Homeschooling in Trinidad and Tobago

Constitutional Right

Under the Constitution of Trinidad and Tobago, parents and guardians have the right to choose the form of education they consider best for their children. This includes the freedom to provide instruction at home, provided it meets the standards of the Ministry of Education.

Education Act (Chap. 39:01)

Section 78 of the Education Act states that a child may be excused from attending a public or private school if the Minister of Education is satisfied that the child is receiving “suitable and efficient instruction” elsewhere.

In other words, homeschooling is legal—but only with official approval from the Ministry.

1. Application Process

Parents who wish to homeschool must complete the Homeschooling Application Form provided by the Ministry of Education and submit it to the Office of the Chief Education Officer (CEO).

2. Information Required

The application must include:

• A formal letter outlining the reasons for choosing homeschooling
• The names and ages of the children
• The name and qualifications of the person responsible for teaching
• Details about the location, schedule, and frequency of instruction
• A description of the curriculum to be followed

3. Curriculum Standards

The proposed curriculum must meet or exceed the standards established by the Ministry of Education. Most families follow the national curriculum, especially if their children plan to take local examinations such as the SEA, CSEC, or CAPE.

Parents may also propose an international or alternative programme, but it must still align with the Ministry’s quality expectations.

To homeschool at the primary level, the parent or designated tutor must hold at least five (5) CXC/O-Level passes, including:

• English A
• Mathematics
• At least one Natural Science subject

This ensures that children receive instruction from someone with the academic foundation to teach core subjects effectively.

1. Complete the Application Form

   Download the Homeschooling Application Form from www.moe.gov.tt and fill out one form per child.

2. Attach Supporting Documents

   Include the following with your submission:

   • A copy of the child’s birth certificate
   • Valid identification for the parent or guardian

3. Indicate the Curriculum

   Specify whether your child will follow the national curriculum or an alternative programme. Clearly outline the subjects to be taught and how progress will be measured.

4. Submit the Application

   Send the completed form and all supporting documents via email to ceo@moe.gov.tt.

   Processing time: Applications generally take 4–6 weeks to be reviewed.

   Important: During this period, children aged 5–16 must remain enrolled in a registered school according to the policy.

If Approved

You’ll receive official authorization from the Ministry of Education to homeschool your child for a specified period (usually one academic year).

If Not Approved

You may:

• Enroll your child in a public school (the Ministry will assist with placement).
• Choose a private school at your own cost.
• Reapply in the next term or academic year after addressing the feedback provided.

Once approval is granted, the parent (or designated tutor) becomes fully responsible for delivering a structured, high-quality educational experience. This includes:

• Providing Educational Resources: Access to textbooks, digital tools, and learning materials.
• Maintaining Records: Keep a detailed portfolio of your child’s progress and samples of work.
• Submitting Reports: Provide an annual progress report to the Ministry when requested.
• Allowing Assessments: Permit periodic evaluations by Ministry officials.
• Supporting Well-Being: Monitor your child’s health, emotional balance, and social development.

Oversight of homeschooling is conducted by the District Leadership Team (DLT). Their duties may include:

• Reviewing annual reports and portfolios
• Interviewing parents or students
• Observing instruction in cases where academic progress is uncertain

If the Ministry determines that a child’s education is inadequate, parents may be:

• Advised to adopt an improved learning plan; or
• Required to re-enroll the child in a recognized school.

Homeschooled students are eligible to sit for major national and regional exams as private candidates:

• SEA (Secondary Entrance Assessment): Requires a registration certificate from the Ministry.
• CSEC and CAPE: Students can register through the Ministry or at an approved examination centre.

This ensures homeschooled learners can seamlessly transition to secondary or tertiary education.