A Schoolhouse member has received, via his MP, the following response from Keith Brown MSP, Minister for Schools and Skills, to his query about the Scottish Government’s plans (or otherwise) for a ‘review’ of elective home education.

Thank you for your letter dated 20 February to Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, on behalf of your constituent, Mr S, regarding home education. Mr S asks whether a review into Home Education will be conducted in the near future.

Following extensive consultation, the Scottish Government issued new Home Education Guidance in January 2008. The guidance sets out the rights and responsibilities for home educating parents and local authorities and we consider, sets out a framework where home educators and local authorities can establish positive relationships and mutual respect. This guidance has received very positive responses from both home educators and local authorities.

We therefore, have no plans to carry out a further review on Home Education.