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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…

Resits or retakes – what is the difference?

Examinations play a crucial role in our educational journey, and sometimes we don’t achieve the results we had hoped for. However, it’s important to…

Why study A level Geography?

To celebrate the launch of NEC’s online interactive A level Geography, we spoke to lead tutor Alison Leadbetter about why she loves the subject…

NEC’s top courses for classics connoisseurs

The crowdfunded return of Time Team proves support for our interest in hidden histories. Although there has always been an interest in ancient history,…

Why study psychology and sociology?

Psychology and sociology are fascinating subjects for anyone interested in human behaviour and how we act within society.  A level Psychology focuses on big…

Can studying Latin add to my other courses?

At the end of last month, the Department for Education (DfE) announced that Latin is to be introduced in 40 state schools in England….

How can NEC help 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…

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….

Other articles...

The HG Wells’ Biology Textbook

In 1893, HG Wells would publish his first book. It was not The Time Machine or War of the Worlds. It was a textbook:…

A home-educator’s journey, part 6: Using learn@nec and Tutor Support

This post was originally published on February 22nd 2019 and updated on March 23rd 2020. This is the sixth in the series of ‘A…

How to write a poem like a Romantic

How are you celebrating Valentine’s day? Spoiling your loved one with gifts? Flowers? A romantic dinner for two? Or maybe you’re thinking of stretching…

A home-educator’s journey, part 5: Studying GCSE Sociology with NEC (Tutor response)

This post was originally published on February 12th 2019 and updated on March 23rd 2020. This week’s entry of our ‘home-educator’s journey’ series, is…

NEC comment: The scandal of off-rolling students

The National Extension College has supported and continues to support a diverse range of students. Although the majority remain adults who wish to return…

A home-educator’s journey, part 5: Studying GCSE Sociology with NEC

This post was originally published on February 4th 2019 and updated on March 23rd 2020. This is the fifth in the series of ‘A…

NEC comment: AEB devolution

A parliamentary debate on the subject of the Adult Education Budget (AEB) devolution, which is planned for launch later this year, is happening later…

See things from a new perspective and learn your way to better wellbeing

Learning new things has a multitude of benefits. There are the benefits you can see, like helping you to get in to university or…

Does astronomy hold the key to your future?

*This post was updated 9th March 2020 following its original publication 21st January 2019. Across the globe millions paused in awe and excitement to…

Government proposals to bar students achieving less than 3 Ds at A level from receiving student loan – NEC comment:

With all that has been going on lately in Westminster, you would be forgiven if this story had passed you by. However due to…