New to homeschooling in South Africa? Find answers to the questions parents ask most often about the law, curriculum, costs, assessment, socialisation, high school and getting started.
If you’re new to homeschooling in South Africa, you probably have a lot of questions. You may be wondering whether homeschooling is legal, whether you need to register, what curriculum you can use, how much it costs, whether your children need to be assessed and what happens when they reach high school.
If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to how to start homeschooling, begin with our How to Start Homeschooling in South Africa: A Practical Guide for New Homeschoolers. This page is different: it is your homeschooling FAQ hub, where you can find answers to the questions that arise as you explore and navigate home education.
Ready for expert support?
Sign up for our free 7-part email course: Tips for Starting Homeschooling. You’ll receive practical advice, encouragement, and easy-to-follow guidance delivered to your inbox every two days—perfect for families just starting out.
Homeschooling in South Africa: Getting Started
If you are just beginning to explore homeschooling, you may be wondering what is actually involved. The good news is that you do not need to have every decision made before you begin. Start by understanding the basics, then work through the practical decisions one at a time.
For a step-by-step guide, read How to Start Homeschooling in South Africa: A Practical Guide for New Homeschoolers.
Getting Started
Yes, home based learning, or "home school," as it is often referred to in the regulations, is legal in South Africa and was incorporated into the South African Schools Act in 1996 and the 2024 amendment, known as the BELA (Basic Education Law Amendment).
However, it is not usually a good idea to ask your local school or department of education for information before informing yourself about the laws. In many areas, local officials do not truly understand the laws relating to home education and may therefore ask for far more information than the law requires or give you false information regarding requirements to homeschool your children.
We recommend that you read the articles in the legal section of our site. Homeschooling and the Law explains the legal position in more detail, while our FAQ on whether you need to register for homeschooling looks specifically at registration.
However, it is not usually a good idea to ask your local school or department of education for information before informing yourself about the laws. In many areas, local officials do not truly understand the laws relating to home education and may therefore ask for far more information than the law requires or give you false information regarding requirements to homeschool your children.
We recommend that you read the articles in the legal section of our site. Homeschooling and the Law explains the legal position in more detail, while our FAQ on whether you need to register for homeschooling looks specifically at registration.
Do I need to register for homeschooling in South Africa?
Most homeschoolers in South Africa choose not to register as registration often results in unlawful interference by education officials. Contact the Pestalozzi Trust for legal advice before making your own decision.
Must I Register for Homeschooling?
Pros and Cons of Registering for Homeschooling
Also read about how to go about Removing or Returning Your Child to School
Be sure that your decision is not based on fear, but is an informed choice made in the best interests of YOUR children.
Most homeschoolers in South Africa choose not to register as registration often results in unlawful interference by education officials. Contact the Pestalozzi Trust for legal advice before making your own decision.
Must I Register for Homeschooling?
Pros and Cons of Registering for Homeschooling
Also read about how to go about Removing or Returning Your Child to School
Be sure that your decision is not based on fear, but is an informed choice made in the best interests of YOUR children.
The answer to this question will depend on the age of your child/ren and whether you are homeschooling from preschool age or if your child is being withdrawn from the school system, in which case, it is recommended that you give your child some time to “deschool” and relax from the academic pressures, the negative impact of the school’s social environment, and rediscover the joy of learning.
How you start will also depend on what style of education you take. There are a variety of approaches ranging from very structured school-like systems to very unstructured delight-directed approaches, from text-book based models to unschooling.
You would be wise to research the different approaches and the philosophies behind them, and choose one or create one that suits your individual family's needs and values.
You need much less than many new homeschoolers imagine. You need a willingness to take responsibility for your children's education, time to spend with them, suitable learning resources and a plan that fits your family.
You do not need to recreate a classroom in your home, buy a desk for every child or purchase a separate workbook for every subject before you begin.
The more important decisions are how you want your children to learn, what you want their education to achieve and which resources will help you get there. Sign up for our guide Tips for Starting Homeschooling
You can find lists of homeschool articles and homeschool parent books to read on our site.
How you start will also depend on what style of education you take. There are a variety of approaches ranging from very structured school-like systems to very unstructured delight-directed approaches, from text-book based models to unschooling.
You would be wise to research the different approaches and the philosophies behind them, and choose one or create one that suits your individual family's needs and values.
You need much less than many new homeschoolers imagine. You need a willingness to take responsibility for your children's education, time to spend with them, suitable learning resources and a plan that fits your family.
You do not need to recreate a classroom in your home, buy a desk for every child or purchase a separate workbook for every subject before you begin.
The more important decisions are how you want your children to learn, what you want their education to achieve and which resources will help you get there. Sign up for our guide Tips for Starting Homeschooling
You can find lists of homeschool articles and homeschool parent books to read on our site.
According to extensive research into the qualifications of homeschooling parents, the qualifications of the parent do not affect the performance of the students. Even parents that have dropped out of school have successfully home-educated their children throughout high school.
You can learn alongside your children, use good books and curriculum resources, draw on other people's expertise and find help when you reach something you do not know yourself.
If you are worried that you are not a teacher, don't let that fear stop you from exploring home education.
There is no legal requirement for a parent to have any specific qualifications in order to be eligible to home educate her children. Read more about Homeschool Research
You can learn alongside your children, use good books and curriculum resources, draw on other people's expertise and find help when you reach something you do not know yourself.
If you are worried that you are not a teacher, don't let that fear stop you from exploring home education.
There is no legal requirement for a parent to have any specific qualifications in order to be eligible to home educate her children. Read more about Homeschool Research
1. Get legal support: Join a legal defense association like the Pestalozzi Trust before notifying the school to ensure legal support in case of disputes.
2. Notify the school: Send a short, formal letter or email informing the school that you have transferred your child to home education.
