Interesting websites

Now that lockdowns are (hopefully) a thing of the past, normal schooling has returned. However, the following websites remain as valuable resources for children and can be accessed from home. Click the text below to link straight to the websites.

Covering primary age all the way to 16-plus, BBC Bitesize is split into three categories – all children will have something to learn here. Whether you’ve got a teenager learning about the Spanish Armada or a young child exploring phonics – Bitesize has it covered. There are daily lessons for all ages from 9am in core subjects such as English and Maths – the content is supported by activities, videos and tests. Parents and carers, including those of SEN (special educational needs) children, can also find help.

See what Tate Kids has up its digital sleeves to help children learn about artists and the process of making all different types of art. Some of the world’s most famous artists are brought into focus under the “explore” tab, where you are asked “who is Salvador Dali?”, “who is Berthe Morisot?” and so on. The site offers click through options to pages on the life and works of a variety of different painters and sculptors. You can take a deep dive into different eras or styles of art – including pop art and impressionism or discover how different pieces of art might be grouped together.

Natural History Museum - Just because you can’t visit in person, doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the benefits of this famous old museum. Take a virtual tour, letting David Attenborough guide you around the enormous Hintze Hall, getting a good look at Hope, the blue whale suspended from the museum’s ceiling, or simply digitally browse the library books.

National Geographic has provided a wealth of classroom resources which help keep children connected to and interested in little-known wonders from all over the globe. The collection of “at home” lessons suit all age groups and encompass topics such as ecology and social studies. More specific subjects, such as climate change and storytelling, have dedicated areas of the site designed for immersive exploration. As you’d expect, the photography is world class and makes using this space feel really special.

Oak Academy provides support for teachers, parents and children from 4 to 16, from reception to year 11. Although initially set up for maths, Oak provides help across the curriculum. Click here to be taken to the KS2 subject hub.