3 min read
A Parent-to-Parent Conversation: Homeschooling in the Netherlands vs Ireland
Anna (Netherlands):
Hi Sarah, I heard you homeschool your kids in Ireland. I’ve been thinking about homeschooling, but here in the Netherlands it feels almost impossible. How does it work for you?
Sarah (Ireland):
Hi Anna! Yes, we homeschool, and honestly, it’s very doable here. Ireland recognises that parents can educate their children at home. We just had to register and show that our children are learning properly.
Anna:
That already sounds much easier than here. In the Netherlands, the law says children must attend school, not just get an education. Homeschooling is basically not allowed unless you get a rare exemption.
Sarah:
That must be very stressful. In Ireland, the law talks about a child’s right to education, not school attendance. Parents are seen as the first teachers of their children.
Anna:
Here, if you try to homeschool without permission, the local authorities can fine you or even take you to court. Education officers actively check school attendance.
Sarah:
Wow. In Ireland, the approach is very different. The state checks that children are getting a basic education, but it doesn’t tell parents how to teach. We don’t have to follow a strict curriculum or timetable.
Anna:
So you don’t have to copy what schools do?
Sarah:
Not at all. Some families follow textbooks, some use online learning, and others do more hands-on or child-led learning. As long as the child is learning things like reading, writing, maths, and life skills, it’s acceptable.
Anna:
That sounds like a lot of trust in parents. In the Netherlands, the system assumes school is the only safe option. Even if a child is unhappy or struggling, homeschooling is rarely accepted.
Sarah:
Ireland really trusts families, but parents also carry responsibility. If a child isn’t progressing, the state can step in. It’s freedom with accountability.
Anna:
Here, even if parents have strong reasons—like bullying, anxiety, or special needs—it’s still extremely hard to homeschool legally.
Sarah:
That’s one big advantage in Ireland. Homeschooling works well for children who don’t fit the traditional school system. Parents can adapt learning to the child instead of forcing the child to adapt to school.
Anna:
So would you say Ireland is homeschool-friendly?
Sarah:
Yes, definitely. It’s not perfect, but the law clearly allows homeschooling, and families don’t feel like they’re constantly at risk of punishment.
Anna:
In the Netherlands, homeschooling parents often feel like they’re fighting the system. Many families move abroad just to homeschool legally.
Sarah:
That says a lot. Education should support families, not make them afraid.
Anna:
Exactly. I wish the Netherlands focused more on children’s needs and parental choice, like Ireland does.
Sarah:
Hopefully, things will change over time. Until then, it’s important parents know their options and understand the differences between countries.
Simple Takeaway for Parents
- Ireland: Homeschooling is legal, recognised, and flexible. Parents are trusted and supported.
- Netherlands: Homeschooling is mostly not allowed. School attendance is strictly enforced.
For parents who want freedom, flexibility, and legal clarity, Ireland is far more supportive of homeschooling than the Netherlands.
