Learning platforms for schools: Choosing the right solution for your needs

The term, ‘learning platform for schools’ refers to a digital system that enables schools to deliver and manage educational content, track student progress, and support collaboration between teachers and students. These platforms often include tools for:

• Online lesson delivery
• Homework assignments and assessments
• Data tracking and reporting
• Communication between educators, students, and parents
• Integration with existing school management systems

Schools and trusts use learning platforms for schools to enhance teaching, improve student outcomes, and optimise resource management. A well-chosen platform helps schools maintain consistency in learning across different classrooms and even multiple sites.

1. Improved student engagement

Interactive content, quizzes, and gamification features make learning more engaging, helping students retain information more effectively. Video tutorials and real-time feedback ensure students can grasp difficult concepts at their own pace.

Related reading: Gamification in education: Revolutionising teaching through engaging experiences

2. Smarter resource management

A centralised platform reduces the need for multiple tools, simplifying administration and cutting costs for schools and MATs. Teachers can share resources efficiently, reducing duplication and saving valuable lesson planning time.

Learn how the teachers at Pendle Vale High School saved hours of time using a learning platform through simple, targeted homework assignments.

3. Data-driven decision making

Real-time analytics allow teachers and administrators to track student performance and tailor interventions accordingly. Detailed reports help educators identify struggling students early and adjust teaching strategies.
Teachers at Berkhamsted School in Hertfordshire were able to track their students’ progress, driving better results across the whole school with their digital learning platform. Read the full story here - Customer Story: Berkhamsted School.

4. Remote learning capabilities

With hybrid and remote learning becoming more common, a robust learning platform for schools ensures education remains accessible anytime, anywhere. Cloud-based access allows students and teachers to engage with course materials beyond the classroom.

In discussing the effectiveness of their digital learning platform, Charlotte Anderson, English teacher at Mortimer Community College shared, “"Students love using GCSEPod to take notes both in lessons and as revision outside of school." To read the full customer story, click here - Customer Story: Mortimer Community College.

5. Enhanced collaboration and communication

Most platforms include messaging, forums, or live chat features, allowing for seamless communication between students, teachers, and parents. This improves engagement and ensures all relevant people are informed about student progress.

There are many learning platforms for schools available, each offering different features and benefits. Below is a comparison of some of the top options used by secondary schools in the UK.

Each platform caters to different needs, so it’s important to evaluate which best aligns with your school's priorities.

For a much more detailed summary of all the providers above, head over to - Comparing 6 e-learning platforms for secondary schools: A comprehensive guide.

Before investing in a learning platform for schools, consider the following factors:

1. Define your goals

• Do you need a platform for lesson delivery, homework management, or assessment tracking?
• Are you focused on improving engagement, simplifying admin tasks, or enhancing collaboration?
• Do you require integrations with other school management systems?

2. Evaluate features & integration

• Ensure the platform integrates seamlessly with your existing tools (e.g., MIS systems, Google/Microsoft services).
• Look for platforms that offer analytics and reporting to track student progress.
• Assess mobile compatibility to ensure students can access materials across devices.

3. Consider budget & scalability

• Some platforms offer free versions (e.g., Google classroom, Bitesize), while others require per-pupil pricing.
• If you're managing multiple schools in a trust, ensure the platform can scale accordingly.
• Investigate whether discounts are available for MATs or bulk licensing.

4. Check user-friendliness

• Platforms should be easy to use for both teachers and students.
• Look for customer support options and training resources to ensure a smooth implementation.

Cost considerations for learning platforms

Budget constraints are a major factor for many schools and MATs. Some platforms, like BBC bitesize and Seneca, are free to use, while others charge per student. For example:

• Access GCSEPod: priced at £7.95 per pupil per year for the whole school learning bundle.
• Century Tech: pricing varies based on school size and needs.
• Educake: subscription-based pricing for premium features.

It’s important to assess not just the upfront costs but also the long-term value in terms of improved student outcomes and operational efficiency. Tools like GCSEPod are proven to improve grates by at least one mark – so while some learning platforms come with a price tag – you have to weigh up the additional benefits that tools like this can bring to your school.

Learning platforms in action

Many schools and trusts have successfully implemented learning platforms for schools to enhance their educational delivery.

Bourne Academy

Bourne Academy, part of the South Lincolnshire Academies Trust, adopted Access GCSEPod and saw an improvement in GCSE results. According to James Hind, Deputy CEO of the Trust:

"We saw an increase in exam results... it was a bit of a no-brainer really. This works; it makes a difference."

Find out more by watching the video below.

Don’t forget, there are lots of learning platforms for schools available, so be sure to check out their respective websites and view case studies of schools/trusts similar to yours.

Choosing the right learning platform for schools depends on your specific needs, budget, and existing tech ecosystem. The best approach is to:

1. Identify your school’s objectives.
2. Compare different platforms and their features.
3. Consider cost-effectiveness and scalability.
4. Trial a platform before committing to a full rollout.

With the right learning platform for schools, schools can improve student engagement, speed up operations, and enhance learning outcomes across all year groups.

If you’re interested in exploring Access GCSEPod as a potential learning platform for your school or trust, head over to our online teaching resources page.