GOJ Support for Homeschooling in Jamaica

Homeschooling in Jamaica is guided by clear national standards, as the Government through the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MOESYI), ensures that each child receives a structured, high-quality education that aligns with national expectations.

Parents/Guardians who choose this path are regulated by the MOESYI’s Independent Schools Unit (ISU) and are required to formally apply.

Steps to Follow

The information below details the steps required to increase the likelihood of a positive homeschooling outcome.

1. Application

Parents/Guardians must complete an application form available at the ISU and submit the relevant documents. The supporting documents must be certified and include:

• Copies of the parents’/guardians’ identification cards
• Passport-sized photographs of the child/children
• Copy of the child’s/children’s birth certificate(s)
• Qualifications for those who will be tutoring
• Two letters of recommendation for the parent/guardian (either from a Justice of the Peace, a Principal, Minister of Religion or an Education Officer)
• Copy of the timetable

The completed application form and supporting documents should be delivered to the Ministry’s regional offices or emailed to isu@moey.gov.jm.

2. Interview/Consultation

Parents/Guardians must be prepared to meet with education officers and participate in an interview to discuss their readiness and plans for homeschooling. This is to ensure that the child’s/children’s educational needs will be properly met.

3. Approval

The ISU will provide approval letters to parents/guardians who meet the requirements to homeschool children. Only after receiving this approval should homeschooling officially begin.

4. GOJ Support

After approval, homeschool teachers are expected to:

• Keep records of lessons and student progress
• Use the MOESYI’s National Standards Curriculum
• Attend sessions offered by the ISU

5. Examinations

Since home schooling is available for all grade levels – both primary and secondary, all homeschooled students are expected to complete internal assessments based on approved curriculum guidelines and records should be kept of their grades. Additionally, homeschooled students are encouraged to register for external exams by liaising with the educational administrators and using their registration process and facilities.

For additional information, contact:

Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information

2 National Heroes Circle, Kingston 4

Tel: 876-922-1400-9

Email: customerservice@moe.gov.jm

Website: https://moey.gov.jm

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