Number of children home-schooled in Essex sees “massive increase”

Essex: The number of children being home-schooled in Essex has skyrocketed. Over the past three years, Essex County Council reported a significant rise in home education. They noted that the needs of these children are also becoming more complex.

The county council is working to speed up special needs assessments. They’ve seen a steady increase in home-schooled children over the last decade. In November 2021, there were 2,255 home-schooled kids. By January 2025, that number jumped to 3,881.

In January, 199 children in Essex had an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) for home education. This number has been rising, from 4.4% in 2018 to 5.8% in January. The increase was discussed at a committee meeting on January 16.

Councillor Marie Goldman shared that many parents are choosing home education out of frustration. They struggle to get the support they need from the SEND system. Despite going through the EHCP process, many feel abandoned.

Councillor Aidan McGurran echoed these concerns. He noted that parents aren’t choosing home education lightly. They are frustrated with delays and inadequate support from the current system.

The window for local authorities to submit data for comparison opened last week. Councillor Goldman mentioned they will closely examine how Essex compares in terms of special needs representation.

Deputy cabinet member for education, Councillor Andrew Sheldon, acknowledged parents’ worries about SEND provision. He assured that they are working hard to improve the assessment process and will continue to do so.