One requires you to become the teacher; the other brings the teachers to you. 

Let’s compare Teneo Online School against traditional homeschooling to help you decide which path is right for your child: 

The core difference in one sentence

• Homeschooling: The parent (or a hired tutor) acts as the teacher and is responsible for the child's academic progress.

• Online schooling: Qualified teachers deliver the curriculum via digital platforms, and the school takes responsibility for the academic structure.

1. The role of the parent

In homeschooling:

You are the primary educator. You must research the curriculum, plan the lessons, teach the concepts, and grade the work (up until the higher grades, where external assessment bodies might step in). 

This requires a massive time commitment and a high level of patience. If you work full-time, traditional homeschooling can be difficult to manage.

In online schooling (Teneo):

You are the "co-pilot," not the pilot. Your role is to provide a supportive environment, ensure your child logs on, and check that they are managing their time. You do not need to teach Algebra or Afrikaans. 

Our qualified teachers deliver live lessons, grade assessments, and provide feedback. This makes online schooling a viable option for working parents.

2. Socialisation and classmates

In homeschooling:

Homeschooling can be a solitary experience unless the parent actively seeks out homeschool co-ops or social groups. The child does not have a "class" in the traditional sense.

In online schooling (Teneo):

Learners are part of a real class. At Teneo, children log into live lessons where they see and hear their teachers and classmates. They participate in group discussions, collaborate on projects, and can join over 30 virtual clubs, from Coding and Chess to Photography and Debate. They build friendships just like in a physical school, except in a digital space.

3. Curriculum and structure

In homeschooling:

You have total freedom (and total responsibility). You can choose any curriculum (Cambridge, GED, customised). 

However, this lack of structure can sometimes lead to learners falling behind if the parent isn't strict with deadlines.

In online schooling (Teneo):

We follow the structured CAPS curriculum (the same as top South African private and government schools). We have three school formats to choose from which all follow a timetable, scheduled lessons, and set deadlines for tasks and tests. 

This structure prepares learners for the discipline required at university and in the workplace.

4. The qualification (Matric)

In homeschooling:

Homeschoolers must register with the Department of Basic Education and ensure that, in Matric, they are registered with their chosen examination body for their final matric qualification. 

In order to ensure a recognised exit qualification, parents must take on the admin burden and ensure correct registrations while following all requirements of programmes of assessment or portfolios for their chosen examination board.

In online schooling (Teneo):

Teneo is a registered, accredited institution. Our learners write the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations through SACAI. This is the standard "Matric" certificate recognised by all South African universities. 

The administrative burden of examination registration is handled by the school, not the parent.

Teneo vs traditional homeschooling

Which One is Right for You?

Choose homeschooling if...

• You want complete control over what your child learns.

• You have the time and desire to teach daily lessons yourself.

• You want a non-standard curriculum or religious-specific education.

Choose online schooling if...

• You want your child to be at home (safe and flexible), but you need them to have professional teachers.

• You want a recognised Matric certificate (NSC) for university entry.

• You need a structured routine that keeps your child on track without you hovering over them.

• You want your child to socialise with peers in a safe environment.

The best of both worlds

Teneo offers the safety and flexibility of homeschooling with the quality and accreditation of a top private school. It is not homeschooling; it is school at home.

Learn more about what a school day at Teneo looks like.

Your child belongs at Teneo 

Teneo is rated the no. 1 online school in South Africa by HelloPeter. With 170+ SACE-registered teachers, we have helped more than 3 500 learners matriculate with a National Senior Certificate (NSC), opening the doors to tertiary education and future career opportunities.

Our award-winning Smart School System™combines the best parts of in-person schooling, with the convenience and benefits of online learning for learners across South Africa. If you’re ready to take the next step towards education of the future, start your learning journey with Teneo today.