3. Request transfer documents: Ask the school to prepare transfer certificates for your child (though not receiving them is not a barrier to homeschooling). Read more detail in our article: Removing a Child from School
Moving from school to home can be a bigger adjustment than simply changing where lessons take place. Your child may need time to recover from the routines, expectations and pressures of school, while you may need time to rethink what education looks like outside a classroom.
You do not necessarily need to begin formal lessons on the first Monday after your child leaves school. Deschooling can give your family time to make that transition.
Read our guide to Deschooling: From School to Home, then return to our step-by-step guide to starting homeschooling when you are ready to think about the next stage.
2. Notify the school: Send a short, formal letter or email informing the school that you have transferred your child to home education.
3. Request transfer documents: Ask the school to prepare transfer certificates for your child (though not receiving them is not a barrier to homeschooling). Read more detail in our article: Removing a Child from School
Moving from school to home can be a bigger adjustment than simply changing where lessons take place. Your child may need time to recover from the routines, expectations and pressures of school, while you may need time to rethink what education looks like outside a classroom.
You do not necessarily need to begin formal lessons on the first Monday after your child leaves school. Deschooling can give your family time to make that transition.
Read our guide to Deschooling: From School to Home, then return to our step-by-step guide to starting homeschooling when you are ready to think about the next stage.
Deschooling can be helpful when a child has been in school, particularly if he has experienced stress, pressure or a difficult school environment. It gives both children and parents an opportunity to step away from the school routine before establishing a new way of learning at home.
There is no universal length of time that every family should deschool, and deschooling does not mean doing nothing. Reading, playing, exploring, spending time outdoors, pursuing interests and simply enjoying being together are all valuable during this transition.
For a fuller explanation, see Deschooling: From School to Homeschool.
There is no universal length of time that every family should deschool, and deschooling does not mean doing nothing. Reading, playing, exploring, spending time outdoors, pursuing interests and simply enjoying being together are all valuable during this transition.
For a fuller explanation, see Deschooling: From School to Homeschool.
There are many ways to homeschool, from highly structured school-at-home programmes to Charlotte Mason, classical, unit-study, unschooling and eclectic homeschooling approaches. You do not have to choose a label before you begin.
Instead, consider what kind of education you want for your children, how much structure your family needs, how your children learn best and how much freedom you want to build into your days.
Many families eventually develop an eclectic approach, combining ideas and resources that work well for their particular circumstances.
Instead, consider what kind of education you want for your children, how much structure your family needs, how your children learn best and how much freedom you want to build into your days.
Many families eventually develop an eclectic approach, combining ideas and resources that work well for their particular circumstances.
Homeschooling Laws and Registration
While homeschooling is completely legal in South Africa, keeping up with changing legal requirements, such as the recent BELA Act amendments to the SA Schools Act in 2024, can feel overwhelming. You want to do what is best for your child while staying compliant, but understanding how the law affects your family isn’t always clear-cut. Explore our FAQs below to get clear, practical answers to your most pressing legal questions. However, you should also take time to understand the implications of Homeschooling Laws in South Africa in the “Legal” section of our site or other reliable sources.
Legal Questions
Most homeschoolers in South Africa choose not to register as this often results in unlawful interference by education officials. Contact the Pestalozzi Trust for legal advice before making your own decision.
Must I Register for Homeschooling?
Pros and Cons of Registering for Homeschooling
Also read about how to go about Removing or Returning Your Child to School
Be sure that your decision is not based on fear, but is an informed choice made in the best interests of YOUR children.
Explore the section of our site that deals with Homeschooling and the Law in South Africa.
Must I Register for Homeschooling?
Pros and Cons of Registering for Homeschooling
Also read about how to go about Removing or Returning Your Child to School
Be sure that your decision is not based on fear, but is an informed choice made in the best interests of YOUR children.
Explore the section of our site that deals with Homeschooling and the Law in South Africa.
Always get up to date legal information before making any decisions for your family.
Under South Africa’s BELA Act amendments to Section 3 of the SA Schools Act, non-registration is treated as an administrative matter where officials prioritise investigation and remediation over immediate prosecution.
If education authorities identify a non-registered learner, the Head of Department (HOD) may launch an investigation to resolve the issue, followed by issuing a formal written notice requiring compliance. An offense occurs only if a parent fails to comply without "just cause" after receiving this written notice—a scenario that could lead to a fine or imprisonment for up to six months. However, enforcement remains discretionary, and because criminal prosecution requires police involvement, formal legal action is rare as long as parents engage in good faith to demonstrate the child's best educational interests.
Read more detail in What Could Happen if You Don't Register?
Under South Africa’s BELA Act amendments to Section 3 of the SA Schools Act, non-registration is treated as an administrative matter where officials prioritise investigation and remediation over immediate prosecution.
If education authorities identify a non-registered learner, the Head of Department (HOD) may launch an investigation to resolve the issue, followed by issuing a formal written notice requiring compliance. An offense occurs only if a parent fails to comply without "just cause" after receiving this written notice—a scenario that could lead to a fine or imprisonment for up to six months. However, enforcement remains discretionary, and because criminal prosecution requires police involvement, formal legal action is rare as long as parents engage in good faith to demonstrate the child's best educational interests.
Read more detail in What Could Happen if You Don't Register?
In short, the answer is an outright NO!
No, home visits are not legal and no matter how kind or friendly an official may seem, on principle, you should not allow a home visit for homeschooling registration purposes.
There is no requirement for a home visit in the SA Schools Act. There is no requirement for a “home education site” inspection in the national Policy on Home Education.
There is no requirement for a home visit in the BELA Act.
Read more about why home visits are illegal and how to refuse a request for a home visit in our article: Are Home Visits Legal?
No, home visits are not legal and no matter how kind or friendly an official may seem, on principle, you should not allow a home visit for homeschooling registration purposes.
