Ongoing support
On an annual basis Supporting Learners will have contact in the form of a conversation to discuss the progress of the child’s education, and for this conversation to include the child or young person, if they so wish. This is in line with Article 12 of the UNCRC, which requires that the views of the child, regarding matters which may affect them, be considered.
This annual contact is not a statutory requirement, but it allows us to reasonably inform ourselves of the education that the child is receiving, in line with the principles of the right to an education in Articles 28 and 29 of the UNCRC Convention and in line with your duty to provide a suitable education for your child or young person under section 30 of the 1980 Act.
It will always be in the best interests of the child that we work together to develop trust, mutual respect and a positive relationship.
To support this positive ongoing relationship, we anticipate annual contact is made with the parent or carer by the Supporting Learners Service.
The purpose of contact with us
The primary purpose of the contact should be for us to satisfy ourselves that a suitable and efficient education is being provided. Scottish Government guidance recommends that a conversation, to include the child if they wish, is held as a part of the annual engagement. Where a child expresses the wish not to participate in a conversation with the local authority this will be respected.
If we have concerns
If we become aware of concerns about the home education of a child or young person outwith annual contact, we will gather the necessary information in order to form a view on whether those concerns are justified or whether the parent/carer is providing an efficient education suitable to the age, ability and aptitude of the child or young person.
If we are not satisfied with the level of education
You may receive a notice issued under Section 37 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 if we are not satisfied you are providing an efficient education, suitable to your child’s age, ability and aptitude, and further dialogue is unlikely to resolve the issue.
If you do not satisfy us that you are providing an efficient education for the child or young person suitable to his age, ability and aptitude or that there is reasonable excuse for your failure to do so, we will make an attendance order in respect of the child or young person under Section 38 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.
Once this is served you will have two weeks to appeal to the sheriff who may confirm, change or withdraw the order.
If you want to return your child to school
It is fairly common for children and young people educated at home for a period of time to wish to return to mainstream. To do this, as the parent or carer, you will need to apply to the catchment school (even if they wish for their child to attend an alternative school) and follow the usual enrolment process.
Find out more in our schools section.
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