26 min readA full tool-kit for teachers and parents to ace home-learning needsposted almost 3 years ago

As schools close down amidst the covid-19 crisis and more learning moves online, we've compiled some brilliant resources to give you a rich tool-kit to ace your home-learning and virtual teaching needs. This article will be updated as new materials are added.

If you're a teacher looking for online resources to use, or a parent looking to supplement learning during the days where technical glitches stop a teacher from teaching a class – we've got you covered. This is a full list of resources compiled from different sources, and will hopefully act as a good reference point to dip in and out of as you please.

We've called it home-learning rather than homeschooling, comprising of a mixture of online/virtual learning and offline learning. It shouldn't be left unsaid that we applaud each and every parent who is both working from home as well as enabling a home-learning environment. We've heard from many parents who are using this time to take a step back and avoid overloading children – this list is not meant to work as a to-do checklist!

Please keep these safeguarding practices at the highest priority when you decide to use any online materials such as the below. Happy home-learning – please do get in touch with us if you believe we have forgotten important resources!

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Before we begin, we feel we must mention Robin Hood MAT's learning packs which have been highly praised. The link, which also contains resources for mental health and wellbeing for children, how to support your workforce, plans and risk assessments, and governance information can be accessed here: Robin Hood MAT Learning Projects

First, a list separated into subject areas:

English/literacy/reading

1. Chatta: Teaching approach linking images with language for communication development. Early years to key stage 5: https://chattalearning.com/
2. Englicious: Free English language teaching resources, including exercises, projects and games. All ages: http://englicious.org/
3. Happy English: English, grammar and phonics. All ages: https://happyenglishuk.com
4. National Literacy Trust Family Zone: Advice and information for parents teaching from home during school closures. Ages 0 to 12: https://literacytrust.org.uk/family-zone/
5. Oaka Books: Resources for pupils who have dyslexia. Key stages 1 to 3: www.oakabooks.co.uk
6. Phonics Play: Phonics learning for early years and key stage 1. Free access for children during the coronavirus crisis: www.phonicsplay.co.uk
7. Pobble 365: Provides a photo stimulus for a writing task every day. All ages: www.pobble365.com
8. Zaprendo: Personalised learning tools and experiences for English and phonics learning. All ages: https://zaprendo.com/
9. Hopscotch Books: SecEd’s sister publishing house is offering free activities and resources for primary-age children (https://bit.ly/2WKNE3E) and a free download to help families plan home learning via books (https://bit.ly/2QCEylO). More resources will become available in due course: www.hopscotchbooks.com
10. Literacy shed: Animations on different topics to inspire children to write. Mainly key stages 1 and 2: www.literacyshed.com
11. Litfilmfest: Writing resources. To support schools and families, Litfilmfest is releasing videos every weekday at 10:30am. Key stages 1 to 3: https://litfilmfest.com/playlists/
12. Audible: Free audiobooks. All ages: https://stories.audible.com/start-listen
13. Bedrock Learning: Resources designed to broaden children’s vocabulary including Tier 2 words, root words and academic verbs. Free access for all schools closed due to coronavirus. Key stages 1 to 4: www.bedrocklearning.org/coronavirus-support

STEM

1. The Kids Should See This https://thekidshouldseethis.com/ – wide range of cool educational videos
2. Crest Awards https://www.crestawards.org – Science awards you can complete from home
3. iDEA Awards https://idea.org.uk – Digital enterprise award scheme you can complete online
4. Nature Detectives https://naturedetectives.woodlandtrust.org.uk/naturedetect…/ – A lot of these can be done in a garden, or if you can get to a remote forest location!
5. Siemens: Student zone includes DIY science experiments and interactive games: https://new.siemens.com/uk/en/company/education/students.html
6. STEM Learning: In light of the outbreak, STEM Learning is offering remote teaching support, CPD and online access to its STEM Ambassadors. Free access. All ages: www.stem.org.uk/home-learning
7. Kide Science: Scientific thinking through play-based learning. For parents or teachers. Ages 3 to 8: https://kidescience.com
8. Knowledgehook: US website offering maths resources to help teacher lesson delivery. During school closures, all teachers get premium access for free: www.knowledgehook.com
9. MangaHigh: Game-based learning in maths and coding. Free access for at least 60 days to schools affected by Covid-19. Ages 7 to 16: www.mangahigh.com
10. Mathigon: US website offering interactive maths resources designed to achieve mastery. Key stages 3, 4, 5: https://mathigon.org/
11. Mathspire: An app to support the teaching and learning of A level maths. It is offering schools free access to independent learning content: https://mathspire.com/
12. Maths-Whizz: Online maths tuition for five to 13-year olds: www.whizz.com
13. MEL Science: Free science experiments that can be carried out with kitchen ingredients. Key stages 1 to 4. Free home learning webinars for the next three months: https://melscience.com/GB-en/articles/ & https://melscience.com/GB-en/academy/
14. Khan Academy https://www.khanacademy.org/ Especially good for maths and computing for all ages but other subjects at Secondary level. Note this uses the U.S. grade system but it’s a mostly common material.
15. Prodigy Maths https://www.prodigygame.com/ Is in U.S. grades, but good for UK Primary age.
16. Beast Academy (Math)  https://beastacademy.com/
17. MessingAroundWith: Educational apps that encourage children to learn through play and solve problems. Key stages 1 and 2: https://messingaroundwith.com/
18. NatureBytes: Kits to help anybody develop digital skills and reconnect with nature. All ages: http://naturebytes.org/about/
19. Numbermix: Maths activities and projects. Ages 3 to 14: www.numbermix.com
20. Prodigy: Engaging young people in maths through games. Ages 6 to 14: www.prodigygame.com
21. Mystery Science https://mysteryscience.com

