Smart moves: The 10 must-know education brands helping the UK learn better and faster
From interactive online platforms to expert-led courses, the world of learning has never been more exciting... or more accessible. With so many choices out there, Checklist has done the hard work for you.
Here are the 10 standout education brands that are making waves and helping learners of all ages unlock their full potential.
A unique blend of British and French excellence
Since 1915, The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle has been a cornerstone of Franco-British education in London, and it's easy to see why generations of families continue to choose it. With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and cultural richness, the Lycée offers students the best of both worlds: a rigorous, bilingual education that's as nurturing as it is ambitious.
Its four bilingual primary schools - in Ealing, Fulham, Clapham, and South Kensington - provide an inspiring environment where children are encouraged to flourish from day one. The British Section blends the depth of French education with the strengths of the UK curriculum, resulting in a truly distinctive experience.
Awarded Ofsted's highest rating for both Quality of Education and Early Years Provision, the Lycée isn't just about high achievement. It's about helping each child grow with confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of identity.
The info: Click here to find out more.
When it comes to combining affordability with academic excellence, MyEdSpace is leading the charge. This award-winning platform offers live, interactive Maths, English and Science lessons for students from Year 5 through to Year 13, all for around £5 an hour.
Designed by a team of expert, qualified teachers, MyEdSpace delivers the kind of quality usually associated with premium private tuition, but without the hefty price tag. From comprehensive workbooks to tailored, exam-style homework and step-by-step video solutions, everything is crafted to boost confidence and improve results. It's a game-changer for families looking to support their child's learning without breaking the bank.
Keen to find out more? Don't miss the chance to join a live webinar hosted by MyEdSpace Co-founder Sean, where you'll get an inside look at the platform and an exclusive 35 per cent discount on next year's courses.*
The info: Click here to secure your spot.
*Terms and conditions apply.
Helping students improve their A-level grades
With a reputation built on results, MPW has been helping students turn academic setbacks into success stories since 1973. This top-tier independent college group - with campuses in London, Birmingham and Cambridge - specialises in giving students a second chance to shine.
Whether you're retaking A-levels or aiming to boost your grades, MPW's personalised approach makes all the difference.
Small, Oxbridge-style tutorial groups (never more than nine students) mean no one gets lost in the crowd, while tailored one-to-one support ensures every learner is guided toward their full potential.
In fact, most students improve their grades by one to two levels — and two-thirds of retake students go on to Russell Group universities. With expert UCAS advice, focused exam prep and flexible course formats, MPW gives you the tools and confidence to succeed.
The info: Click here to find out more.
Build up their confidence with the Cadets
Looking for something that'll build character, boost confidence and actually improve school performance? The Army Cadets might just be the answer. Backed by research from the University of Northampton*, teens who join the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) show better attendance, behaviour and attainment - plus they're less likely to face exclusions.
But it's not just about the grades. The CCF is all about enrichment, offering young people the chance to develop practical life skills, resilience, leadership and a true sense of camaraderie. And here's the best bit: it's for everyone.
Whether your teen is sporty, shy, musical or not, the CCF welcomes all backgrounds and abilities with open arms. With its unique blend of physical, intellectual and social development, this is one school activity that goes way beyond the classroom and leaves a lifelong impression.
The info: Click here to find out more and sign up.
*Denny, S., Hazenberg, R., & Paterson-Young, C. 2024. The Impact and Value of School-Based Cadet Forces in the UK. University of Northampton. Commissioned by MoD and the Combined Cadet Force Association - April 2024.
Learn through laughter and stickers
Looking for an app that keeps little ones happily learning while giving parents a much-needed breather? Enter Moshi Play, the award-winning mobile app bursting with colourful fun for kids aged 3–8. Set in the magical, BAFTA-winning world of Moshi, this playful platform blends education and entertainment in all the right ways.
Whether it's solving maths problems, getting creative with colouring and drawing, or moving and grooving with interactive games, Moshi Play turns screen time into brain-boosting time. And it's not just about learning, it's about rewarding learning.
Kids collect stickers for their achievements, which they can proudly display in their very own digital sticker books.
