As reported by OnTheWight on Friday, comments made by Donna Jones, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner, saying that home educated children are, “more likely to engage in criminal behaviour or become victims of exploitation”, has caused great concern, and anger, among the large home education network on the Island.
When OnTheWight asked Donna Jones for the data to support these claims, she failed to provide it, despite the questions asked more than three weeks ago. IW council also failed to provide any supporting stats.
“Shocked and dismayed to read the statements”
The Learning Zone (TLZ), a charity supporting the home education community on the Isle of Wight since 1999, brings home educated children together, providing activities such as history workshops and debating clubs.
Trustees of TLZ told OnTheWight,
“We were shocked and dismayed to read the statements in the article because these fail to represent the diverse experiences of the community we serve.
“Home education allows children an individualised learning experience in a highly supportive community of family and peers.
“Often this is needed due to gaps in support and resources in mainstream education and a lack of accessibility to learning for children who don’t thrive in a rigid school environment.”
TLZ: There is no data to support this
The Trustees agreed that there did not seem to be the data to back up Donna Jones’s claim. They said,
“In the article, the statements imply a link between home education and an increased risk of exploitation for these children. This is heartbreaking to read for the many families who are committed to creating a positive learning experience for their children.
“It doesn’t reflect our daily experience of supporting home education on the Island, which for the majority is driven by providing a more accessible and supportive education for their children.
“Moreover, there is no data to support this, either in the article or being made available to us from the publisher or the council.”
TLZ: We recognise that home education looks different for every family
The Trustees from The Learning Zone finished by adding,
“We recognise that home education looks different for every family, and that some may not be receiving the help that they deserve. That’s why we exist.
“As a registered charity we are supporting 81 member families this year with a range of activities including history workshops, debate club and family support for any home ed family in need through our fruit and veg scheme and provision of warm clothing.
“If the data indicates there is an issue then we are keen to work with IW council and PCC Jones to build understanding and support for this vibrant community and identify what more we can do to support the safeguarding of vulnerable children.”
Look out for the follow-up article where parents of home educated children also share their views.
