There are many learners who get lost in the school system. They struggle with the work pressure and the lack of attention, and do not reach their full potential as they do not receive individual attention. There is also the pressure to participate in sports or to maybe not be chosen for a team, and you just hope that your child is not bullied.

Home education on the other hand is frequently seen in a bad light. The picture people often have is of a mother giving classes at home. The child sits at a table and lives a lonely, reclusive existence without socialising.

With teaching in the 21st century, however, the picture looks very different. Home education can be done in different ways.

Parents

Parents can teach the learner at home themselves, the parents can then ensure that all the necessary concepts are properly embedded and can monitor the progress themselves. Social media allows parents to join groups with other parents who also home educate their children. Playing opportunities, excursions and social events are often planned and learners enjoy private education as well as social opportunities so that they can focus on all aspects of their development. Often parents also take turns to teach, where they work on a rotational basis. Children do not lose precious time in classrooms to wait for discipline or individual attention.

Tutor centres

There are many tutor centres across the country. Some centres only focus on one subject while other centres offer all subjects. Where the parent does not want to teach their child themselves or may not want to take a subject to the next grade, a tutor can be used. Tutors give each learner the individual attention they need and help them understand difficult concepts. The primary responsibility to educate the learner remains with the parents.

Home-education schools

It often happens that tutor centres are in such great demand that they become small private schools. They still use a home-education curriculum, but unlike with home education, the school takes responsibility for the learner’s education.

ARTICLE BY HILDA ERASMUS – SPECIALIST: FOUNDATION PHASE