Pandemic inspires independent school to launch cost-effective hybrid learning offer

Based on lessons learned from the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, leading independent school provider, Alpha Plus Group has announced the launch of its flagship ‘hybrid school’ – the first of its kind in the domestic market.

Portland Place Online, offers a blend of both the traditional and new, through a flexible and accessible approach to learning; ideal for families and students who have recognised the benefits of remote, online learning during lockdown. This combination of established education methods with innovative digital learning identifies a gap in the educational market for families seeking a more flexible learning experience following disruption caused by Covid-19, enabling students to enjoy a seamless education at home and school.

The hybrid online model provides students with the highest quality of live learning delivered by expert subject specialist teachers for four days a week via video conferencing and one day a week onsite for more practical subjects such as art, design technology, science and sport. The onsite day gives students invaluable face-to-face social engagement with their peers, teachers and friends, to complement the virtual community.

Available for children aged 10-16, Portland Place Online is widening access to the best quality independent education for families from all backgrounds, as the hybrid model is only a third of the cost of full-time classroom-based learning. The fusion of different learning environments enables families to bridge the gap between home and school learning.

As part of the school’s hybrid offering, students will benefit from:

Live, interactive and small-group online lessons, covering KS2-4 curriculum
Firefly hub and iPads for each student
Personalised academic and mental wellbeing support for students, including Special Educational Needs and English as an Additional Language support where needed
On-site pastoral care for students
Extra-curricular clubs including debating and VMT music lessons

Portland Place Online will continue to embody the Portland Place School ethos of high-quality teaching in a nurturing environment, enabling students’ academic ability and creativity to flourish.

David Bradbury, Headmaster of Portland Place School commented, “Our hybrid school aims to provide a flexible alternative for families whose working patterns are changing as well as opening up independent education for all children. We use the most effective technologies including video conferencing and adaptive learning technologies which help to personalise and differentiate learning through artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

“Teachers maintain regular contact with their tutees, to check in on both their academic progress and emotional wellbeing. Students also have access to experienced counsellors for online consultations if required. At the same time, parents can track their children’s learning through the schools’ learning management system.”