Overview
Live online lessons are delivered during term-time Monday to Friday (9.05am – 3.55pm)
About Academy21
Accredited by the Department for Education under the Online Education Accreditation Scheme (OEAS), Academy21 is a leader in online alternative education, providing flexible, high-quality learning solutions for learners who require an alternative to traditional schooling.
We work in partnership with schools and local authorities to provide students who have additional needs or challenging circumstances with access to the high-quality education they need and deserve. Our comprehensive KS2, KS3 and KS4 curriculum, experienced teachers, and supportive environment ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and achieve. Whether short-term support or a long-term solution is required, Academy21 is here to support the educational journey every step of the way. In addition, our sister school King's Interhigh delivers KS5 provision. Academy21 handles all aspects of enrolment and commissioners receive support from a dedicated Partnership team.
What we do
Our curriculum is specifically designed to help re-engage pupils who may have lost interest in learning and to build their confidence and resilience so that they can return to traditional classroom settings. We prioritize enabling successful transitions, whether that means helping pupils return to mainstream schools, or supporting them as they move on to new educational or employment opportunities post-GCSEs.
We take inclusivity seriously and work hard to meet the diverse needs of our pupils, including those with mental health challenges, Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), behavioural difficulties, medical conditions, or other special educational needs. Across the board, our teaching approach is adaptive, ensuring that our curriculum is accessible and engaging for pupils from all backgrounds and contexts.
What We Offer
Academy21 provides an online learning option for students who need a break from traditional classrooms. Since 2011, we have helped thousands of students across the UK reconnect with their education through offering:
- Live, Interactive Lessons: Our virtual classrooms host 40-minute sessions with engaging, live teaching.
- Extra Support: We offer additional help for both learning and wellbeing.
- Experienced Teachers: Our qualified teachers understand and cater to the unique needs of each student.
- Small Class Sizes: With a maximum of 15 students per class, we ensure personalized attention.
- Flexible Timetables: We tailor schedules to fit your child's life and needs.
- Safe Learning Environment: We provide a supportive space for students to learn and grow.
- Pathway to Success: Our approach helps students regain confidence and achieve their goals.
Who We Support
Academy21 works with students nationwide, in collaboration with their schools or local authorities. We are fully inclusive and support young people facing various challenges, such as special educational needs (SEN), medical conditions, or emotional difficulties. Our flexible approach allows us to provide the right support for each student's unique journey, whether they need short-term help or a long-term solution.
Our teachers are skilled in making online learning accessible and engaging for all students. They adapt lessons to suit each child's needs, aiming to boost academic skills, confidence, and enthusiasm for learning.
How It Works
To participate in Academy21, students need a computer or laptop with internet access. Lessons are accessed through a secure online portal using a unique username and password. A headset and microphone are required for class participation, though speaking aloud is optional if the student is not yet comfortable.
How do I find out more?
Times and availability
Age Range: 9 to 16 years (Key Stage 2 - 4 (Years 5 - 11))
Contact
Academy21 is an online education provider that does not have any physical locations for learners to attend. Learners remain on the roll of their school, or the Local Authority and they retain responsibility for delivering the full-time statutory education offer and all other duties in respect of the learner.
The provision can be delivered anywhere that has access to a laptop or computer and a suitable broadband connection. This can be a dedicated room within the learner’s school, the learner's home, or another approved centre e.g., a library. It is the responsibility of the commissioning team to perform a thorough risk assessment of the site where the learner will be accessing the provision before the support commences. We are available to provide input on any aspects of the risk assessment that require our support.
Costs
For more information regarding costings, please email contact@academy21.co.uk
Referral
We accept referrals throughout the academic year from Schools, Education Organizations, and Local Authorities. Our efficient online referral form guarantees a swift conclusion of the referral process, typically within two working days.
Our streamlined referral process ensures that learners can be onboarded quickly and efficiently. Upon referral, we assess each learner’s needs, current provision, and desired outcomes. All students complete a comprehensive induction, including a familiarisation session with our platform, health and safety protocols, and introductions to staff and safeguarding processes.