Alternative Curriculum Home Education

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An alternative curriculum is a set curriculum that is not designed by a state body or any of the exam boards that set examinations in schools. Mostly they are devised especially for home education and there is a very broad and diverse range available.

In general these curricula will require specific text books or workbooks, project work may be required and may be examinations and/or assessments available, usually as an option. Most of the available curricula are aimed at the US market, with a smaller but growing number aimed at the UK market, and thus parts of their content may be irrelevant or unsuited to an Irish situation.

The Pros

Curricula already exist for a massive range of subjects and there are many to choose from
Both subjects and curricula can be chosen to match the interests and abilities of the individual
Alternative curricula tend to be more flexible and imaginative that those set centrally or by exam boards
Parent's workbooks and guidelines are available
Some parents and some children like the definite structure to learning that following a set curriculum provides
If exams are not being taken then the curriculum can be expanded on or parts of it omitted to suit the individual

The Cons

Many alternative curricula are commercial and buying required books and other materials can be very expensive
Most have to be purchased in advance, so if they turn out not to be suitable a lot of money has been wasted
Any certification awarded will not be widely recognised
Many require a major input of time by both parent and child
Following a set curriculum is often seen as contrary to the ethos of home schooling
Keeping children motivated and fending off boredom can be difficult