Rugby’s Member of Parliament, Mark Pawsey, raised yesterday in Parliament the growing number of Warwickshire children who are being home schooled.
During Education Questions this week, Mark brought to the attention of the Secretary of State for Education recent figures that show in Warwickshire, 452 pupils have been home educated this academic year, an increase of 280 compared to 2012/13. 83 of these pupils are in the Rugby area.
In her response, the Secretary of State for Education, the Rt. Hon. Nicky Morgan MP, said that the Department for Education wants know more about what is happening to children who are home educated. Nicky Morgan went to highlight that although the vast majority of home schooled children are educated to a high standard, it is still important for local authorities to know when children are being withdrawn from schools in order to be home educated.
Speaking after Education Questions, Mark said:
“Ensuring our children get the best possible start in life has been a key priority of this Government. I know that here in Rugby, we have outstanding schools but on occasion, the existing school framework is not suitable for some young people. In other cases, parents may choose to educate their child at home.”
Mark continued:
“I was surprised to learn that the number of home schooled children in Warwickshire had trebled over the past three years, from 172 in 2012/13 to 452 in 2015/6. From having met with local families, I know that sometimes home schooling represents the right course of action for some children. However, it is important that we ensure that those children receive a well-rounded education.”
Mark concluded:
“I am confident from the Minister’s response that the Government will continue to work with local authorities, such as Warwickshire County Council, to focus on the individual needs of children. I look forward to the further proposals the Department for Education will be bringing forward on this matter, to deliver the education and opportunities every child deserves.”