There is no requirement for a home visit in the SA Schools Act. There is no requirement for a “home education site” inspection in the national Policy on Home Education.
There is no requirement for a home visit in the BELA Act.
Read more about why home visits are illegal and how to refuse a request for a home visit in our article: Are Home Visits Legal?
Do homeschoolers have to follow CAPS?
Legally, "No". You have freedom of choice—but registered homeschooling is tied to CAPS standards for annual assessments.
The Catch: If you register your child with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the child's education must not be inferior to the recommendations set out in CAPS and a homeschool assessment should be conducted by a "competent assessor" at the end of each phase.
There are homeschool assessors who understand the variety of approaches to home education that families use. They offer the required assessment services for this purpose.
So , in a nutshell, you are free to use any homeschool curriculum of your choice that is not inferior to the recommendations set out in CAPS, which is easy to achieve when you are giving your children a customised education.
Our article Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum offers tips and guidance to help you focus on the needs of your children, rather than prescribed subjects and grade levels.
Legally, "No". You have freedom of choice—but registered homeschooling is tied to CAPS standards for annual assessments.
The Catch: If you register your child with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the child's education must not be inferior to the recommendations set out in CAPS and a homeschool assessment should be conducted by a "competent assessor" at the end of each phase.
There are homeschool assessors who understand the variety of approaches to home education that families use. They offer the required assessment services for this purpose.
So , in a nutshell, you are free to use any homeschool curriculum of your choice that is not inferior to the recommendations set out in CAPS, which is easy to achieve when you are giving your children a customised education.
Our article Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum offers tips and guidance to help you focus on the needs of your children, rather than prescribed subjects and grade levels.
Is there an approved homeschool curriculum in South Africa?
Section 51 of the SA Schools Act states that the education a learner receives at home
(i) will meet the minimum requirements of the curriculum at public schools; and
(ii) will be of a standard not inferior to the standard of education provided at public schools
In June 2025, the guidelines for the implementation of the BELA Act again re-iterated the fact that home educators are free to use any curriculum. There is no pre-approved curriculum.
Our article Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum offers tips and guidance to help you focus on the needs of your children, rather than prescribed subjects and grade levels.
But be aware: If you register your child with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the child should be assessed against National Curriculum Statement (NCS) / CAPS benchmarks at the end of each phase, end of Grade 3, end of Grade 6 and end of Grade 9.
The practicalities of how home educated children who don't follow CAPS will be assessed is still not clear to anyone - officials of the DBE or home educators. Watch this space!
There are homeschool assessors who offer assessment services to other homeschooling families.
Section 51 of the SA Schools Act states that the education a learner receives at home
(i) will meet the minimum requirements of the curriculum at public schools; and
(ii) will be of a standard not inferior to the standard of education provided at public schools
In June 2025, the guidelines for the implementation of the BELA Act again re-iterated the fact that home educators are free to use any curriculum. There is no pre-approved curriculum.
Our article Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum offers tips and guidance to help you focus on the needs of your children, rather than prescribed subjects and grade levels.
But be aware: If you register your child with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the child should be assessed against National Curriculum Statement (NCS) / CAPS benchmarks at the end of each phase, end of Grade 3, end of Grade 6 and end of Grade 9.
The practicalities of how home educated children who don't follow CAPS will be assessed is still not clear to anyone - officials of the DBE or home educators. Watch this space!
There are homeschool assessors who offer assessment services to other homeschooling families.
The national website of the Department of Basic education states:
“After your child has been registered for Home Education you must keep the following:-
record of attendance
portfolio of the child’s work
up- to- date records of the child’s progress
portfolio of the educational support given to the child
evidence of the continuous assessment of the child’s work
evidence of the assessment and or examination at the end of each year
evidence at the end of grade 3,6 and 9, that shows whether your child has achieved the outcomes for these grades”
Many home education leaders and experts believe that not all these requirements are practical or necessary – so use your own discretion or get professional legal advice for your family.
Read more at Homeschool Assessments, Reports and Compliance.
In this quick video, Shirley and Wendy discuss how to handle testing and assessment as homeschooling parents:
Is Testing Necessary?
Many homeschooling parents find it unnecessary to test their children as they are able to observe their children’s progress on a daily basis and know very well how they are performing in each subject. However, there are some parents that want their children tested independently. Some curriculum suppliers offer testing as part of their programme.
record of attendance
portfolio of the child’s work
up- to- date records of the child’s progress
portfolio of the educational support given to the child
evidence of the continuous assessment of the child’s work
evidence of the assessment and or examination at the end of each year
evidence at the end of grade 3,6 and 9, that shows whether your child has achieved the outcomes for these grades”
Many home education leaders and experts believe that not all these requirements are practical or necessary – so use your own discretion or get professional legal advice for your family.
Read more at Homeschool Assessments, Reports and Compliance.
In this quick video, Shirley and Wendy discuss how to handle testing and assessment as homeschooling parents:
Is Testing Necessary?
Many homeschooling parents find it unnecessary to test their children as they are able to observe their children’s progress on a daily basis and know very well how they are performing in each subject. However, there are some parents that want their children tested independently. Some curriculum suppliers offer testing as part of their programme.
How to Choose a Homeschool Curriculum
Picking a curriculum can easily feel like the biggest, most overwhelming decision on your plate. With so many programmes, approaches and opinions out there, it’s completely natural to feel like you have to find the “perfect” fit before you can even take your first step.
Take a deep breath, you don’t have to figure it all out today. To help you navigate the options with confidence, we’ve put together answers to the most common questions new homeschooling families ask.
Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum
As the type of curriculum you choose will have a huge impact on how your family experiences homeschooling, we strongly recommend that you read our detailed page about Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum.
The 'wrong' choice could mean days of stress, nagging, tears and drama. A good choice could give you a relaxed, stimulating and joyful family learning experience. Don't rush this decision. There is no urgency to order a curriculum and get started. Your children will not get 'behind' because you are no longer in the school system.
