Table of Contents
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 on creating a learning experience that is adaptable, inclusive and empowering for each student.
I’m delighted to share that last year, NEC was shortlisted for the Learning Technologies Award for Excellence in Learning Design. A recognition that highlights the dedication and innovation behind our work.
“This acknowledgment reaffirms our commitment to helping every student thrive, regardless of their starting point.” Helen
Our project has been a team effort. NEC’s Online Learning Team lead the development of new, interactive course materials that align with Ofsted’s updated framework, which prioritises inclusivity.
This approach is also closely tied to Teachers’ Standard No. 5, which stresses the importance of teaching methods that respond to each student’s strengths and needs. This principle is reinforced by the Early Career Framework’s emphasis on ‘Adaptive Teaching’, where teachers are encouraged to adjust their methods based on students’ individual needs. Adaptive teaching, as research by PISA has shown, is incredibly impactful on student performance – second only to socio-economic factors.
Adaptive Learning in Action
Our course design is deeply rooted in the belief that every learner deserves the tools and support to reach their full potential. We’ve carefully crafted each interactive resource to cater to students with diverse needs, abilities and learning preferences.
- Guided Independent Learning: We design each course to offer a structured yet flexible pathway. With introductory materials, knowledge quizzes and scaffolded tasks, our design ensures that independent learning feels fully supported. Kath Owen, a subject matter expert, course developer, teacher and examiner in English Language, was instrumental in developing our English Language materials. Kath explains:
“Our design actively guides students through each stage, so they feel supported even as they work independently. We’re striving to make students feel as though they have a guiding hand every step of the way.” Kath
- Adaptive Pathways: Students are free to begin at any level, allowing them to progress at their own pace and comfort level. Interactive tasks assess comprehension in real time, adapting to provide the right level of challenge or support.
“The materials are built to stretch and support each student, allowing them to progress in a way that maximises their learning journey. This adaptability ensures that students of all abilities are engaged and empowered to achieve their goals.” Kath
- Interactive Content: Each topic is divided into manageable sections, with regular feedback keeping students motivated and aware of their progress.
“The immediate feedback students receive is invaluable – it’s not only encouraging but also helps them recognise their own progress. This approach is particularly beneficial in skills-based subjects, like English, where tracking progress has traditionally been challenging.” Kath
Harnessing Technology for Inclusive Education
Technology has enabled us to make our courses even more adaptive and accessible. By incorporating multimedia – videos, audio and animations – we’ve developed content that appeals to a wide range of learning preferences. These digital tools allow each student to engage in their preferred way and provide immediate feedback, creating a responsive, one-on-one experience, but with the flexibility for students to learn at their own pace. Kath describes this interactive approach as transformative, saying:
“The interactive features give each student the sense of having a one-to-one tutorial, yet with the freedom to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule.” Kath
Our design is both structured and personalised, embodying the principles of guided independent learning. We’ve focused on building active learning materials, providing instant feedback, and creating opportunities for consolidation. This supports each student’s unique journey, fostering resilience and confidence along the way.
Educational Inclusivity at the Core
Educational inclusivity has been our guiding principle from the very start. Our materials are designed to be accessible and engaging for students from all backgrounds, with different starting points and learning needs. We use structured frameworks, models and analytical tools to eliminate the intimidation of a blank page.
“We want every student to feel capable and supported, without the fear of facing a blank page alone.” Kath
Instead, our resources offer clear pathways to success, equipping students with the tools they need to move forward confidently.
Conclusion
This project is just one part of NEC’s wider mission. While Kath’s expertise was central to the development of our English Language course, we are excited to be extending our adaptive, inclusive approach across a range of subjects including IGCSE Biology and IGCSE Computer Science.
We have also recently launched upgraded A level Sociology and A level Psychology courses, which bring this innovative learning model to a broader range of students. These new courses embody the same commitment to accessibility, engagement and adaptivity, allowing even more students to benefit from NEC’s approach to learning.
I am incredibly proud to have led this project with our talented Online Learning Team, alongside input from experts like Kath, who ensure that our materials meet specifications and support genuine learning. Together, we’re helping students from all walks of life reach their potential, empowered by an education model that is as inclusive as it is effective.
At NEC, we’re equally excited to build on this adaptive, inclusive ethos through our new Structured GCSE Programme. This programme is a one-year, guided yet flexible learning pathway that pairs independent study with academic and pastoral support. The programme features a number of exciting offerings including:
- Live seminars
- Study sessions
- Personalised tutor check‑ins
- Adaptive, interactive course materials tailored to diverse learning styles (including support for SEND and mental health needs)
And more! It brings our design principles to life in a structured GCSE setting. With built‑in progress tracking, accessible content, and wrap‑around support, it allows students to achieve their goals their way—making our commitment to inclusive, adaptive learning tangible across the year‑long GCSE experience. You can find more about the Structured GCSE Programme here.
➤ Find out about the benefits of online learning and read our students’ stories.