Online learning in UK schools and sixth forms

The growth of online and blended learning in UK education

The pandemic period accelerated adoption of online and blended learning across UK schools and colleges, and many of these changes have become embedded in mainstream practice. Virtual learning environments (VLEs), recorded lesson content, asynchronous submission of work, and remote tutor communication are now standard features of secondary and post-16 education rather than emergency measures.

For adult learners, this shift has expanded access significantly. Qualifications that once required physical attendance — including Access to HE Diplomas, teaching assistant qualifications, and vocational awards — are now routinely delivered through fully online platforms from Ofqual-regulated providers.

Teaching assistants and the online education landscape

The expansion of online and hybrid learning models has increased demand for well-qualified teaching support staff across all settings. Teaching assistants in schools are now frequently expected to support pupils with online learning tasks, manage digital resources, assist with screen-based assessments, and provide pastoral support in hybrid timetable environments.

This evolution in the role means that teaching assistant qualifications — particularly at Level 3 — need to address digital learning environments alongside traditional classroom competencies. TQUK Level 3 qualifications for teaching assistants and education support professionals are updated regularly to reflect these developments.

Online qualifications for education professionals

There is increasing interest among current school staff in upskilling through online qualifications. The most commonly pursued pathways among education support staff in the UK include:

• TQUK Level 3 Award in Education and Training — for those moving from support roles into training or teaching positions
• Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning — for experienced TAs seeking a formal qualification at the appropriate level
• Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training — for those moving into FE teaching or becoming lead practitioners
• Access to HE Diploma in Education — for education support professionals aspiring to a primary education or early childhood studies degree

All of these pathways are available through online distance learning and are aligned to Ofqual-regulated awarding body specifications.

The role of awarding bodies in education qualifications

TQUK is one of the principal awarding bodies for education and training qualifications in the UK. According to its own data, it has ranked among the top ten largest awarding organisations in the UK consistently since 2018. For school-based qualifications, AQA and Pearson Edexcel remain the dominant awarding bodies for GCSE and A level examinations, while OCN London plays a significant role in Access to HE provision for those working toward higher education entry.