We hope that while you are on this site, that you will consider one of our Footprints South African Homeschool Curriculum.
Each of our many packages, in both English and Afrikaans, have been designed to by two expert homeschooling moms to make homeschooling simple and stress-free, especially for new moms. We have done all the lesson planning for you and provide all the resources you need when you need them.
Although the format may seem quite different from the textbook type of education used in schools, with which our generation is more familiar, our clients, both the parents and the children, find that learning by sharing stories together and then discovering the facts behind the stories is a much more enjoyable format than traditional school methods.
Our programmes offer an engaging and rich education, which far exceeds the topics listed in the CAPS document, but without the burden of a typical school-like programme. See how our customers rave about how Footprints changed their lives from drudgery to DELIGHT! Read our Customer Testimonials
We have also reviewed a number of programmes for English Language, Maths, Afrikaans and some free homeschool curriculum products which you will find online.
Many families also use their public library for resources. If you are interested in finding out more about a prepackaged curriculum, then contact the suppliers and ask for their catalogues or brochures.
Homeschooling expos and curriculum fairs and open days are another place for looking at materials and getting information. Check our Homeschool Events page or with your local support groups for information about these.
The 'wrong' choice could mean days of stress, nagging, tears and drama. A good choice could give you a relaxed, stimulating and joyful family learning experience. Don't rush this decision. There is no urgency to order a curriculum and get started. Your children will not get 'behind' because you are no longer in the school system.
We hope that while you are on this site, that you will consider one of our Footprints South African Homeschool Curriculum.
Each of our many packages, in both English and Afrikaans, have been designed to by two expert homeschooling moms to make homeschooling simple and stress-free, especially for new moms. We have done all the lesson planning for you and provide all the resources you need when you need them.
Although the format may seem quite different from the textbook type of education used in schools, with which our generation is more familiar, our clients, both the parents and the children, find that learning by sharing stories together and then discovering the facts behind the stories is a much more enjoyable format than traditional school methods.
Our programmes offer an engaging and rich education, which far exceeds the topics listed in the CAPS document, but without the burden of a typical school-like programme. See how our customers rave about how Footprints changed their lives from drudgery to DELIGHT! Read our Customer Testimonials
We have also reviewed a number of programmes for English Language, Maths, Afrikaans and some free homeschool curriculum products which you will find online.
Many families also use their public library for resources. If you are interested in finding out more about a prepackaged curriculum, then contact the suppliers and ask for their catalogues or brochures.
Homeschooling expos and curriculum fairs and open days are another place for looking at materials and getting information. Check our Homeschool Events page or with your local support groups for information about these.
No. At this point, the Department of Education does not even have a set of criteria by which to evaluate homeschooling curricula.
In March 2011, it was confirmed in the Pretoria High Court that the state curriculum is not binding on independent schools and parents who educate their children at home.
"Private educators can now safely ignore demands to teach according to the state curriculum."
Section 51 of the SA Schools Act states that the education a learner receives at home
(i) will meet the minimum requirements of the curriculum at public schools; and
(ii) will be of a standard not inferior to the standard of education provided at public schools;
In June 2025, the guidelines for the implementation of the BELA Act again re-iterated the fact that home educators are free to use any curriculum. There is no pre-approved curriculum.
In March 2011, it was confirmed in the Pretoria High Court that the state curriculum is not binding on independent schools and parents who educate their children at home.
"Private educators can now safely ignore demands to teach according to the state curriculum."
Section 51 of the SA Schools Act states that the education a learner receives at home
(i) will meet the minimum requirements of the curriculum at public schools; and
(ii) will be of a standard not inferior to the standard of education provided at public schools;
In June 2025, the guidelines for the implementation of the BELA Act again re-iterated the fact that home educators are free to use any curriculum. There is no pre-approved curriculum.
There is no set answer to this question as it varies from family to family. However, in general, it would be safe to say that homeschooling need not cost you more than it would cost to have your child/ren attend school.
Since most homeschooling families live on a single income, many of them find ways to educate their children on a tight budget, using carefully selected materials and then supplementing with resources from the public library system. As stated above, there are also many homeschooling resources available via the internet that are free.
If you are homeschooling more than one child and are concerned about finances, you should find resources that can be used for multi-level homeschooling. Unit studies are ideal for this. However, if finances are not an issue, you may wish to buy a separate curriculum for each age group.
We believe that you should consider the purchase of high quality home education materials as an investment into your children's education.
Our article, Intentional Homeschool Finances for South African Families explains how South African homeschoolers can break the debt cycle and take control of curriculum costs by building intentional financial habits.
Since most homeschooling families live on a single income, many of them find ways to educate their children on a tight budget, using carefully selected materials and then supplementing with resources from the public library system. As stated above, there are also many homeschooling resources available via the internet that are free.
If you are homeschooling more than one child and are concerned about finances, you should find resources that can be used for multi-level homeschooling. Unit studies are ideal for this. However, if finances are not an issue, you may wish to buy a separate curriculum for each age group.
We believe that you should consider the purchase of high quality home education materials as an investment into your children's education.
Our article, Intentional Homeschool Finances for South African Families explains how South African homeschoolers can break the debt cycle and take control of curriculum costs by building intentional financial habits.
No. You can combine certain subjects so that children can learn together. This works really well for subjects like Social Studies, Nature Study and the Sciences.
For subjects like Maths and Languages, we recommend that you purchase products that suit the age and grade level of each individual child.
Read more in our article about Homeschooling Multiple Ages Together
For subjects like Maths and Languages, we recommend that you purchase products that suit the age and grade level of each individual child.
Read more in our article about Homeschooling Multiple Ages Together
A literature-based curriculum is an educational approach that uses high-quality books, rich stories and biography—often called "living books"—as the primary vehicle for learning, rather than relying on traditional, fragmented textbooks and worksheets.
