Comparing Faith-Based vs. Secular Homeschool Curricula

When it comes to homeschooling, one of your biggest choices is deciding between a faith-based or secular homeschool curriculum. Each path offers something unique, and your choice can shape your child’s educational journey in profound and lasting ways.

This guide is here to help you compare both options side by side—simply, clearly, and without any pressure. Whether you’re just starting or rethinking your current curriculum, understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for your family.

Why Curriculum Choice Matters

Your homeschool curriculum is more than lesson plans. It reflects your values, your approach to learning, and what you want your child to take away from their education. That’s why choosing between secular and religious homeschool options is more than just picking textbooks—it’s about aligning your beliefs, teaching style, and child’s needs.

Read our blog to learn more about the best secular homeschool curricula for 2025.

What Is a Faith-Based Homeschool Curriculum?

A faith-based curriculum teaches academic subjects through a religious lens—most commonly Christian, though there are options for other faiths too. These programmes often include:

• Bible studies or devotionals
• Moral teachings based on religious principles
• Religious perspectives on science, history, and literature

Common Features:

• Scripture integrated into daily lessons
• Emphasis on character and faith development
• Often used by families seeking a values-driven education

Faith-based homeschooling isn’t just about religion—it’s about providing an education rooted in a specific worldview. This can be comforting for families looking to reinforce their beliefs at home.

What Is a Secular Homeschool Curriculum?

Secular homeschool curricula are non-religious. They focus purely on academic content and do not include religious material. These are ideal for:

• Families with no religious affiliation
• Parents who prefer to keep religion and education separate
• Those looking for science-based or neutral teaching methods

Key Characteristics:

• Evidence-based science and history
• Inclusive and diverse worldviews
• No devotional content

Many secular programmes are designed to meet national education standards, making them easier to align with public education benchmarks.

Homeschooling Comparison: Faith-Based vs Secular

Now let’s look at how the two approaches compare in practical terms.

1. Worldview and Beliefs

• Faith-Based: Everything is taught through a religious framework. The goal is to support spiritual development alongside academics.
• Secular: Aims to present facts without religious influence, allowing students to form their own beliefs.

Which suits your family’s values best?

2. Science and History

• Faith-Based: May include creationist views in science or a biblical perspective on world events.
• Secular: Focuses on scientific consensus and historical records, independent of religious interpretation.

Consider what kind of foundation you want to give your child in these core subjects.

3. Moral and Character Education

• Faith-Based: Teaches morals through scripture and religious teachings.
• Secular: Promotes ethics through critical thinking, empathy, and civic responsibility.

Both aim to raise kind, thoughtful people, but take different paths.

4. Flexibility and Customisation

• Faith-Based: Often less flexible, as the religious framework is central.
• Secular: Offers broader options, allowing you to mix and match more easily.

If you like customising your programme, secular options might give you more room to explore.

Benefits of Faith-Based Curricula

• Alignment with personal values: Ideal for families looking to reinforce religious teachings at home.
• Integrated moral education: Many families appreciate the spiritual grounding provided alongside academic subjects.
• Community support: Faith-based groups often offer strong support networks, co-ops, and events.

Example:

One Christian homeschooling mum shared how her children started each day with prayer and Bible reading, which set a calm, focused tone for learning.

Benefits of Secular Curricula

• Neutral academic content: Helpful for families who want education to be fact-based and inclusive.
• More curriculum choices: You’ll find a broader range of books and resources with no religious filter.
• Ideal for diverse families: Useful in households where parents and children may hold different beliefs.

Example:

A secular homeschooling dad in the UK described how he appreciated discussing different belief systems as part of history and social studies, without promoting one over another.

Things to Consider Before You Decide

Choosing between a secular homeschool vs a religious curriculum isn’t always black and white. Here are a few things to reflect on:

1. What role does religion play in your daily life?

A faith-based curriculum may feel more natural if faith is central to your family. If not, a secular option may be more aligned with your worldview.

2. How do you want your child to engage with the world?

Do you want them to learn about many beliefs or focus on one? Do you want them to explore science as taught in mainstream academia, or with a spiritual lens?

3. Will your child be re-entering the school system?

A secular programme may be more easily aligned with national standards if you plan to reintegrate into a public school later.

Mixing and Matching: Is That an Option?

Yes! Many families blend elements of both.

You might choose a secular maths and science programme but use faith-based reading or character development materials. This hybrid approach lets you tailor your homeschool journey to meet academic goals while honouring your family’s values.

Tip: Make sure the combined materials work well and support your goals.

Valuable Resources for Choosing a Curriculum

Here are some places to explore both options:

Faith-Based Curriculum Providers:

• Abeka
• Sonlight
• My Father’s World

Secular Curriculum Providers:

• Oak Meadow
• Build Your Library
• Blossom & Root

You can also check out our in-depth reviews of the best secular homeschool curricula for 2025 and tips on how to find non-religious homeschool programs to explore further.

Final Thoughts: What’s Right for You?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when comparing faith-based and secular homeschool curricula. The right choice depends on your family’s beliefs, educational goals, and how you want your child to grow.

Some families feel strongly about weaving faith into every subject. Others want education to be broad, neutral, and open. Both are valid. What matters most is choosing what feels right for you and your child.

Ready to Choose Your Homeschool Path?

Whether you’re leaning towards a religious curriculum or exploring secular options, take your time. Read reviews, sample materials, and talk to other parents. Ask yourself what matters most—not just now but as your child grows.

Have questions or experiences to share?
We’d love to hear from you in the comments. Tell us what helped you decide, or what you’re still wondering about. Let’s support one another on this journey.