Homeschooling is not very common, yet the number of families taking it up has increased, especially after Covid-19 lockdowns. Here I highlight 4 different ways to homeschool in Zimbabwe.
Teach your own child
Anyone can teach their child, but I will be the first to admit it’s not for everyone! Besides determination, you need support, patience, creativity and did I mention patience? And always go back to the reason you are doing it.
Homeschooling is swimming against the tide; most people would rather send the kids where everyone else is sending theirs. But for various reasons one may decide to take charge of their child’s education. Not only what the child is exposed to, but also how. In some countries this is illegal, but where it is allowed, parents may teach their own.
Homeschooling is allowed in Zimbabwe. The government has a school responsible for registering and managing the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) curriculum and material taught to homeschoolers. I have shared previously our experience on this.
Homeschooling the ‘traditional’ way has worked well for some, even those engaged in a full-time job. Formal learning may be scheduled to when it’s most convenient, like in the evening or early morning. Less time is required with one child or just a few, compared to a conventional school. In a classroom, a teacher might have anything from 15, 25 or even 45 pupils and so needs more time.
Get a tutor
Before we even thought about school for our kids, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that one of my cousins had been homeschooled. It shocked me because I had only read of it in books and it was done in yonder lands, overseas! She had tutors come in to help her and a few other students at their home.
I find getting a tutor works well; it ensures your child gets more attention compared to a larger classroom. It may work out to be more economical because there are no high fees for tuition, and your child does not need any uniform.
Virtual school
Sometimes learning may be in person or virtual, depending on available resources. There are some families whose children are homeschooled online using the Cambridge Assessment International Education curriculum.
Form a co-op
Families who have decided to homeschool can come together and provide educational and social support services for their children. In Zimbabwe, I came across groups which have this kind of set up. They are organized into small schools. The schools are registered and run on the government curriculum.
It’s not uncommon to find a hybrid of any of these 4 methods of homeschooling in Zimbabwe. Families will adjust their kids’ learning according to resources, circumstances or even preferences.
Are there some other ways that I have missed? How are homeschooled secondary school children registered in Zimbabwe? Please leave a comment with that information if you know.
