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Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you can make for your child. When it comes to traditional schools, it’s often easier to get a feel for a place — you can walk the corridors, see how smiley the pupils are, and meet the teachers face to face. But choosing an online school is different. You can’t rely on your gut in quite the same way, so how do you make the right decision?
This guide is here to help. Whether your child is in primary school or preparing for A-levels, we’ll walk you through the key considerations to look for when choosing an online school, so you can feel confident in your decision.
What makes online schooling different?
An online school is not just a school that happens to be on a screen — it’s a whole new way of learning. There’s no physical classroom, and teachers and students aren’t in the same room. That creates exciting opportunities, but also means the school needs to work harder to maintain quality, connection, and academic progress.
Online school days are often shorter than traditional school days, so it’s vital that every minute counts. Here’s how you can make sure your child will get the education they deserve.
The things to look out for when choosing an online school
1. Class sizes: Less is more
In private schools, small class sizes are expected — typically 15–20 students, even fewer for A-levels. In an online environment, small classes are even more crucial. Imagine 15 students all on one screen, with the teacher trying to spot raised hands, check for understanding, and include everyone.
That’s why leading online schools, like Wendover, limit class sizes to just six students. This ensures each child receives focused attention, can contribute actively, and feels seen and supported.
2. Camera-on policy: Ensuring focus and presence
Cameras on provides visual cues, a teacher can see if a student is engaged, confused, or multi-tasking on another device.
A camera-on policy encourages presence, accountability, and participation. At Wendover, cameras stay on during lessons — not to monitor, but to create a vibrant, connected classroom feel where every student is an active learner. This also leads to a very positive classroom buzz and social interaction
3. Live vs recorded lessons: The importance of real-time teaching
Some schools offer pre-recorded lessons, a few offer a mix. But the truth is, no matter how motivated a student is, they will always get more out of a live lesson.
Live lessons mean students can ask questions, get instant feedback, and engage in discussion. It’s especially important for younger students, who benefit from interaction and structure. Wendover delivers all lessons live, with passionate subject teachers who bring each topic to life.
4. Exam support: Don't be left to figure it out alone
One of the trickier parts of online education is arranging public exams. Some schools provide very little support — expecting parents to navigate the process alone.
Look for a school that actively helps with this. Wendover offers practical support and guidance for students preparing for GCSEs and A-levels, ensuring families aren’t left scrambling to find exam centres or sort paperwork.
5. Academic extras: Are top-up lessons included or extra?
Some schools expect parents to pay for additional tuition to plug gaps or stretch students further. It’s important to know up front whether the teaching provided is comprehensive — or whether you’ll need to supplement it.
At Wendover, small group sizes and flexible one-to-one tutorials mean each student’s learning can be personalised within the school timetable, avoiding the need for costly extras in nearly all instances.
6. A full school life: More than just lessons
School is about much more than academics. It’s about community, confidence, and curiosity. A good online school will offer a full student experience — not just a timetable of lessons.
Here’s what to look for:
Tutorials
Regular one-to-one and / or small group tutorials are vital. They help track progress, address challenges early, and ensure your child is learning at a comfortable pace.
Assemblies
Assemblies foster a sense of community, celebrate achievements, and keep everyone connected. At Wendover, assemblies bring the school together, no matter where students are in the world.
Responsibility and leadership
Opportunities like school councils allow students to take on leadership roles and develop life skills. These roles can help build confidence and a sense of belonging.
Electives
Beyond core academics, does the school offer a chance to explore new subjects? Whether it’s coding, languages, or creative writing, electives enrich learning and uncover passions.
Social opportunities
Making friends is a vital part of school life. Look for schools that offer virtual clubs, collaborative projects, and real-life meetups. Wendover organises regular events and trips to help students build friendships and feel connected.
After school clubs
A strong extracurricular programme helps students relax, have fun, and pursue hobbies beyond the classroom. Whether it’s drama, debating, coding or crafts, after school clubs can help students unwind, develop interests and make new friends. Wendover offers a wide range of engaging clubs to suit all age groups and personalities.
7. Teaching quality: Subject specialists matter
Ask who will be teaching your child. Are they generalists or subject specialists? At Wendover, every subject is taught by an expert with a deep understanding of their field, whether it’s maths, English, physics or art. This ensures lessons are not only accurate, but engaging and inspiring.
8. Flexibility: Can the school fit around your family?
For families who travel, elite young athletes, or those with other commitments, flexibility is key. Wendover offers both full-time and part-time programmes, so students can learn in a way that suits their lifestyle and goals.
9. Student wellbeing: Supporting the whole child
Students may choose online learning because traditional school has felt overwhelming. Whether due to anxiety, SEND needs, or personal circumstances, the right online school will put wellbeing at its heart.
Wendover is a nurturing and safe space. Students are supported not only academically but emotionally, with pastoral care that’s attentive, kind, and consistent.
A good online school will offer support at every level, whether it is providing guidance and advice for a future school, careers advice, university applications or even work experience or placements. Guidance and input from experts will help a student navigate their academic path easily.
10. Try before you decide: Taster sessions make all the difference
Ultimately, the best way to know if an online school is right for your child is to experience it firsthand. Look for schools that offer taster lessons so your child can meet the teacher, join a class, and see how it feels.
Wendover offers free taster lessons for prospective families. It’s a great opportunity to see our small, live classes in action and meet some of our brilliant teachers.
Choosing an online school — with confidence
Choosing an online school doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right questions and a clear understanding of what to look for, you can find a school that meets your child’s academic, social and emotional needs.
At Wendover, we combine high-quality teaching with a warm and supportive community. We believe every child deserves to excel.
Ready to see if Wendover is the right fit for your child? Book a free taster lesson today and experience the difference.
10-point checklist for choosing an online school
- Lessons are taught live
- Classes are small (no more than six students)
- Cameras are always on to maintain engagement
- Teachers are subject specialists
- There’s full support for arranging public exams
- One-to-one tutorials are included to personalise learning
- A wide range of extracurriculars and after school clubs are offered
- Students can take part in assemblies, councils, and leadership roles
- There are social opportunities like school trips and clubs
- Broader guidance is available e.g. university application support and work experience