Coding and IT

1. Acorn Aspirations: Activities for bridging the digital skills gap. Ages 12 to 18: http://acornaspirations.com/
2. Blockly Games: Educational games for pupils who have not had prior experience with computer programming: https://blockly.games/
3. Blue Shift Coding: One-to-one tutoring in coding for 7 to 14-year olds: https://blueshiftcoding.com/
4. Kano: Coding and design. All ages: https://kano.me/uk/education
5. Scratch https://scratch.mit.edu/ – Creative computer programming
6. Snapplify: Resources to support digital education for students and schools: www.snapplify.com
7. Swop Bots: Stories and games for schools and families to encourage the next generation of coders. Age 8 and over: https://swopbots.com/
8. Twin Science: Teaches basic coding and programming. Ages 8 and over: www.twinscience.com
9. Tynker: Encouraging children to create, code, make websites and design games. Free access to its premium service during the school closures. Ages 5 and over: www.tynker.com
10. BT Skills for Tomorrow: Tech skills to prepare students for the workplace. Resources for teachers as well: www.bt.com/skillsfortomorrow/
11. Hour of code https://hourofcode.com/uk – Learn the basics of coding
12. Lightbot https://lightbot.com/flash.html – Fun coding based game (flash Based)
13. Code Combat  https://codecombat.com/ – Learn Coding through gaming – for secondary school learners
14. Codecademy: Web development and data science skills activities. In light of coronavirus, it is offering 10,000 scholarships to Codecademy Pro for free to high school and college students for the rest of the school year: https://pro.codecademy.com/learn-from-home/

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Creative and arts subjects

1. Musemio: Offers a cultural curriculum using virtual reality. Ages 8 and over: www.musemio.com
2. Musical Futures: Has published a blog listing 10 useful resources for music education: www.musicalfutures.org/musical-futures-blog/top-10-resources-music-teachers-planning-students-working-home
3. Musitude: Play a musical instrument using a qwerty keyboard: https://musitude.com/
4. The Artful Parent https://www.facebook.com/artfulparent/ -Good, free art activities
5. Red Ted Art https://www.redtedart.com – Easy arts and crafts for little ones
6. The Imagination Tree https://theimaginationtree.com – Creative art and craft activities for the very youngest
7. Charanga: A library of songs, topics, instrument courses and creative apps for music education. All ages: https://charanga.com
8. Chrome Music Lab: Builds on children’s creativity and musical ear: https://musiclab.chromeexperiments.com/
9. Creative Bug: Offers craft lessons, such as knitting, jewellery-making, drawing and origami: www.creativebug.com
10. Culture Tree: Cultural and recreational resources to promote and preserve African arts, languages and culture. All ages: www.culturetree.co.uk

Humanities and social sciences

1. Mr Allsop History: GCSE and A level resources: www.mrallsophistory.com/revision/
2. World Geography Games: Learning about the world through games. All ages: https://world-geography-games.com/index.html
3. Memrise https://www.memrise.com/courses/english/ Courses for languages
4. National Geographic Kids https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/ – Activities and quizzes for younger kids
5. 12 museum tours online https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/museums-galleries/museums-with-virtual-tours
6. Project Gutenberg https://www.gutenberg.org/ Collection of free books out of copyright
7. Big History Project: Explores the past, present and the future through a series of resources: https://school.bighistoryproject.com/bhplive
8. Duolingo: A free language-learning website offering short daily lessons: www.duolingo.com
9. Preply: Online modern foreign languages tutoring: https://preply.com/

