Sophia High School made history this week after being accredited as the first online school in the UK by the Department for Education (DfE) under its new Online Education Accreditation Scheme (OEAS).
After undergoing a rigorous evaluation by Ofsted inspectors, Sophia was found to meet the highest standards for online education providers. The virtual school, which caters for students aged 4-16 in the UK and globally, is now listed on the DfE’s official school directory as an approved remote learning option.
The Ofsted report praised Sophia’s live online classes led by qualified teachers, its use of cutting-edge technologies such as VR and AR, its project-based learning, and its skills-based curriculum. Inspectors noted that “students feel safe and supported in the school’s intimate, family-like environment.”
Melissa McBride, Sophia’s Founder, commented: “We’re proud to have our innovative program validated by Ofsted and officially accredited under the OEAS by the DfE. At a time when traditional education is facing teacher shortages, dated facilities, and student mental health crises, we offer a refreshing approach to prepare students for the 21st century workplace.”
The accreditation of Sophia sets the bar for exceptional remote instruction and demonstrates the DfE’s recognition of the value of online learning when executed effectively. McBride said: “This inspires us to continue disrupting education to meet the demands of today’s digital world.”
The three-year accreditation of Sophia marks it out as a trailblazer in online education by making its cutting-edge platform accessible to students in the UK and worldwide who seek a modern approach focused on real-world skills.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.