FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Alternative Learning Hub?

The Alternative Learning Hub is an online learning environment for students aged 11–16. Many of the young people who come to us have struggled in mainstream school and need a calmer, more flexible way to continue their education.

We specialise in IGCSE preparation and confidence-building learning. Our approach is supportive, structured and designed to help students reconnect with learning at a pace that works for them.

Who runs The Alternative Learning Hub?

The Alternative Learning Hub's founder is Chetana Greenwood, who has over 25 years of experience in adult education, neurodiversity support and home education. Chetana teaches many of the core courses and provides overall academic guidance and support for students and families.

We are also supported by a specialist tutors.

Miguel Zulueta teaches Mathematics and runs our wellbeing sessions. With a background in psychology and neurodiversity, Miguel brings a thoughtful and patient approach to his lessons. He is known for his kindness and ability to help students feel comfortable and confident, and he is very popular with our students.

Who are your students?

Our students are aged 11–16 and are often home educated. Many are neurodivergent or experience anxiety around formal study, and a large number have previously found mainstream school difficult.

Many students begin with our Launchpad programme, where they can rebuild confidence and re-establish a routine for learning. When they feel ready, they often move on to begin IGCSE courses.

Home-educated students commonly spread their IGCSEs over several years, often beginning in Year 8 or Year 9. This allows them to focus on one subject at a time and avoids the stress of sitting multiple exams in a single season.

Courses & Curriculum

What subjects do you offer?

We currently teach Cambridge IGCSE courses in:

• English Language

• Mathematics (Edexcel)
• Business Studies
• Environmental Management
• Travel & Tourism

What is Launchpad?

Launchpad is our low-demand learning programme designed to help students reconnect with learning in a calm and supportive way.

It includes life skills learning, wellbeing support, and opportunities to explore wider interests. Launchpad also includes our Entrepreneur Hub, personal finance learning, and wellbeing sessions.

Many students start in Launchpad before progressing to IGCSE study.

When do courses start?

Most courses begin in September, but students remain with us until they are ready to take their exams. This allows learning to move at a pace that suits each individual student.

Do you offer one-to-one tuition?

Yes. Our one-to-one sessions are designed primarily for Year 11 students who need intensive support in English or Maths as they prepare for their exams.

How large are the IGCSE classes?

Our IGCSE classes are taught in small groups with a maximum of 10 students. This ensures each student receives individual attention and support.

Teaching Approach & Support

How do you support neurodivergent and anxious learners?

Kindness, patience and flexibility are central to our teaching approach. Many of our students have previously struggled in mainstream school, so we focus on creating a calm and supportive learning environment.

Students are supported in ways that work for them, helping them rebuild confidence while developing the skills needed for independent learning.

What technology do you use for lessons?

Students work through a personalised Notion dashboard, which contains everything they need for their studies in one place.

We use:

• Zoom for live lessons

• Google Classroom to set and return work
• Neurodivergent-friendly dashboards to organise learning resources.

How do you track student progress?

We use regular assessments, ongoing feedback and optional progress meetings. Parents can view assignments and progress through Google Classroom.

Do you offer support for exams?

Yes. We provide guidance on exam preparation and mock exams.

However, access arrangements must be approved independently by an exam centre or qualified assessor.

Once we know what arrangements have been approved, we incorporate them into the student’s learning environment. For example, if a student has access to a reader or scribe, we replicate this support during lessons using learning support assistants or voice-to-text and reading technology.

Enrolment, Fees & Payment

How do I enrol my child?

Before enrolling, please ensure that you have secured an exam centre willing to accept your child for their exams.

Once that is in place, you can contact us via the website, email or WhatsApp and we will guide you through the enrolment process.

What are your fees?

Launchpad: £128 per month.

IGCSE Courses: £999 per course
or £115 per month if paying by 9 instalments.

Courses include live lessons, assignments and mock exam preparation.

One-to-one sessions: £45 per hour.

Fees are collected one month in advance

Exams & Qualifications

Will my child receive a recognised qualification?

Yes. Our courses prepare students for Cambridge International IGCSE qualifications, which are widely recognised by colleges and employers.

Do you arrange exam entries?

Parents are responsible for registering their child with an approved exam centre. We recommend securing an exam centre before enrolling on a course.

Practicalities

What if my child misses a lesson?

If a student misses a lesson, they will still have access to the lesson slides, Kahoot activities and comprehensive notes taken during the session so they can catch up.

Contact & Support

How can I get in touch?

You can contact us via:

Email: support@thealh.co.uk
Or through the website contact form. Still have a question?

If your question is not covered here, please get in touch.

We are always happy to help.