For many families it is hard to imagine what learning online will look like in practice. In the sections below you'll find answers to some of the more common questions parents ask us about online schooling. For a more detailed exploration of any of the areas below or to talk to us about your specific situation please book a free call with us to discuss the best options for your child. 

Book a call or Zoom meeting here

1. Full-Time Online Learning

How much screen time will a full-time student have each day?
Most full-time online school students spend 3-5 hours a day in live lessons, with regular breaks and additional offline tasks. Independent study adds 1-2 flexible hours, much of which can be completed away from the screen. Timetables are designed to prevent digital fatigue and keep screen time purposeful.

Is there any kind of uniform or dress code?
Online schools rarely require a uniform. Students are usually asked to wear comfortable, appropriate clothing during live lessons to encourage them to focus. Some schools provide simple guidelines, such as no pyjamas! However, in general there is a lot more flexibility than in traditional school settings.

Are specific devices required to access online schooling?
Students typically need a laptop or desktop computer, a stable internet connection, a webcam and a headset. Tablets may work for younger learners, but older students benefit from a full keyboard and larger screen for written work, assessments and research.

Are there any hidden costs?
Most online schools are transparent about fees. Families may need to budget for exam centre fees, optional textbooks, art materials or science kits. Core digital resources and learning platforms are usually included in the tuition cost.

Are all required resources available online or do we have to buy textbooks?
Most resources are provided digitally, including worksheets, lesson slides and reading materials. Some GCSE and A-level courses recommend or require specific textbooks, which families may need to purchase for exam preparation or extended study.

2. Short-Term Online Learning

Can my child access online learning during hospital treatment and return to school between treatments?
Yes. Online schooling can offer valuable flexiblity for times when students are unable to attend their physical school. They can join live lessons on a short-term basis when hospitalised or during treatment periods and return to school when well. 

3. Online Short Courses / A-level Flexibility

Can you study just one online subject at A-level?
Yes. Many online schools allow students to take a single A-level alongside their existing school timetable. This is ideal for resolving timetable clashes, pursuing an additional subject that may not be available at their school, or accelerating progress in a specialist area.

4. Age Specific Learning

How does my 5 year-old learn social skills online?
Young children develop social skills through small group live lessons, guided play, 'show and tell' sessions and structured interaction with classmates. Teachers model communication skills, such as turn-taking and group work, ensuring social development remains central even in an online environment.

5. Live Teaching vs Self Study

Are all subjects available online?
With a wide range of providers, most core subjects and many electives are available online, including sciences, humanities, languages and creative subjects. Availability varies by school, but the majority of academic pathways can be delivered effectively through live teaching and digital resources.

What subjects can't be taught online?
Subjects requiring specialist equipment, large workshop spaces or physical performance, such as Design Technology, Dance or Music are less suited to online delivery. Some schools offer adapted versions, but availability is limited and for external exams some face-to-face interaction might be required.

6. Academic Support

Do online schools give predicted grades for UCAS and support students with University applications?
Yes. Accredited online schools provide predicted grades, references and UCAS support in the same way as traditional schools. Universities treat these predictions equally, and online students follow the same application process. Education Advisers provide an additional service to support students applying to university from online schools. Please ask us for details. 

7. Curriculum

How will my child study subjects that need specialist facilities like science labs?
Practical subjects are taught through teacher demonstrations, simulations, home experiment kits and project-based tasks. For exam courses, required practicals are completed through approved alternatives accepted by exam boards. Students do not need access to a full laboratory at home.

How can I tell if an online provider is reputable?
A reputable online school will be accredited, transparent and accountable. In the UK, the strongest indicator of quality is accreditation under the DfE’s Online Education Accreditation Scheme (OEAS). OEAS accredited providers meet strict standards for safeguarding, curriculum, leadership, assessment and student welfare, and are inspected by Ofsted approved inspectorates.
You should also look for:
•    Qualified teachers delivering live lessons
•    Clear safeguarding policies and attendance expectations
•    Transparent fees with no hidden costs
•    Strong academic reporting and university application support
•    Evidence of student progress and outcomes
•    Reliable exam guidance for GCSE, IGCSE and A-level entries
For international pathways, check whether the school is approved by recognised bodies such as Cognia, Cambridge International, Pearson Edexcel or COBIS. A reputable provider will always be open about its accreditation status, inspection reports and teaching standards. Please ask us if unsure. 

8. Co-Curricular Provision

How do gatherings and social events work when students are located far apart from each other in different parts of the country or in different time zones? 
Online schools run virtual clubs, assemblies, competitions and social sessions, alongside optional regional meet-ups, residentials and international trips. These activities help students build friendships and feel part of a wider community, regardless of location.

9. Safeguarding & Welfare

How does my child get the recommended physical exercise time during the online school day?
School timetables generally include movement breaks, PE sessions and offline physical challenges. Families can choose activities such as walking, sports clubs, outdoor play or home workouts to keep their child healthy and active.

10. Assessment & Examinations

Where will my child sit formal exams if they aren’t in a physical school?
Most students sit GCSEs, IGCSEs and A-levels at local exam centres, usually independent schools or private candidate centres. Online schools guide families through the registration process and provide the required documentation and ensure that deadlines are adhered to.
It is now also possible to sit Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (IGCSE) and International A-level (IAL) exams from home through secure, online proctored assessment. This option is available for selected subjects and offers a flexible alternative for students who cannot travel to an exam centre.

Do we have to find an exam centre ourselves?
Most online schools help families locate a suitable centre and provide the required entry codes. Families usually complete the final registration directly with the exam centre. 

What happens with formal exams if there are timetable clashes?
If two exams overlap, the exam centre arranges a supervised break and adjusts timings according to official regulations. This is standard practice for private candidates and ensures no student is disadvantaged.

Do all exam boards allow online testing?
No. Most external exams, including GCSE, IGCSE and A-level, must be taken in person at an approved centre. A small number of international qualifications offer online proctored exams, but availability varies by subject and region.