By exploring subjects like history, geography, science and language through engaging narratives, children absorb facts naturally within a meaningful context, fostering deeper comprehension, critical thinking and a lifelong love of reading. Read more about the incredible Benefits of Literature-based Learning and the lifelong advantages it offers children.
All of our Footprints curriculum options are completely story-driven, designed to bring learning to life through memorable, connected literature. Explore Your Learning Pathway with Footprints
By exploring subjects like history, geography, science and language through engaging narratives, children absorb facts naturally within a meaningful context, fostering deeper comprehension, critical thinking and a lifelong love of reading. Read more about the incredible Benefits of Literature-based Learning and the lifelong advantages it offers children.
All of our Footprints curriculum options are completely story-driven, designed to bring learning to life through memorable, connected literature. Explore Your Learning Pathway with Footprints
Charlotte Mason homeschooling is a gentle, literature-rich educational philosophy developed by 19th-century British educator Charlotte Mason. It is centered around the idea that "children are born persons" rather than blank slates. Instead of relying heavily on traditional textbooks and repetitive worksheets, this approach uses "living books" (engaging, narrative-style books written by passionate authors), oral and written narration (where children explain what they’ve learned in their own words), short and focused lessons to build strong habits, and regular nature study outdoors.
Footprints weaves these core Charlotte Mason principles into a South African context. It combines living books, multi-age family learning, nature exploration and rich storytelling to give children a broad, meaningful education deeply connected to their own country's heritage.
Footprints weaves these core Charlotte Mason principles into a South African context. It combines living books, multi-age family learning, nature exploration and rich storytelling to give children a broad, meaningful education deeply connected to their own country's heritage.
Eclectic homeschooling is a flexible, "pick-and-mix" approach to home education where parents select resources from various educational styles, systems and subjects to customise learning to their child's unique needs and interests. Instead of following a rigid, one-size-fits-all school curriculum, families can mix different books, practical experiences, online tools and hands-on projects, learning together at their own pace.
Our Footprints programmes fit seamlessly into an eclectic homeschooling framework, offering story-rich, multi-level learning resources that give families the freedom and flexibility to meet educational goals while keeping learning engaging and enjoyable.
View the table of comparison showing the differences between School-at-Home versus Eclectic Homeschooling
Our Footprints programmes fit seamlessly into an eclectic homeschooling framework, offering story-rich, multi-level learning resources that give families the freedom and flexibility to meet educational goals while keeping learning engaging and enjoyable.
View the table of comparison showing the differences between School-at-Home versus Eclectic Homeschooling
Homeschooling through High School
As children enter their teenage years, it’s completely natural for parents to feel a wave of uncertainty about high school homeschooling. The higher academic demands, evolving independence and choices surrounding matric options can make this transition feel daunting. However, high school at home doesn’t mean facing complex subjects alone—it is an opportunity to tailor an educational path that fits your teen’s unique talents and goals. This FAQ section addresses common questions about high school options, assessments and pathways to help you navigate these crucial years with clarity and confidence. Also read our selection Homeschool Articles where we address many of the challenges of homeschooling.
Homeschooling High School FAQs
Most homeschooling materials are designed to be used by parents and students who are not familiar with the subject matter. They are therefore self-explanatory. In many cases a parent’s or teacher’s manual is provided with instructions on how to teach new concepts and some curriculum providers even provide teaching videos and dvd’s.
The other alternative that some families use, is to find a qualified or experienced tutor to teach a specific subject - friends, relatives, neighbours, community clubs and homeschool support groups are there to help.
The other alternative that some families use, is to find a qualified or experienced tutor to teach a specific subject - friends, relatives, neighbours, community clubs and homeschool support groups are there to help.
Yes, there are a number of avenues to follow in order to get a school leaving certificate.
Many homeschoolers choose to write foreign Grade 12 exams as an alternative to the South African matric exams, as they are less hassle! You can learn more about the options at our High School Homeschool page.
On our High School Homeschool Options page the options are explained more fully.
Many homeschoolers choose to write foreign Grade 12 exams as an alternative to the South African matric exams, as they are less hassle! You can learn more about the options at our High School Homeschool page.
On our High School Homeschool Options page the options are explained more fully.
Just like a child in the school system, if your child wants to go to a college or university, s/he will need to meet the requirements of that particular institution. It is advisable to first find out what the requirements are and then find a way to make sure that your child will qualify.
Recently a growing number of homeschooled students have been accepted to South African universities and because they are self-motivated and disciplined students, they have coped well with the demands of campus life.
Read our Homeschool Success Stories.
Recently a growing number of homeschooled students have been accepted to South African universities and because they are self-motivated and disciplined students, they have coped well with the demands of campus life.
Read our Homeschool Success Stories.
Many homeschoolers actually encourage their children to take this route. Since they are able to identify their children’s talents and interests, they seek ways for them to pursue their passions through correspondence courses, apprenticeships, Christian ministries and encouraging their children to become entrepreneurs.
Read more about Raising South African Entrepreneurs and Entrepreneurship for Kids
Read more about Raising South African Entrepreneurs and Entrepreneurship for Kids
After completing Grade 9 (the end of the General Education and Training phase in South Africa), homeschooled students transition into the Further Education and Training (FET) phase. Families can choose from several flexible, well-supported school-leaving pathways tailored to the student's learning style and future goals:
Cambridge (IGCSE and AS/A Levels): An internationally respected, academically rigorous route ideal for students aiming for competitive university entry locally or abroad.
GED: An American high school equivalency credential recognized by SAQA (after evaluation). It offers a test-based, self-paced, and cost-effective alternative pathway toward tertiary studies or skills-based careers.
American High School Diploma: Completed through umbrella schools like HomeLife Academy, this option uses a flexible, credit-based system that honors real-world learning and course customisation.