Available on iOS and Android, Moshi Play is perfect for parents seeking a safe, screen-friendly space for early learners. It's joyfully designed, easy to use, and gets a big thumbs-up from kids.
The info: Click here to download today.
Personalised stationery to start the term in style
Back to school never looked so smart... or so budget-friendly. Fast Pens' Back to School Bundle is the perfect way to help your child hit the ground running this September.
Packed with a stylish Parker pen, a branded notebook, and a durable custom ruler, it's got everything they need to feel organised, confident, and ready for success. And right now, parents can grab it with a whopping 40% discount – but only for a limited time.
Based in the UK, Fast Pens is known for its premium custom-branded stationery and speedy turnaround – many orders dispatch the next working day.
With no minimum order, free UK delivery, and a 5-star Trustpilot rating, it's no wonder they're a go-to for families, schools, and businesses alike. Plus, their eco-friendly range means you can shop smart and sustainably. School essentials, sorted.
The info: Click here to shop the deal.
Giving students the Oxbridge edge
Is your son or daughter applying to Oxford or Cambridge? With only around 15 per cent of applicants accepted each year, getting in is no easy feat. But that's where Avalon Education comes in.
As one of the UK's leading Oxbridge admissions consultancies, Avalon gives students a real edge, offering expert support at every stage of the process. Whether it's crafting a compelling personal statement, acing the admissions tests, or preparing for those famously tough interviews, Avalon's team of expert tutors - each a former Oxbridge student - knows exactly what it takes to succeed.
Hundreds of students trust them every year, and for good reason: Avalon Education gets their students the offers they want. And the benefits of this last well past university - graduates of Oxford and Cambridge earn, on average, nearly £17,000 more than their peers five years after graduating.
Curious to see how they can help? Avalon is offering £5 trial sessions until 1st September, perfect timing for a smart head start.
The info: Click here to find out more.
Train smarter, lead stronger
If you're ready to make a real impact in the booming world of health and fitness, Future Fit Training could be your perfect starting line. With a legacy stretching back to 1993, they've helped over 80,000 fitness professionals launch rewarding, high-impact careers, earning a glowing 94 per cent satisfaction rate along the way.
But this isn't just about gaining qualifications; it's about futureproofing your career. From business know-how to a personal careers advisor, and even exclusive links to top gyms through their Employer Partner network, Future Fit offers a full support package to help you thrive.
All courses are backed by respected industry bodies like CIMSPA, VTCT, and the Royal Society for Public Health, so you're in expert hands from day one.
Whether you're retraining or just getting started, Future Fit Training offers a smarter, more inspiring route into the world of wellness.
The info: Click here to find out more.
Give your kids a step up this school year with Timberland's back-to-school range—where style meets purpose at every age. Whether it's tiny first steps or big strides through the school gates, Timberland's collection of kids' footwear is crafted to support young feet at every stage of their journey.
Need something built for the playground? Their kids' trainers are designed with grip, comfort, and durability in mind—perfect for tackling monkey bars, muddy fields and everything in between.
As the brand behind the iconic yellow boot that's defined generations, Timberland knows a thing or two about combining rugged reliability with on-trend design. Today, the global outdoor lifestyle brand continues to lead the way, with a strong focus on sustainability, craftsmanship, and community.
Thoughtfully made and built to last, Timberland's kids' range is ready to face whatever the new term brings—rain, shine or after-school adventures.
The info: Click here to shop now.
Explore the universe from your back garden
Who says space exploration is only for astronauts? The DWARF 3 Smart Telescope from 365 Astronomy brings the cosmos to your fingertips—literally. Compact, clever and brilliantly user-friendly, this nifty bit of kit lets you capture stunning shots of the Moon, stars, galaxies and even nebulae, all from your garden or balcony.
But it doesn't stop at stargazing—by day, it transforms into a powerhouse for birdwatching, landscape photography, and even tracking birds in flight.
Suitable for budding astronomers as young as five, it's a fantastic way to make learning feel like an adventure. With a built-in celestial database, one tap on your smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android) sends the telescope slewing to your chosen target—no fiddly setup required.
Whether you're a parent fuelling a child's curiosity or an adult diving into a new passion, the DWARF 3 makes the universe (and your world) feel just a little bit closer.
The info: Click here to find out more.
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