8 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Online Schooling
Online schooling has exploded in popularity in recent years, and with good reason. But did you know that it’s not just popular because it offers more flexibility and convenience – it can actually outperform traditional schooling in many ways?
Whether you’re new to the world of virtual learning or a seasoned homeschooler exploring options for GCSEs or A levels, here are some fun (and little-known) facts about online education that might just change the way you think about it!
- 🏆 Harrow School Online Outperformed Harrow School Itself
Yes, you read that right! Harrow School – one of the UK’s most prestigious independent schools – launched Harrow School Online, and the online students actually achieved better A level results than their peers at the traditional Harrow campus.
When done well, online schooling can deliver world-class academic results.
Harrow School Online’s Principal and teaching team then moved on to create Highgrove Online School in January 2024. First exam results are already showing that the school will achieve better academic outcomes than the majority of selective traditional schools.
- 🎓 Top UK Universities Welcome Online School Students
A common concern is whether online learners will be accepted by universities. Here’s the good news: UK universities (including Russell Group members) happily accept students from online schools.
As long as students sit for recognised exams like GCSEs and A levels, their qualifications are considered equally valid, whether they studied in a classroom or at the kitchen table with a webcam.
In fact, online learners are often seen as independent, motivated, and tech-savvy – all qualities that unis love.
- 🌍 Online Schooling Connects Students from Around the Globe
Some online schools boast learners from over 50 countries, meaning your classmates could be dialling in from Dubai, Delhi, or Devon.
This creates a global learning environment that encourages diverse perspectives, without ever needing a passport.
- ⏰ Lessons Can Be Replayed Like Your Favourite Netflix Show
Missed a lesson? No problem. Most online schools offer recorded classes so students can watch them again, pause, rewind, and even binge-learn during Easter revision if they’re feeling ambitious.
Try doing that in a traditional classroom!
- 🤖 Interactive Courses Enhance Learning
Many online schools use self-study materials with real-time feedback systems to help students learn faster and smarter. Pupils work through their learning individually before consolidating what they’ve learnt in their live lessons.
Watch a short clip about how the Highgrove Online learning platform works
- 🧠 Online Learners Become Incredibly Independent
Far from being isolated, online school students learn how to manage their time, meet deadlines, and study proactively. These are essential life skills that set them up for success not only at university but in future careers as well.
- 💼 Online School Students Are Winning at Life
Not only are they getting top grades — many online schoolers are simultaneously pursuing careers in sport, tech, or starting businesses. The flexibility of online learning allows students to tailor their education around their passions.
- 🛠️ You Can Still Do Science Practicals & Group Projects – Virtually!
Science doesn’t stop just because it’s online. Many online schools use interactive video simulations to help students get familiar with the science practicals they’ll be examined on at the end of their IGCSE or international A level course. And online group projects are an awesome way of building international teams and support students to work together — all from home.
In Summary: Online School Isn’t Just a Plan B – It’s a Brilliant Plan A
From outperforming elite institutions to opening doors to top universities, online education is proving to be not just effective, but exceptional.
At Highgrove Education, we help families navigate the exciting world of online learning, especially during the crucial GCSE and A-level years. If you’re curious about how online schooling could work for your child, we’re here to help.
