Table of Contents

Home Education in South Africa: A Comprehensive Guide

Home Education in South Africa provides an alternative to attending public or independent schools in South Africa, where parents have the opportunity to educate their own children at home. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to home education in South Africa, outlining the necessary steps, regulations, and resources involved. Whether you are considering homeschooling or simply seeking more information on the subject, this article aims to provide valuable insights and assist you in making an informed decision.

What is Home Education in South Africa?

Home Education in South Africa is a programme that allows parents of learners of compulsory school-going age to provide education for their children at home. This alternative method of education is recognized by the South African government and falls within the scope of the following compulsory phases of education:

• Foundation Phase (grades 1-3)
• Intermediate Phase (grades 4-6)
• Senior Phase (grades 7-9)

Registering for Home Education in South Africa

If you prefer to teach your child at home, the first step is to apply to the head of your Provincial Education Department in order to register your child for Home Education. Keep in mind that the lessons you offer your child must align with the curriculum outlined in the compulsory phases mentioned above.

To complete the registration process for Home Education in South Africa, you will need to gather the following documents and information:

• Parent(s) certified ID copy
• Certified copies of passport/study permit/work permit/Asylum document (for foreign nationals)
• Last copy of school report (if the child was previously enrolled in school)
• Immunisation card (for children starting school)
• Weekly timetable including contact time per day
• Breakdown of terms per year (196 days per year)
• Learning programme
• Certified copy of the child’s birth certificate

Required Records and Documentation For Home Education in South Africa

Once your child has been registered for Home Education, it is essential to maintain accurate records and documentation to ensure compliance. The following records should be kept:

1. Attendance: Document the attendance of your child on a regular basis.
2. Portfolio of Work: Maintain a portfolio showcasing your child’s educational achievements and progress.
3. Records of Progress: Keep track of your child’s ongoing progress and development.
4. Educational Support: Maintain a portfolio documenting the educational support provided to your child.
5. Continuous Assessment Evidence: Collect evidence of the continuous assessment of your child’s work.
6. Year-end Assessment/Examination Evidence: Keep evidence of the assessment or examination conducted at the end of each academic year.
7. Outcome Achievement Evidence: Provide evidence at the end of grade 3, 6, and 9, demonstrating whether your child has achieved the outcomes for these grades.

Timeline and Processing for Home Education in South Africa

It is important to note that the processing of home education applications may take up to 30 days. Allow sufficient time for your application to be reviewed and processed by the relevant authorities.

Cost of Home Education in South Africa

One of the advantages of home education in South Africa is that the service is free. Parents can educate their children in a home-based setting without incurring additional costs usually associated with private or public schooling.

Home Education Coordinators

For further guidance and support throughout your home education journey, it can be beneficial to connect with Home Education Coordinators. These individuals are designated to help facilitate the home education process and can provide valuable information specific to your province. Below is a list of coordinators for each province: