Practical skills, creative learning and resources beyond core subjects
Not everything we learn fits neatly into a school subject. This collection brings together free and paid home education resources covering practical life skills, creative activities and interest-led learning. From cooking, first aid and managing money to coding, music, nature study and digital skills, there are plenty of opportunities to explore new interests and develop useful everyday skills.
You'll find educational websites, online activities, games, videos, printable resources and learning programmes for children and teenagers, alongside tools for home educating parents. Some offer structured lessons, while others encourage independent exploration, hands-on activities and learning through everyday experiences. Whether you're looking to develop practical skills, explore something creative or help your child become more independent, there's plenty here to discover.
For more educational websites covering traditional subjects, browse our mixed-subject home education resources. You can also explore our Courses & Lessons page for online classes, workshops and structured learning opportunities.
Financial literacy and money skills
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Website |
Ages / level |
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5–18 |
Free financial education activities, videos and learning plans covering saving, spending, budgeting, money safety, entrepreneurship and future careers. Resources are organised by age and topic. Free registration required for full access. |
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10+ |
An interactive financial literacy programme teaching children about earning, saving, spending, budgeting and making financial decisions through self-paced lessons and activities. Paid access. Read our hands-on review. |
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8–13 |
A self-paced financial education course with 20 interactive lessons covering saving, budgeting, banking, taxes, careers, investing and entrepreneurship. Includes videos, quizzes and practical activities. |
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Primary–secondary |
Financial education and enterprise resources covering money management, careers, entrepreneurship and practical life skills. Includes free downloadable activities and materials for different ages. |
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3–11 |
A free financial education programme from Young Enterprise and HSBC UK, offering storybooks, games, printable activities and practical resources to help children understand money. Parent registration required. |
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Mainly 7–19+ |
Free resources covering money management, employability, communication, CV writing, interview preparation and workplace skills. Includes interactive activities, videos and downloadable materials. |
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Primary, approx. 7–11 |
Free, child-friendly explanations and activities introducing money, saving, spending and everyday financial decisions. Useful for discussing practical money skills together. |
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Mainly primary |
Free financial education resources introducing money, saving, spending and how money works. Includes activities and teaching materials designed to develop children's understanding of financial choices. |
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11+ |
A free financial education course introducing money management, saving, budgeting, business and financial decision-making. Designed to help young people develop practical knowledge for everyday life. |
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| MoneyHelper: Talk Learn Do | Free activities and advice for helping children develop good money habits, including spending, saving, budgeting and digital money. | |
| 15–16 | Free Financial Times financial education lesson introducing shares, bonds, compound interest, diversification and investment risk. Includes a lesson plan, presentation, worksheets and practical activities exploring different investment decisions. | |
| 15–16 | Free printable investment simulation in which learners make financial decisions for a fictional client and discover how economic events affect an investment portfolio. Includes worksheets, presentation slides and an adapted activity. | |
| Mainly 14–16 | Free downloadable UK financial education textbook covering saving, borrowing, investments, financial risk, insurance, taxation and future planning. Includes activities, real-life examples, discussion questions and accompanying teaching materials. | |
| 16–19 | Free educational resources explaining the difference between saving and investing, inflation, financial risk and long-term growth. Includes short videos, case studies, downloadable activities and a printable investment board game. |
Coding and digital skills
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Website |
Ages / level |
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|---|---|---|
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Approx. 5+, depending on activity |
Free introductory coding activities and games covering programming, logic, problem-solving and computer science. Includes beginner-friendly projects using popular characters and themes. |
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Mainly 8–16, adaptable |
A free block-based programming platform where children can create interactive stories, animations, games and digital art. Encourages creativity, logical thinking and experimentation. |
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8+ |
A story-driven coding adventure where players rescue kittens by learning HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Introduces real programming concepts through puzzles and creative challenges. Free introductory content. |
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8–14 |
Online coding courses teaching children to create Minecraft mods and Roblox games using guided videos, a beginner-friendly code editor and practical challenges. Subscription-based. |
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Mainly KS2–secondary |
Free coding tutorials and computer science resources covering Python, programming, electronics and practical technology projects. Includes explanations and activities for independent learning. |
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Older teenagers and adults |
Interactive programming courses covering Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, web development and other digital skills. Free introductory lessons and paid options for more advanced learning. |
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6–17 |
Browser-based coding games introducing programming through visual puzzles, sequencing, loops and Python. Includes beginner-friendly activities for younger children and more advanced challenges for older learners. Free introductory access. |
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6–16 |
Online coding and game development clubs with weekly live sessions, small groups, supportive mentors and text-chat help between sessions. Includes Minecraft and game development activities. Paid membership, with a free taster session. Read our full review. |
Exercise, movement and wellbeing
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Website |
Ages / level |
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|---|---|---|
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Mainly 3–11 |
Free movement games, dance videos, exercise routines and mindfulness activities designed to get children moving. Includes short activity breaks and energetic routines suitable for home use. |
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Mainly 5–12, adaptable |
Free family-friendly exercise videos featuring short workouts, simple movements and fitness challenges. Requires little or no specialist equipment. |
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Mainly 5–14, adaptable |
Free follow-along exercise sessions with Joe Wicks, combining aerobic movements, strength exercises and fun challenges. Suitable for families wanting structured physical activity at home. |
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Mainly 3–8 |
Free yoga adventures, movement stories, breathing exercises and guided relaxation for younger children. Combines imaginative storytelling with physical activity and mindfulness. |
Nature-based and topic-led learning
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Website |
Ages / level |
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Mainly 5–12, adaptable |
A year-long nature study curriculum organised around weekly seasonal topics. Includes observation ideas, nature walks, poetry, art, books and hands-on activities. Paid downloadable curriculum. |
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Mixed ages, family learning |
Printable resources inspired by British nature, folklore, seasonal traditions and the changing year. Includes wildlife studies, moon phases, Wheel of the Year celebrations, stories, crafts and creative activities. Free and paid downloads. |
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Mainly 3–8 |
Secular, nature-inspired home education resources combining storytelling, art, practical activities and outdoor learning. Includes Waldorf-inspired curriculum materials, unit studies and beautifully illustrated printables. Paid resources. |
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Mainly primary, adaptable |
Themed educational packs combining factual information, creative activities, research and practical projects. Topics can be explored independently or used to build a personalised topic book. Paid printables and physical resources. |
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Mixed ages, depending on resource |
Interest-led downloadable learning packs exploring different subjects through research, activities and creative projects. Designed to offer flexible learning opportunities rather than a fixed curriculum sequence. |
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3–18+, depending on programme |
Nature-inspired curriculum materials, themed unit studies, notebooks and creative learning resources. Covers early learning through to secondary level, with hands-on projects, literature and interdisciplinary activities. US-based, with paid resources and free samples. |
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Mainly primary–early secondary |
Free printable lapbooks, notebooking pages, minibooks, timelines, educational games and project resources. Particularly useful for hands-on, topic-led and creative learning. |
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| KS1–KS3, approx. 5–14 | Free outdoor learning activities from the Woodland Trust, exploring trees, woodland wildlife, seasons and conservation. Includes downloadable worksheets, observation activities and nature projects. | |
| Primary–secondary, adaptable | Free forest learning resources, downloadable activities and outdoor investigation ideas exploring woodland habitats, wildlife, trees and the natural environment. | |
| All ages, many suitable for children | Free nature activities, wildlife crafts, birdwatching ideas and practical conservation projects. Encourages families to explore local wildlife and help nature at home. | |
| Mainly primary–KS3 | Free wetland-themed science and geography resources from the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, including wildlife activities, videos, quizzes and a 12-week home learning programme. | |
| Early years–secondary | Free gardening activities, growing guides, printable worksheets and projects from the Royal Horticultural Society. Covers plants, food growing, soil, wildlife, composting and seasonal gardening. | |
| Primary–secondary | Free educational resources exploring plants, biodiversity, sustainability, climate, food and the environment. Includes practical activities and projects inspired by the natural world. |
Cooking, food and kitchen skills
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Website |
Ages / level |
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3–16 |
Free cooking lessons, recipe activities, food skills videos and practical resources covering food preparation, kitchen safety, nutrition and meal planning. Includes age-appropriate activities from early years through to secondary level. |
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Mainly 4–14, adaptable |
A collection of family-friendly recipes and cooking projects, from simple snacks and baking to complete meals. Includes step-by-step instructions, preparation times and recipes children can help make. Mostly free, with some premium content. |
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All ages, family learning |
Free recipes for breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks, including simple meals using affordable ingredients. Useful for introducing meal preparation, planning, cooking and everyday food choices. |
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Mainly teenagers and adults |
Free UK food safety guidance covering safe cooking temperatures, food storage, cleaning, cross-contamination and handling ingredients. Useful for teenagers learning to prepare food independently. |
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| All ages, with adult guidance | Free child-friendly recipes, cooking guides, baking projects and kitchen tips to help children develop practical food preparation skills. Includes simple meals, family cooking ideas and activities for building confidence in the kitchen. | |
| Mainly primary–secondary, with adult guidance | Explore food and cooking techniques from the Stone Age, Ancient Egypt, Roman Britain and the Saxon and Viking periods. Includes historically inspired recipes, outdoor cooking ideas and information about how people prepared food in the past. Free articles and ideas. | |
| All ages, with adult guidance | A historical cooking website to explore for combining food preparation with learning about the past. | |
| Approx. 12+ | Free YouTube videos recreating historical recipes from different cultures and periods, with fascinating stories about the people, events and traditions behind the food. Combines cooking, historical research and cultural history. |
First aid and online safety
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Website |
Ages / level |
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5–18 |
Free first aid learning resources covering common injuries, emergencies and lifesaving skills. Includes videos, quizzes, activities and home learning pathways that families can work through together. |
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KS2–KS4, approx. 7–16 |
Free downloadable first aid lessons covering emergency calls, common injuries, CPR and using a defibrillator. Includes activities and teaching materials organised by key stage. |
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Mainly teenagers and adults |
A free interactive first aid game using realistic emergency scenarios to teach CPR, choking responses, recovery position and defibrillator awareness. Available online and through mobile apps. |
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| Approx. 7+ |
Free, interactive online CPR training that teaches lifesaving skills in just 15 minutes. Practise using a mobile phone or tablet and a cushion, and receive a CPR certificate on completion. No specialist equipment required. |
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| UK Safer Internet Centre | Guidance for families on online safety, digital wellbeing and dealing with difficult situations online. | |
| National Cyber Security Centre: CyberFirst Navigators | Approx. 11–14 | Free interactive resource covering common online security risks and scams. |
| Let's Talk Safer Families | Platform providing trusted, expert, guidance through toolkits and video sessions to help parents support young people facing challenges like exploitation, unhealthy relationships, online safety, and more. |
Property, independent living and everyday skills
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Website |
Ages / level |
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Teenagers, approx. 11–18 |
Practical guidance for developing everyday independence, including laundry, cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, household responsibilities and personal organisation. Includes suggestions for parents supporting teenagers. |
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4–18 |
More than 400 free educational resources and activities developing essential skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, creativity and planning. Includes short lessons, practical challenges and downloadable materials. Free educator registration. |
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14+ |
Free interactive learning modules helping teenagers and young adults develop essential skills, including planning, problem-solving, communication, teamwork and managing challenges. Designed for independent learning, with free registration. |
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Older teenagers and adults |
Free beginner-friendly digital skills lessons covering email, online forms, passwords, internet safety, using online services and finding work. Useful for building confidence with everyday digital tasks. |
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Mainly older teenagers and adults |
Free online skills assessment helping learners explore their interests, recognise their strengths and discover possible careers. Includes personalised career suggestions and information about different occupations. |
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Older teenagers and young adults |
Free practical advice about renting a first home, including deposits, tenancy agreements, household bills, guarantors, shared accommodation and renters' rights in England. Particularly useful for young people preparing to move out. |
