The National Curriculum and qualifications
The National Curriculum is not compulsory for children who are educated 'at home'. However, it can be a useful framework for planning, especially at first.
It can also be helpful if your child is likely to return to school, as it may make it easier for them to fit back in, or if they’re likely to take GCSEs, as they’re likely to be based on the National Curriculum.
Choosing to take formal qualifications
If you and your child decide to take formal qualifications, there are several options available to you.
You will need to pay for, and organise, any qualification for your child.
Before deciding on a qualification, it’s important to think about what it will be used for. Not all qualifications are treated the same by colleges, universities and employers.
GCSEs
GCSEs are usually the first things that come to mind when thinking of children’s qualifications. There are also IGCSEs (International GCSEs) for overseas students, which are sometimes also used for home education.
Many GCSEs include an element of coursework, which can be helpful for children who do not do well under formal exam conditions. Any coursework has to be independently assessed, introducing further costs for home educated children.
Both GCSEs and IGCSEs can be taken at any age, as and when you feel your child is ready. Looking at revision guides, workbooks and past papers or mock exams may help you decide when’s best.
Some schools may be able to offer help for ex-pupils intending to take GCSEs, particularly if the pupils were still on the school’s register at any time during Key Stage 4 (14- to 16-year-olds).
You can find more information about taking GCSE and IGCSE exams as a private candidate on:
Other qualifications
GCSEs and IGCSEs are by no means the only qualifications available and you may decide that they’re not as appropriate as some of the other options, such as ASDANs or the Ingots computer qualifications:
- ASDAN qualifications are based around the development of personal, social and employability skills.
- The Learning Machine (TLM) offer a wide range of qualifications, from very basic ICT courses through to GCSE equivalent.
Distance learning, college and night school courses
Distance learning (sometimes called correspondence courses) is an option chosen by many home‑educating families. It can provide a ready‑made structure and curriculum with clear learning outcomes.
There are many different courses available from a wide range of organisations.
Costs vary, so it is important to check what is included in the price. This may include books, materials, coursework, assessments, tutor support and exam centre fees.
Choosing a distance learning provider
When looking at distance learning courses, you may want to check:
- if the course leads to a recognised qualification
- if the qualification is regulated by Ofqual
- if the provider is accredited by a recognised quality assurance body
- what support is included
- whether there are any extra costs
The following organisations may help you find suitable courses and providers:
- The Open University (OU) - children under 16 may be able to take courses with the agreement of the Open University
- Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications - lists nationally recognised qualifications
Further education colleges may take students under 16 years old, at the discretion of the Principal. Parents will probably have to pay the full cost of the course and an adult may have to attend with the child.
Less formal courses
Some courses do not lead to recognised qualifications but may still be useful for developing skills and interests.
If your child completes a non‑accredited course, keep your own records. This could include certificates of attendance or achievement. You can also ask the course provider for a short note about your child’s progress.
This can all help to build a picture of your child’s education, and could be useful at interviews for jobs, college or university.
Page last updated: 11 December 2025
