National Extension College (NEC) has announced a series of updates to enhance its mission of providing accessible education for all. With over 60 years of experience in distance learning, NEC has established itself as a pioneer in the field. The updates include a new Chair of Trustees, Vanessa Pittard, as well as a strengthened strategic leadership team.
NEC has also introduced a new Structured GCSE Programme, specifically designed for home-educated students and those requiring more structured support to complete a GCSE in one year. In addition, the online learning platform, learn@nec, has been enhanced to create a fully inclusive digital classroom. NEC has also unveiled a redesigned website (www.nec.ac.uk) with improved accessibility and navigation, as well as a refreshed logo and brand identity.
Vanessa Pittard, Deputy Chief Executive of MEI, a leading education charity, has been appointed as the new Chair of Trustees. Speaking about her new role, Pittard said, “I’m proud to become Chair of Trustees at the National Extension College. NEC has always championed access to education and opportunity for all. These new initiatives will give more learners a chance to achieve their goals and to get the support that they need.”
NEC Chief Executive Esther Chesterman expressed her excitement about the appointment, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Vanessa as our new Chair of Trustees. Her leadership will help guide NEC through our next stage of growth. Our Board has also been strengthened with new members bringing fresh expertise to support innovation, and ensuring that we have the knowledge and skills to meet future challenges and opportunities.”
NEC has also expanded its course offerings to include eight Structured GCSEs, ideal for home-educated students and those looking for more structured support. The one-year courses come with full academic and pastoral support, expert-led live teaching, tailored feedback, and a personalized support network. Subjects offered include English, Maths, Psychology, and Computer Science.
Esther Chesterman highlighted the importance of these new courses, saying, “At NEC, the future of learning is flexible and inclusive. We’ve expanded our course portfolio in response to students’ needs, to offer greater choice and enhanced pathways to further education or career-focused plans, and to affirm our commitment to ensuring that every student can achieve their goals.”
In addition to the new one-year GCSEs, NEC continues to offer a wider range of GCSEs and A levels, including one-year Structured Fast Track A levels in five subjects, Functional Skills, and vocational qualifications in management, counselling, bookkeeping, and teaching.
NEC’s online learning platform, learn@nec, has also been enhanced to create a fully inclusive digital classroom. Helen Davies, NEC’s Online Learning Manager, explained the changes, saying, “From improved navigation to features that support students’ diverse learning needs, the changes to learn@nec will ensure that studying at NEC is even more engaging and accessible. Our goal is to create a digital platform that gives learners more choice and greater flexibility to learn.”
NEC’s website has also undergone a redesign, with a new layout and improved accessibility and navigation. The website was developed by Ronins on behalf of NEC, with a focus on creating a user-friendly experience for all visitors. Anthony Basker, Founder and CEO of Ronins, praised NEC for their clarity in what they wanted to achieve with the website, saying, “Great projects happen when everyone’s pulling in the same direction. NEC knew exactly what they wanted, a site that opens doors for learners, and that clarity made our job simple. The team was a joy to work with, and together we’ve built something that really reflects who they are.”
NEC continues to be guided by a Board of Trustees, each bringing a unique set of skills and experiences to the table. The Board has recently welcomed two new trustees, James Tweed and Tim Bennett-Hart, to support NEC’s growth and innovation.
The National Extension College (NEC) was established in 1963 as a not-for-profit distance learning provider. NEC’s aim is to transform lives and open up new possibilities for people of all ages by offering access to essential qualifications like GCSEs and A levels, as well as vocational qualifications in management, business, and teaching. With a focus on innovation and inclusivity, NEC continues to seek out new areas for growth and development.
For more information, please visit www.nec.ac.uk or contact marketing@nec.ac.uk.
