US home-schooling numbers rise

Some pupils spent time at home and school

Almost 1.1 million children were taught at home in the United States last year, a rise of nearly 250,000 from 1999, official figures show.

The National Center for Education Studies found 2.2% of the school-age population were learning at home, compared with 1.7% four years earlier.

Some 30% their parents said the main reason for home schooling was to give religious or moral instruction.

The US Constitution forbids the teaching of religion in state schools.

'Concerns over schools'

For the survey, children were defined as "home-schooled" if they spent at least part of their time out of school.

Those who spent more than 25 hours in the classroom were not included.

Of the parents whose children stayed at home, 31% said concerns about the school environment were the most important reason.

Some 16% blamed dissatisfaction with academic standards, while 14% had children with physical or mental health problems or other special needs.

Many thousands of children the UK are also schooled at home, although no official figures exist.

Last month, the Professional Association of Teachers called for more monitoring to they receive a high-quality education.

But, it noted, "most children" who had been taught out of school had happy experiences.

The Department for Education and Skill said it was up to parents to ensure "that the education provided is suitable and full-time".