Cross-curricular resources

1. Adobe Education Exchange: Free resources, workshops and teaching materials. All ages. https://edex.adobe.com/
2. Highlights Kids: Read, play games and conduct science experiments. Primary age: www.highlightskids.com
3. Hungry Little Minds: Government supported. Activities for parents with children aged under five: https://hungrylittleminds.campaign.gov.uk/
4. Twinkl: Learning resources, planning and assessment materials. The company has created free home learning and school closure packs. All ages: www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/covid19-school-closures
5. Seneca Learning: A free online learning platform. Key stages 2, 3 and 4: www.senecalearning.com
6. Tassomai: Bite-sized learning, using quizzes and short videos. Key stages 3 and 4. Free access to schools affected by coronavirus closures: www.tassomai.com
7. BrainPOP: Cross-curricular resources using topics and themes. BrainPOP has offered “free, unlimited use of BrainPOP to any school, anywhere, that is closed due to the coronavirus during the period of their closure”. All ages: https://go.brainpop.com/accessrequest
8. Century Tech: English, maths and science resources for free to all schools and students affected by coronavirus school closures. All ages: www.century.tech/coronavirus-support/
9. Discovery Education: Videos, interactive activities, or complete, ready-to-use lesson plans in maths, science and social studies. All ages: www.discoveryeducation.com/virtual-learning
10. Earwig Academic: A package for teachers to support teaching evidence, making assessments, tracking progress and reporting. Parents and pupils can upload work and communicate safely with teachers. During the coronavirus crisis, Earwig Lite is free to “anyone who needs it”. All ages: https://earwigacademic.com/
11. Atom Learning: Personalised learning in English and maths, using teacher-led content. Key stage 2: https://atomlearning.co.uk/
12. BBC Bitesize and BBC Learning: Over the coming weeks, the BBC will be offering daily content to support families with home learning and issues of wellbeing: www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize and http://www.bbc.co.uk/learning/coursesearch/

Exercise, mental health and wellbeing

1. imoves: Home learning resources to help young people stay focused, active and mentally healthy. Primary-age: https://imoves.com/the-imovement
2. Ketka: Audio experiences to promote good mental health and wellbeing, social and emotional growth: https://ketka.co.uk/
3. PE with Joe: Daily exercise classes live on YouTube with a qualified fitness instructor: www.thebodycoach.com/blog/pe-with-joe-1254.html
4. Young Minds UK: Offers advice, information and blogs on promoting good mental health during times of isolation and lockdown: https://youngminds.org.uk/

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Second, a list separated into age-separated groups:

Younger Learners

General education and games

1. Paw Print Badges https://www.pawprintbadges.co.uk/ – Free challenge packs and other downloads. Many activities can be completed indoors. Badges cost but are optional.
2. Cbeebies Radio https://www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/radio – Listening activities for the younger ones.
3. Oxford Owl for https://www.oxfordowl.co.uk/for-home/ – Lots of free resources for Primary age
4. Toy Theater https://toytheater.com/ – Educational online games
5. Starfall https://www.starfall.com/h/ – American kindergarten educational site
6. Fun Brain https://www.funbrain.com/- Fun Games
7. PBS Kids https://pbskids.org/ – Games for young ones
8. Highlights Kids https://www.highlightskids.com/ – Educational activities for younger learners

Maths

1. Splash Learn https://www.splashlearn.com/ – Basic Maths games
2. CoolMath4Kids https://www.coolmath4kids.com/ – Maths games for kids
3. Math Game Time http://www.mathgametime.com/ – Maths games for kids

Science

1. Science Kids http://www.sciencekids.co.nz/ – Fun Science and technology for kids.
2. Switch Zoo https://www.switchzoo.com/ – Animals and nature

Reading

1. Seussville https://www.seussville.com/ – Reading fun with Dr Seuss
2. Turtle Diary https://www.turtlediary.com/ – Word games
3. Literacy Unite For Literacy https://www.uniteforliteracy.com/ – Basic literature/reading for young kids
4. Lieractive http://www.literactive.com/Home/index.asp – Basic literature/reading for young kids
5. Story Time Online https://www.storylineonline.net/ – Collections of stories online

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Key Stages

1. Scholastic classroom https://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html – Scholastic has created a free learn-from-home site with 20+ days of learning and activities
2. DK Find Out https://www.dkfindout.com/uk/ – Activities and quizzes
3. Twinkl  https://www.twinkl.co.uk/ – This is more for printouts, and usually at a fee, but they are offering a month of free access to parents in the event of school closures

