It was established in 1995 in response to an increasing number of parents who were worried about their children's school experience, and who did not know what to do. Although many children are happy in school, there are others for whom the school experience is negative and emotionally upsetting. Some experience the trauma of being bullied or ostracised because they do not fit in with their peers.

Some simply learn differently, and benefit best from a one-to-one tutoring situation. Some have learning difficulties that make it hard for them to keep up with their classmates. Others are academically advanced, and need more specific input and challenge in their education. And then there are children who just do not cope with the stress of being in large groups of people, or with the increasing emphasis on testing in school.

Resulting behavioural problems, truancy, insecurity, lack of confidence, poor concentration, poor social skills, disorganisation, and/or mood swings combine to make it harder and harder for the child to succeed in the school environment. Parents may not realise that home education is an option, and a critical situation can develop through lack of knowledge. Home education is not only for children with problems.

Many people would choose an alternative form of education for their children if they were aware they could. It has been demonstrated that an education at home can equip a child for life as effectively as, and even more effectively than, a school-based education. This is largely because at home it can be tailored to suit the needs, interests and learning style of the child; because is it essentially a one-to-one tutoring context, and because the pace can be determined by the child.

In addition, home education makes use of real life contexts, activities, relationships, and the self-motivational ability of the learner.

We offer practical advice and information to parents who home educate, or who are considering home education, and we would be grateful if, through the letter column of your newspaper, we might let your readers know about the help that our charity can give.

For details they should phone 01707 371854, visit our website at www.heas.org.uk, or write to the Home Education Advisory Service, PO Box 98, Welwyn Garden City, Herts, LA8 6AN.

Cathy Koetsier
Home Education Advisory Service