Introduction
A three-way partnership
Successful online learning is a shared responsibility. UK Virtual School, parents and students each play a distinct role, and progress is strongest when all three work together consistently.
UK Virtual SchoolTeach · communicate · safeguard
ParentsPrepare · monitor · support
StudentsAttend · engage · practise
Different responsibilities, one shared purpose: to create a safe, focused and positive place in which every learner can make progress.
Our commitment
What you can expect from us
From joining a course to attending regular classes, families can expect a professional service centred on communication, teaching quality and useful learning resources.
Professional and tailored service
We will work with you to ensure a smooth transition onto our courses. Our aim is to help each family understand the learning format, access the right information and feel prepared from the outset.
Good communication
We aim to respond within 2–3 working days. Our working hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm UK time.
We will communicate concerns, suggestions and helpful tips when these can support the student’s learning experience.
Quality teaching
Our specialist teaching staff have an average of 10 years of experience. Teacher training and professional development are at the heart of our school.
Quality resources
From homework activities to video resources, we aim to provide quality, engaging materials that reinforce teaching and support continued progress outside class.
General requirements
Expectations for all classes
The following expectations apply to every student, regardless of class format.
Resources
Parents may be required to purchase additional resources to support online classes. These may include textbooks, equipment or teaching aids.
- An item list with suggested links will be included in welcome emails.
- Ample time will be provided for ordering before an item is required in class.
Learning environment
Lessons should take place in a quiet room away from distractions. Students require a stable internet connection of at least:
Missing a class
If a student misses a class, they will be expected to catch up using the uploaded class recording.
Homework
Classes alone are not enough for students to progress. A learner needs to encounter a new concept several times before it becomes embedded in memory. Homework is an important part of that process and should be completed.
- Please allow up to 24 hours for homework to be uploaded to the student portal.
- Homework is not marked separately. Students should bring it to the next class to check solutions.
Safety & oversight
Safeguarding and quality assurance
The safety of our students is of the utmost importance. UKVS uses the following systems to keep Zoom classes safe, secure and consistent.
Zoom links
Zoom links are changed every month. Classes are password-secured and have the waiting-room function enabled.
Recording classes
All classes, including interactive classes, are recorded. This enables UKVS to review footage if a concern is raised and supports ongoing quality assurance.
Monitoring by parents
As with any activity involving online devices, children are expected to be monitored by their parents.
Password securedEvery class
Waiting roomEnabled
RecordedFor safeguarding
Class format A
Interactive classes
Interactive classes work best when students participate through audio, video and chat. The expectations below allow sessions to run smoothly and positively for everyone.
Camera on · audio ready · active participationThe defining requirements for this class format.
Audio and camera
- Audio and camera devices must be connected and working before the first class.
- Cameras must remain switched on. If there is a reason why a camera needs to be off, tell UKVS before class.
- Students must mute themselves when requested by the teacher.
In class
- Arrive on time. Students arriving more than five minutes after the start will not be admitted.
- Students must be appropriately dressed.
- Only first names should appear on screen.
- When using a phone, turn on “Do Not Disturb” to avoid notifications.
- Students must remain present in class and visible on camera.
Behaviour, inclusion and support
We want to create a positive learning experience for all students. Consistent disruptive behaviour may result in a short time-out in the waiting room.
UKVS is an inclusive environment and welcomes students with special educational needs. Students are expected to understand that teachers recognise the difference between disruptive behaviour and a child who is struggling with change, anxiety or overwhelm.
Teacher / parent communication portal
Teachers should be able to focus on what they do best: teaching. The communication portal in your account allows teachers to give feedback to parents and parents to respond.
- Open the “My Messages” menu after logging in to access teacher feedback.
- Direct all admin, technical and sales communication centrally through Facebook Messenger or email.
- Use the portal appropriately so teaching staff are not overburdened with administration.
Class format B
One-Way Stream classes
One-Way Stream classes provide a hands-off approach for keen independent learners who want to work at their own pace and around their own schedules.
Camera off · audio off · remain mutedThis protects the class recording and is different from an interactive class.
Audio and camera
- Audio and cameras must remain switched off during class. Switching them on will interfere with recordings.
- Students must remain muted throughout.
In class
Only first names should appear on screen.
Agreement & preparation
Before the first class
By enrolling on a UKVS course, families agree to these expectations and the school’s terms and conditions.
Terms of enrolmentReview the full UK Virtual School terms and conditions ↗ alongside this handbook.
Family readiness check