Vocational & Technical Training: Students focused on practical careers or entrepreneurship can pursue TVET college programs, skill-specific certifications, or apprenticeships starting from Grade 10 equivalency.
Our story-driven Footprints programmes provide a strong academic and critical-thinking foundation that earns credits toward an American High School Diploma and thoroughly prepares students to succeed in matric alternatives like Cambridge or the GED.
Cambridge (IGCSE and AS/A Levels): An internationally respected, academically rigorous route ideal for students aiming for competitive university entry locally or abroad.
GED: An American high school equivalency credential recognized by SAQA (after evaluation). It offers a test-based, self-paced, and cost-effective alternative pathway toward tertiary studies or skills-based careers.
American High School Diploma: Completed through umbrella schools like HomeLife Academy, this option uses a flexible, credit-based system that honors real-world learning and course customisation.
Vocational & Technical Training: Students focused on practical careers or entrepreneurship can pursue TVET college programs, skill-specific certifications, or apprenticeships starting from Grade 10 equivalency.
Our story-driven Footprints programmes provide a strong academic and critical-thinking foundation that earns credits toward an American High School Diploma and thoroughly prepares students to succeed in matric alternatives like Cambridge or the GED.
In South Africa, children between the ages of 7 and 15 years have a constitutional right to education and may not be refused schooling. They are usually placed in a specific grade according to their age. Some schools may ask for an assessment but this is unlawful. Refer to Removing or Returning a Child to School
At Grade 9 level, you may need to provide an official report to ensure your child meets the requirements for completing the three-year requirements of Grades 10-12 to achieve the National Senior Certificate. Contact the Pestalozzi Trust for more information.
At Grade 9 level, you may need to provide an official report to ensure your child meets the requirements for completing the three-year requirements of Grades 10-12 to achieve the National Senior Certificate. Contact the Pestalozzi Trust for more information.
Assessments in high school depend directly on the school-leaving pathway or matric alternative chosen:
National Senior Certificate (NSC): If a student is pursuing the local NSC, continuous assessments (SBA) and examinations for Grades 10–12 must be managed and conducted by an accredited curriculum service provider offering a CAPS-aligned programme (such as SACAI or IEB-aligned assessment bodies).
American High School Diploma (AHSD): Earning an AHSD relies on a credit-based continuous assessment system rather than a single high-stakes exit exam. An umbrella school (like HomeLife Academy) evaluates parents' records, coursework, portfolios or online course grades to verify that high school credits and GPA standards have been achieved across Grades 9–12.
Cambridge International (IGCSE & AS/A Levels): Assessment is almost entirely exam-based. Students write standardised, externally set and marked exams at accredited Cambridge examination centers in set sittings (May/June or October/November).
GED®: Rather than evaluating years of high school coursework, the GED assesses high school equivalency through four computer-based tests (Mathematical Reasoning, Science, Social Studies and Reasoning Through Language Arts) written at official testing centers.
Regardless of the route, parents transition into the role of supervisor and record-keeper, ensuring their teen meets the specific assessment and transcript criteria of their chosen qualification.
National Senior Certificate (NSC): If a student is pursuing the local NSC, continuous assessments (SBA) and examinations for Grades 10–12 must be managed and conducted by an accredited curriculum service provider offering a CAPS-aligned programme (such as SACAI or IEB-aligned assessment bodies).
American High School Diploma (AHSD): Earning an AHSD relies on a credit-based continuous assessment system rather than a single high-stakes exit exam. An umbrella school (like HomeLife Academy) evaluates parents' records, coursework, portfolios or online course grades to verify that high school credits and GPA standards have been achieved across Grades 9–12.
Cambridge International (IGCSE & AS/A Levels): Assessment is almost entirely exam-based. Students write standardised, externally set and marked exams at accredited Cambridge examination centers in set sittings (May/June or October/November).
GED®: Rather than evaluating years of high school coursework, the GED assesses high school equivalency through four computer-based tests (Mathematical Reasoning, Science, Social Studies and Reasoning Through Language Arts) written at official testing centers.
Regardless of the route, parents transition into the role of supervisor and record-keeper, ensuring their teen meets the specific assessment and transcript criteria of their chosen qualification.
Homeschooling Concerns & FAQ for Worried Moms: Common Questions Answered
Stepping into homeschooling often brings a wave of self-doubt, but you don’t have to navigate these worries alone. It is completely normal to question whether you are qualified to teach your children, how you will manage teaching multiple age groups, or how to juggle schoolwork alongside toddlers or job commitments. From combating feelings of isolation to managing the daily chaos and preventing burnout, this section offers practical advice and reassuring answers to help you navigate these everyday challenges with confidence and peace of mind.
Common Homeschooling Concerns
Do homeschool parents need to be qualified teachers?
According to extensive research into the qualifications of homeschooling parents, the qualifications of the parent do not affect the performance of the students. Even parents that have dropped out of school have successfully home-educated their children throughout high school. There is no legal requirement for a parent to have any specific qualifications in order to be eligible to home educate her children. Read more about Homeschool Research
According to extensive research into the qualifications of homeschooling parents, the qualifications of the parent do not affect the performance of the students. Even parents that have dropped out of school have successfully home-educated their children throughout high school. There is no legal requirement for a parent to have any specific qualifications in order to be eligible to home educate her children. Read more about Homeschool Research
How do homeschoolers assess their children?
Children are always learning - it is a natural part of life. Just like when they were babies and toddlers, they learned by discovering and exploring the world around them, so too older children continue to grow in knowledge, skill and experience just by living.
Children are naturally curious and even if left to their own devices, will seek answers to their questions.
Many homeschoolers find that their children begin to incorporate topics of learning into their daily conversations or their play and thus, in a very natural way, parents are able to observe the degree of learning that children have achieved, without the rigours of standardised testing.
Read how parents can assess learning using alternative curriculum products like Footprints - Endorsed but not Accredited.
