SHEN – Sydney Home Education Network

Register to Homeschool in NSW?

HOW DO I APPLY TO HOMESCHOOL in NSW?

The first thing to do is fill in an application form.

 

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.

Home Schooling Online form:
Online application
Email form Application for Initial Registration:
Email Application

 

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

FAQs:

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.

  1. What is the AP assessing during registration?
    The AP is assessing your ability to provide appropriate learning opportunities for your child and create a plan aligned with the NSW Syllabus. They will also consider whether the plan meets your child’s individual needs.
  2. Is the child assessed by the AP?
    No, the child is not assessed during the registration process. The assessment focuses on the materials you, as a parent, prepare for the application. The child only needs to be ‘sighted’ during the meeting and does not need to speak with the AP. If this would be traumatic for the child, a doctor can exempt them from attending.
  3. What should I have ready for the meeting?
    You will need a plan that covers the six Key Learning Areas (KLAs).
    The plan should:
     — Include six subjects (e.g., English, Maths, Science, etc.)
    — Link to the NSW Syllabus
    — Include details on activities, resources, and time allocation
    — Include a section on record-keeping and assessment.
  4. Do I need to submit the plan before the meeting?
    No, you are not required to submit the plan upfront. While the AP may request it, it is not mandatory according to the Guidelines. You can simply inform the AP that the Guidelines do not require a plan to be submitted before the meeting and that you are ready to present it during the meeting.
  5. What resources should I include in the plan?
    Resources can be anything that fits your child’s needs and learning style. They do not need to be aligned with the NSW Syllabus. You can include everyday activities or resources that match your child’s interests and current learning activities. Remember, the goal is to show that you can provide a variety of learning opportunities. (Please note: a purchased curriculum does not help with the registration process)
  6. How do I keep track of time and progress?
    Record-keeping systems can be informal, such as taking photos or keeping a simple diary. NESA does not prescribe how records should be kept, but you must demonstrate that learning opportunities are being provided. For time allocation, simply promise that sufficient time will be given to learning, and you don’t need to show specific records unless requested.
  7. What are the Key Learning Areas (KLAs)?
    For primary school, the six KLAs are:
     — English
     — Maths
     — Science
     — HSIE (History and Geography)
     — Creative Arts
     — PDHPE (Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education)

    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.

     

  8. How do I link my plan to the NSW Syllabus?
    You can easily link your plan to the NSW Syllabus by using Stage Statements from the NESA website. For English and Maths, use the new syllabus documents. For Stage 6, use Outcomes or Objectives since Stage Statements are not available for these subjects.

  9. Do I need a dedicated learning space for homeschooling?
    No, you do not need a dedicated learning space. You can use any space in your home that works for you and your child, such as the dining table. Just ensure that your child’s privacy is respected by not showing their bedroom during the meeting.

  10. Will the AP ask about the previous plan at re-registration?
    Generally, the AP will not question how you followed the previous plan. The focus is on demonstrating that you’ve provided learning opportunities suited to your child’s needs across the six KLAs. The plan is a guide, and adjustments can be made based on the child’s evolving needs.

  11. Can I include TAFE studies in a secondary plan?
    Yes, you can include TAFE studies as part of the secondary plan. These can either be incorporated into regular subjects or as a distinct subject, depending on how the course is listed on the NESA website.

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.

Deschooling: developing a new understanding of education

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.

What is Deschooling?

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.

Why is Deschooling Important?

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.

Practical Tips for Deschooling:

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

Overcoming Challenges:

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.

Final Thoughts:

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. 


Enjoy the journey!

“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

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