Table of Contents
TLDR
Thinking about studying A levels at home? After leaving traditional school in Year 11, Herb chose flexible distance learning with NEC in order to study A level Biology, Sociology, and History of Art. With structured course materials, expert tutor support, and focused exam technique masterclasses, Herb successfully gained their A levels independently. This opened the door to their future university and career pathways on their own terms.
At NEC we pride ourselves on offering educational opportunities to all learners regardless of their previous experience or background. For Herb, NEC was the ideal distance learning provider, allowing them to continue their academic pursuits after leaving traditional school during year 11.
Why Herb Chose Distance Learning A levels
Although independent study wasn’t new to Herb, and they had still achieved impressive GCSE grades whilst doing so, they desired more structure when choosing to study A levels.
“I dropped out of secondary school in October of year 11 after missing a lot of school. I studied independently and took the exams, receiving good results. This gave me the confidence to take A levels at home but I needed some more structure for these which the NEC provided.” – Herb
Choosing A level Biology, Sociology and History of Art
When it came to picking their A level subjects, Herb decided to follow their interests, ultimately deciding to study A levels in Biology, Sociology and History of Art.
“I chose Biology because it was my strongest GCSE subject, and I really enjoy the style of studying and exams. I was originally very interested in plant biology, but by the end of the A level this shifted to molecular and microbiology.” – Herb
Improving A level Exam Techniques
Like many other students, exam techniques were a struggle for Herb. Thankfully, they found the exam-style practice questions to be a great help particularly in their Sociology and Art History subjects.
“The part of A levels I struggled the most with was exam technique. I found that the many practice questions in exam style helped with this, particularly the model answers and explanations of assessment objectives. In Sociology and Art History this was especially important as the mark schemes are difficult to understand.” – Herb
The Benefits of Flexible, Independent Study
Alongside Herb’s success with exam practice, they appreciated the ability to be able to study in their own time and the flexibility NEC provided.
“I loved being able to study in my own time and I know what study methods work best for me so I think I can learn more effectively than I could in a classroom. Studying with the NEC also gave me the flexibility to pursue my own interests – including particular parts of the courses I could go deeper on; related topics that weren’t part of the A level but deepened my knowledge; and unrelated interests that I wouldn’t have had as much time for otherwise. I enjoy being independent and self-directed and I think I gained valuable skills in planning, studying and researching that I wouldn’t have if I had never left traditional schooling.” – Herb
A level Exam Technique Masterclasses and Tutor Support
In order to help our students gain the most out of their time as a distance learner with NEC, we offer a variety of support and additional masterclasses that are created and led by subject tutors. These are great additions that address the more challenging areas that may appear within the subject exams.
Herb highlights the importance of these masterclasses, mentioning their positive experience in their last year.
“In my last year there were some free Art History masterclasses in exam technique that were very important for me – I would have liked there was more of that.” – Herb
What Next After A levels? Herb’s Gap Year and University Plans
The benefit of A levels is that learners can often use these to help them progress and open new doors within their education or career journeys. Many have a plan before joining NEC, whereas others seek possibilities. In Herb’s case, they are content in having achieved their grades allowing them to explore the possibility of going to University should they decide to in the future, after a much-deserved gap year.
“I am taking a gap year to develop my art and explore my options, looking for a job and considering university.”
“I am not sure yet about going to university mainly because I’m not sure what I would study since I took such varied A levels, but studying with the NEC allowed me to take the time to finish my A levels without the stress of applications. Now that I have my results I feel like I have many options available to me.” – Herb
We are very proud to have been part of their journey and look forward to seeing what Herb’s future holds.
Thinking About Studying A levels at Home?
If you’d like to explore A levels for yourself, you can find the perfect subject for you here or feel free to get in touch to discuss your options with our friendly Course Advice Team.
