A Parent's Perspective

‘The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled.' Plutarch

When we first made the decision to home educate, we knew it would be daunting, hoped it might be rewarding too. The freedom and flexibility were appealing, but alongside that came a nagging sense of anxiety: were we really doing the right thing for our children? Would they have the same opportunities, the same quality of teaching, and the same ability to pursue subjects that inspired them as if they were in a more traditional setting?

Finding the Right Support

One of the hardest parts of this journey was trying to find high-quality resources and tutors. It’s not that options don’t exist—there are plenty out there—but finding ones that are reliable, well-structured, and genuinely engaging for young people is a completely different challenge. We didn’t just want someone who could teach to the test. We wanted something that would spark curiosity, build confidence, and help our children discover their own interests. That’s easier said than done when you’re navigating the home education world as a parent, often with limited guidance.

Turning Point

That’s why our experience with Nexus Educate has felt like such a turning point. Both of our children have studied the iGCSE Film Studies course, and the difference it has made has been amazing. What could have been just another subject on a list became something much more: a chance for them to see film as an art form, to understand the stories behind the screen, and to develop analytical skills that carried over into other subjects. They didn’t just pass the course—they thrived, and more importantly, they enjoyed every step of it.

Why Creative Subjects Matter

As a family, we’ve always believed that creative arts should hold the same value as STEM subjects. Of course, maths and science are important, but so too are the subjects that nurture imagination, empathy, and communication. The ability to interpret a story, to analyse symbolism, or to create something original isn’t ‘extra’—it’s essential. These are essential subjects, not just alternative subjects, because they help to nurture essential skills. These skills shape how young people understand the world and their place within it, and they build resilience and adaptability that will serve them whatever path they choose. Film Studies gave our children that kind of learning experience—one that was both rigorous and creative.

Taking the Right Path

Watching them respond so positively gave us a sense of reassurance that’s hard to put into words. As parents, we often carry the weight of what if we’re getting this wrong? on our shoulders. But seeing both children light up in lessons, produce work they were proud of, and come out with fantastic results made us realise that this path was not just good enough—it was right for them.

Continuing the Journey

What’s been especially rewarding is how the journey has continued. Toby, our youngest, is now studying English and Literature, just as his sister did before him. To see them both follow their interests, grow in confidence, and develop academically has been hugely affirming. It’s shown us that home education doesn’t have to be isolating or second-best—with the right support, it can be a rich, inspiring, and successful path.

Lots of frogs were kissed on our journey to finding Nexus, and they still haven’t “solved everything”—no one can, because home education will always carry some uncertainty. But what they have done is make the journey more manageable, more structured, and much less stressful for us as parents. They’ve given our children the chance to learn in ways that are engaging and effective, and in doing so, they’ve given us confidence. And really, that’s what every parent in this situation is looking for: to know that your children aren’t just ticking boxes, but flourishing.

Sincere thanks to Charlie Widdows for this inspirational post, which made us all a bit emotional.

(Note: Charlie is a real person. We know that this is such a great post that it sounds like we wrote it ourselves but we didn't. Honestly. Charlie is a real parent. His two children achieved exceptional GCSE results and continue to remind us why we have the best job in the world. )

Photo by Taylor Wright on Unsplash