How to Start Homeschooling in Australia
For many, the hardest part of the process is actually making the decision in the first place. It can feel daunting, overwhelming, and filled with anxious, doubting thoughts about whether you’re actually able to homeschool.
And to answer that question – anyone can homeschool.
When you truly break it down, it’s a lot simpler than it seems. You do not need to be a qualified teacher – just someone with a willingness to commit to the journey and work alongside your child.
The first and most important step, once a decision has been made, is to legally register through your state.
This means registering your child to be homeschooled, applying through the Department of Education (specific to your state), and providing a basic learning plan.
Each child needs their own application, and this can be done at any time of year. You’ll typically need your child’s basic details and educational history, a simple plan for how you’ll teach, the subjects you’ll cover, and how progress will be tracked.
An authorised person from the Department of Education may then arrange a home visit to discuss your plan. This can feel daunting, but it is usually a relaxed and supportive experience.
When creating your plan, remember – you are not creating a perfect school-at-home system.
Whilst your plan should broadly align with the curriculum, you are creating something that works for your child. It should include core areas like English, maths, and science, as well as activities or resources you might use.
You should also include how you’ll support your child’s interests and track their progress.
There really isn’t one “right” way to homeschool.
Some families follow a structured curriculum, others use online programs, and some take a more relaxed, child-led approach. Every parent and every child is different and all approaches are valid, as long as learning is taking place.
For anyone new to homeschooling, the secret is to start small.
There is no need for a full timetable or a perfect routine. Start with reading together, a bit of maths, and time outside. You will quickly learn what interests and engages your child, and that will naturally guide you.
When it comes to keeping records, keep it simple.
You just need to show what you are doing and that learning is happening. This could be a basic journal with photos and notes – something that not only meets requirements but also becomes a beautiful record of your journey.
There will, without doubt, be moments where you question yourself, your decision, and whether what you are doing is enough.
In those moments, take a step back and remember your “why”.
And remind yourself – you don’t need to have everything figured out to begin. Taking the first step is the most important one.
💛 The Homeschool Kind