GCSE, A Level and Apprenticeship

GCSE

1. Seneca https://www.senecalearning.com/ – For those revising at GCSE or A level. Tons of free revision content. Paid access to higher level material
2. British Council https://www.britishcouncil.org/school-resources/find – Resources for English language learning

A Level

1. Seneca https://www.senecalearning.com/ – For those revising at GCSE or A level. Tons of free revision content. Paid access to higher level material

Apprenticeship

1. Codecademy https://www.codecademy.com/learn – Online coding tutorials

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Thirdly, a list for talking about coronavirus:

Specific coronavirus advice/teaching

1. Covid-19 anxiety: Headteacher Update contributor Dr Pooky Knightsmith offers support for mental health and wellbeing via her YouTube channel, including a recent post on ways to guard good mental health in light of the coronavirus outbreak: https://bit.ly/2wxCAMO
2. Elsa Support: A coronavirus story for children: www.elsa-support.co.uk/coronavirus-story-for-children
3. Little Puddins: A coronavirus story aimed at students with autism/SEN by Amanda McGuiness: https://littlepuddins.ie/coronavirus-social-story/
4. Just For Kids: A comic exploring the coronavirus, based on a radio story from NPR education reporter Cory Turner: https://n.pr/3dssaOW
5. Public Health England: A range of resources to promote good hand and respiratory hygiene. Key stages 1 to 3: https://campaignresources.phe.gov.uk/schools
6. Nurse Dotty Books has written a helpful and calming children's story about Dave the Dog which you can read here.

Fourthly, educational YouTube channels/videos:

1. Crash Course Kids https://www.youtube.com/user/crashcoursekids – science videos Science Channel, and https://thecrashcourse.com/
2. https://www.youtube.com/user/ScienceChannel – Science Videos
3. SciShow Kids https://www.youtube.com/user/scishowkids -Science Videos for kids
4. National Geographic Kids https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXVCgDuD_QCkI7gTKU7-tpg
5. Geography Focus https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8HYERScBt-e0kV0fpe0asg
6. TheBrainScoop https://www.youtube.com/user/thebrainscoop – Chicago Museum video channel
7. SciShow  https://www.youtube.com/user/scishow – Science Videos for secondary learner Kids
8. Learning Tube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7EFWpvc1wYuUwrtZ_BLi9A – General education
9. Geeek Gurl Diaries  https://www.youtube.com/user/GeekGurlDiaries – Technology, coding videos
10. Mike Likes Science https://www.youtube.com/user/comaniddy – Science inspired music videos
11. Science Max https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbprhISv-0ReKPPyhf7-Dtw – Science Experiments
12. SoulPancake https://www.youtube.com/user/soulpancake/about – Human experience
13. Mr Bruff English Videos: https://www.youtube.com/user/mrbruff

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Finally, a full list from the Department for Education

The DfE has released a full list of educational resources which we have re-published below for your convenience. According to the DfE website, these are all being offered for free. It is important to note that they have said:

"Individual resources cannot replace a school’s properly planned curriculum, and the resources in this list are not intended to do so. They may be useful for parents in considering how they could support their children’s education, but they should not be used in place of existing resources which schools may be using as part of their continued provision for pupils’ education at this time.

Schools may also wish to explore this initial list of resources as they consider how they continue to support children’s education. This list of resources is not exhaustive and there are many other resources available to schools. Before using these resources, you should refer to the guidance ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): safeguarding in schools, colleges and other providers’, which has further information on how to keep children safe online." - source

Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, said: “We are ensuring parents and schools are able to access high-quality resources to support children to continue learning while they stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.”

English: primary

Phonics

Schools should seek advice from their phonics programme provider about resources that are available to support remote phonics learning at home. For example, Read Write Inc. (RWI) has made video content freely available online. DfE’s validated phonics programmes are:

1. Floppy’s Phonics Sounds and Letters
2. Jolly Phonics
3. Letterland Phonics
4. Letters and Sounds (supplemented by closely matched and fully decodable books)
5. Phonics Bug
6. Read Write Inc.
7. Sound Discovery
8. Sounds-Write

However, some schools will use programmes not on this list. English Hub schools are developing resources for schools that use Letters and Sounds.

