In this incredibly insightful and personal episode of Growth Through Friendship, Juliet opens up about her real-life journey with home education, shedding light on the motivations, challenges, and everyday realities of choosing a non-traditional path for her children’s learning. Angela takes on the role of the curious friend, asking the questions many parents wonder but rarely get honest answers to.

Juliet walks us through how she transitioned away from mainstream schooling—not as a rebellious stance, but as a response to her children’s emotional needs and learning styles. From village hall learning hubs to forest-based education and forming mini learning communities with other parents, she shares how her family created a hybrid approach that prioritizes emotional safety, individuality, and freedom over conformity.

Together, they explore key themes like socialisation, the myths about home-educated children, the financial and emotional tolls, and the importance of trusting your instincts as a parent—even when it means going against societal expectations. They also discuss how home education affects sibling dynamics, mental health, and the parent-child relationship.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone questioning the mainstream education system, considering alternative routes, or simply curious about what “home education” looks like in the real world.