Also read about Homeschool Assessments, Reports and Compliance with the DBE
Children are naturally curious and even if left to their own devices, will seek answers to their questions.
Many homeschoolers find that their children begin to incorporate topics of learning into their daily conversations or their play and thus, in a very natural way, parents are able to observe the degree of learning that children have achieved, without the rigours of standardised testing.
Read how parents can assess learning using alternative curriculum products like Footprints - Endorsed but not Accredited.
Also read about Homeschool Assessments, Reports and Compliance with the DBE
It is completely normal for homeschooling parents, both beginners and veterans, to wonder "Am I doing enough?" or worry about "keeping up". This self-questioning isn't a sign of failure. It is proof of a caring, responsible parent who has their child's best interests at heart.
When these worries creep in, keep these reassuring truths in mind:
You are not in the school system: Home education provides a customised journey tailored to your child's individual pace and interests. You are neither "behind" nor "ahead" because you are not on the same path as traditional schools.
Over-planning is common: Homeschooling parents rarely neglect their children's education; in fact, most tend to over-plan and try to do too much rather than too little.
All of life is learning: Education happens everywhere, not just through books and worksheets. Everyday activities, meaningful household responsibilities, real-world discovery and spontaneous interest-led projects carry immense educational value.
Character and relationship matter most: Building a strong foundation of love, mutual respect, character and a lifelong curiosity for learning is far more valuable than rushing through a rigid checklist.
If you are asking yourself whether you're doing enough, rest assured: your dedication and care mean that you are already doing a wonderful job guiding your child.
Read our article about Am I Doing Enough?
When these worries creep in, keep these reassuring truths in mind:
You are not in the school system: Home education provides a customised journey tailored to your child's individual pace and interests. You are neither "behind" nor "ahead" because you are not on the same path as traditional schools.
Over-planning is common: Homeschooling parents rarely neglect their children's education; in fact, most tend to over-plan and try to do too much rather than too little.
All of life is learning: Education happens everywhere, not just through books and worksheets. Everyday activities, meaningful household responsibilities, real-world discovery and spontaneous interest-led projects carry immense educational value.
Character and relationship matter most: Building a strong foundation of love, mutual respect, character and a lifelong curiosity for learning is far more valuable than rushing through a rigid checklist.
If you are asking yourself whether you're doing enough, rest assured: your dedication and care mean that you are already doing a wonderful job guiding your child.
Read our article about Am I Doing Enough?
Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience in home education, especially during seasons of transition or high stress. When homeschooling begins to feel heavy or unsustainable, remember that you have the flexibility to pause, adjust and simplify:
Take a "school holiday" or pause: You are not bound by a rigid school schedule. Stepping back for a few days to rest, reset and re-evaluate does not mean falling behind. It gives both you and your children space to recharge. We often take a week's break midterm to rest.
Focus on the core: Strip away non-essential subjects and extra activities. Temporarily scale back to the absolute basics such as reading together and maths until you regain your footing and routine.
Shift to living books and audiobooks: When traditional teaching or textbook lessons feel burdensome, relax and enjoy shared reading, audiobooks or educational documentaries. Story-driven learning allows education to continue naturally without requiring intensive prep work.
Involve your children: Give your children age-appropriate responsibilities, from managing their own study schedules to helping with household tasks. Building a collaborative home environment lightens your administrative load and builds your child's independence. Homeschooling requires teamwork!
Reach out for support: Connect with other homeschooling parents, local support groups or veteran mentors. Sharing your challenges with a community reminds you that you are not alone and brings fresh perspective to your daily routine. Homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint. Prioritising your family's well-being and your relationship with your children is far more important than adhering to a strict checklist.
Read about how to prevent Homeschool Burnout and Homeschooling Should Not be Heavy-going.
Mining the Gold in Your Homeschool Situation may help you realise that successful homeschooling doesn't ask parents to construct an ideal world for their children. Instead, you need to recognise the rich possibilities already present in your current season and cultivate them wisely.
Take a "school holiday" or pause: You are not bound by a rigid school schedule. Stepping back for a few days to rest, reset and re-evaluate does not mean falling behind. It gives both you and your children space to recharge. We often take a week's break midterm to rest.
Focus on the core: Strip away non-essential subjects and extra activities. Temporarily scale back to the absolute basics such as reading together and maths until you regain your footing and routine.
Shift to living books and audiobooks: When traditional teaching or textbook lessons feel burdensome, relax and enjoy shared reading, audiobooks or educational documentaries. Story-driven learning allows education to continue naturally without requiring intensive prep work.
Involve your children: Give your children age-appropriate responsibilities, from managing their own study schedules to helping with household tasks. Building a collaborative home environment lightens your administrative load and builds your child's independence. Homeschooling requires teamwork!
Reach out for support: Connect with other homeschooling parents, local support groups or veteran mentors. Sharing your challenges with a community reminds you that you are not alone and brings fresh perspective to your daily routine. Homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint. Prioritising your family's well-being and your relationship with your children is far more important than adhering to a strict checklist.
Read about how to prevent Homeschool Burnout and Homeschooling Should Not be Heavy-going.
Mining the Gold in Your Homeschool Situation may help you realise that successful homeschooling doesn't ask parents to construct an ideal world for their children. Instead, you need to recognise the rich possibilities already present in your current season and cultivate them wisely.
Feeling lonely during your homeschooling journey is both common and completely normal for both parents and children. Rather than seeing loneliness as a failure, view it as a signal to adjust your connections and routine.
Understand that aloneness is different from loneliness. Solitude can foster creativity and independent thinking, but ongoing isolation requires proactive change.
Build intentional connection: Most parents and children only need one or two meaningful friendships rather than a large group. Connect with local support groups, set up relaxed park dates, or join local interest-based clubs like robotics, crafting or sports.
