This week we have opened the door to a new way of being, a treasure trove of experiences and, quite possibly, a rollercoaster of emotions as well as an even messier house. After our request for flexi-schooing William was turned down, a cloud descended on my heart and I have raked over every last brain cell in considering our options. It was all or nothing; continue with the status quo or take the plunge and deregister William completely to home educate.
Over the last few weeks there have been many open family discussions as well as quiet private discussions between William and me. We've thrashed out the merits, drawbacks, and issues particular to William's school itself that tip the balance for and against, from every possible angle. Raj was doubtful, but finally agreed to let us give it a go.
So, we've only just started but already it feels so liberating. We spent Thursday learning some astronomy and went to a stargazing event at the World Museum, Liverpool. William asked a thousand questions and I did my best to answer, and learned a few things myself in the process. Today he's had a good play with some other HEers at a play centre after we did some maths together (his choice!) at home. I met some interesting folk today. One mum, I was astonished, remembered me from an HE meet in 2008 when William was a baby and I was exploring the idea and getting a feel for the HE community in Liverpool. It is a small, but apparently thriving, diverse community who meet up regularly at various places to do some activity or other.
The school has offered to continue to be of support, so we are borrowing a stack of books because William's reading has really taken off. Maintaining a link with the school will make things easier if and when the time comes for him to go back. Initially, we've said we'd give HE a run for a term, or until Year 1 in September, but nothing is set in stone.
