Home Schooling Consultative Group meeting – 23 June 2021

1a. Publication of revised Guidelines

Members were advised that NESA anticipates publishing revised Guidelines soon. A copy of the revised Guidelines showing the tracked changes will also be published.
Action arising: NESA to publish the revised Guidelines on its website and inform members when published.

1b. Home schooling data

The home schooling registration data report relating to 2020 has been published. Possible changes to data categories for reasons for home schooling on NESA’s application forms were discussed. Some members raised the value of research into this area which was also briefly discussed and noted.
Action arising: HSCG members will be invited to consider possible changes to the data categories for reasons for home schooling when NESA has the resources to review the categories.

1c. Tenure of HSCG membership

Members were advised that the term of membership for an appointed member is for a period of up to three years with the possibility of renewal. It was confirmed that all existing members would continue to serve for the rest of 2021, and renewals for members whose term expires at the beginning of 2022 would be considered closer to that time.
Action arising: Nil

None declared
Action arising: Nil

3a. Authorised Persons briefings

Members were advised that NESA conducts briefing sessions for Authorised Persons three times a year. Agenda items include a wide range of topics that support the work and professional learning of Authorised Persons. Members are welcome to make suggestions for agenda items for future briefing sessions.
Action arising: Members to suggest agenda items for future Authorised Person briefing sessions, if they wish.

3b. National and state home schooling meetings

NESA understands a national forum for home education is being planned by Tasmania for 2021.
Action arising: Nil

3c. Increased registration numbers

Members were informed that despite the increasing volume of home schooling applications being received, NESA is continuing to process applications within published timeframes. Members were informed that the increase in home schooling registration applications has been brought to the attention of the NESA Board.
Action arising: Nil

An update on the number of applications received to date in 2021 was provided. It was noted that the most recent data again reflects an increase in the number of children registered for home schooling.
Action arising: Nil

An update on the number of applications received to date in 2021 was provided. It was noted that the most recent data again reflects an increase in the number of children registered for home schooling.
Action arising: Nil

5a. Home visits

Applications continue to be assessed via documentation review and video/audio technology in line with advice from NSW Health. Home visits will recommence when health advice allows.
Action arising: Nil

5b. NESA syllabus updates

Members were informed that NESA’s curriculum team is consulting with stakeholders regarding updates to syllabuses and that a Curriculum Reform team member may provide an update on the Curriculum changes at a later meeting. Members were encouraged to take advantage of opportunities offered to provide feedback. A concern regarding the practical usability of NESA syllabuses for the purposes for home schooling was raised by a member and noted.
Action arising: NESA’s curriculum team to consider the practical usability of its online syllabuses for the purpose of home schooling.

5c. School attendance

A member raised a question seeking clarity around NSW Department of Education practices regarding school attendance.
Action arising: Nil