Understanding the BELA Act and the role of home education

Written by: Louise Schoonwinkel
Article source: Supplied

The implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act has prompted important discussions about the future of education in South Africa. As policies evolve, parents must be fully informed about their rights and the choices available to them. While the Act introduces various changes, home schooling remain a legal and structured alternative for families seeking flexibility in their child’s education.

The Role of Home and Online Schooling
“Home schooling offers a structured, curriculum-aligned approach that ensures learners meet national education standards while studying outside of a traditional school environment. Families choosing this option can access the same CAPS-aligned curricula as mainstream schools, allowing for a seamless learning experience that meets academic requirements,” says Louise Schoonwinkel, MD at Impaq, part of the Optimi Group.

One of the key benefits of this model is flexibility. Home education enable learners to progress at a pace suited to their needs, ensuring that they grasp concepts fully before moving on. This approach can be particularly beneficial for learners with unique learning styles, those pursuing high-performance activities such as sports or the arts, and families who require an alternative to conventional schooling structures.

Education That Adapts to Learners’ Needs
“Education is not one-size-fits-all. Every learner has different needs, and it is essential to have multiple pathways that accommodate these differences. Home schooling provide parents with the ability to tailor education to suit their child’s learning style, interests, and future aspirations,” Louise explains.

Additionally, home education ensures continuity of learning, particularly in cases where school placements remain uncertain or where families experience frequent relocations. The structured nature of home schooling allows learners to transition smoothly should they later choose to re-enter mainstream education.

The Importance of Informed Decision-Making
Parents should have access to accurate information about their rights and options. The implementation of new policies does not mean that alternative education models are no longer accessible. Instead, it underscores the need for parents to make informed decisions based on what best serves their child’s educational needs.

Understanding the role of home schooling is key to ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to succeed in an environment that aligns with their capabilities and aspirations.

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Date published: 08/03/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork from www.freepik.com

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