Home schooling or attendance at non-recognised schools

The Irish Constitution acknowledges the role of a parent / guardian as the primary educator of the child and has enshrined in law that a parent / guardian may home educate a child.

Under Section 14 (1) of the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000 parents of children who attend a non - recognised school - that is a school that is not funded by the Department of Education (for example, a private primary school) - or of children who are educated at home - must register their child with Tusla - the Child and Family Agency.

This legal requirement exists in order to support parents in their right to home educate and importantly, to safeguard a child's right to a minimum education.

Further information is available from:

• Department of Education Home Tuition Schemes
• Tusla - the Child and Family Agency.