The education sector needs support more now than ever. As the academic year draws to a close, we take the time to reflect and evaluate. We must recognise that there are thousands of children missing in education and exclusion rates are exceedingly high.
However, we can implement new strategies to overcome certain barriers to support students so they can reach their educational potential. One method that has worked well has been using hybrid approaches or “Bridging” avenues. This could be a certain location on-site where teachers can supervise and monitor attendance, and engagement and ensure students are safeguarded.
We take a look at five reasons you could use this method in the following academic year and how a DfE accredited alternative provider of online education can assist.
“Children unable to attend school because of a health need should be able to access suitable and flexible education appropriate to their needs. The nature of the provision must be responsive to the demands of what may be a changing health status.”
Implementing flexibility can drive engagement, focus and confidence for children. In order to achieve this, integrating an effective bridging hybrid option could be a great alternative for those who struggle with mainstream classes. Here’s why:
1. Personalised learning pathways
Hybrid approaches can allow students to focus intently on designated learning pathways that suit their academic ability. This can be beneficial long term as it allows children to drive engagement and develop their knowledge and understanding at a rate they are comfortable with.
“Staff create individualised learning pathways for each pupil. These are based around the specific subjects commissioned for them by their registered physical school and focus predominately on English, mathematics and science. Where appropriate, older pupils study towards GCSEs, following the same syllabuses as used by the commissioning schools.”
2. Flexibility and Accessibility
Children in a flexible hybrid approach can offer flexibility for all of learning types. Children with special educational needs or mental health or behavioural challenges can reintegrate slowly using a hybrid internal setting. Teachers can then monitor their development whilst ensuring they are safe.
“Prior to a pupil starting at EDClass, staff work diligently with commissioning schools to secure detailed information about their needs. In addition, staff carefully analyse pupils’ progress information and share the data with commissioners.”
3. Enhanced engagement
The variety of learning modalities in a hybrid approach (videos, online discussions, in-person activities) can cater to diverse learning styles and interests. This keeps students more engaged and motivated, leading to deeper understanding and retention of knowledge.
“Teachers make excellent use of technology to support and check on learning and to promote pupils’ engagement. Teachers are always visible and in contact with pupils, who have their cameras on whenever possible. This allows for effective interactions between participants. All sessions undertaken by pupils are recorded.”
4. Preparation for adulthood
The hybrid model equips students with essential skills, such as digital literacy, self-regulation, and the ability to learn independently so they are well-prepared for adulthood. These skills are crucial for success in higher education and the workforce.
“Teaching nurtures and supports pupils’ self-motivation and takes account of their needs. Staff plan precise learning activities to ensure that each pupil follows an appropriate sequence of lessons that helps to develop knowledge and understanding.”
5. Effective reintegration strategy
Ultimately, reintegrating students whenever possible should be a main objective when looking at different solutions. Hybrid approaches can offer a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment that promotes personal development. They can also offer progressive reintegration strategies that can lead to more positive destinations.
“Another significant strength of EDClass is the provision of carefully considered individualised schemes of work. Known as ‘learning pathways’, these take account of, and build on, the curriculum each pupil was following in their registered school prior to joining EDClass. This includes any specific exam syllabuses. As a result, when pupils return to mainstream education, they are well prepared to reintegrate into lessons.”
Explore your options with hybrid models
Research and evaluate the avenues you can take to support children. Not every scenario will benefit a child, but there can be ways to support them better.
EDClass is a DfE-accredited alternative provider of online education and can be implemented in a hybrid model as well. Take a look at this article regarding a successful internal AP setup here.
It’s been a monumental year for EDClass, including winning the school and supplier awards with Besa and Education Resources Awards. Come and have a chat to see how you and your students could fulfil their educational potential. Call 01909 568338, email mail@edclass.com or enquire for more information here.
