Toby H, an avid theatre and drama enthusiast, had always been home educated. With a strong foundation of nine GCSEs, he was eager to dive deeper into his academic interests before heading to college. Whilst on a gap year, the idea to explore his passion for English Literature came up, Toby knew he needed a flexible yet comprehensive way to study A level English Literature. That’s when he found the National Extension College (NEC).

Discovering NEC’s Online A level English Literature Course

Toby’s search for a quality distance learning provider led him to NEC through recommendations within the home education community and his own research on Google. Impressed by NEC’s good reputation, wide range of subjects, and reasonable prices, Toby decided to enrol in the A level English Literature course. Having always been home educated and experienced with various distance learning providers, he knew NEC’s course could offer him the depth of knowledge he was seeking.

Why NEC’s Online A level Worked for Toby

Toby’s enthusiasm for English Literature drove him to make the most of his gap year by studying a subject he was passionate about. He found that NEC’s flexibility allowed him to study on his own terms, an aspect he deeply valued. However, the most significant part of his experience with NEC was his connection with his tutor, Julia. Toby explains:

“Julia was absolutely brilliant. She really went out of her way to encourage and help me throughout the course. Her Masterclasses were also fantastic and well worth the extra cost. They offered invaluable insights into how to approach different sections of the exam and analyse various texts.”

Toby’s Experience with NEC: The Highlights

One of the standout moments during Toby’s time with NEC was attending these Masterclasses. They provided him with practical strategies for tackling exams and deepened his understanding of the course material. Toby appreciated how these sessions not only honed his literary analysis skills but also boosted his confidence as he prepared for his exams.

Reflecting on his educational journey before NEC, Toby recalls his home education as a positive and enriching experience. By combining self-study with distance learning courses, he was able to achieve excellent GCSE results, which laid a solid foundation for his A level studies.

Looking Ahead: Toby’s Future Plans

With his A level English Literature course now complete, Toby is excited to start college in September, where he plans to pursue three more A levels. His long-term goal is to attend university, where he hopes to further his studies in the humanities.

Toby’s Advice to Aspiring Online Learners

Drawing from his experience, Toby offers some practical advice for those considering distance learning:

“Start your course as early as possible! Time flies, and getting a head start can make a huge difference. Also, pace yourself and try to submit your assignments on time. This way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to revise and prepare for exams. Lastly, if your course offers any additional resources like Masterclasses, seriously consider them – they were incredibly helpful for me.”

Toby’s Next Steps and Final Thoughts

Toby is open to the possibility of studying with NEC again if the need arises, thanks to the positive experience he had with his A level English Literature course. He’s excited to continue his educational journey and hopes that his story can inspire others to explore the flexibility and depth that distance learning can offer.

 

Interested in Studying A levels Online?

If Toby’s story resonates with you, explore the range of A level courses available through NEC. Whether you’re looking to pursue a passion, prepare for university, or simply enjoy the flexibility of online learning, NEC offers a wide array of subjects to help you achieve your goals.

Connect with Other Online Learners

As Toby discovered, studying online doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. NEC’s Student Forums offer a platform for discussions with fellow students, tutors, and NEC staff. When you enrol with NEC, you’ll have access to these forums via learn@nec, providing you with a supportive community throughout your studies.

Applying to University?

If you’re thinking of applying to university, like Toby, consider watching NEC’s webinar: NEC Presents: Applying to University with Gemma Standen from the University of East Anglia. This resource can help guide you through the application process and prepare you for the next step in your educational journey.

For more student stories like Toby’s, visit NEC’s Student Stories and learn how distance learning can fit into your life.