UPDATE: As of April 2024, these proposed changes have been removed from the Education Bill Reform. Homeschooled children will not have to follow the Australian Curriculum.Â
In recent years, homeschooling has seen a significant rise in popularity across Australia, particularly in Queensland. This shift has prompted new legislative measures to ensure that homeschooled students receive a standardised education aligned with the Australian curriculum.
Keep reading to understand what these new changes could mean for you.
Legislative Changes and the Rise in Homeschooling
Homeschooling in QLD is free and legal. Temporary and continuous registration options are available and Queensland parents with children aged 6-17 can apply to the Home Education Unit (HEU).
The main two changes effecting homeschooling are:
Removal of the provisional application process
You will now have to submit a plan with your application to the HEU. Currently you can wait 60 days to submit your plan, or write a letter to state your intention to home school.
Australian Curriculum Requirements
The Australian Curriculum will become the standard for your homeschool education plan from Prep to Year 10. In Year 11 and 12 you will need to plan using the senior school syllabus or other approved programs. Currently, you just need to provide a high-quality curriculum.
It’s important to mention, these are only proposed changes and have not commenced or come into law yet. If these changes do pass, it would take at least 12 months or longer, for them to become policy. And even if these changes happen, your choice to homeschool is not being threatened.
How does this affect parents?
For parents who are currently homeschooling or considering homeschooling, the new legislation requiring adherence to the Australian curriculum could represent both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, it may provide a structured framework ensuring that all students receive a comprehensive and standardised education, potentially easing concerns about academic gaps and enhancing the legitimacy of home education.
On the other hand, this mandate could limit the flexibility and customisation that many homeschooling families value, prompting some to worry about the rigidity of a one-size-fits-all approach. Parents may need to adjust their teaching methods and materials to align with the curriculum, which could involve additional time and resources.
However, it also opens the door for more support and resources from the government, fostering a more cohesive and inclusive educational environment. Balancing these new requirements with the unique needs and learning styles of their children will be crucial for homeschooling parents moving forward.
FAQ for Homeschooling in QLD
Do You Have to Register?
Yes! If your child does not attend school and is between the age of 5 to 16 then you are legally required to register to homeschool in QLD. However, if your child is between the age of 15 to 17 other rules apply such as part-time work and/or having another form of education such as TAFE or Uni.
When Can I Remove My Kids from School?
You can take your children out of school once your application is received and this usually only takes a week.
Can I Travel When Homeschooling in QLD?
Absolutely! At ThriveTutors, we have a number of students who are being homeschooled whilst travelling across the country.
Do I Need a Specific Curriculum?
No! You do not need to follow a particular homeschool curriculum.Â
Do I Need to buy a Homeschool Program or Can I DIY?
No! You don’t need to buy a homeschool program however many people do. If you want to make up your own curriculum you can. However, even if you are unschooling, you must do an educational plan and keep homeschool records.
How Much Does Homeschooling in QLD Cost?
To get registered to homeschool in Queensland it is free.
Is Homeschooling the Same as Distance Education?
Distance education uses a pre-determined curriculum and is supervised by a school, unlike home education. Accredited schools must follow the Australian National Curriculum.
What are the next steps?
As homeschooling continues to grow in popularity, the introduction of legislation requiring adherence to the Australian curriculum aims to ensure a standardised education for all homeschooled children. While this move is welcomed by some, it raises concerns for others about the potential impact on educational flexibility.
Continued dialogue and support for homeschooling families will be crucial in navigating these changes and ensuring that all children receive a quality education tailored to their needs.
If you are a homeschooling parent and would like extra support with your child’s learning, join ThriveTutors today! Our team of expert teachers are ready to connect, inspire and empower your child.Â
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