Resist filling quiet hours with endless screen time or online acquaintances, which often deepens feelings of isolation over time.
Sometimes loneliness is just for a season. Social dynamics shift as children grow and friends move into different routines.
Read more at Lonely Homeschoolers and Homeschool Socialisation
Understand that aloneness is different from loneliness. Solitude can foster creativity and independent thinking, but ongoing isolation requires proactive change.
Build intentional connection: Most parents and children only need one or two meaningful friendships rather than a large group. Connect with local support groups, set up relaxed park dates, or join local interest-based clubs like robotics, crafting or sports.
Resist filling quiet hours with endless screen time or online acquaintances, which often deepens feelings of isolation over time.
Sometimes loneliness is just for a season. Social dynamics shift as children grow and friends move into different routines.
Read more at Lonely Homeschoolers and Homeschool Socialisation
Homeschooling does not mean children have to grow up isolated from other children or adults. Read more about Homeschool Socialisation and the many ways homeschooling families build community.
Homeschoolers believe that their children need to socialise with people of all age groups, not just say grade 3’s or grade 6’s, in order to be well-socialised.
Many people have a misconception of socialisation and of homeschooling. Some think that homeschoolers isolate their children and that they are not socially skilled, however research has shown the opposite to be true. Homeschooled children are often more confident and can relate to both younger and older people more effectively as they are not mostly confined to their peer group.
In the adult world, one is seldom confined to work with just one age group and since homeschoolers spend more time out in the real world than children confined to classrooms, research has shown that they are generally well-adjusted socially.
Read more about Homeschool Socialisation.
Homeschoolers believe that their children need to socialise with people of all age groups, not just say grade 3’s or grade 6’s, in order to be well-socialised.
Many people have a misconception of socialisation and of homeschooling. Some think that homeschoolers isolate their children and that they are not socially skilled, however research has shown the opposite to be true. Homeschooled children are often more confident and can relate to both younger and older people more effectively as they are not mostly confined to their peer group.
In the adult world, one is seldom confined to work with just one age group and since homeschoolers spend more time out in the real world than children confined to classrooms, research has shown that they are generally well-adjusted socially.
Read more about Homeschool Socialisation.
Instead of running separate, grade-by-grade schedules for every child, you can group them together for shared, story-rich subjects like history, geography, science, literature and nature study. Everyone learns from the same topic, but you adjust the output based on their abilities (for instance, a younger child might draw a picture while an older child writes a detailed report). You only need to teach skill-based subjects, like Maths and reading, on an individual level.
How you'll cope:
Start the day together: Gather everyone for a shared read-aloud or group lesson to set a unified rhythm before moving to individual tasks.
Build independence: Teach older children to work through self-directed tasks while you focus on younger siblings who need hands-on help.
Keep younger ones active: Let toddlers and young children learn through play. They don't need to sit through formal desk work all day.
Use multi-age tools: Programmes like all our Footprints curriculum packages are specifically designed around broad age ranges, allowing siblings to learn together naturally without doubling your workload.
Read more in our article Homeschooling Multiple Ages: How to Make Multilevel Homeschooling Work
How you'll cope:
Start the day together: Gather everyone for a shared read-aloud or group lesson to set a unified rhythm before moving to individual tasks.
Build independence: Teach older children to work through self-directed tasks while you focus on younger siblings who need hands-on help.
Keep younger ones active: Let toddlers and young children learn through play. They don't need to sit through formal desk work all day.
Use multi-age tools: Programmes like all our Footprints curriculum packages are specifically designed around broad age ranges, allowing siblings to learn together naturally without doubling your workload.
Read more in our article Homeschooling Multiple Ages: How to Make Multilevel Homeschooling Work
Again this may vary from one family to another, but in general at primary school level, 2-3 hours per day is sufficient and at high school level about 3-4 hours should be sufficient for formal academic activities. This leaves a lot of time for other activities, many of which are also learning activities that develop a child’s experience or character – such as hobbies, reading, outings, extra-curricular activities and helping in the home.
There are many homeschooling families where one or both parents work, part-time or full-time. Of course, this means that they have to schedule and organise their homeschooling around their work commitments, but where families are committed, they are able to homeschool successfully. Increasingly, homeschooling moms are finding ways to work-from-home.
Homeschooling families participate in as many and sometimes more activities than children who attend school. There are an increasing number of private sports clubs being established that welcome the support of homeschoolers. In many areas, homeschooling groups arrange their own sports coaching, eisteddfods, galas and sports days. Find out from other homeschoolers in your area about sporting options for your children.
Extensive research has shown that homeschooling is the best option for children of preschool age. Read the following article: Preschool Ideas – Living Alongside
In this quick video, Shirley and Wendy share valuable tips and advice about homeschooling with little ones. As moms of 6 and 4 children, they've had loads of experience! Watch Homeschooling Preschoolers
In this quick video, Shirley and Wendy share valuable tips and advice about homeschooling with little ones. As moms of 6 and 4 children, they've had loads of experience! Watch Homeschooling Preschoolers
Experience has shown that commitment and determination are often the key to successful homeschooling. Each family faces their own unique challenges. For those who are not very organised, homeschooling affords both parent and children the opportunity to learn to overcome this obstacle. Families learn to set up routines for doing chores and other jobs.
Read Homeschooling - Blessing or Burden?, also 5 Tips for the Stressed Homeschool Mom.
In this short video, Wendy and Shirley share tips on how to juggle and get everything done as a homeschool mom. Watch Getting it All Done
In this short video, Wendy and Shirley share tips on how to juggle and get everything done as a homeschool mom. Watch Getting it All Done
Get Tips for Starting Homeschooling
Sign up for our free 7-part email course: Tips for Starting Homeschooling. You’ll receive practical advice, encouragement, and easy-to-follow guidance delivered to your inbox every two days, perfect for families just starting out.