- Home education in Wirral has surged by 34% in the past year, now affecting over 600 pupils.
- Mental health issues are a primary driver, especially among older students in Years 10 and 11.
- The council is working on tackling delays in SEND services and EHCP completion.
The Wirral Council has identified a dramatic increase in the number of families opting for home education, with mental health struggles being cited as one of the most significant causes.
While special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) remain a pressing issue, council officers emphasized that poor mental health is emerging as an equally serious factor.
Mental Wellbeing at Heart of Rising Home Schooling Numbers in Wirral
During a recent education committee meeting, Councillor Tony Murphy questioned the steep rise in home education, describing it as a “big jump.” Assistant Director Mark Bellamy confirmed that many families are removing children from schools not solely because of SEND issues, but due to increasingly prevalent mental health challenges. This is especially evident in older children navigating exam pressure and social anxieties.
The council has responded by prioritizing reintegration efforts. Around 80 students have already returned to mainstream education with targeted support. The growing number of students attending school only part-time also reflects shifting family choices amid complex personal and educational needs. A designated officer is now focusing on understanding and addressing these patterns in detail.
EHCPs, a vital tool in securing support for students with additional needs, are another critical area. Although the 20-week target for completing plans has been missed in most cases, officials argue that efforts to process longstanding overdue cases are beginning to pay off. Adrian Leach, a key officer, explained that increased output this year is a step toward both reducing the backlog and restoring family trust.
In a wider effort to reform, Education Director Elizabeth Hartley launched a new vision campaign centered on building trust and consistency in children’s services. The campaign emerged from a peer review by the Local Government Association, which emphasized the need for stronger alignment with the needs of local families. Hartley acknowledged previous inconsistencies and committed to a culture shift that puts children and families at the core of all policy decisions.
The rise in home education in Wirral signals deeper systemic and emotional challenges for students. As the council ramps up its reforms, the focus remains on rebuilding support and restoring confidence in the local education system.
“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” — Frederick Douglass
This quote reflects the importance of early and consistent support for young people’s mental and educational wellbeing.
