Introduction
I have three children. My eldest is 23 – now has a Masters. My 12 and 10 year old at home, both studying GCSEs currently.
How long have you home educated for and what made you decide to do it?
I am in my 19th year of HE. I had various reasons for each child.
Briefly describe your home ed style. Do you have a ‘typical’ week and what does it include if so?
We are semi structured. We spend half of our time on the Isle of Mull, rest in Suffolk. I organise masses for my HE group – inspirED@home. I am also CREST Ambassador and run John Muir Trust Awards. I firmly believe that there are many ways to HE and it changes organically as the children’s interests change.
What was your highlight of home ed last week?
There are so many highlights every week. Last week – CREST Awards with a group of 21 children run by me; A conservation Group at Minsmere, an engineering group my son goes too, art we did at home, science experiments at home – zinc and sulphur. Lots of new CGP workbooks. Music Academy, nature walks, logbooks.
What is your favourite thing about home edding your child/ren?
The freedom it affords the children to follow their passions.
What do you find most difficult and why?
I do not find anything difficult. I have been it so long it defines our family life – aspirational, fun, happy, inspiring, motivational, social, wonderful.
What advice would you give to other home educators?
HE is not for everyone. I try to speak to many new people and would always advise newbies to talk to people in their area so they get an honest view of what HE is like in reality. I am very lucky where we are. There is loads going on – mainly as I organise masses and am also Secretary for Schoolhouse Scotland.