At Cambridge Home School (CHS), many parents find online schooling to be the best of both worlds—a structured curriculum delivered right at home, offering more quality time with their children. Families enrolled at CHS benefit from the flexibility to spend more time together and participate in elite sports or enhanced co-curricular activities. One common question we receive from parents transitioning from traditional schools is, “How involved do we need to be?”
With many parents now working from home, it’s natural to feel anxious about the level of involvement required in their child’s online education. Memories of the COVID-19 pandemic, when parents balanced full-time jobs with homeschooling, are still fresh. Thankfully, at CHS, most students quickly adapt to our structured timetable and guided learning, gaining valuable life skills along the way.
Guidance from Our Deputy Head, Mr. Boylan:
“Cambridge Home School offers a structured timetable, from Pre-Prep to Sixth Form. During the early years, parents need to be more involved to help young students stay on track. Over time, this involvement decreases as students become more self-directed. Many parents find they can work alongside their children, sparking interesting discussions about the subject matter. In the Senior School, parental involvement is largely reduced as students gain independence and focus.”
Top Tips for Parental Involvement in Online Schooling:
- Keep Communication Open
Maintain regular communication with teachers and school administrators to stay updated on expectations, assignments, and any potential issues. - Provide Emotional Support
Online schooling can sometimes feel isolating. Be available to discuss your child’s feelings, anxieties, and challenges, offering a supportive environment. - Balance Screen Time
Encourage a healthy balance between online learning and offline activities. Promote physical exercise, hobbies, and family time to help reduce screen fatigue and maintain a healthy lifestyle. - Create a Positive Learning Environment
Make learning enjoyable by creating a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Celebrate your child’s achievements and be patient with setbacks. - Be Flexible and Adaptable
Recognize that different children require different levels of involvement. Some may thrive with more independence, while others might need more guidance. Adjust your level of involvement to meet your child’s unique needs.
Parental involvement in online schooling should be dynamic and responsive, adjusting to the child’s age, development, and individual needs. By providing the right balance of support and fostering independence, parents can help their children succeed in an online learning environment.
For more information on how to enrol in a school that fits your lifestyle, contact admissions@chsonline.org.uk or visit our admissions portal by clicking here.