Recommended Homeschooling Curriculums in the UK

Recommended Homeschooling Curriculums in the UK

Why Parents Choose to Home Educate

At Wilded Family, we understand that choosing to homeschool isn’t always a straightforward decision. While some parents find it easy and clear-cut, others, like us, face a complex and daunting path. The thought of having all your little ones at home, all day, every day can feel overwhelming. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, there are compelling principles that keep drawing parents back to Homeschooling and might mean its the right choice for our family.

Firstly, the age at which children start school can play a significant role in our decision. Here in the UK, children typically begin school at age four, even though it isn’t compulsory until age five. In contrast, many European countries start schooling at age six or older. Finland, known for its highly effective education system, doesn’t start formal schooling until children are seven.

Secondly, research consistently shows the importance of ample outdoor time for children to connect with nature and the world around them. Thats hard target to meet in our current UK state schools. Homeschooling provides the freedom to step outside and explore whenever we want, fostering a sense of independence in children that isn’t always possible within the confines of a school playground.

Thirdly, seeing that children could still form meaningful relationships without being in a traditional school setting. If you live in a community setting or a some good homeschool groups you and the children can be surrounded by other families with children of various ages. That can be really helpful and reassuring that your children won’t be socially isolated!

At Wilded Family, we know firsthand that homeschooling isn’t the easiest path, but for many parents, it offers invaluable opportunities for growth, exploration, and connection. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Approaching Homeschooling

There are numerous approaches to homeschooling. The classical method emphasizes memorization and structure, while Waldorf and Montessori offer beautiful, child-led experiences. Then there’s the Charlotte Mason method, known for its unique approach.

The Classical Method

The classical method of education is rooted in the traditions of ancient Greek and Roman pedagogy, with a strong emphasis on the trivium, which consists of grammar, logic, and rhetoric. This approach is highly structured, focusing on memorization and mastery of foundational knowledge in the early years. As children progress, they move into the logic stage, where they learn to think critically and understand the relationships between different pieces of knowledge. Finally, in the rhetoric stage, students learn to express their thoughts persuasively and clearly. The classical method is known for its rigorous academic standards and its goal of cultivating articulate and thoughtful learners.

Charlotte Mason Method

Charlotte Mason was a British educator whose work has inspired countless families to embrace a rich, meaningful education. Born in 1842, Miss Mason was a woman ahead of her time. She believed in the power of young minds and saw the potential for children to learn and grow in ways that were often overlooked by traditional schooling methods.

The Charlotte Mason method is centered around the idea of “education as an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life.” This approach emphasizes a broad curriculum rich with living books—engaging texts that bring subjects to life. It values short, focused lessons that respect a child’s attention span while promoting hands-on learning and nature exploration. Additionally, the method incorporates habits training, encouraging children to develop good habits that contribute to their character and academic growth. Narration, the practice of having children recount what they’ve read or learned, is another cornerstone, fostering retention and comprehension. Ultimately, the Charlotte Mason method aims to cultivate a love of learning and nurture well-rounded, thoughtful individuals.

Steiner Waldorf Education

Waldorf education, founded by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century, focuses on holistic, developmentally appropriate learning. This method integrates academics with creativity and practical activities, aiming to nourish the head, heart, and hands of each child. A typical Waldorf curriculum includes artistic endeavors like drawing, music, and drama, alongside traditional subjects such as math and literature. Central to Waldorf education is the idea of cultivating a child’s imagination and a strong sense of community, fostering not only intellectual growth but also emotional and social development. The approach is both warm and inviting, encouraging lifelong curiosity and a deep, meaningful connection to learning.

Montessori Education

Montessori education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century, is a child-centered approach that emphasizes independence, self-directed learning, and hands-on activities. The Montessori method is built on the belief that children learn best when they are engaged in activities that interest them, at their own pace. Classrooms are designed with specific materials that aid sensory development and cognitive skills, allowing children to explore, question, and discover. Teachers, often referred to as guides, play a pivotal role in observing and supporting each child’s individual growth. The environment is carefully prepared to encourage creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning, fostering both academic and personal development. Montessori education also focuses on building a strong sense of community and fostering respect for oneself, others, and the environment.

Both Waldorf and Montessori education share similar principles, such as valuing a child’s individuality and focusing on holistic development. However, there are some key differences between the two approaches.

