More and more Australian families are trading suburbia for the open road—choosing to live, learn, and grow together while travelling full-time in an RV. At the heart of this movement is a flexible and empowering educational approach known as roadschooling: homeschooling adapted for life on the move.
Roadschooling combines the academic structure of homeschooling with the rich, real-world experiences that come from exploring Australia’s vast and varied landscapes. Imagine teaching your child about marine biology by snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, or bringing Australian history to life while walking through the ruins of Port Arthur. For RV families, the country becomes a living classroom—one filled with discovery, critical thinking, and unforgettable memories.
This lifestyle also presents its own set of challenges. Questions about legality, curriculum, socialisation, and daily routines are common for new roadschooling parents. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and resources, it’s entirely possible to give your child a meaningful and accredited education while exploring this beautiful country.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
How homeschooling works legally in Australia (including by state)
How to set up a learning-friendly RV space
Curriculum options for travelling families
Practical tips for balancing school and travel
Tools, tech, and communities that support mobile learning
Whether you’re new to homeschooling or just beginning your RV journey, this article will equip you with everything you need to start roadschooling with confidence.
Table of Contents
ToggleUnderstanding Homeschooling Laws in Australia (State by State)
Before you dive into roadschooling, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework surrounding homeschooling in Australia. Education is managed at the state and territory level, so requirements vary depending on where you’re registered—even if you’re travelling nationwide in your RV.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Is Homeschooling Legal in Australia?
Yes—homeschooling is legal in all Australian states and territories. However, to homeschool legally, you must register with the education authority in the state or territory where you are officially residing or intend to register from.
Do I Need to Register in Every State I Travel Through?
No. You only need to register in one state, typically the one where you hold your permanent address, are registered to vote, or where your vehicle is registered. Once approved, you can travel freely across Australia without re-registering in each state.
If you’re living nomadically without a fixed address, most families register in the state where they lived before going full-time or where they maintain a mailing address or storage unit.
State-by-State Registration Requirements (Summary)
New South Wales (NSW): Register through NESA. Must submit an educational program aligned to the NSW curriculum. Moderators may conduct home visits (online visits accepted in special cases).
Victoria (VIC): Register with the VRQA. Requires an annual learning plan aligned to eight learning areas.
Queensland (QLD): Apply through the Department of Education. Must submit a detailed educational plan and provide annual reports.
Western Australia (WA): Register with your local education district. Home visits may be required.
South Australia (SA): Apply through the Department for Education. Submit a learning plan and demonstrate a safe, supportive environment.
Tasmania (TAS): Register via the Office of the Education Registrar. A tailored learning plan and annual reviews are required.
Northern Territory (NT): Register with NT Department of Education. Requires a learning plan and periodic progress updates.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Requires application, learning plan, and annual reporting. Portfolio reviews are common.
Useful Resources for Legal Support
Home Education Association (HEA): Australia’s national body supporting homeschooling families. Offers legal advice, insurance, curriculum help, and advocacy.
Facebook groups: “Homeschooling in Australia,” “Roadschooling Australia,” and state-specific homeschool communities often provide registration tips and peer support.
Understanding your legal responsibilities sets the foundation for confident roadschooling. With your registration sorted, the next step is to build a learning space that works inside your RV.
Setting Up a Mobile Learning Environment in Your RV
Creating an inspiring and functional learning space inside an RV might sound tricky—but with smart planning, it’s absolutely achievable. The key is to prioritise flexibility, organisation, and comfort so your child can learn effectively, whether you’re parked at a beach or deep in the bush.
Create a Dedicated Yet Flexible Learning Space
You don’t need a full classroom—just a consistent setup that says, “It’s time to learn.” Consider:
A dinette or fold-out table as the main workstation
A fold-down wall desk or lap desk for smaller rigs
Clipboards or hard surfaces for writing while outside or on the go
Make it a routine to transform the space for school each day, even if it doubles as your meal area.
Smart Storage for Learning Materials
With limited space, efficient storage is a must:
Use stackable crates, file boxes, or clear containers under seats or beds
Hang pocket organisers or magnetic caddies for pens, rulers, and notepads
Store laptops and tablets in padded cases or secure drawers
Keep frequently used books and materials in a rotating “school box” or backpack
Tip: Label everything clearly—this saves time and keeps the learning space stress-free.
Embrace Outdoor Learning
One of the best perks of roadschooling is being able to study in fresh air:
Set up on picnic benches at campgrounds or national parks
Bring a ground mat, foldable chairs, or small table
Nature journaling, sketching, and science observations thrive outdoors
This approach makes learning fun, physical, and multi-sensory.
