Home Education Registration FAQ
Guidelines to help you register for homeschooling in NSW.
new to homeschooling
1. How do I start?
Registration for homeschooling isn’t difficult, but it can seem so because the requirements for registration, that are published by NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority – the government agency that manages home education registration), are unclear.
Never fear, SHEN has lots of helpful information and support to help you understand the requirements, plan templates and more, to make it easy.
Registration is largely about ‘ticking the boxes’.
Confidence is key!
You are the person most concerned about your child’s flourishing. Be confident in your own ability to provide learning opportunities for your child (bluff if necessary!)
Registration is largely about ticking the boxes. You know your child best. Be confident in your ability to provide learning opportunities.
2. How do I apply?
- Apply through NESA’s Home Schooling Online, or by email or post using the two-page NESA form.
- Tick the boxes confirming you will provide everything required at the assessment meeting.
You don’t have to give a reason for homeschooling. Questions about school history, special needs and your reasons are optional.
3. Preparing for the AP meeting
Your assessment is a meeting with an Authorised Person (AP). You don’t need to send documents beforehand, even if asked. At the meeting, be ready to cover:
A plan starts with the six Key Learning Areas (KLAs) and must be based on the NSW Syllabus. Copy the rationale or stage statements from the syllabus documents, then add a paragraph of your resources under each KLA. Resources needn’t match the syllabus; include whatever learning opportunities you choose.
Start with what you already have: home, backyard, library, local area and your child’s interests. Games, Lego, pets, cooking, gardening, bushwalks, sport, drama and community groups all count.
A complete purchased curriculum isn’t required and may not suit your child.
NESA doesn’t prescribe a method. Choose something easy and meaningful for you, such as photos. At renewal you only need to show that learning opportunities in the six KLAs were provided, not every record.
The dining table is fine. Protect your child’s privacy and don’t show their bedroom.
The AP expects to see your child but they don’t need to speak. If attending would be traumatic, a doctor may exempt them.
If you show the items above, approval is likely. Few applications are rejected, and free support is available. Paid registration help or a full curriculum isn’t necessary.
In your plan, emphasise that you take responsibility for the program; NESA’s definition of homeschooling is learning in the home, delivered by the parent.
After a successful meeting, registration is generally dated from the day of the meeting.
4. Notify the school
Email your child’s school to say you’re making alternative arrangements for their education. Parents are responsible for educating their children under the Education Act, and you don’t have to prove to the school that you’re meeting that responsibility.
resources
What do I need?
A full program may not be necessary and could even be a hinderance if it feels overwhelming or forces you child to work through it when it’s no needed. Instead, focus on choosing quality books, free or affordable resources, or more specialised tools you already have on hand. This approach allows for a more personalised and effective learning experience.
NSW REGISTRATION FACEBOOK GROUP
The NSW Homeschooling Registration Support Network is a Facebook support group for those looking to register or renew their registration. There are lists of resources, planning tips and sample plans available. Members can provide free support or request support with registration for home education in NSW.