1. Audible, https://stories.audible.com/start-listen; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; all children’s audiobooks are available for free while schools are closed. Registration: not required
2. Authorfy, https://authorfy.com; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; access to masterclasses on texts from a range of authors, including videos from the authors and activities linked to novels. Registration: is required
3. Book Trust, https://www.booktrust.org.uk/books-and-reading/bookfinder/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2: a site with recommended booklists, categorised by age range and topic, including fiction and non-fiction. Family activities are included in the ‘Home Time’ section. Registration: not required
4. Classroom Secrets; https://classroomsecrets.co.uk/free-home-learning-packs/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; downloadable resource packs which cover a range of subjects, including reading and writing. Registration: not required
5. Elevenses with the World of David Walliams; https://www.worldofdavidwalliams.com/elevenses/; key stage 2; one free audio book reading is available to listen to every day. Registration: not required
6. English Mastery, https://www.englishmastery.org/; key stage 1 and key stage 2; downloadable resource books providing 8 weeks of activities. Registration: not required
7. Literacy Shed, https://www.literacyshedplus.com/en-gb/browse/free-resources/key-stage-2-activity-packs; key stage 1 and key stage 2; downloadable resource packs with tasks based on video clips on YouTube. Registration: not required
8. Love Reading 4 Kids, https://www.lovereading4kids.co.uk/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; a site with recommended booklists, categorised by age range and topic, covering fiction and non-fiction. Registration: not required
9. Pobble 365, https://www.pobble365.com/; key stage 1 and key stage 2; a new image is published each day as a basis for creative writing. Story starters, questions and drawing ideas are provided. Registration: not required
10. Poetry by Heart, https://www.poetrybyheart.org.uk/; key stage 2; a wide selection of poetry covering different topics. Registration: not required to view poems, but it is required to access teaching resources.
11. Purple Mash, https://2simple.com/purple-mash/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; free during the school closure period. Each week, a selection of daily activities is produced on different subjects, including comprehension and grammar. Registration: is required
12. Storytime with Nick, https://www.ruthmiskin.com/en/find-out-more/help-during-school-closure/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; available from Monday 20 April. Films of well-loved stories read by Nick Cannon, a trained actor, teacher and trainer. Registration: not required
13. The Children’s Poetry Archive, https://childrens.poetryarchive.org/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; an archive of spoken poetry recordings. Children can listen to poems read out loud. Registration: not required
14. The Day newsletter, https://theday.co.uk/subscriptions/the-day-home; key stage 1 and key stage 2; a daily newsletter for parents and carers at home with children, helping to enrich learning with real-world knowledge and skills. Registration: is required

English: secondary

1. Audible, https://stories.audible.com/start-listen; key stage 3 and key stage 4; all children’s audiobooks are available for free while schools are closed. Registration: not required
2. English Mastery, https://www.englishmastery.org/; key stage 3; downloadable resource books providing 12 weeks of activities covering writing and poetry. Registration: not required
3. English and Media Centre, https://www.englishandmedia.co.uk/publications/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; downloadable resources covering a range of texts for key stage 3. GCSE resources are categorised by examination board. Registration: not required
4. Pobble 365, https://www.pobble365.com/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; a new image is published each day as a basis for creative writing. Story starters, questions and drawing ideas are provided. Registration: not required
5. Poetry by Heart, https://www.poetrybyheart.org.uk/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; A wide selection of poetry covering different topics. Registration: not required to view poems, but it is required to access teaching resources.
6. Seneca, https://app.senecalearning.com/courses?Price=Free&Age+Group=GCSE&Subject=English+Language; key stage 4; a range of downloadable resources covering the GCSE curriculum, categorised by examination board. Registration: not required
7. The Children’s Poetry Archive; https://childrens.poetryarchive.org/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; an archive of spoken poetry recordings. Pupils can listen to poems being read aloud. Registration: not required
8. The Day newsletter, https://theday.co.uk/subscriptions/the-day-home; key stage 3, key stage 4 and key stage 5; a daily newsletter for parents and carers at home with children, helping to enrich learning with real-world knowledge and skills. Registration: is required

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Maths

This initial list of maths resources is based on recommendations from the National Centre of Excellence in the Teaching for Mathematics (NCETM) and maths teachers.

Some maths publishers are now making their offers to schools free or providing free trials. Schools already using a trusted or familiar maths package should continue to do so.

