SHEN – Sydney Home Education Network
This can be done either Email, Online or Post – click one of the buttons to start your application
It may take up to 12 weeks for the assessment process to be finalised, but can be much shorter
You do not need to submit a plan with the application – just answer the questions and submit.
Questions about reasons for homeschooling, and any special needs are optional.
When you are contacted by an AP you can arrange the meeting time and day to suit you.
You will need to tick ‘yes’ to all the questions about being prepared – these look a bit different depending on how you apply.
Q. Do I need to attach a plan? No, the plan can be prepared after submitting the application, and shown during the meeting to assess the Application, several weeks after applying. |
Once the application is submitted, you have time to create a plan –
Note: Registration is not required until the child turns six years of age |
What do I need to do for registration?
To register for homeschooling, you’ll need to complete the application and provide a plan for your child’s learning. This plan must cover six Key Learning Areas (KLAs), be based on the NSW Syllabus, and demonstrate how you will cater to your child’s needs. The application process includes an assessment by the Authorised Person (AP) from NESA.
Secondary school plans include more flexible options within these KLAs.
Stage 6 plans must follow the ‘pattern of study’, (basically English and 5 other subjects of choice).
It is helpful to include on the first page of the plan information demonstrating that the plan meets the ‘pattern of study’, as APs are much less familiar with Stage 6 registration
— When planning for Stage 6, the only compulsory subject is English.
— We do have to follow the ‘pattern of study’ for the HSC, even though we aren’t eligible for an HSC.
— It’s really a matter of telling the AP that you will do this.
— The ‘pattern of study’ just means the plan must include English and five other courses – there must be a total of at least 12 units.
Feel free to reach out for more details or any specific questions regarding your homeschooling registration process.
The Guidelines are the ONLY requirements for homeschooling … all other information are suggestions, NOT mandatory.
For many families transitioning to home education, a period of ‘deschooling’ can be important, particularly for children who have had an adverse school experience, and may have trauma as a result. Deschooling is a fundamental shift in mindset and approach, that can provide a safe environment for a child to reset, recover from an adverse learning environment, recover their love of learning, and learn in a way that will enable them to flourish.
Deschooling is the process of adjusting from the structured environment of traditional schooling to the more flexible and personalised approach of home education. It involves letting go of the typical school schedule and curriculum and embracing a new philosophy that values learning as a continuous and holistic experience.
1. Challenging Assumptions: Both children and parents need time to change their understanding of the learning process. Notice how learning is part of all of life – for example, if you want to learn to make sourdough, find out what flights will take you to Darwin, or what films Steve Martin has been in, what would be your approach? Recognise that learning does not only take place in institutional settings, ‘during school hours’, by completing worksheets. See that learning from a place of freedom and interest has intrinsic value, and happens without testing and artificial reward systems.
2. Rediscovering Natural Curiosity: Deschooling encourages children to reconnect with their innate curiosity and love for learning. This is how learning happens naturally, through play and exploration, at a child’s own pace and in ways that resonate with their interests.
3. Building Stronger Relationships: Home education strengthens family bonds as parents become more involved in their children’s learning journeys. Deschooling facilitates this transition by recognising the learning environment within the family culture, creating space for open communication and encouraging collaborative learning experiences.
1. Take it Slow: Start by letting go of school-like activities and timetables. Maybe go on a trip away. Encourage relaxed, child-led activities that spark curiosity and joy. 2. Explore Diverse Learning Opportunities: See the learning activities that are part of every day – talking and listening, measuring and researching, creating food, caring for pets, exercising etc. Visit museums, parks, and libraries. Engage in hands-on projects and encourage discussions that foster critical thinking. Take photos, and keep records of learning experiences rather than expecting reports or other written responses.
3. Embrace Flexibility: See that learning opportunities are around us all day, from morning to evening, and tailor learning experiences to your child’s individual needs and learning style.
4. Trust the Process: Understand that deschooling is an ongoing journey, leading to new and more mature ways of learning
1. Socialization: It may take time for a child to feel comfortable in new groups, but you can reassure them that you will be there to provide support. Seek out homeschooling groups, co-ops, and community events to provide social opportunities for your children.
2. Self-Doubt: It’s natural to question your decision or worry about gaps in learning. Remember, home education offers unique advantages and can be adapted to suit your family’s circumstances. ‘Gaps’ are easily filled once there is a specific need for a particular piece of knowledge.
Deschooling is a pivotal phase that sets the tone for your home education journey. Approach it with patience, curiosity, and an open mind. Embrace the opportunity to rediscover the joy of learning alongside your children. Recognise your place in your child’s life as the person most committed to their flourishing, and trust in your ability to create a nurturing educational environment tailored to their needs. Your family culture is unique, your child has their own interests and learning styles, and you are best placed to facilitate their learning, in a safe and encouraging environment. Resist the allure and empty promises of the advertisements for expensive resources, particularly complete curricula. Connect with other more experienced home-educating families in your local homeschooling community, and develop a new approach to learning.
“Can they learn algebra concepts without workbooks?”.
The following article addresses this and many other real home-educating questions –
https://isaacmorehouse.com/2015/06/10/playing-with-legos-is-more-valuable-than-learning-algebra/?fbclid
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em_wKL76TV97IComWpsWzSTmA
.