Our Courses

Experiencing Mount Etna: A Journey of Natural Wonders and Learning

Written by NEC Chief Executive Esther Chesterman As the CEO of the National Extension College, I often find myself engrossed in the world of…

Are GCSE Resits Beneficial?

Written by NEC Chief Executive Esther Chesterman – explaining the benefits of GCSE resits. If your exams haven’t quite gone to plan and you…

Why study Politics?

There are many reasons why studying politics is beneficial to students. With talk around general elections, it’s no wonder that politics is a common…

The economics of political parties

By Roy Bowden Roy, a tutor on NEC’s A level Economics explains how A level Economics students can use the manifestos of political parties…

Navigating Your Post-Exam Options: Advice for Students

By Esther Chesterman &  Kirsten Butler NEC Chief Executive Esther Chesterman and our UCAS Expert Kirsten Butler explain the options open to you if…

Expanding Horizons: The Case for Modern Language Studies in Gifted Education (GCSE and A Level)

In the dynamic landscape of education, providing diverse and enriching learning experiences is crucial, especially for gifted and talented students. These exceptional learners often…

Can you gain an A level within a year?

Complete an A level in one year with NEC’s online Structured Fast Track A levels. We understand that some goals and deadlines can’t wait…

What is the difference between GCSEs and IGCSEs?

When it comes to navigating education systems as a traditional student, distance learner or parent, there are many terms and qualifications that can cause…

Why Study an AS Level?

An AS level (Advanced Subsidiary level) acts as a great stepping stone between GCSEs and higher education. Yes, A levels are typically more well…

Demystifying the Exam Booking Process with NEC: Everything You Need to Know

Explore the essentials of booking exams with our latest ‘long-read’ blog, complementing our well-received webinar on the topic. We also address some thought-provoking questions…

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Why study Critical Thinking and Problem Solving?

NEC’s interactive online Critical Thinking and Problem Solving courses, give students the chance to prepare for university admissions tests and the world of work….

Thanks paid to Dr Ros Morpeth OBE from across NEC for her leadership

Upon the retirement of Dr. Ros Morpeth OBE from her position as Chief Executive of the National Extension College, we would like to thank…

National Extension College appoints new Chief Executive

The National Extension College (NEC) has appointed Esther Chesterman as its new Chief Executive. She takes over from Ros Morpeth OBE, who led the…

Do maths qualifications add value to university applications?

The benefits of studying level 3 maths The 2015 A level and AS reforms decoupled the AS qualification from the A level and resulted…

Thinking about becoming a teacher?

From the classroom to online lessons almost overnight, teachers have been under an incredible amount of pressure throughout the last year. Teachers have been…

From the 1960s to today: A levels with NEC lead to dream teaching job

Over the years, we have helped thousands of students gain English language and literature qualifications and achieve their full potential. Patricia first studied with…

Tuition fee bursaries at the University of Cambridge for NEC students

The Institute of Continuing Education (ICE) and the NEC are collaborating to offer a tuition fee bursary scheme for the 2021-2022 academic year.   This…

An exciting partnership to support your lifelong learning with the Open College of the Arts, exclusive to NEC students!

When you study with NEC you will be able to claim 10% off your first level at the Open College of the Arts. The…

International Women’s Day Student Story: The NEC A level English Literature course was my 1970s lifesaver!

International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate women, highlight inequality and challenge biases. Dr Jacqueline Jeynes studied with NEC in the 1970s and…

How do you become a nurse?

If there has been anything positive to come out of the devastating events of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is perhaps the well deserved attention…