The National Tutoring Programme: What Worked and What Didn’t
The National Tutoring Programme (NTP), introduced in the UK in 2020, was one of the government’s flagship initiatives. It aimed to help pupils recover lost learning after school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Spanning four years, the programme provided subsidised tutoring to millions of students across England. As we look towards the future of tutoring in the UK, its discontinuation in 2024 has left schools, parents, and educators questioning how to continue supporting students. These students still face considerable academic challenges.
Without the NTP, concerns about growing disparities in academic attainment—especially among disadvantaged pupils—have resurfaced. School leaders have warned that the loss of government-funded tutoring could lead to setbacks in efforts to close the achievement gap. Many argue that while the programme had limitations, it offered vital support to students. These students would otherwise not have access to private tutoring. Private tutoring will be crucial for the future of tutoring in the UK.
How Online Platforms Like Battersea House Are Shaping the Future of Tutoring
This is where online tutoring services, such as Battersea House, can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tutoring UK pupils. These platforms offer high-quality, one-on-one support that is flexible, scalable, and often more affordable than in-person options. Battersea House connects students with qualified tutors across subjects including Maths, English, and Science. This allows them to access personalised learning from home.
Unlike the NTP, which often involved logistical complications and inconsistent delivery across regions, online tutoring offers consistency. This impacts the future of tutoring in the UK. Students can attend lessons regardless of location, weather, or transport issues. For many working parents, the convenience of scheduling lessons around their child’s routine is invaluable.
Moreover, online tutoring platforms can use technology to tailor learning experiences. At Battersea House, students receive targeted instruction based on their specific needs and abilities. Tutors track progress closely, adapting lesson plans to ensure continuous improvement and engagement. Looking forward, the future of tutoring in the UK will likely integrate such technological advancements.
Policymakers and schools must now consider how to integrate these private online solutions into wider education policy. Partnerships between schools and reputable providers like Battersea House could ensure that support continues for those most in need. Government subsidies or school-based funding arrangements could also help make these services more widely accessible.
What’s Next for Tutoring in the UK?
As we move into a post-NTP education landscape, the flexibility and reach of online tutoring will be key to ensuring no student is left behind. This model not only removes geographical barriers but also allows for more personalised, responsive instruction. It can adapt to each learner’s needs. With increased pressure on schools and limited public funding, accessible online solutions are becoming a cornerstone of future education strategies. At Battersea House, we offer tailored, one-to-one tutoring across a wide range of subjects — helping students from all backgrounds reach their academic goals. Online tutoring is no longer a temporary fix; it’s a long-term solution critical to the future of tutoring in the UK.