Must I register to Homeschool in South Africa?

A couple of years ago I wrote a post about the legal aspects of homeschooling in South Africa.  Recently, a visitor to my blog, queried if the information was still relevant, as the article was written in 2008.  Good question! The homeschooling movement in South Africa is growing, and with many newbies, it is probably time to blog about it again. 

And yes, I do not think anything has changed in this area, because the law has not altered.  So as I write this (26-01-2012), legislation surrounding homeschooling in South Africa remains a very grey area.  The Legal documents relating to this, especially the Section 51 of the Schools Act, has ambigious language, which can be interpreted to mean different things.  Law should be, well, law, well written, easily understood, with no loop holes.  This is what the Pestalozzi Trust, the Legal Defense group for homeschoolers in South Africa have been lobbying for over the years- fair and good laws, that provide for homeschooling as a form of education in South Africa.

Unfortunately, as the law stands, it is interpreted by each Department of Education differently.  This results in homeschoolers in certain provinces being enforced to register and comply with may illegal requirements.  Some provinces have inspections by offiicials form the department, whilst some officials just make phone calls.  Other provinces have not interpreted legislation to read that parents must register.  The DOE in the East Cape offers a download link to the form they require for "Applying to Homeschoool" whilst as this wording, to the best of my knowledge, appears no where in the South African law.  At least one curriculum provider insists on registration before they will enroll and provide you with their curriculum. 

But the question on everyone's lips is: must I register?  Actually, no one can or should tell you what to do.  It is your choice.  Ask other homeschool families what they have done.  Ask why.  Listen to their reasons.  Pray, pray, pray! You, the parent, are responsible for reading the laws carefully, before filling in any forms, and making any decisions.  You must be at peace with the decision you have made.

I checked with the Pestalozzi Trust earlier this month, and the trust re-iterated that no suitable legislation has yet been passed for homeschoolers.  Also, though the Trust will not tell you to register or not to register, they are open to registered or non-registered members.  It is my feeling that membership with the Pestalozzi Trust is the wisest action, if you can afford it.

When one looks at the history of homeschooling in the US, and the profound work and actions of the HSLDA one can see the benefits homeschoolers here in SOuth Africa, if  we more of us would unite under the Trust.  With one voice, I am sure we can accomplish much. We continue to hope and pray for the work of the Trust on South Africa and are grateful for what has been done.  The Pestalozzi Trust continues to work for the rights of homeschoolers to enable them to freely educate at home, without fear or intimidation. 

If this article has got you thinking about High school and Matric and preperation for matric or an equivalent- that is an entirely different topic- one that you'll notice I have not covered ever at this blog.  That is because I am ill qualified and the playing field is constantly changing in this area in South Africa.  But again, I think contacting the Trust for advice for your options, in your area/province would be best.