Homeschool online in London: how live online school works for London families

More London families are choosing to homeschool online. Live online lessons let your child learn with a real teacher and classmates without the commute, and you keep the flexibility of home education. Here is how it works.

Is homeschooling online legal in London?

Yes. Home education is legal everywhere in England. Parents must make sure their child gets a suitable full-time education, but it does not have to happen in a school building. An online school counts as part of that education, and you do not need your council's permission to start.

What a live online school day looks like

• Small-group lessons taught live by a teacher, not pre-recorded videos
• Pupils can ask questions, answer and work with classmates
• Homework, feedback and progress shared with parents
• Lessons in the daytime, leaving time for trips, clubs and London's free museums

Choosing an online school in London

• Check the teaching is live and the groups are small
• Ask which curriculum and exam boards are followed
• Read the safeguarding and online safety policies
• Ask how GCSE exams are arranged for private candidates
• Check the fees and whether instalments are offered

Where Growing Roots Academy fits

Growing Roots Academy is an independent online school with its office in Newham, East London. We teach Years 1–11, from KS1 to GCSE, in live small groups. Families across London and the rest of the UK join the same classes. Visit our enrolment page to see fees and how to start.