Managing Quiet Time in a Shared Space
Even in a small RV, quiet time is possible:
Use headphones or white noise to reduce distractions
Establish quiet “focus time” for reading or online lessons
If you have multiple kids, create time slots or rotate between guided and independent work
Consider a “learning basket” for each child to keep their materials tidy and personal.
Balancing Digital and Offline Learning
While screens are useful, too much tech can feel draining:
Schedule screen-based tasks earlier in the day when focus is higher
Offset screen time with handwriting, reading aloud, art, and hands-on science
Use offline-friendly apps and download materials in advance for remote travel days
A well-designed learning space—no matter how small—empowers your kids to focus, feel safe, and stay curious.
Choosing a Curriculum for Roadschooling
One of the biggest questions RVing families face is: Which homeschooling curriculum works best on the road? The good news? You’re not locked into one method. Roadschooling gives you the freedom to mix structured academics with hands-on, place-based learning—tailored to your child’s pace, interests, and your travel lifestyle.
Common Homeschooling Approaches for Roadschoolers
Unschooling: Child-led, experience-based learning. Great for fostering curiosity, especially on the road.
Eclectic homeschooling: A flexible mix of methods—online tools, books, and travel-based projects.
Charlotte Mason: Focuses on nature study, literature, narration, and journaling—ideal for outdoor-based RV life.
Structured homeschooling: Follows a more traditional timetable, often aligned with the Australian Curriculum.
Choose an approach based on your child’s learning style, your own teaching confidence, and any state registration requirements.
Curriculum Options Suitable for Travelling Families
Distance Education (DE) Programs
Full-service schooling at home under a government or private system
Offers structured timetables, teacher support, and assessment
Examples:
School of Isolated and Distance Education (WA)
Brisbane School of Distance Education (QLD)
Sydney Distance Education Primary School (NSW)
Best for families wanting a familiar school-like structure while travelling.
Online Learning Platforms
Flexible, self-paced, and great for working offline in remote areas
Top options:
Khan Academy (maths, science, history)
ABC Education (free Australian educational resources)
Mathseeds and Reading Eggs (great for younger kids)
Outschool (live virtual classes by global tutors)
Combine a few platforms to cover different subjects or age levels.
DIY & Book-Based Curriculum
Purchase or download printable unit studies and workbooks
Use Australian curriculum guides as a loose framework
Create themed projects around travel (e.g. “Marine Biology on the Reef,” “Australian Gold Rush History”)
Incorporate fieldwork, journaling, and discussion as learning tools
DIY gives you the most flexibility—just keep basic documentation if required by your registration.
Aligning with the Australian Curriculum
Most states require you to reference or align your homeschooling plan with the Australian Curriculum (AC). You don’t need to replicate it exactly—but ensure:
Your child covers English, maths, science, history, geography, the arts, and physical education
You’re able to show samples of work and progress in those areas
Resources like www.australiancurriculum.edu.au are helpful for creating a roadmap.
Tracking Progress Without the Stress
Use a learning journal or digital portfolio with photos and summaries
Keep samples of writing, drawings, worksheets, or project reports
Maintain a weekly planner or checklist for accountability
Review learning goals monthly—don’t wait until reports are due
The perfect curriculum for roadschooling is the one that keeps your child engaged, growing, and enjoying the journey—just like your travels.
Learning from the Land: Roadschooling in the Real World
One of the greatest advantages of roadschooling in Australia is that education isn’t confined to a desk or screen. The entire country becomes your classroom—from coral reefs to convict ruins, rainforest trails to red desert sands. Real-world learning brings lessons to life in a way textbooks never could.
Turning Travel into Curriculum
Every destination offers a chance to dive deep into geography, history, science, and more:
Geography: Map reading, ecosystems, climate zones, land formations
History: Indigenous heritage, colonial sites, war memorials, gold rush towns
Science: Marine biology on the Great Barrier Reef, geology in the Flinders Ranges, astronomy in outback skies
Maths: Budgeting travel costs, calculating distances, fuel use and conversions
English: Travel blogging, creative writing, interviews with locals, journaling
Align these experiences with your child’s learning goals or let them guide self-directed research.
