Looking at your next steps in education? These days, more and more young people are opting for alternative options to mainstream education. Online learning is becoming an increasingly popular option from primary right up to the final years of education. In this blog, we'll be talking about what to expect when studying A-Levels online.
But before we get into it, we'll provide a bit of an overview of what A-Levels are and how they work.
What are A-Levels?
School pupils both in the UK and overseas study A-Levels. They normally study them when they are aged 16-18 years old, in sixth form or college. In the first year, you will study AS levels, and in the second year you complete your A-Level course. These qualifications are typically assessed through both coursework and examinations, however International A-Levels are 100% externally assessed with no coursework required.
These internationally recognised qualifications are graded from A*-E, and are essential for applying to universities in the UK and internationally. A-Levels and International A-Levels (IALs) have a reputation for maintaining an exceptionally high standard of British education, and ensure you become a competitive candidate when it comes to higher education or careers.
How does studying A-Levels online work?
Studying A-Levels online offers young people a flexible alternative which allows them to learn from home, wherever they may be in the world. My Online Schooling is an online Cambridge International online school. We offer Cambridge International A-Level courses in Years 12 and 13 for pupils aged 16-18.
Overview
As a pupil at our school, you'll choose 3-4 subjects, or as many needed to achieve your own personal goals. You will receive a timetable, like in any school, and learn in small, live online lessons guided by a subject-specialist teacher. Lessons are fully interactive, and you can participate in lessons and work collaboratively with your classmates from the comfort of your own home.
Independent study
There's a larger focus on independent study in Years 12 and 13. All subjects are taught for three hours per week, with an emphasis on independent study outside the virtual classroom. All lessons are recorded, which not only provides a chance for you to catch up if you've missed a class, but also provides an invaluable bank of resources when it comes to revision time.
Additional support
The final years of Secondary school can be a challenging time, and it's important that young people receive the support they need to get them where they want to be. At My Online Schooling, you will always be able to contact your teacher outside of lesson time if you need help with anything. Our academic support groups are also a great option for those who require more in-depth support.
What about exams?
Although pupils at online schools study online from home, they do still take exams in-person. International A-Level exams can be sat in examination centres around the world. If you are a pupil at an online school, you will need to register as a private candidate for exams ahead of time. Luckily, the process is more straightforward than most people think.
Learn more about how to take exams as an online school pupil.
Why study A-Levels online?
Below are some of the key reasons why people opt for studying A-Levels online:
Flexible timing
Instead of having to go to school or college each day, you can study in live online lessons from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a stable internet connection. Timetables are more flexible than at a bricks-and-mortar school. This leaves you with more time for personal study and consolidation, and for pursuing your interests and hobbies outside of school.
Enhanced classroom experience
Online school classes are much smaller than in school sixth forms or colleges. This means that there is a lot more focus on you and your individual needs and progress. Learning online also limits distractions from other pupils in the classroom. All My Online Schooling teachers are fully qualified and have many years of experience of teaching at schools, and are dedicated to helping you achieve your individual goals.
Tailored to additional needs
Our teachers are experienced in adapting lessons to suit pupils of all abilities, whether it be adapting to special educational needs (SEN), being mindful of personal circumstances, or stretching an exceptionally gifted student to new levels.
Internationally competitive
Cambridge International A-Levels are globally recognised qualifications, known for their challenging courses and quality educational content, which is monitored by rigorous accreditation standards. Attaining top grades at A-Level gives students the opportunity to apply to top ranked international universities around the world, which recognise them, including the UK Russell Group, the Australia Group of 8, and top ranked universities in North America and Asia.