HED0221
Written evidence submitted by Mr McClinton
Home Schooling Submission
Let me begin by giving a snapshot of my academic career (I retired in 2007).
I have three degrees (B.Sc., B.A. (Hons) and M.Sc.) and a Diploma in Education. I have taught in the secondary sector for over 6 years and in the tertiary sector for 31 years. While at UUJ, I received the Distinguished Teaching Award.
The number of children being home schooled continues to rise significantly, indicating the desire to follow this route. Research across many countries has demonstrated the outcomes for such students are above those who pursue traditional schooling so, with that evidence there is little argument for any increased government oversight and regulation. Besides, the Human Rights Act 1998 enshrines in UK law that the State shall respect the right of parents to ensure their children receive education and teaching in conformity with their own religious and philosophical convictions. Parents have the primary responsibility for their children’s education; teachers act in loco parentis but the parents’ rights must not be subordinated to the State. No legislation should pass the rights and responsibilities the parents to the government as hat leaves the door open to dictating what can and cannot be taught. Consider the following quote:” Let me control the textbooks, and I will control the state.” What world leader said that? Adolf Hitler.
Many parents for a whole range of reasons choose to home educate and my concern is to see that State interference does not constrain home education by requiring that education to conform to a particular curriculum. Indeed, the HR Act 1998 mentioned above has drawn a line as to State responsibilities and parental responsibilities. I would suggest that Local Authority assistance, both practical and financial, for parents undertaking to educate their children at home. Before any changes are made, I hope relevant parental groups will be consulted.
S.I. McClinton
1st Nov 2020