Using National Parks, Museums & Tours as Teaching Tools
Australia is rich with educational experiences:
National parks: Nature walks, guided ranger programs, flora/fauna studies
Museums & galleries: Interactive exhibits, Aboriginal culture, science and art immersion
Historic sites: Port Arthur, Sovereign Hill, Cooktown, Eureka Stockade
Local tours: Wildlife sanctuaries, farm stays, marine cruises, mining towns
Before visiting, research the educational tie-ins and prep with a few questions or mini-assignments to frame the experience.
Encouraging Nature Journaling & Field Sketching
A simple notebook and pencil can become one of your child’s most powerful learning tools:
Record daily wildlife sightings
Sketch native plants and landscapes
Reflect on cultural experiences or emotional responses to places
Add leaf rubbings, park stamps, or ticket stubs
This blends science, art, writing, and mindfulness into one meaningful activity.
Journaling, Blogging, or Vlogging as English Projects
Documenting the journey isn’t just memory-keeping—it’s curriculum:
Older kids can write blog posts or travel essays
Younger ones can dictate stories or illustrate them
Record short vlogs explaining what they learned at each stop
Turn daily reflections into spelling, grammar, or reading comprehension practice
These personalised projects build confidence and communication skills.
Project-Based and Inquiry Learning on the Go
Let curiosity lead the way:
A visit to a wildlife park sparks a project on marsupials
A hike through the Daintree turns into a rainforest research unit
A dig site visit launches a deep dive into palaeontology
Ask your child what they want to explore—and build learning around their questions.
Roadschooling is about making the world their workbook. The more they engage with their surroundings, the more meaningful and memorable their education becomes.
Socialisation & Community While on the Road
One of the most common concerns about homeschooling—especially on the road—is, “What about socialisation?” The truth is, RV families often find their kids become more adaptable, socially confident, and connected to a broader range of people than they would in a traditional classroom.
Roadschooling doesn’t mean isolation—it just requires a different approach to community.
The Myth: Homeschooled Kids Don’t Socialise
This idea has been widely debunked. In reality:
Roadschoolers interact with adults and children across all age groups
They learn to engage in diverse settings—parks, museums, markets, nature walks
Social development is embedded in daily life, not limited to a school bell
In many ways, RV life encourages more meaningful, real-world social interactions.
Connecting with Other Roadschooling Families
Australia’s roadschooling community is growing. You’ll find:
Campground friendships: Kids naturally connect when staying in the same park for a few nights
Roadschool meetups: Planned via Facebook groups or caravan networks
Travelling tribes: Families that caravan together for weeks or months
Grey nomads: Often adopt a friendly “grandparent role,” offering enriching cross-generational conversations
Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate can help you locate family-friendly stays or popular caravan hubs with other kids.
Homeschool & Roadschool Facebook Groups
These are gold mines for social connections and local info:
“Roadschooling Australia” – A vibrant group for travelling families to share tips and plan meetups
State-based groups – Such as “Homeschooling QLD” or “NSW Homeschool Community”
Special interest groups – For Christian homeschoolers, unschoolers, or parents of neurodivergent kids
Join, introduce yourself, and keep an eye out for regional gatherings or co-learning opportunities.
Online Communities for Kids
In addition to in-person interaction:
Kids can connect through safe platforms like Outschool, Prodigy, or Book Clubs
Some families host virtual “show and tell” or pen pal swaps
Video calls with extended family build relationships and tech literacy
Activities That Encourage Connection
Group tours: Join ranger-led programs, wildlife safaris, or farm activities
Volunteering: National park cleanups or local events
Library visits: Many offer workshops or activity sessions
Sports or rec centres: Especially helpful during longer stops in towns
Roadschooling might not provide daily contact with the same peer group, but it opens the door to deeper, more diverse, and often more enriching social experiences.
Tools, Tech & Supplies That Make It Easier
When you’re homeschooling from an RV, the right tools can make all the difference. A well-equipped roadschool setup doesn’t mean overloaded shelves—it means smart, portable, and reliable gear that supports learning wherever you are in Australia.
Tech Essentials for Learning on the Move
Laptop or tablet
Choose lightweight devices with long battery life. iPads, Chromebooks, or budget laptops work well for online programs, research, and digital portfolios.Mobile Wi-Fi hotspot (dongle or modem)
Telstra and Optus offer the widest coverage, but Starlink is fast becoming a game-changer for remote travellers. Consider a dual SIM setup or hotspot with data-sharing.Signal booster or antenna
Helps strengthen weak reception in rural and outback areas.Headphones (preferably noise-cancelling)
Ideal for focus in shared RV space or for online classes.Offline access apps
Download lessons and videos in advance (e.g. Khan Academy, YouTube, ABC Kids Listen).
