Our Courses

How NEC’s Inclusive Approach to Learning Design is Redefining Independent Learning

Hello, I’m Helen Davies. As the Online Learning Manager at the National Extension College (NEC), I’ve had the privilege of leading a project focused…

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

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…

Passion and Academics: How Izzy Balances Full-time Musical Theatre Studies with Studying A level Physics

Earlier this year we introduced Izzy who was embarking on a journey to fast-track her A level Physics studies with NEC. In the second…

Why Study Psychology? – Key Benefits, Careers and What You’ll Need to Study Psychology at University

Psychology is a fascinating and valuable field that offers insights into human behaviour, thought processes, and emotions. Whether you’re considering a career in psychology…

The Future of Art History: Why Study A level History of Art with the National Extension College?

Art history is more than just a study of paintings and sculptures; it’s a gateway to understanding cultures, societies, and the human experience through…

Why Study Physics?

Did you know that if you fold a piece of paper 42 times, it would reach the moon? This might sound impossible but physics…

National Coding Week 2024: The Vital Role of Coding in the Modern World

National Coding Week started on 16th September, and is the perfect time to highlight the importance of coding – especially with this year’s focus…

Exploring Science Practicals at Home: A Guide for Homeschoolers

Studying science as a homeschooler can seem daunting, especially when you think about the practical experiments that are essential to understanding the subject. However,…

Why should you study 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…

Resitting A level STEM Subjects: How to Turn Your Setback into a Stepping Stone for a Brighter Future

If you’re searching for ways to improve your A level results in STEM subjects, you’ve come to the right place. Many students find themselves…

Other articles...

Five barriers to achieving GCSEs and A level qualifications that need to be removed to open the doors for distance learners

Education policy makers and the organisations that make up England’s exam infrastructure rarely give a second thought to independent learners taking GCSEs and A…

Being an NEC Intern

Today’s blog is the second posted by NEC Marketing and Policy Intern Rea Duxbury, pictured above. Rea worked with NEC during the summer and…

Teachers, technology and the future of learning

This week’s blogger is former NEC GCSE English student Naila Din. Now a freelance arts advisor and business coach, Naila turned to teaching as…

How do we reverse the decline in mature student numbers?

Today’s blog is written by NEC Marketing and Policy Intern Rea Duxbury, pictured here (centre) with NEC Chief Executive Ros Morpeth (left) and Cambridge…

Making the most of your tutor

Making the most of your tutor Your tutor will be the person most closely involved with your work on your course, guiding your studies…

Do you have to be at school to study a GCSE?

You don’t have to be at school to study a GCSE With Autumn just around the corner, it’s time to consider your study options….

2017 A level results day: The impact of A level reforms

Today’s blog is from NEC’s exams and assessment expert, Louise where she reflects on the first exams for the new linear A levels. Up…

Home education: education’s disruptive brand

Today’s NEC Blog is a guest post by Linda Baldwin. Linda has been working for the specialist part-time and flexible recruiter Capability Jane since…

NEC learner stories: Julia Wix

NEC learner Julia is keen to challenge the widely held view that young people educated at home lack the resilience built up by those…

21st century teaching: what and how to think

This week’s blogger is former NEC GCSE English student Naila Din. Now a freelance arts advisor, Naila turned to teaching as a second career…