Supporting a Balanced Approach to Education
At Weston Lullingfields CE Primary School, our Flexi-Schooling Policy is designed to allow children to benefit from both structured school learning and the flexibility of home-based education.
Flexi-schooling offers a blended approach, where a child attends school for part of the week and is educated at home for the remainder, through a formal and carefully planned agreement between the school and parents/carers.
Flexi-schooling is particularly valuable for families who want:
- the security, routine and social benefits of school, without the demands of full-time attendance
- the freedom and flexibility of home education, while remaining connected to a school community
- a gradual or temporary alternative to full-time schooling during a period of transition or change
This approach allows children to continue learning in a way that suits their individual needs, while ensuring they remain supported, monitored and included.
A Strong Partnership Approach
Flexi-schooling is built on trust, communication and shared responsibility. Parents and school work together to ensure the child receives a full-time, broad and balanced education overall. Arrangements are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain in the child’s best interests.
How Flexi‑Schooling Supports Children and Families
Supports Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health
For some children, particularly those experiencing anxiety, emotional needs or school‑related stress, flexi‑schooling can:
- Reduce pressure and overwhelm
- Support confidence and self‑esteem
- Allow learning to take place at a pace that feels manageable
- This can lead to improved engagement, wellbeing and readiness to learn.
Encourages Positive Transitions
Flexi‑schooling can act as a stepping stone:
- Back into school following illness, trauma or prolonged absence
- Towards increased attendance over time
- Or, where appropriate, towards a planned move into elective home education
- It allows transitions to be carefully supported, rather than sudden or disruptive.
- Maintains Connection and Belonging
Unlike full‑time home education, flexi‑schooled pupils:
- Remain on the school roll
- Keep friendships and social connections
- Take part in assemblies, trips, events and school life
- This sense of belonging is often reassuring for both children and parents.
Respects Family Circumstances and Values
Flexi‑schooling can support families with:
- SEND or additional needs
- Medical or emotional challenges
- Exceptional talents (such as sport or the arts)
- Cultural or faith‑based commitments
Important Information for Families
Flexi-schooling is not an automatic entitlement and must be requested by parents or carers. Each request is considered carefully by the Headteacher, with arrangements formalised through a written agreement and reviewed regularly.
To view our policy, please click here.
Working Together for the Best Outcomes
When thoughtfully planned, flexi-schooling can be a positive and supportive solution for families seeking a middle path between full-time schooling and home education. Weston Lullingfields CE Primary School is committed to flexible, inclusive approaches that help every child thrive.
For enquiries, please reach out to our school administrator, Paula Mansfield, in the first instance. Paula can help arrange a visit or a phone conversation to discuss Flexi schooling in detail. Her contact details are 01939 260306 or [email protected].