A* Student Attributes Academic Success to Home Education

A student educated at home, who attained straight A and A* grades, asserts that this academic achievement would not have been possible had she remained in a conventional school setting. Alys Harrison, residing in Church Stretton, Shropshire, commenced her home-based learning at the age of 13. This decision followed a decline in her self-assurance and a perception that she was unable to perform effectively in a standard classroom environment. Data compiled by the BBC indicates a 161% rise over the past five years in the number of children transitioning to home education within the West Midlands region. While numerous parents report that this approach enables their children to flourish, certain specialists have voiced apprehension. Currently, Ms Harrison is employed part-time in horse grooming and photography, concurrently pursuing studies in film with aspirations of becoming a director. She expressed a desire for young individuals to be aware that home education presents a viable alternative. “I would probably have barely scraped through school,” she said. “My ability didn’t need to be compared to everyone else in the classroom. “Once I took myself away from being compared to others I realised I was able to apply myself and find the knowledge myself.” Analysis by the BBC’s data unit reveals a doubling of home education numbers across the UK between the 2019-20 and 2023-24 academic years. During the 2023-24 academic year, local authorities recorded over 66,000 notifications from families intending to transition their children to home education, marking an increase from under 30,000 in 2019-20. Specifically in the West Midlands, encompassing Derbyshire, the count rose from 3168 five years prior to 8270 in 2023-24. These statistics pertain to the 2019-20 and 2023-24 academic years. Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner, conveyed to the BBC her apprehension regarding these statistics, stating her belief that many children do not wish to be educated at home. “I’m deeply, deeply concerned. I think this is forced home education. I think so many of the young people are not getting their needs met in mainstream education.” She noted that while some home education is conducted effectively, it frequently involves children who are vulnerable or possess additional needs. Sandra, a mother from Telford, expressed her conviction that home education had enabled her eight-year-old daughter, Beatrice, to thrive. Following the home schooling of Beatrice during the coronavirus pandemic, she opted to continue her daughter’s education at home. Similar to Ms Harrison, she aims to inform others that parents possess options concerning their children’s education. “It’s just so incredibly sad that all the wonderful teachers and schools are so restricted by budget and government targets,” she said. “They are unable to focus on children as individuals and meet their needs, particularly around mental and emotional health.” A representative for the Department for Education stated its commitment to ensuring every child obtains an appropriate education. “We are legislating for Children Not in School registers so local authorities can better identify and support all home educated children,” a statement read. The department further indicated that it is also restructuring the framework for children with special educational needs and disabilities, aiming to provide them with enhanced support to succeed academically. For updates, follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.