Last updated on November 1, 2025
No. Bermuda law requires parents to notify and obtain approval from the Department of Education before homeschooling. This is mandated under the Education Act to ensure compliance with national standards.
Homeschooling in Bermuda: Freedom with Oversight
Homeschooling offers flexibility and personalized learning, but in Bermuda, it comes with clear legal obligations. Parents cannot simply withdraw their children from school and start teaching at home without informing the authorities. The island’s education system values choice, yet insists on oversight to maintain quality and protect children’s rights.
What the Law Says
The Education Act 1996 governs all forms of schooling in Bermuda. It states that every child of compulsory school age must receive suitable education either at a recognized school or through an approved alternative. Homeschooling falls under the latter category, requiring parents to notify the Department of Education and obtain formal approval.
This process involves submitting a notice of intent, detailing the child’s information, the proposed curriculum, and the method of instruction. The Department may request periodic assessments to ensure the education provided meets national standards. Failure to comply can lead to enforcement actions, including attendance orders and legal penalties.
Why Approval Is Required
Government oversight is not about limiting parental rights; it is about safeguarding educational quality and equity. Approval ensures that homeschooled children receive instruction comparable to what they would get in formal schools. It also helps prevent neglect and guarantees access to resources such as standardized testing and extracurricular programs.
Historically, Bermuda’s education laws evolved to balance autonomy with accountability. In a small jurisdiction, consistency matters—every student contributes to the island’s social and economic future.
Practical Realities for Parents
Homeschooling in Bermuda is legal and increasingly popular, but the administrative step of notifying the Department is essential. Approval unlocks benefits such as access to national exams, eligibility for certain public services, and inclusion in homeschool networks. While the cost of homeschooling depends on curriculum choices, the approval process itself is free and straightforward.
Cultural and Social Dimensions
Homeschooling reflects Bermuda’s diverse educational landscape. Families choose it for flexibility, individualized learning, or cultural reasons. The law accommodates these preferences while ensuring that homeschooling supports national education goals rather than undermining them.
The Bottom Line
Homeschooling in Bermuda is permitted, but not without government approval. This requirement is a safeguard, not a barrier—designed to protect children’s right to quality education. Notify the Department of Education, follow the guidelines, and enjoy the freedom to create a learning environment that suits your child.
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Sources
Education Act 1996
https://www.bermudalaws.bm/Laws/Consolidated%20Law/1996/Education%20Act%201996
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