Maths: primary

1. Hamilton Trust (home learning section), https://www.hamilton-trust.org.uk/blog/learning-home-packs/; key stage 1 and key stage 2; downloadable resource packs with teacher guidance. A week’s worth of resources is provided for each year group. Registration: not required
2. Mathematics Mastery, https://www.mathematicsmastery.org/free-resources; early years foundation stage, key stage 1 and key stage 2; downloadable guidance and resource packs for parents and pupils. Registration: not required
3. Nrich, https://nrich.maths.org/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; a range of activities. Some are interactive and some are to be completed offline. Activities are categorised by age range. Registration: not required
4. Numberblocks, https://www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/grownups/help-your-child-with-maths; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; videos for numeracy development designed for children aged 0 to 6. There are fun activities that can be applied to everyday life and play. Registration: not required
5. Top Marks, https://www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games; key stage 1 and key stage 2; a range of interactive maths games categorised by age group. Registration: not required

White Rose Maths (home learning), https://whiterosemaths.com/homelearning/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; presentations and downloadable workbooks which are easy to use for parents. New material is being released each week. Registration: not required

Maths: secondary

1. Bowland Maths Resources, https://www.bowlandmaths.org.uk/; key stage; downloadable assessments on a range of subjects, including sample answers and assessment tips. Registration: not required
2. Corbett Maths, https://corbettmaths.com/contents/; key stage 4; a range of videos and downloadable questions categorised by topic and predicted grade. Registration: not required
3. Hegarty Maths, https://hegartymaths.com/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; interactive activities including videos and questions. Teachers can track student progress and tailor next steps. Registration: requires school registration
4. Integral Core Maths Platform, https://integralmaths.org/2017/; key stage 5; activities with the ability for teachers to allocate and track pupil progress. Registration: requires school registration
5. MangaHigh, https://www.mangahigh.com/en-gb/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; interactive maths resources, including topic-specific questions and games that allow teachers to track student progress and set activities. Registration: requires school registration
6. Mathigon, https://mathigon.org/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; interactive maths resources that allow teachers and parents to track student progress and set activities. Registration: not required
7. Maths Kitchen, https://mathskitchen.com/topics; key stage 4; an interactive GCSE revision website. Resources are categorised by topic, including video lessons and practice questions. Registration: not required
8. Mathematics Mastery, https://www.mathematicsmastery.org/free-resources; key stage 3; downloadable guidance and resource packs for parents and pupils. Registration: not required
9. Nrich, https://nrich.maths.org/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; a range of activities. Some are interactive and some are to be completed offline. Activities are categorised by age range. Registration: not required
10. Nrich Core Maths, https://nrich.maths.org/12524; key stage 3 to key stage 5; games and puzzles as well as mathematical-thinking and problem-solving questions. Content is categorised by topic and age group. Registration: not required
11. Nrich ‘Solving Together’ project, https://nrich.maths.org/solvingtogether; key stage 3; this is a project that provides activities for parents and carers to try with children. Registration: not required
12. Sparx, https://sparx.co.uk/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; a virtual classroom which supports teachers in building and running lessons as well as tracking pupil progress. Registration: requires school registration
13. STEP Support Programme, https://maths.org/step/welcome; key stage 5; the STEP Support Programme is offered by the University of Cambridge to help university applicants develop their advanced mathematical problem-solving skills and prepare for STEP mathematics exams. Assessments are downloadable. Registration: not required
14. Top Marks, https://www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games; key stage 3; a range of interactive maths games categorised by age group. Registration: not required
15. Underground Maths, https://undergroundmathematics.org/; key stage 5; a range of interactive tasks and questions linked to the A level maths and further maths curriculums. Registration: not required
16. White Rose Maths (home learning), https://whiterosemaths.com/homelearning/; key stage 3; presentations and downloadable workbooks which are easy to use for parents. New material is being released each week. Registration: not required

Science

This initial list of science resources is based on recommendations from learned societies, including:

1. the Association for Science Education (ASE)
2. the Royal Society of Biology (RSB)
3. the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
4. the Institute of Physics (IOP)

These resources link closely to the national curriculum, however there are many other resources supporting enrichment and practical activities available on the societies’ websites and elsewhere.

Science: primary

1. BBC Bitesize, https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/primary; key stage 1 and key stage 2; interactive resources covering the primary science curriculum. Registration: not required
2. STEM Learning (Home learning), https://www.stem.org.uk/primary-science; key stage 1 and key stage 2; an online resource bank, which links to resources on external websites. The site features a live chat function offering support from subject experts. New home learning resources are being developed. Registration: not required