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| Barclays LifeSkills: Managing finances when renting or buying a home | 16–19 | Free downloadable lesson plan and presentation exploring the costs of renting or buying a home, managing household bills, budgeting and preparing for financial independence. Designed for a 110-minute session, but can be adapted for home learning. |
| Barclays LifeSkills: Paying rent, bills and other expenses | 16–25 | Free activity pack covering renting, buying, shared ownership, household costs and ways to pay bills. Includes practical exercises and a financial independence workbook. |
| MoneyHelper: First-time home buyer guide | Older teenagers and adults | Free, beginner-friendly guidance explaining mortgages, deposits, interest rates, borrowing, freehold and leasehold ownership, and the costs involved in buying a property. Useful for introducing the financial side of home ownership. |
| The Mix: Housing advice | Teenagers and young adults | Accessible articles for young people covering moving out, renting, mortgages, council tax, household bills and tenants' rights. Useful for exploring what independent living involves. |
| Citizens Advice: Housing | Older teenagers and adults | Practical information about renting, tenancy agreements, deposits, housing costs, repairs and tenants' rights. Useful for understanding the legal and everyday responsibilities involved in renting a home. |
| GOV.UK: Easy Read private renting guides | Older teenagers and adults; accessible format | Free illustrated, Easy Read guides explaining how private renting works in England, from finding a property and starting a tenancy to understanding responsibilities and moving out. Particularly useful for learners who prefer clear language and visual explanations. |
| AQA Unit Award Scheme: Introduction to home maintenance | Entry level; adaptable | A practical unit outline covering renting versus owning, property maintenance responsibilities, when to contact a landlord or tradesperson, and what to do in a household emergency. The learning outcomes can inspire home activities; formal unit certification requires an approved centre. |
Music resources and online lessons
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Website |
Ages / level |
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Mainly primary, mixed ages |
Online classical music appreciation classes introducing composers, instruments and famous pieces through listening, stories and activities. Check the organiser's page for upcoming sessions. |
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Mainly 7–12 |
A free library of more than 130 on-demand music lessons for home educating families, covering rhythm, music discovery, beginner musicianship, music technology and theory. Additional paid small-group lessons available. |
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Primary–secondary, approx. 5–16 |
Free classical music videos, listening activities, composer information and creative projects introducing children to orchestral music. Includes activities exploring rhythm, composition, performance and musical expression. |
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Mainly 5–14, depending on resource |
Beginner music lessons, printable sheet music, music theory worksheets, composer biographies and activities for learning instruments. Free resources and paid materials. |
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Children and teenagers, depending on course |
Online music lessons using instructional videos and practice activities to introduce instruments, music theory and performance skills. Paid learning programmes. |
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KS2, approx. 7–11 |
Free educational videos following Naomi and Ludwig through different periods of music history, introducing composers, instruments, musical styles and historical developments. |
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Beginners, children and adults |
An interactive piano learning app that listens as users play, providing feedback and guided lessons. Covers note reading, rhythm, technique and popular songs. Subscription-based, with introductory access available. |
Research and reference tools
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Website |
Ages / level |
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Older teenagers and adults |
A free academic search engine designed to help learners find educational information from websites, books, journals, encyclopaedias and other sources. Particularly useful for independent research. |
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Older children, teenagers and adults |
A free international library catalogue for finding books, ebooks, audiobooks, articles, maps, music and research materials held by libraries around the world. Useful for locating specialist and out-of-print titles. |
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A level, university and adult learners |
An academic library of scientific, technical and medical research, including journals, books and reference materials. Some publications are open access, while others require payment or institutional access. |
More educational websites, games and tools
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Website |
Ages / level |
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Approx. 6–12 |
Free educational articles, photographs, videos, quizzes and games exploring animals, geography, science, history and the natural world. |
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Mainly 5–18 |
Free film-based educational resources exploring storytelling, filmmaking, history, literacy, science and other subjects. Includes film guides, discussion questions and creative activities. |
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Mainly 4–16, adaptable |
Free themed activity ideas and challenge packs covering nature, science, history, creativity and everyday skills. Families can complete activities and purchase optional embroidered badges. |
