Why this guide exists
The UK has four separate education systems. Terms like “Local Authority” (England), “local authority / education authority / council” elsewhere, and the exact duties on parents and authorities differ by nation.
Use this page as a map, then read your government’s current Elective Home Education or home education guidance before making decisions.
England
Section 7 of the Education Act 1996 (see the England guide) places the duty on parents. LAs have responsibilities to identify children not receiving a suitable education; how they engage with home educating families is described in DfE guidance.
Scotland
Scottish Government publishes “Home education guidance” for local authorities; it must be read alongside the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 and related law. The guidance describes home education as a valid form of parental choice and sets expectations for fair, consistent handling by authorities.
Terminology such as “school age” and local authority roles differs from England. Refer to gov.scot publications for the authoritative version.
Wales
Welsh Government publishes statutory guidance on elective home education for local authorities (available on gov.wales). It reflects duties under provisions such as section 436A of the Education Act 1996 as applied in the Welsh context and emphasises rights, safeguarding and assessment of suitability in line with Welsh policy.
Northern Ireland
Education is administered differently; Education Authorities and relevant Departments publish home education information. Parents should use the official NI education sources for registration, monitoring expectations, and SEN arrangements — do not assume English rules transfer directly.
Cross-border moves
If you move between nations, re-read residence rules, exam entry as a private candidate, and any requirement to notify the new authority. Healthcare and SEND systems also differ.
A note on accuracy. This guide is general information, not legal, medical, or professional advice about your situation. Education law and guidance differ across the UK and change over time — always check the current guidance from your government (gov.uk, gov.scot, gov.wales, or the relevant NI source) and speak to a specialist (such as IPSEA or SOS!SEN for SEND) for advice on disputes, EHCPs, or tribunals.