Making the Switch from Homeschooling to Online High School  

Making the switch from homeschooling to online high school can be a daunting task for both learners and parents. It can be difficult to navigate the new learning environment and adapt to the different learning methods and technologies used in online high school. However, with the right preparation and mindset, the transition can be smooth and rewarding. 

Whether you are looking to supplement your homeschool curriculum or make the switch entirely, here are some valuable insights and tips to help you succeed in your online high school journey.

Online school can be the perfect middle ground between homeschools and traditional schools 

Online high school can be the perfect middle ground between homeschooling and traditional schools for many learners. It allows for a balance of flexibility and structure, giving learners the opportunity to learn independently while still having access to the resources and support they need. With online high school, learners can work on their modules from anywhere, at any time, making it ideal for those who have busy schedules or prefer to learn in a non-traditional setting. 

Online high schools offer a wide variety of subject electives and extracurricular activities, giving learners the opportunity to explore their interests and passions in a way that may not be possible in a traditional homeschool setting. 

Unlike homeschooling, online high school provides learners with access to peer interactions and the ability to develop a sense of belonging to a school community. It can be considered a perfect blend of flexibility, individualised learning and socialisation.

The main difference between homeschooling and online school 

The main difference between homeschooling and online school is the level of structure and oversight provided

Parents do not act as teachers 

Homeschooling is typically more self-directed and flexible, with parents serving as primary educators and curriculum providers. Learners work independently, with the help of their parents, on a curriculum that is tailored to their individual needs and interests. Homeschooling allows for a great deal of autonomy and allows families to tailor education to their lifestyle, values and beliefs.

On the other hand, online school is more structured and follows a traditional school schedule. Learners are required to complete modules and assignments in a set timeframe and they follow a curriculum that is standardised and aligned with curriculum standards (either Cambridge International or CAPS). Online school does allow for some level of flexibility and choice in terms of when and where the learners want to attend their classes, but it still follows a more structured format than homeschooling.

All socialisation does not need to be organised by the parent 

Online schooling is ideal when it comes to socialising your child. They’ll be able to join virtual social clubs and engage with fellow learners who share their interests. This lifts the pressure off homeschooling parents having to organise hangouts for their children. With UCT Online High School’s offering a wide range of extracurricular options, socialisation between learners is no longer the responsibility of the parent! Social isolation when learning online doesn’t have to be your reality. 

Access to Support Coaches and additional learner support 

Whether it’s homeschooling or online schooling, you want to make sure your child is well supported on their learning journey. It’s hard to be everything at once as a homeschooling parent, which is why online schooling is helpful. Online school learners have access to the best support system to guide them through their schooling career, taking into account their personal well-being and life beyond high school. Learner support is at the forefront of what we do at UCT Online High School. Our dedicated Support Coaches are there to provide each learner with individualised support throughout their online educational journey.

The similarities between homeschool and online school

Homeschooling and online school may seem vastly different on the surface, but there are actually many similarities between the two forms of education.

Personalised learning experiences

Both homeschooling and online school provide learners with a more personalised learning experience, allowing them to learn independently and according to their individual needs and interests. Both also offer a degree of flexibility, whether it's the ability to work on learning modules from anywhere at any time in an online school, or the ability to tailor the curriculum to one's lifestyle, values and beliefs in homeschooling. 

Learning in a familiar environment

Both homeschooling and online school offer learners the opportunity to learn in a comfortable and familiar environment, whether it's at home or in a virtual space. In both homeschooling and online school, parents are closely involved in their child's education, and learners have the opportunity to develop a strong parent-child relationship, which can have a positive impact on their learning journey.

How does UCT Online High School work? 

At UCT Online High School, we know that no two learners are the same. We provide structured flexibility that allows our learners to excel according to their own strengths and capabilities. Our learning approach sees modules released weekly, with weekly assignment deadlines. Cycle tests and examination blocks are fixed throughout the year and learners are given recommended study timetables. We also have a dedicated team of Support Coaches to hold learners accountable and guide them through their learning journey with us.