschooling depend on your family’s needs and educational approach. Homeschool registration is free in Australia and the government offers exemptions for homeschooling parents. In addition, the government’s isolated children’s scheme pays for a portion of your child’s schooling expenses.
In Australia, there are about 20,000 homeschooled students, with numbers growing. In 2013, there were around 1,100 homeschooled students in Queensland. By 2018, these numbers had increased to 3,232 – the same as the population of the Brisbane State High School. The numbers of homeschooling students are rising in other states, as well. In New South Wales, there were about 4,700 homeschooled students compared to 3,300 in 2013. In Victoria, there were about 3,45 homeschoolers.
It is a mental health issue
In Australia, homeschooling is becoming a popular option for many families. Research indicates that homeschooling has a positive influence on the mental health of children. Some of these benefits include longer sleep ins, a more positive work ethic, and improved physical wellbeing. Using an online homeschool curriculum may also contribute to the positive changes in a child’s mental health.
However, despite the many benefits of homeschooling, studies have also highlighted some drawbacks. Many children with mental health problems don’t get the proper treatment. Treatment can be delayed due to a lack of knowledge about their symptoms. Parents may be less inclined to seek help for their child, and there is a higher risk of misdiagnosis.
It is a neglected system
Homeschooling is an increasingly popular educational option in Australia, with a growing number of families opting for it. Many parents, for a variety of cultural reasons, feel schools are failing their children. They also believe schools don’t meet their children’s basic needs, such as education and socialisation. Homeschooling parents are required to report their progress to their state education department, but these requirements vary from state to state.
Homeschooling is becoming increasingly popular, especially among children with special needs. Autism spectrum children are among the most common group of children who are homeschooled. The school system struggles to meet the needs of these children, who are also often bullied. Some parents feel forced to homeschool their children, because they can’t find the solutions to these issues in the system. Homeschooling provides a more individualised education, which is crucial for children with autism.
It is regulated by the state’s registration criteria
Homeschooling in Australia is regulated by state registration criteria, which differ for each state. Some states require parents to register with the state and submit to a Home Educator Moderator evaluation. Other states do not require registration or have vague conditions. For instance, in South Australia and the Northern Territory, homeschooling parents are not required to register, but they can apply for exemptions from compulsory attendance laws if they meet certain criteria.
In Western Australia, homeschooling is gaining popularity, and is considered a legitimate form of education for school-aged children. State registration criteria for homeschooling are regulated by the Education Act. Distance education is considered a form of home schooling in Australia. Although it generally occurs in the home, it uses employed teaching staff and technology to deliver a standard curriculum.