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TLDR
After struggling in a traditional classroom environment, Isla is now thriving studying for her GCSEs online with the National Extension College (NEC). The flexibility of NEC’s online distance learning courses has helped Isla to regain her confidence in education and she plans to continue studying online, taking her A levels with NEC. She then plans to go on to university – showing how flexible online courses can open up new pathways to achieving their goals for students who need a different approach to their learning.
When Clare and her daughter Isla read in the National Extension College’s (NEC) weekly student newsletter the Learning Link that we were looking for students to tell us their experience of studying with NEC, home educator Clare got in touch to say they’d like to share their story.
At NEC, we always enjoy hearing how our students are getting on with their studies, so we got in touch to find out more.
Discovering NEC
Clare and Isla first found out about NEC’s online GCSE courses while searching Google for flexible study options.
They were looking for a provider that offered:
- high-quality course materials in a wide choice of subjects
- affordable pricing with manageable payment options
- positive reviews from other learners
- previous students who had achieved excellent grades
- first-class tutor support.
After comparing different distance learning providers, NEC stood out for the quality of our courses and the flexibility they offer.
The GCSE Subjects Isla is Studying
Isla is currently studying a range of GCSE and IGCSE subjects online with NEC to help her work towards her future career goals:
- GCSE English Language
- GCSE English Literature
- IGCSE French
- GCSE Science
- GCSE Maths
- GCSE Psychology
- GCSE Sociology
With plans to go on to study A levels and then to do a degree in her chosen field, choosing these subjects helps build a strong academic foundation whilst keeping Isla’s options open.
Why Flexible Online Learning Has Made a Difference for Isla
For many students, a traditional classroom does not provide the environment needed to thrive. Before enrolling with NEC, Isla attended a mainstream high school but found the experience difficult.
She explains:
“The teachers’ focus was on disciplining ‘difficult’ pupils, which left them very little time to teach during lessons. I often felt like I was coasting through subjects and not actually learning anything of real value.”
With NEC’s online distance learning GCSE courses, Isla is able study at her own pace and focus fully on understanding the course material before moving on to the next topic.
What Isla Likes Most About Studying with NEC
One feature Isla particularly values is the way NEC courses help reinforce her learning before she completes the assignments.
“The quizzes before assignments are an invaluable addition. They help me ensure that I have grasped and understood the material and that my assignment will be correct.”
These quizzes give students the chance to test their understanding and build confidence before moving on to the next part of their course.
Isla and Clare also highlighted the other aspects of studying with NEC that have worked well for them:
- flexible study schedules
- excellent course materials
- a wide range of GCSE subjects
- affordable monthly payment options.
Advice for Students Considering Distance Learning
Studying with NEC is Isla’s first experience of distance learning.
For anyone thinking about studying GCSEs online, Isla has this simple advice:
“Do it! Remember that all new things take time to adjust but once you are in the flow it will be the best decision you ever made for your education.”
Adjusting to a new style of learning can take time, but for Isla the benefits have quickly become clear. Her experience shows that with the right support and structure, distance learning can transform the way students engage with their studies.
Looking Ahead – A levels and University
Isla already has clear plans for the future.
After completing her GCSEs, she intends to continue her studies studying NEC’s online A level courses before moving on to university.
Mum Clare explains that the quality of the course materials and flexible payment options make NEC an ideal choice for Isla to continue her education.
Isla’s Life Outside of Studying
When she is not studying, Isla enjoys spending time on her hobbies, including:
- listening to music
- scrapbooking
- watching films and TV series
- walking her dog
- browsing social media.
This flexibility to balance online study with personal interests and other commitments is an important part of maintaining motivation and wellbeing for all students studying with NEC.
All of our courses can be studied flexibly, at any time and anywhere, and offer each student an exceptional level of support to achieve their future ambitions.
Isla’s Positive Experience with NEC
Clare and Isla say they have been very happy with the service they have received from NEC overall.
“Absolutely. The only negative when we first enrolled was it was a long time before we heard from some of the tutors, which was a shame as it’s those first few weeks of finding our feet when we need support the most.”
Feedback like this helps NEC continue to improve the experience for all the students we are supporting to achieve their goals, their way.
Thinking About Studying GCSEs Online?
Stories like Isla’s show how online GCSE courses and flexible distance learning built around the student can help to find a way of learning that truly works for them; helping students who may not thrive in a traditional classroom environment to flourish.
If you are considering home education or looking for a more flexible way to achieve your qualifications, NEC offers a wide range of GCSE and A level courses designed to support independent learners.
Explore NEC’s full range of courses today and discover a different way to learn.
If you’ve got a question about any of our courses or how online distance learning works, contact our helpful Course Advice Team who will be happy to tell you more.