Stricter rules in Flanders following surge in home schooling
According to the Flemish education inspectorate, the number of children being home-schooled in Flanders has almost doubled since the start of the pandemic. De Tijd reports that this growth has raised concerns about inadequate oversight and educational outcomes.
The number of children being homeschooled increased from 3,186 in the 2019–2020 school year to 5,774 in the last school year. Home schooling in Flanders can be either individual, whereby parents teach their own children, or collective, involving groups of parents or private tutors.
As compulsory education in Flanders does not equate to mandatory school attendance, home schooling is legal, provided that children obtain a primary education certificate by the end of the school year in which they turn 14. This is typically achieved through a central examination board.
Stricter oversight
However, the pass rate for these exams has dropped from over 90 per cent in 2020–21 to just 70 per cent in 2022–23. In response, Education minister Zuhal Demir of N-VA is introducing stricter oversight.
“I’ve heard stories about parents isolating their children from the outside world for years to hide neglect and abuse,” she said. "That will no longer be possible."
From now on, home-educated children must undergo five scheduled medical check-ups. Refusal will result in immediate exclusion from home schooling. Inspectors will also evaluate the social participation of children, such as in sports or clubs, to ensure their integration into society.
Families who refuse to cooperate with inspectors may receive a negative assessment more quickly. Two negative assessments mean the child must return to formal schooling the following term.
Authorities will also report concerning cases more quickly to prosecutors or social services. Cases referred to the public prosecutor will now automatically be classified as neglect.
From September, the parental declaration required to begin home schooling will become more stringent. Parents will be required to guarantee sufficient instructional time, appropriate educational materials and a clear structure.
Although home schooling is not bound by the curriculum's minimum objectives, it must demonstrably lead to the acquisition of key competencies.
The reasons given for choosing home schooling are varied: from unmet special educational needs in mainstream schools and bullying or conflict, to alternative educational philosophies and stress related to school. The inspectorate views this trend as a sign that mainstream education may not be inclusive enough.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM
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