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| 5+ | A child-led learning programme where children explore topics across 15 themed learning worlds, choosing activities from Discovery Books to complete at their own pace. Completing four activities earns a collectable enamel badge. Includes supporting resources and optional monthly online award ceremonies. Badges can be purchased individually, with an optional family membership. | |
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Mainly 5–14, depending on activity |
Free Star Wars-themed crafts, drawing activities, games and creative projects. Useful for encouraging reluctant learners through familiar characters and stories. |
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Mainly primary and secondary |
Free educational resources exploring dog welfare, responsible ownership, animal behaviour and safety around dogs. Includes printable activities, videos and practical learning materials. |
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Primary–secondary, approx. 5–18 |
Free educational resources explaining how Parliament works, democracy, elections, law-making and political participation. Includes activities, videos and materials suitable for home educators. |
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Mainly teenagers and older fans |
A fan-created Hogwarts-inspired learning website with fictional courses in subjects such as Potions, Charms and Defence Against the Dark Arts. Encourages reading, creative writing and imaginative role-play. |
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Mainly teenagers and older fans |
An online Harry Potter-inspired community featuring fictional lessons, activities, creative challenges and house-based competitions. Unofficial fan project. |
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Parents and educators |
Reviews and recommendations of educational apps and learning platforms, covering different subjects, ages and learning needs. Useful for comparing digital resources before downloading or subscribing. |
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Mainly 5–14 |
Free educational games, digital books, comics and videos covering maths, reading, problem-solving and other subjects. US-based, with activities organised by age and grade. |
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All ages, with guidance for younger children |
A free collection of educational videos exploring science, nature, art, technology, history and unusual discoveries. Particularly good for curiosity-led learning and starting conversations. We love this site! |
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6–18, depending on class |
Live online classes for curious young people, including philosophy, debate, creative writing, drama, improvisation and Dungeons & Dragons. Small-group discussions and activities, with paid sessions and courses. |
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Mainly 11+, adaptable |
Free animated educational videos exploring science, history, literature, philosophy, psychology and unusual questions. Short explanations are useful for independent learning and discussion. |
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Older teenagers and adults |
Videos exploring productivity, goal-setting, time management, motivation and personal development. Mainly aimed at adults, but selected topics may interest older teenagers. |
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Older teenagers and adults |
A free directory of cultural and educational resources, including online courses, audiobooks, films, documentaries, ebooks and lectures from universities and cultural organisations. |
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Teenagers and adults |
Explores how skills developed through video gaming, such as strategy, teamwork, creativity and problem-solving, can translate into education, employment and career opportunities. Free and paid resources. |
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Approx. 7+, including adults |
Free interactive touch-typing lessons, games and practice exercises, with progress tracking and activities to develop keyboard accuracy and speed. Additional paid features available. |
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Children, subject to badge eligibility |
Information about earning Blue Peter badges through creative challenges, writing, artwork, environmental activities and other achievements. Includes application guidance and badge requirements. |
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Mainly 7–16 |
Educational lesson plans and project ideas using Minecraft to explore coding, history, science, maths, geography and creative problem-solving. Some activities require access to Minecraft Education. |
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Mainly 10+, including teenagers |
Free, open-source 3D modelling and animation software for creating characters, models and textures. Particularly popular for designing Minecraft entities, but also useful for learning digital design. |
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Years 1–10, approx. 5–15 |
A free UK curriculum resource finder connecting maths, English and science topics with reviewed lessons, videos, worksheets, games and practice activities. Includes topic searches, parent guides and planning tools. No account required. |
Home education planning and record-keeping
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Website |
Ages / level |
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Home educating parents |
A home education tracking app for recording activities, observations and learning experiences. Offers a free version, with paid features including additional content and printable reports. Read our review. |
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Home educating parents |
An online tool for recording home education activities, learning experiences and progress over time. Designed to help families organise their records and document their child's education. |
