Not Okay in School: Exploring New Education Models

Let’s talk about something that’s becoming a growing trend in the UK — the rising number of children not attending school. Whether it’s due to health concerns, personal challenges, or families choosing a different path, more and more young people are exploring alternatives to traditional schooling. In fact, over 111,000 children were registered as being home-educated last autumn, up from 92,000 the year before. And those are just the official numbers — the true figure is likely even higher.

This shift raises important questions: why are families making these choices? And how can we ensure that children thrive, whatever their learning environment? Let’s explore this together.

Why Are Some Children Not Attending School?

First, let’s acknowledge that every child’s situation is unique. Families have various reasons for choosing alternative education paths, and it’s not about kids not wanting to learn. For some, mental health challenges play a significant role. The pressures of exams, social dynamics, or anxiety can make traditional school environments overwhelming. The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have only heightened these struggles, leaving some families seeking a more supportive setup for their children.

Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) often face an uphill battle in mainstream schools. While many schools work hard to accommodate SEND students, the system frequently falls short. Overcrowded classrooms, underfunded support programs, and a lack of tailored approaches can leave children feeling unsupported and misunderstood. For many parents, home education becomes the best way to provide their child with the individual attention they need to thrive.

There’s also the question of whether traditional schools always align with what children and families want out of education. Some parents are dissatisfied with rigid curriculums that don’t cater to their child’s interests or strengths. For others, health concerns remain a priority, whether related to post-pandemic caution or managing chronic illnesses. Persistent absenteeism—a growing issue—can also be linked to broader systemic challenges, like inadequate mental health resources or unaddressed bullying.

The education system has its strengths, but it’s far from perfect. The rigid structure of school days, the emphasis on testing, and limited flexibility can leave some students feeling alienated. Instead of labelling these students as "problematic," it’s important to explore how schools might adapt to meet their needs better.

Supporting Children Outside Traditional School Settings

If your child isn’t attending school, you might be wondering how to ensure they still receive a well-rounded education. The good news is that there are countless ways to support them, and it doesn’t always have to involve rigid structure or routines. For some families, having a predictable daily schedule can provide structure and help children stay engaged. Mornings might be dedicated to focused learning, while afternoons can include hands-on projects, creative activities, or outdoor exploration.

On the other hand, not every child thrives under a set structure, and that’s where approaches like unschooling come in. Unschooling embraces the idea that children learn best when they follow their natural curiosities and interests. Instead of formal lessons, learning happens organically through everyday activities, hobbies, and conversations. This approach can help children develop a deep love of learning by allowing them to explore the world on their own terms.

Online resources have revolutionised education, offering tools that make learning accessible and engaging. Platforms like The Wright Academy are tailored to the needs of GCSE students, providing live lessons, revision materials, and interactive courses. These resources allow students to learn at their own pace while covering the core subjects they need for academic success.

Connecting with other home-educating families can also be incredibly valuable. Local and online groups offer a wealth of support, from sharing resources to organising group activities. These communities remind both parents and children that they’re not alone and provide opportunities for social interaction and collaborative learning.

Speaking of social interaction, it’s crucial to create spaces where your child can build friendships and practice teamwork. Whether it’s joining a sports team, participating in art classes, or attending coding workshops, extracurricular activities play a vital role in developing social skills and confidence. Flexibility in education—whether it’s through structured homeschooling, unschooling, or a mix of both—gives families the freedom to choose what works best for their child.

Home education also gives you the freedom to focus on your child’s interests. If they’re passionate about science, encourage experiments and trips to science museums. If they love art, invest in materials and explore online tutorials. This personalised approach can ignite a love of learning that’s sometimes lost in traditional classrooms.

Where Schools Could Do Better

While families are finding innovative ways to educate at home, it’s worth reflecting on how schools can address the reasons so many children are disengaging. One major area for improvement is mental health support. Schools often lack the resources to provide adequate counselling or mental health education, leaving many students to cope with anxiety or depression on their own. Introducing dedicated mental health professionals, peer support programs, and mindfulness initiatives could make schools more welcoming spaces.

Inclusivity is another pressing issue. While some schools are making strides in accommodating diverse learning needs, there’s still a long way to go. Tailored teaching methods, smaller class sizes, and better training for staff working with SEND students could help more children feel supported.

Flexibility could also be a game-changer. Hybrid learning models, shorter school weeks, or part-time attendance options might better suit students who struggle with the demands of a full-time school schedule. These adjustments would require a shift in mindset but could lead to a more inclusive education system overall.

Finally, fostering stronger relationships between schools and families is essential. When parents feel heard and involved in their child’s education, they’re more likely to work collaboratively with schools to address challenges. Open communication and genuine partnerships can make a world of difference.

Reimagining Education

The rise in children not attending school isn’t just a challenge; it’s an opportunity to rethink what education looks like. Every child deserves a learning experience that meets their unique needs and empowers them to reach their potential. For some, that might mean adapting the traditional school system. For others, it means finding alternative paths, like home education, unschooling, or online learning.

If you’re considering alternative education, platforms like The Wright Academy are here to help. Our resources are designed to fit seamlessly into your family’s lifestyle, offering high-quality courses and live lessons that make learning accessible and enjoyable. Whether your child thrives on structure or prefers a more flexible approach, there’s something for everyone.

Education doesn’t have to follow a single path. By embracing flexibility, creativity, and innovation, we can ensure that every learner has the tools and support they need to succeed—no matter where or how they choose to learn.