Since Covid, school absences have remained high, driven by factors like rising mental health challenges and other struggles that some students face in traditional school environments. Anxiety and a lack of personalised support can make attendance difficult for many.
To date, in the academic year 2024/25, almost a fifth of pupils in England have been persistently absent from school, missing at least 10% of their sessions, according to official government data.
With this in mind, online learning has emerged as a viable alternative for many students, offering flexibility, tailored support, and a focused learning environment. For KS3 and GCSE students these benefits can be particularly significant, as this stage of education is crucial for building strong subject foundations and preparing for exams.
In this blog, I’ll outline the top five benefits of online schooling and explain why it can be an effective option for students who may not thrive in a traditional school setting.
1. Small classes for more individual attention
One of the major benefits of online learning for students is the ability to keep class sizes small. A report published late last year revealed that UK primary school class sizes are among the biggest in the industrialised world.
As a result, traditional classrooms can often feel overcrowded, making it challenging for teachers to give each student the individual attention they need. Online schools often cap class sizes to ensure that each student receives targeted support.
Smaller classes are especially beneficial for students with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). Traditional classrooms can be overwhelming, with sensory distractions and limited individual support. Online schools provide a structured, flexible environment where teachers can adapt lessons to diverse learning needs. Students with autism, anxiety, ADHD, or physical disabilities can learn comfortably from home, at their own pace, without the stressors of mainstream education.
Additionally, smaller class sizes allow teachers to better identify and address gaps in student understanding. With fewer students, they can adapt their explanations to different learning styles, ensuring that no one is left behind. For those who need extra help in subjects like maths or English, this personalised approach can have a big impact on their confidence and academic progress.
2. Specialist teachers with online experience
Quality teaching is key to any successful education model, and online schools typically employ teachers with specific experience in digital instruction. Teaching online requires a different skill set compared to traditional classrooms. It’s not just about delivering content; it’s about keeping students engaged in a virtual environment, using interactive tools, structured discussions, and clear communication.
Experienced online teachers are adept at creating lessons that maintain student interest and provide structured, effective learning. They also use digital resources in ways that enhance understanding, such as interactive exercises, visual presentations, and collaborative activities in a virtual setting.
3. Fewer distractions, more focused learning
For many students, a busy school environment can bring challenges such as noise, social pressures, and other distractions that can make it harder to concentrate. In an online setting, students can learn from a quieter, more controlled space, allowing them to focus without the common interruptions of a physical classroom.
For students who struggle with concentration, an online format can provide a more structured environment where lessons are delivered clearly and efficiently. This benefit of online schooling can be particularly important in the lead-up to GCSEs, where focused study is essential for retaining key information.
4. Reducing anxiety around classroom participation
In findings reported in June 2024, nearly nine out of 10 secondary school leaders – including attendance officers tasked with tackling absences – said there had been a significant rise in pupils missing school over the past two years due to mental health issues.
Many students experience classroom anxiety, whether from speaking in front of peers, fear of making mistakes, or navigating overwhelming social situations. To support these students, alternative learning approaches are needed. Online homeschooling offers a potential solution by providing a more comfortable, low-pressure environment that can help alleviate these challenges.
For example, many online schools allow students to participate in class discussions by typing responses rather than speaking. This reduces the pressure to answer on the spot, enabling students to think carefully before contributing. Additionally, lessons without cameras can help students feel more at ease, removing a common source of anxiety.
By reducing these barriers, students who might hesitate to ask for help in a traditional classroom may feel more empowered to engage with their teachers and peers online.
5. Flexibility in learning location
Another of the key benefits of online learning for students is flexibility. Students who travel frequently – whether due to family commitments, sports participation, or other personal reasons – can continue their education without disruption. It’s also ideal for families living overseas who may want their children to study the British curriculum.
Learning online ensures that students can keep up with their studies regardless of location. As long as they have a stable internet connection, they can attend lessons, complete assignments, and access resources. This continuity helps prevent learning gaps that might otherwise occur with time away from a physical school.
Now you know about online schooling benefits, is it the right fit for you?
Online education offers a structured and engaging alternative for students who may not thrive in mainstream schools. It can be very beneficial for those who need a quieter learning environment, more individual attention, or the flexibility to learn from different locations.
However, it’s also important to consider individual learning styles and personal circumstances. Some students thrive in face-to-face interactions and benefit from the social aspects of a physical school setting, while others find that online learning provides them with the focus and support they need to succeed.
As more families explore educational alternatives, online learning continues to demonstrate its potential as an effective and flexible solution, particularly for KS3 and GCSE students looking for a more personalised learning experience.
Contact us today to find out more about how our online school can support your child.
Written by Ryan Lockett, Headteacher at TLC LIVE Online School