Homeschooling in Solomon Islands
Homeschooling is a grey area requiring caution under strict registration rules for educational institutions.
Homeschooling lacks explicit regulation in Solomon Islands and is not mentioned in the governing Education Act 2023 or prior acts, placing it in a grey area. Education must occur in registered institutions, with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) overseeing all formal schooling. Families practicing home education risk non-compliance with compulsory attendance rules unless alternative pathways are used.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
0
required
Notification
No
n/a
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Education Act 2023 (No. 8 of 2023) repeals Education Act 1978 (Cap. 69).[existing]
- Requires registration of teachers, education providers, schools, and early childhood centres with MEHRD.[existing]
- Powers to Minister and Permanent Secretary for education administration.[existing]
- No explicit homeschooling provisions in primary legislation.
- Education framed around registered institutions.
- MEHRD oversees implementation.
- Temporary home learning guidance during 2020 COVID-19 closures.
Legal Framework
Solomon Islands' education framework rests on: (1) Education Act 2023 (Act No. 8 of 2023): the current operative statute, which repealed the earlier Education Act 1978 (Cap. 69 of the Laws of Solomon Islands) and oversees and regulates early childhood, primary, and secondary education, including registration of teachers, education providers, schools, and ECE centres; (2) Education Act 2014: earlier framework, now superseded; (3) Education White Paper 2015 and Fee-Free Basic Education Policy: policy framework establishing 9 years of free and compulsory basic education (Years 1-9). Primary education runs 6 years (ages 6-11); secondary 7 years (ages 12-18). Compulsion exists in policy but enforcement is weak in practice, particularly in remote provinces. Homeschooling is not provided for as a recognised parental-choice modality. Responsible authority: Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD).
Filing Requirements
What to file
n/a
When
n/a
Where
n/a
How to submit
n/a
What to include
- • n/a
No notification process defined for home education.
How to Get Started
- 1
Review Education Act 2023 requirements.
- 2
Develop curriculum aligned with national standards.
- 3
Maintain records of progress.
- 4
Contact MEHRD for informal guidance if needed.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Full parental control
- ✓Adaptable to family needs
Cons
- •Risk of legal challenge
- •No diploma path
Questions about homeschooling in Solomon Islands
Is homeschooling legal in Solomon Islands?
Homeschooling is in a grey area with no explicit provisions in the Education Act 2023; education is framed around registered institutions, risking non-compliance.
Do I need to notify MEHRD if homeschooling?
No notification is required or defined for home education.
What curriculum should I follow at home?
Align with the national curriculum used in registered schools, though not mandated for homeschool.
Can my homeschooled child get a diploma?
No state-recognized diploma from homeschool; enroll in registered provider for qualifications.
What happens if authorities question my homeschooling?
Risk of truancy enforcement; MEHRD oversees compulsory attendance in registered settings.
Was there homeschool guidance during COVID?
Yes, temporary home learning planned by MEHRD in 2020, but not formalized as policy.
How to make homeschool compliant?
Use a registered online or distance provider approved by MEHRD.
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Last updated: 2026-04-27 · SB homeschool law guide