NT
Home education in the Northern Territory is a wonderful way to tailor learning to your child’s strengths, interests and pace. As a home‑educating parent, you’ll design a curriculum‑aligned program, create a nurturing learning environment, and guide your child through a rich year of discovery.
Home education is available for:
- School‑aged children living in the Northern Territory
- Parents or guardians who take responsibility for delivering the learning program
- Families who want a flexible, personalised approach to education
You don’t need teaching qualifications — just commitment, curiosity, and a willingness to guide your child’s learning.
Prefer extra support? You may choose to hire a registered teacher, but it’s completely optional.
Beginning home education in the NT is a step‑by‑step process. Here’s how to begin your journey:
- Apply Online
All applications are completed through the Territory Services online system. You’ll complete the form in one sitting, so gather your documents first.
Apply here: https://service.nt.gov.au/services/education-training/apply-home-education
- Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need:
- Your child’s birth certificate
- Photos of your home learning space
- Any legal or medical documents relevant to your child
- A learning plan (self‑designed or purchased) aligned with the Australian Curriculum
- Write Your Learning Plan
Your plan will explain:
- How you’ll cover the 8 learning areas of the Australian Curriculum
- How you’ll assess progress
- How you’ll record learning
- Your child’s strengths, needs and learning style
- The resources you’ll use
- Where learning will take place in your home
Once submitted, you’ll receive written confirmation, and your application will be assessed. A home visit may be arranged if needed.
You can write your learning plan yourself or purchase a registration document from Simply Homeschool.
Home education can begin only after approval is granted. Until then, your child must remain enrolled in and attending school.
Once you receive your approval letter, you’re free to withdraw your child and begin your home‑learning adventure.
Your program must:
- Align with the Australian Curriculum (ACARA)
- Cover all required learning areas
- Include planned learning activities and assessment
- Be tailored to your child’s age, ability and interests
You can choose:
- A self‑designed program, or
- A commercial curriculum, such as Simply Homeschool
Throughout the year, you’ll collect evidence of your child’s progress. This might include:
- Written work
- Photos or videos
- Projects and creative work
- Learning journals
Your evidence must align with the approved curriculum plan.
Home education approval lasts for one school year. You must reapply each year. New families can apply any time throughout the year. Families who are already approved and wish to continue home education must reapply by the end of November each year.
The NT Government no longer restricts home education while travelling. You may travel freely as long as you continue delivering your approved program.