ADVERTORIAL
Beyond the classroom: helping students thrive with hybrid learning
She had missed six months of school, and the traditional classroom environment felt overwhelming. Gilly recalled, “We had a student who struggled even getting through the school doors, month after month in Year 8. She missed six months of school due to her challenges. We worked together to implement a hybrid model that incorporated Academy21’s online lessons, and it made all the difference.”
Over time, she gradually re-engaged with her learning, regained her confidence, and became an active participant in class discussions. Her achievements were celebrated with certificates from Academy21, recognising her resilience, commitment, and progress.
The hybrid model in action S
ome students face difficulties that, whether temporary or long- term, can have a real impact on how they engage with their learning and on their future outcomes. Challenges such as heightened anxiety, mental health conditions, medical needs, or caring responsibilities can all pull a young person’s focus away from school or reduce their motivation to learn.
To support them effectively, schools need flexibility and approaches that meet students where they are. Every learning journey is unique, which means there isn’t a single solution that works for all. What matters most is creating support from a place of understanding, so every student has the chance to progress with confidence.
At Swakeleys School for Girls in Hillingdon, a high-achieving school with over a thousand students aged 11 to 18, this philosophy is central. The school combines academic excellence with a strong culture of care, ensuring that students receive both academic and personal support. When some learners required alternative ways to access education, Swakeleys partnered with Academy21 to create a tailored, hybrid approach that prioritised the needs of each student. The result has been significant academic progress, restored confidence, and a renewed love of learning.
Finding the right path
Gilly Hare, Deputy Head at Swakeleys School for Girls, explained the school’s priorities: “What drove us to implement Academy21 was the need for a Department for Education-accredited provider we could trust. We wanted a solution that offered flexibility and oversight, allowing us to adopt a hybrid approach tailored to each student’s needs.”
Their aim was simple yet vital: to ensure students remained engaged, supported, and able to progress academically, even if they struggled to attend classes full-time. One Year 8 student exemplifies the impact this approach can have.
Flexibility is key for students facing barriers to traditional education. At Swakeleys, the hybrid approach blended live, interactive online lessons with school-based learning. Students attended classes at school in the mornings and joined Academy21’s online sessions in the afternoons. This allowed them to continue learning at their own pace in a safe and structured environment, while still maintaining meaningful contact with staff and peers. The model also supported personalised learning pathways, helping students address their individual challenges without falling behind academically. For students struggling with anxiety or confidence issues, the ability to access lessons online in a controlled environment reduced stress while maintaining educational continuity.
Supporting key stage 4 students
Alternative provision is equally important for older students. Academy21’s Key Stage 4 programme has been particularly valuable for Year 11 learners who, for whatever reason or circumstance, find traditional classrooms overwhelming. Without appropriate support, these students risk not only disengagement but missed GCSE qualifications. Gilly explained, “We’ve had Year 11 students who couldn’t attend school due to mental health challenges. For some, even stepping foot into school felt impossible. But thanks to Academy21, they are now preparing for their core GCSE exams. This support has been absolutely crucial in helping them stay on track.”
Advice for schools
For schools exploring a hybrid model with online alternative provision, Gilly’s guidance is clear: “Do your research. Look closely at what’s on offer and how it aligns with the needs of your students. For us, Academy21 ticked every box, and we’ve seen the impact it has had first-hand.”
Let’s work together to create a brighter future for your learners.
Learn More About Academy21
contact@academy21.co.uk
academy21.co.uk
October 2025
www.education-today.co.uk 9
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