Holly Brown

NEC’s Learning Design: A Pathway to Success for Independent Learners

NEC’s Learning Design: A Pathway to Success for Independent Learners female sitting on sofa on laptop, looking at NEC's learning design

If you’re considering studying for a GCSE or A level with the National Extension College (NEC), you may be wondering: how will NEC help you develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to reach your goals? Part of the answer lies in the expert support and guidance offered by our tutors throughout your studies, right […]

Chemistry Week 2024

Chemistry Week 2024 female NEC student studying chemistry at home. Holding science lab equipment

Did you know that chemistry is at the heart of everything around us? It’s essential to everything we touch, wear, and use, from tackling climate change to advancing health and wellbeing. Chemistry helps us face critical global challenges like energy, food, and water shortages, while also developing life-changing medicines to improve quality of life. This […]

My Experience as a Marketing Intern with the National Extension College

My Experience as a Marketing Intern with the National Extension College NEC intern Noor

As an intern with the marketing team at the National Extension College (NEC), I had the chance to dive into a variety of tasks, each giving me a better understanding of the world of education marketing. My role was quite diverse—I handled administrative tasks, downloaded and organised course materials, conducted competitor analysis, and even got […]

How NEC Helped Kari’s Son Niko to Continue his A level Studies Despite Long-Term Illness

How NEC Helped Kari’s Son Niko to Continue his A level Studies Despite Long-Term Illness NEC distance learning student Nico

When Kari’s son Niko was unable to continue his studies at college due to ill health, the family needed a solution to ensure Niko could continue his learning in order to get into university. Niko was a student at Hills Road Sixth Form in Cambridge and they told the family about the National Extension College […]

Why should you study Art History

Why should you study Art History man standing in an art gallery looking at art, considering art history

Do you often find beautiful pieces of art catching your eye? Are you curious about the history of art? Art History isn’t just about admiring beautiful paintings and ancient sculptures.  Art history is an exploration into the human experience, offering insights into the cultures, societies, and philosophies that have shaped our world.  By studying art […]

A level Results Day 2024: What To Do When You Didn’t Get the A level Results You Wanted

A level Results Day 2024: What To Do When You Didn’t Get the A level Results You Wanted student writing on a level exam results paper

Receiving your A level results can be an overwhelming experience, especially if the results turn out to be less than you had hoped for. You are not alone! If you find yourself disappointed with your A level results, don’t lose hope, there are still options to help you progress on your educational journey.  In this […]

Vivienne’s online learning experience – Distance learning as a mature student

Vivienne’s online learning experience – Distance learning as a mature student NEC mature student Vivienne

It’s not everyday that we hear of students starting a course with us thirty years after first hearing of NEC. In this case, mature student Vivienne decided there was nothing holding her back and became an NEC student in order to pursue IGCSEs in French and Biology. Thirty years ago the NEC looked quite different […]

Experiencing Mount Etna: A Journey of Natural Wonders and Learning

Experiencing Mount Etna: A Journey of Natural Wonders and Learning Mount Etna erupting at night

Written by NEC Chief Executive Esther Chesterman As the CEO of the National Extension College, I often find myself engrossed in the world of education, striving to bring the best learning experiences to our students. However, nothing could have prepared me for the breathtaking and humbling experience of witnessing Mount Etna’s eruption up close during […]

Labour Party’s Education Policies: Transforming Schools and Enhancing Social Mobility

Labour Party’s Education Policies: Transforming Schools and Enhancing Social Mobility male teacher in classroom education setting since new government manifesto

As the CEO of the National Extension College (NEC), I am excited about the Labour Party’s education manifesto becoming a reality under the new government. These transformative changes will significantly impact schools across the UK, promoting inclusivity, equity, and social mobility. Reflecting on our founder Michael Young’s vision, it is clear that NEC’s mission to […]