One notable difference is in their teaching styles. While Waldorf educators primarily focus on nourishing a child’s imagination through artistic expression, Montessori teachers take a more hands-off approach, allowing children to have more freedom in their learning. In a Montessori classroom, children choose activities

 

Recommended Homeschooling Curriculums in the UK

Homeschooling has gained significant traction in recent years, offering families the flexibility to tailor educational experiences to fit their unique needs and lifestyles. With the multitude of curriculums available, choosing the right one can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. This guide aims to shed light on some of the most recommended homeschooling curriculums in the UK, helping parents make informed decisions that resonate with their educational philosophies and their children’s learning styles. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking to refine your approach, exploring these diverse options will empower you to create a nurturing and effective learning environment at home.

  1. Waldorf Essentials https://www.waldorfessentials.com/
    Waldorf Essentials is a popular curriculum that follows the Waldorf educational philosophy. It focuses on fostering children’s creativity, imagination, and practical skills through hands-on activities and artistic expression. The curriculum includes weekly lesson plans for grades K-8, providing structure while still allowing flexibility for parents to adapt lessons to their child’s interests and needs.
  2. Ambleside Online https://www.amblesideonline.org/
    For families seeking a literature-based approach to education, Ambleside Online offers a comprehensive and free Charlotte Mason-style curriculum. It integrates subjects such as history, literature, science, and art into daily lessons while encouraging independent reading and narration. Parents can choose from a wide range of resources to create a unique and engaging learning experience for their children.

  3. Khan Academy https://www.khanacademy.org/
    Khan Academy is a non-profit organization that offers free online courses in various subjects, making it an accessible option for families on a budget. The curriculum is self-paced, allowing students to learn at their own speed while still following a structured learning path. It also offers interactive activities, videos, and practice exercises to enhance understanding and retention.

  4. Oak Meadow https://www.oakmeadow.com/elementary-k-4/
    Oak Meadow is another popular Waldorf-inspired curriculum that emphasizes nature-based learning and holistic education. Its flexible approach allows parents to customize the curriculum based on their child’s interests and learning style. It offers a wide range of subjects, including core academics, art, music, and life skills.

  5. The Good and the Beautiful https://www.goodandbeautiful.com/
    Created by a homeschooling mother, The Good and the Beautiful curriculum focuses on developing strong character in addition to academic skills. Its materials are visually appealing and often include hands-on activities to keep children engaged. The curriculum covers all major subjects from kindergarten to eighth grade and offers downloadable resources for families with multiple children.

  6. Waldorf Inspired Homeschooling https://www.waldorf-inspired-homeschooling.com/
    UK based: Experience a unique Steiner-based homeschool education in the UK with our Waldorf Inspired Homeschooling. Our program offers detailed daily lesson plans for ages 6 to 14, with future plans for ages 4 to 6 and 14 to 18. Choose between the full Correspondence Course Package, which includes lesson plans, CDs, and termly advice, or the All at Home Package, which provides the same lesson plans and CDs without additional support.

  7. Christopherus Homeschool Resources https://www.christopherushomeschool.com/our-store/middle-grades/sixth-grade/waldorf-curriculum-overview-for-homeschoolers/
    US based: Founded in 2003 by Donna Simmons and Paul Newton, Christopherus Homeschool Resources provides Waldorf-inspired educational materials for homeschoolers. Donna, with a lifelong involvement in Waldorf education, has taught extensively and created numerous resources to support homeschooling families. She has a strong background in Waldorf pedagogy, homeschooling her own sons, and conducting workshops across the U.S. Donna is also a dedicated member of the Anthroposophical Society and remains actively involved in educational and spiritual endeavors. Paul, now a priest, offers occasional support to Christopherus while focusing on his religious work.

  8. Multisori https://multisori.com/
    Mandi Zielinski, a Montessori homeschooler, created Multisori out of her own experiences as a tired new mom struggling to find an affordable and effective Montessori curriculum. Multisori offers multidimensional, authentic Montessori resources that are easy to use, portable, and suitable for multi-age learning. Mandi’s program is rooted in thorough research and Montessori values, designed to simplify homeschooling for parents and enhance children’s education. She confidently stands behind her program, believing it to be the perfect solution for Montessori homeschooling parents.

  9. Wolsey Hall Oxford https://wolseyhalloxford.org.uk
    Wolsey Hall Oxford is a beacon of excellence in the world of homeschooling. Established in 1894, this long-standing institution offers structured and comprehensive courses that cater to various educational stages, from primary to A-levels.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right homeschooling curriculum can set the stage for a joyful and fulfilling educational journey. Whether you opt for the structured excellence of Wolsey Hall Oxford, the innovative approach and combination of all, or the holistic beauty of the Charlotte Mason method, these curriculums offer rich and nurturing experiences to help your children thrive.