Though online school is no longer just a solution to a problem (although we are here for that too!) or a novel concept, for both students and parents, choosing the right online school can be a daunting decision. There is no traditional bricks and mortar school where one can peep their head through the gates, nor will you see our children walking down the street adorned in a CHS uniform. This is where taster days come into play. These short, trial experiences provide a glimpse into the world of online education, and open the door to our wonderful community, allowing students and their families to make informed choices about their academic futures, and experience what an online school really looks like.
What Are Taster Days?
Taster days at CHS are free of charge trial sessions where prospective students can participate in classes, interact with teachers, and explore the digital platform before committing to join us for the long term. These days can range from a single class to a full day or even a week of online learning, depending on which taster event you choose.
Why Taster Days Matter
- Hands-On Experience: Online learning can initially feel very different from traditional schooling, and taster days give students a chance to see if they enjoy and thrive in an online environment. It helps them understand the daily routine, the technological requirements, and the level of self-discipline needed to succeed, but also shows our students in their natural environments- content, thriving and ready to learn.
- Familiarisation with the Platform: Every online school uses a unique platform to deliver its content. Whether it’s a sophisticated Learning Management System (LMS) or a simple video conferencing tool, students need to be comfortable navigating it. Taster days provide a low-pressure environment to get acquainted with the technology, reducing the learning curve when the actual classes begin.
- Evaluating Teaching Styles: The quality of teaching is a crucial factor in education, and this doesn’t change with online schooling. During taster days, students can observe the teaching style, interaction level, and overall approach of our staff. This insight into the supportive and experienced nature of CHS teachers is key in creating excitement and inspiration for prospective students.
- Understanding the Curriculum: Different online schools offer varying curricula- taster days give students and parents a preview of the subjects, course content, and academic expectations, helping them decide if the curriculum matches their educational goals. We would always recommend that parents also book a meeting with our admissions team to discuss individual academic requirements.
- Assessing Social Interaction: One common concern with online schooling is the potential lack of social interaction. At CHS, students are in groups of no more than 10 students, remaining consistent throughout their time with us. During our taster days, students can see how the school fosters community through group projects, discussions, and virtual events. This insight is crucial for parents who want to ensure their child will still have opportunities to interact with peers.
- Gaining Confidence: For students new to online learning, taster days can be a confidence booster. They provide a safe space to ask questions, make mistakes, and learn at their own pace without the pressure of grades. This can alleviate anxiety and build confidence before fully committing to an online program.
- Informed Decision-Making: Perhaps the most significant advantage of taster days is the ability to make an informed decision. Choosing an online school is a significant commitment, both financially and academically. Taster days ensure that students and parents have all the information they need to choose a school that best fits their needs, reducing the likelihood of future dissatisfaction.
In a world where education is increasingly moving online, taster days have become an invaluable tool for students and parents alike. As with a bricks and mortar school, a taster day offers a practical and immersive experience that provides a real insight into what online schooling entails. By participating in taster days, students can confidently choose an online school that not only meets their academic requirements but also aligns with their personal learning style and goals. As online education continues to grow, so too will the importance of these trial experiences, ensuring that every student finds the right fit for their educational journey.
Join one of our upcoming taster days- visit Open Days | Cambridge Home School Online (chsonline.org.uk) or email admissions@chsonline.org.uk for an informal chat with our team.