Basic Education
The good news is that dynamic and flexible options are available, and parents don’ t have to compromise on their child’ s education.“ Home and online learning offer a structured, high-quality alternative that can be tailored to the needs of each family,” says Louise Schoonwinkel, MD of Optimi Schooling, which operates Impaq.
For families considering this route, Schoonwinkel offers 10 practical considerations that should underpin the decision.
Why homeschooling?
Before making the transition, it’ s essential to understand why homeschooling might be the right choice for your family. Some of the key benefits include:
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Home and online schooling eliminates the uncertainty of school placement, ensuring your child’ s education starts on time.
Your child can learn at their own pace and in a way that suits their individual strengths.
Unlike traditional schools, which have fixed subject choices, home and online schooling allows learners the option to explore a wider range of subjects.
Choose the right curriculum
The first step in homeschooling is selecting the right curriculum.“ This decision should align with your child’ s learning needs, future aspirations, and local education regulations. Impaq offers a CAPS-aligned curriculum, ensuring that homeschooled learners remain on par with their peers in mainstream schools,“ Schoonwinkel explains.
Set up a learning-friendly space
A dedicated, quiet, and well-equipped learning space at home can help learners focus and stay engaged. Ensure the area has all the necessary learning materials, including a computer, internet access, and stationery.
Establish clear routines and boundaries
One of the biggest adjustments when moving from a traditional school setting to homeschooling is defining a clear structure. Create a daily schedule that includes learning time, breaks, and extracurricular activities to maintain balance.
Maintain social interaction
A common concern for parents considering homeschooling is whether their child will miss out on social experiences.“ The reality is that home and online schooled learners often have more flexibility to engage in activities outside of a school setting. Joining homeschooling groups, sports clubs, or online communities can help learners build strong social connections,” Schoonwinkel advises.
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Home and online schooling follows a structured curriculum like CAPS, ensuring that learners receive the same National Senior Certificate( NSC) qualification as traditional school students.
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