Educational Apps and Online Platforms
Khan Academy – Free lessons in maths, science, history
Reading Eggs & Mathseeds – Fun, interactive early learning programs
ABC Education – Free Australian curriculum-based resources
Duolingo – Language learning made simple and gamified
TypingClub – Great for keyboard skills
Google Docs/Drive – For writing, journaling, and saving files to the cloud
Pro Tip: Keep a running list of login credentials for apps and platforms in a password manager or shared Google Sheet.
Learning Supplies That Travel Well
Stationery kit: Pens, pencils, sharpener, ruler, scissors, glue stick
Notebooks, sketchbooks, folders – A4 or A5 for portability
Art supplies: Watercolour set, coloured pencils, clipboards
Whiteboard & markers – Reusable and compact for teaching or brainstorming
Laminated maps – Use dry-erase markers for geography, planning routes, or visual storytelling
Keep everything in stackable containers or soft-sided supply bags that fit easily in under-seat or overhead storage.
Power & Charging Essentials
Solar panels or solar blankets – Supplement battery power during off-grid stays
Power banks – For charging devices while out exploring
12V chargers & inverters – Charge laptops and tablets from your RV battery
Cable organisers – Keeps cords tidy and accessible
These tools don’t just make learning possible—they make it easier, more flexible, and more engaging. With the right tech and supplies, you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time exploring Australia’s learning-rich landscapes.
Creating a Daily Rhythm That Works
Unlike a traditional classroom, roadschooling doesn’t require a strict 9-to-3 timetable—but that doesn’t mean you should wing it entirely. A consistent, flexible rhythm helps your child stay focused, builds trust in the learning process, and makes the whole RV lifestyle more manageable for everyone.
Sample Roadschooling Routine (Flexible Framework)
Morning (8:00–11:00)
Morning walk or quiet reading
Core subjects (maths, reading, writing)
Educational apps or worksheets
Independent journaling or online lessons
Midday (11:00–2:00)
Explore new destinations (parks, museums, historical sites)
Nature walks or cultural activities
Picnic lunch + free play
Afternoon (2:00–4:00)
Project-based learning, art, or science experiments
Group reading or documentary time
Outdoor sketching or journaling
Evening (After 5:00)
Reflection: “What did we learn today?”
Family games, stories, stargazing
Planning tomorrow’s location and lessons
Make It Consistent, Not Rigid
Create a “learning window” rather than a strict timetable
Use visual checklists so kids know what’s expected each day
Let kids help design the rhythm—they’ll be more engaged
Adjust routines based on travel days, location, or energy levels
Tips for Multi-Age or Multi-Kid Families
Teach core concepts together (e.g. a group science project) with varied expectations
Rotate 1-on-1 time while others do quiet tasks or use learning apps
Use colour-coded folders or boxes so each child has their own materials
Embrace peer learning—older kids often love teaching the younger ones
Incorporate Rest and Unstructured Time
Don’t underestimate the value of downtime. Creativity and processing often happen when kids are free to explore, imagine, or simply stare out the window during a long drive.
Designate “free choice” time daily
Include quiet time or rest breaks for everyone (parents included!)
Let spontaneous moments—like a wildlife sighting or surprise detour—become the day’s main lesson
Track Learning Without Overwhelming Yourself
Use a basic weekly planner
Tick off learning areas covered (not every activity needs a worksheet!)
Take photos or short videos as evidence of progress
Reflect weekly on what’s working and what’s not
The goal is not to replicate school at home—it’s to build a lifestyle where learning flows naturally, supports your travels, and nurtures curiosity every day.
Support Networks and Resources for Roadschooling Families
Homeschooling while travelling can feel isolating—unless you tap into the strong, active, and incredibly supportive roadschooling community across Australia. From legal advice to social connections and learning ideas, your tribe is out there, and they’re often just a click (or campfire) away.
National Organisations
Home Education Association (HEA) – www.hea.edu.au
Offers support across all Australian states
Legal guidance, registration help, discounts on educational resources
Optional member insurance for homeschoolers
Hosts virtual events and webinars
Australian Christian Home Schooling (ACHS)
Faith-based program provider with structured curriculum and parent support
Offers guidance, assessments, and community events
Facebook Groups Worth Joining
(Search exact names to join)
Roadschooling Australia – Largest community of full-time travelling homeschoolers
Aussie Homeschool Roadtrippers
Homeschooling in Australia
State-specific groups: “QLD Homeschooling,” “NSW Home Educators,” etc.
