Abstract

Homeschooling has been a growing movement worldwide since the 70s and a research topic for the last 30 years in Australia. Despite this body of knowledge, no studies have focused specifically on gifted homeschooling in this country. Using a qualitative approach, 10 mothers and 10 children were interviewed; data were analysed using qualitative content analysis methodology. Five major themes emerged: (1) Homeschooling motivations, (2) Giftedness challenges, (3) Homeschooling provision, (4) Facilitators for homeschooling, (5) Barriers to homeschooling. Findings suggested that homeschooling is lived for the majority of families as a healing process from a school system that has damaged them emotionally and cognitively. They value the freedom and flexibility of this option to encourage their children’s abilities. This study allows a clearer understanding of the decisional and implementation processes carried out by families of gifted learners and its effect on their lives.