The changes include:
a new Chair of Trustees, Vanessa Pittard, and a strengthened strategic leadership team
a new Structured GCSE Programme designed for home-educated students and students requiring more structured support to achieve a GCSE in one-year
enhancements to NEC’s online learning platform, learn@nec
a redesigned website (www.nec.ac.uk) with improved accessibility and navigation - ensuring every visitor enjoys a seamless experience
a refreshed logo and brand identity.
The NEC has announced Vanessa Pittard as its new Chair of Trustees. Vanessa is Deputy Chief Executive of MEI, a leading education charity working nationally with schools and colleges to provide students with the best possible maths learning experiences.
She brings extensive leadership experience and a track record of working with strategic partners and stakeholders, including government and funders.
NEC Chief Executive Esther Chesterman told That's Business: “We are really delighted to welcome Vanessa as our new Chair of Trustees. Her leadership will help guide NEC through our next stage of growth.
"Our Board has also been strengthened with new members bringing fresh expertise to support innovation, and ensuring that we have the knowledge and skills to meet future challenges and opportunities.”
Vanessa Pittard said: “I’m proud to become Chair of Trustees at the National Extension College. NEC has always championed access to education and opportunity for all. These new initiatives will give more learners a chance to achieve their goals and to get the support that they need.”
New for 2025, NEC has launched eight Structured GCSEs, ideal for home-educated students and those looking for more structured support. The one-year courses come with full academic and pastoral support, expert-led live teaching, tailored feedback, and combine independent learning with the reassurance of regular check-ins, interactive learning tools, and a personalised support network. Subjects include English, Maths, Psychology and Computer Science.
Esther Chesterman went on to say: “At NEC, the future of learning is flexible and inclusive. We’ve expanded our course portfolio in response to students’ needs, to offer greater choice and enhanced pathways to further education or career-focused plans, and to affirm our commitment to ensuring that every student can achieve their goals.”
In addition to the new one-year GCSEs, NEC continues to offer a wider range of GCSEs and A levels, including one-year Structured Fast Track A levels in five subjects, Functional Skills, and vocational qualifications in management, counselling, bookkeeping and teaching.
NEC’s online learning platform learn@nec is where students study, engage with others, and succeed in their learning goals. The platform is being enhanced to create a fully inclusive digital classroom.
Helen Davies, NEC’s Online Learning Manager said: “From improved navigation to features that support students’ diverse learning needs, the changes to learn@nec will ensure that studying at NEC is even more engaging and accessible. Our goal is to create a digital platform that gives learners more choice and greater flexibility to learn.”
NEC’s refreshed logo and brand identity, considers its heritage whilst reflecting NEC’s innovation, ambition and continued commitment to offering inclusive education for all.
The new website (www.nec.ac.uk) has been developed by Ronins on behalf of NEC with prospective learners and stakeholders clearly in mind and is fully accessible for all visitors. With easy navigation, clear information about courses, finance, student support, and resources for parents, schools and partners all visitors are supported from the very first click.
Esther Chesterman added: “Our new website has been built for everyone, reflecting who we are today - innovative, student-focused, and committed to making education accessible to all. Our goal is to make every piece of information feel like a helpful conversation with a knowledgeable friend.”
Founder and CEO at Ronins, Anthony Basker said: “Great projects happen when everyone’s pulling in the same direction. NEC knew exactly what they wanted, a site that opens doors for learners, and that clarity made our job simple. The team was a joy to work with, and together we’ve built something that really reflects who they are.”
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