Special interest groups: unschoolers, neurodivergent learners, single-parent RV families
Use these to find:
Curriculum reviews and advice
Meetups and co-learning events
Regional updates about homeschool law
Emotional support and idea-sharing
Podcasts & Blogs by Travelling Families
The Family Travel Podcast – Insight from Aussie nomads
Fearless Homeschool – Practical tips for new homeschoolers
Let the Children Play (blog) – Roadschooling stories, outdoor learning ideas
Camping for Women – Sometimes features RV mums and educational lifestyle tips
Learning Resources That Support Roadschooling
National Parks Australia: Ranger programs, downloadable worksheets, Junior Ranger badges
ABC Education & BTN: Free, curriculum-aligned video resources for primary and secondary levels
Libraries on the Go: Use your library card to access eBooks and audiobooks through apps like BorrowBox and Libby
Aussie Museum/Education Sites:
Australian Museum (Sydney)
Questacon (Canberra)
Sovereign Hill (Ballarat)
Museum of Tropical QLD (Townsville)
Events, Camps & Meetups
National homeschool camps: Usually held in major states once a year
Roadschool tribe caravanning convoys: Some families link up and travel together
Local park meetups: Join spontaneous or scheduled get-togethers from social groups
Having a network to lean on makes the journey smoother—for both you and your kids. It turns roadschooling into a shared adventure, not just an individual mission.
Challenges of Roadschooling & How to Overcome Them
Roadschooling is rewarding, but let’s be real—it’s not always easy. Between ever-changing routines, limited space, and varying energy levels, challenges are bound to pop up. The good news? Every roadschooling family faces them, and most issues can be overcome with a bit of strategy and flexibility.
1. Staying Consistent While Constantly Moving
Changing time zones, road delays, or campsite checkouts can disrupt learning.
Solutions:
Create a “travel day light schedule”—short, flexible tasks like journaling or reading
Use a planner or learning app to track lessons across days and destinations
Designate non-travel days as “core learning days” with deeper focus
2. Internet Limitations & Connectivity Gaps
Many educational platforms require Wi-Fi, which isn’t always reliable in remote areas.
Solutions:
Download lessons, videos, and worksheets when connected
Invest in a mobile Wi-Fi device or Starlink if you’re frequently off-grid
Keep backup offline materials: workbooks, printable activities, and books
3. Screen Time Overload
With tech-based learning and entertainment, screen fatigue is a real risk.
Solutions:
Balance screen time with handwriting, drawing, outdoor play, and conversations
Schedule regular “unplugged” afternoons
Rotate between digital lessons and hands-on activities like cooking, crafts, or nature study
4. Burnout—for Parents and Kids
Burnout can sneak up when you’re constantly planning, teaching, and travelling.
Solutions:
Take regular breaks from formal learning—go explore without pressure
Let kids pursue independent projects or passion-based learning
Join online groups or forums to vent, reset, and get new ideas
Remind yourself: It’s okay to have a bad day. It’s part of the journey.
5. Lack of Structure or Direction
Some families struggle without a school-like routine, leading to guilt or confusion.
Solutions:
Start simple: aim for 2–3 core subjects daily
Use weekly checklists instead of rigid daily schedules
Build learning around your travel plans (e.g. science in the rainforest, history at a museum)
6. Sibling Clashes or Different Learning Styles
Living in tight quarters can intensify sibling squabbles or mismatched academic needs.
Solutions:
Alternate between group work and individual tasks
Use headphones or separate learning zones (indoors vs outdoors)
Be patient—social skills are part of the curriculum too
Every challenge is a chance to learn—together. Roadschooling isn’t about being perfect. It’s about staying flexible, curious, and connected as a family.
Conclusion: Raising Lifelong Learners on the Move
Roadschooling in Australia isn’t just an alternative to traditional education—it’s a chance to raise curious, capable, and connected learners in the most dynamic classroom of all: the world around them.
Yes, there will be challenges. Some days won’t go to plan. But there will also be magical moments—your child spotting a kangaroo for the first time, reading under a gum tree, or explaining ancient Aboriginal rock art they saw that morning. These are the lessons that stick. These are the memories that shape resilient, well-rounded individuals.
As a roadschooling family, you’re not just ticking curriculum boxes. You’re teaching your children how to ask questions, adapt, problem-solve, and appreciate diverse people and places. That’s education at its finest.
So whether you’re parked by a beach, exploring the outback, or travelling from one iconic town to the next, know this: you’re doing something extraordinary. You’re learning—and living—together.