Science: secondary

1. BBC Bitesize, https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize; key stage 3 and key stage 4; interactive resources covering the key stage 3 and key stage 4 science curriculums. Includes separate sections for biology, physics and chemistry. Registration: not required
2. Institute of Physics (IOP), https://spark.iop.org/supporting-schools-and-colleges-during-covid-19; key stage 3 and key stage 4; a set of articles and resources designed to support teachers who are teaching remotely. Registration: not required
3. Isaac Physics, https://isaacphysics.org/coronavirus; key stage 4 and key stage 5; online problem-solving activities to support teachers and students. The content focusses on physics but also covers some maths and chemistry. Registration: is required
4. Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), https://edu.rsc.org/remote-teaching-support; key stage 3 and key stage 4; a set of articles and resources designed to support teachers who are teaching remotely. Registration: not required
5. STEM Learning (Home learning), https://www.stem.org.uk/resources/curated-collections/secondary-and-level-science-0; key stage 3 and key stage 4; an online resource bank, which links to resources on external websites. The site features a live chat function offering support from subject experts. New home learning resources are being developed. Registration: not required

Physical education (PE) and physical activity

This initial list of physical education (PE) and physical activity resources is based on recommendations from:

1. the Association for Physical Education (afPE)
2. Public Health England (PHE)
3. Sport England
4. the Yorkshire Sport Foundation (YSF)

These resources will help young people to get the daily 60 minutes of activity recommended by the UK Chief Medical Officer (CMO) in fun ways. All the resources listed here are for activities designed to be carried out indoors or, if available, a garden. Children and young people can go outside for one form of exercise a day, such as:

1. a walk with members of their household
2. a run with members of their household
3. a cycle with members of their household

Outdoor exercise should be carried out locally. Children and young people should always follow the latest official advice on social distancing, which means making sure that they and their parent or carer stay more than 2 metres from others (including friends and other family members).

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

PE and physical activity: primary

1. Boogie Beebies, https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvsc; early years foundation stage; videos that get younger children up and dancing with CBeebies presenters. Registration: not required
2. Disney 10 Minute Shakeups, https://www.nhs.uk/10-minute-shake-up/shake-ups; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; 10-minute videos based on Disney films that count towards a child’s 60 active minutes per day. Registration: not required
3. Super Movers, https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/supermovers; key stage 1 and key stage 2; videos which help children move while they learn. They support curriculum subjects, including maths and English. Registration: not required
4. #ThisIsPE, https://www.afpe.org.uk/physical-education/thisispe-supporting-parents-to-teach-pe-at-home/; key stage 1 and key stage 2; videos delivered by teachers focussing on the PE curriculum which are accessible on YouTube. Registration: not required

PE and physical activity: secondary

1. Fitness Blender, https://www.fitnessblender.com/; key stage 3 to key stage 5; videos featuring a range of exercises and workouts. You can choose exercises by: degree of difficulty, type, gender and whether equipment is needed or not. Registration: not required
2. #ThisIsPE, https://www.afpe.org.uk/physical-education/thisispe-supporting-parents-to-teach-pe-at-home/; key stage 3 and key stage 4; videos delivered by teachers focussing on the PE curriculum which are accessible on YouTube. Registration: not required

Mental wellbeing

This initial list of mental wellbeing resources is based on the recommendations of trusted partners. It is designed to provide guidance on how to support the wellbeing of children and young people being educated remotely. Many organisations already working with schools will be able to provide remote support, and schools are encouraged to discuss what ongoing support might be available during this time.

Mental wellbeing: primary

1. Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, https://www.annafreud.org/what-we-do/anna-freud-learning-network/coronavirus/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; wellbeing advice for all those supporting children and young people. Registration: not required
2. BPS, https://www.bps.org.uk/news-and-blogs; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; advice on dealing with school closures and talking to children about COVID-19. Registration: not required
3. Children’s Commissioner, https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/publication/childrens-guide-to-coronavirus/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; a downloadable guide for children about coronavirus. Registration: not required
4. MindEd, https://www.minded.org.uk/; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; an educational resource for all adults on children and young people’s mental health. Registration: is required
5. The Child Bereavement Network, http://www.childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk/covid-19.aspx; early years foundation stage to key stage 2; advice on supporting grieving children during the coronavirus outbreak. Registration: not required

Mental wellbeing: secondary

1. BPS, https://www.bps.org.uk/news-and-blogs; key stage 3 to key stage 5; advice on dealing with school closures and talking to children about COVID-19. Registration: not required
2. Children’s Society, https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/coronavirus-information-and-support; key stage 3 to key stage 5; information and support on different aspects of mental health and wellbeing. Registration: not required
3. MindEd, https://www.minded.org.uk/; key stage 3 to key stage 5; an educational resource for all adults on children and young people’s mental health. Registration: is required
4. Rise Above, https://riseabove.org.uk/topic/my-mind/; key stage 3 to key stage 5; videos with tips on gaining confidence, dealing with anxiety and coping strategies from other young people. Registration: not required
5. The Child Bereavement Network, http://www.childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk/covid-19.aspx; key stage 3 to key stage 5; advice on supporting grieving children during the coronavirus outbreak. Registration: not required

Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

This initial list of SEND resources has been developed with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity and is based on the recommendations of:

1. trusted organisations
2. charities
3. multi-academy trusts
4. special education headteachers

We encourage parents, teachers and schools to explore beyond this list to identify what support is best for their children and pupils with SEND.

