Services for Young People recognises the importance of providing support and guidance to young people who are home educated and ensuring they have access to the same resources and opportunities as their peers in schools.
Projects for home educated young people
Home educated young people are welcome at all SfYP youth work projects but we also offer Raising Aspirations projects specifically designed to support home educated young people. Available throughout the county, these focus on teamwork, interpersonal skills, confidence, and resilience.
Our experienced Youth Workers provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for the young people to meet, socialise, and get support. Young people can learn about the world of work, improve their employability skills for the future and discuss any worries or concerns they may have.
Through interactive workshops and activities, young people can explore a range of topics, including:
- Managing emotional wellbeing
- Boosting resilience, confidence and self-esteem
- Developing teamwork and interpersonal skills
- Setting goals and planning for the future
Find out about the projects in your district by visiting our Youth work projects in your area page.
Information, advice and support at SfYP young people’s centres
Home educated young people can drop in or make an appointment for support at venues across the county on a wide range of subjects. For details and opening times, please visit Information, advice and support at SfYP young people's centres.
Making contact and referrals
Parents/carers and professionals working with young people can refer a young person to SfYP by completing our referral form. After receiving the referral, we will contact you to discuss how we can best meet the young person's needs.
Case studies
We are proud to share the achievements of some of the home educated young people supported by SfYP (names have been changed to protect the young people’s privacy):
“Determined to improve”
Alex, who had experienced bullying in his previous school, joined the Raising Aspiration project for home educated young people. Despite having additional educational needs, he is determined to improve every day, actively engaging in group activities and supporting others. Alex has also participated in other SfYP projects and is now planning to return to education at Oaklands College in September.
“Increased resilience and more responsible”
Ali, who has been home educated since Year 8, had minimal engagement in school or careers education. However, with the help of an SfYP Personal Adviser, he received weekly support throughout Year 11. Together, they explored career options, created a CV, and he completed his functional skills initial assessments. As a result, Ali increased his resilience, has a greater sense of responsibility and is currently studying for a BTEC Level 1 in Construction at Hertford Regional College.
“Confidence to go out of my comfort zone”
Maria received support in decision-making and college applications through drop-in sessions at an SfYP young people's centre. This boosted her self-esteem and confidence, enabling her to step outside her comfort zone. Maria successfully enrolled in a Level 1 Health and Social Care course at Hertford Regional College, saying "I’m so thankful you reached out to me in the first place because going to the meetings helped my anxiety and I’m so excited to have started college... I don’t think I could’ve done it without your help!"