SEND: apps and games

(Apps must be downloaded onto a compatible device)

1. Brain Parade, http://www.brainparade.com/products/see-touch-learn-free/; a visual instruction app, including flash cards and picture-choosing games, for children with autism and special needs.
2. HelpKidzLearn, https://www.helpkidzlearn.com/; a collection of games and resources designed for a range of educational needs and stages. It includes provision for school closure.
3. Sensory App House Ltd, https://www.sensoryapphouse.com/; a range of apps are available for pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) or Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). All are interactive and many do not require significant coordination abilities.
4. Visuals2Go, https://www.visuals2go.com/; an all-in-one app created to support people with communication and learning difficulties. For verbal and non-verbal learners.

SEND: resources for teachers

1. Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, https://www.annafreud.org/media/11160/supporting-schools-and-colleges.pdf; a downloadable guide to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of pupils and students during periods of disruption. Registration: not required
2. Do2Learn (USA), https://do2learn.com/; a range of downloadable resources grouped by theme. Themes include: social skills, songs and games, and picture cards. Registration: not required
3. Inclusive Teach, https://inclusiveteach.com/free-printable-sen-teaching-resources/; downloadable teaching resources to support pupils with SEND. Registration: not required
4. PMLD thematic units – from the Northern Ireland Curriculum, http://www.nicurriculum.org.uk/curriculum_microsite/SEN_PMLD_thematic_units/index.asp; comprehensive guidance on themed activities for learners with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). A full sensory curriculum is offered. Registration: not required
5. Priory Woods School, http://www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk/page/?title=Resources&pid=3; resources from an award-winning, innovative school, rated by Ofsted as outstanding and put together by SEND teachers. The resources include apps and programmes. Registration: not required
6. SEND Gateway, https://www.sendgateway.org.uk/whole-school-send/find-wss-resources/nqt-videos.html; A range of SEND guidance videos created in collaboration with the Centre for Education and Youth (CfEY) in addition to many other experts within the sector. Aimed at Newly Qualified Teachers (NQTs). Registration: not required
7. SENict Activities, https://www.ianbean.co.uk/senict-members-resource-portal; downloadable activities aimed particularly at Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) learners. Registration: not required
8. SEN Teacher, https://www.senteacher.org/; downloadable resources that can be adapted to suit the needs of pupils. Resources are aimed at a range of abilities. Registration: not required
9. Speech and Language Kids, https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/free-speech-language-resources/; a range of education and therapy resources for speech and language problems. A podcast is also available on iTunes for verbal and non-verbal children. Registration: not required
10. Teaching Students with Visual Impairments, https://www.teachingvisuallyimpaired.com/; a range of downloadable resources to support blind and visually impaired pupils. Registration: is required
11. UCL Centre for Inclusive Education, https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/departments-and-centres/centres/centre-inclusive-education/homeschooling-children-send/managing-transition-home-schooling; a guide to help parents adjust to remote learning by providing advice and links to resources. Registration: not required

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Other home learning support

1. Firefly Learning: Provides access to online learning. Offering free access to its platform until the end of the summer term: www.fireflylearning.com
2. Microsoft Family: Family-led learning ideas and activities for children. Ages 3 to 12: https://education.microsoft.com/en-us/resource/755e5a8b
3. MyTutor: Matches students with tutors online to provide one-to-one tuition: www.mytutor.co.uk
4. HomeLearningUK: A curated resource for schools, students and parents designed to share ideas, solutions, plans and support: https://homelearninguk.weebly.com/
5. Kaligo Apps: Handwriting resource, designed to teach students how to write using a stylus and tablet, built on an AI machine learning platform. Ages 3 to 8: www.kaligo-apps.com
6. Spaghetti Brain: Offers real-time strategies for children to support homework and understanding: www.spaghettibrain.co.uk

Thank you to the team at the Remote Work Survival Kit, who gave us permission to spread their resources far and wide. Our thanks to Dorothy Lepkowska for compiling a wonderful subject-area list, and also the Department for Education for their curated list of resources.

Happy home-learning! – please do get in touch with us if you believe we have forgotten important resources!