Homeschooling: BBC Bitesize free for BT and EE users

As homeschooling continues into 2021, here’s how you can access free BBC Bitesize resources on your mobile to keep your child’s education on track.

The content of this article was relevant at the time of publishing. Circumstances change continuously and caution should therefore be exercised when relying upon any content contained within this article.

Little daughter and her mother watching educational program on digital tablet

Image source: Getty Images

When investing, your capital is at risk. The value of your investments can go down as well as up and you may get back less than you put in.

Read More

The content of this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be, nor does it constitute, any form of personal advice. Investments in a currency other than sterling are exposed to currency exchange risk. Currency exchange rates are constantly changing, which may affect the value of the investment in sterling terms. You could lose money in sterling even if the stock price rises in the currency of origin. Stocks listed on overseas exchanges may be subject to additional dealing and exchange rate charges, and may have other tax implications, and may not provide the same, or any, regulatory protection as in the UK.

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More.

Are you homeschooling your kids during lockdown? Fear not, budding teachers: BBC Bitesize has you covered, and it’s free to access across BT and EE mobile networks. Here’s what you need to know.  

Who can access BBC Bitesize for free?

If you’re a BT Mobile, Plusnet Mobile or EE customer, you’ll be able to access BBC Bitesize for free by the end of January. It’ll mean that, even if you run out of data, your kids will still be able to access BBC Bitesize whenever they need to.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Maths and English lessons for all age groups are included.
  • You can view other core subjects, such as history, by year group. 
  • Lesson plans and learning packs are available to help you build your homeschooling programme.
  • There’s guidance to help students structure their own learning.

You don’t need to register for free access to BBC Bitesize educational content. Just visit BBC Bitesize and browse as normal. 

The best part of all this? So long as schools remain closed, you won’t use up any of your data allowance for accessing BBC Bitesize via mobile. And, it’s likely the deal will be extended to cover homeschooling content from more platforms in the coming weeks. 

Just to be clear, BBC Bitesize covers the National Curriculum in England only. However, BT also plans to zero-rate one free resource for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in the coming weeks. 

What if I’m not a customer? 

If you’re not a customer, or you don’t have a mobile, don’t worry. This time around, you can watch BBC Bitesize programmes through your TV.

  • CBBC and BBC Two will both run homeschooling shows every weekday. Check out the TV schedule to see what’s on and when.
  • Can’t watch live? You can catch up using the BBC’s Red Button or log into BBC iPlayer to watch programmes on demand.   

Other mobile providers may grant free access to similar platforms in the near future, so keep an eye out. 

Where else can I access free homeschooling resources?

If you’re trying to keep costs down while the kids are learning from home, here are some more free resources you can check out: 

  • For geography lessons, a free platform like Google Earth is your friend. 
  • Download free apps like Duolingo to brush up on foreign language skills.  
  • Check out websites like Twinkl for lesson plans and resource packs if you need inspiration. 
  • Watch documentaries like Planet Earth and Horrible Histories. They’re educational and fun, and all you need is TV access.  

BT also has its own Lockdown Learning scheme, which includes free WiFi access and unlimited data for low-income families. Contact BT to find out more.

Takeaway

Let’s face it: homeschooling is stressful for everyone. However, we’re all a little more prepared this time around, and the resources are out there to help.

If you can, take advantage of free access to programmes like BBC Bitesize, and aim for at least three to five hours’ of schooling per day. Include regular breaks, try some free workout apps to stay active, and encourage your child to talk it out if they’re feeling overwhelmed by everything that’s going on.

A final tip: it’s never too early for kids to learn how to budget and save money, so why not use this time to teach them some basic money management skills? A little financial education now could go a long way in the future! 

Should you invest, the value of your investment may rise or fall and your capital is at risk. Before investing, your individual circumstances should be assessed. Consider taking independent financial advice.

More on Personal Finance

Note paper with question mark on orange background
Personal Finance

Should you invest your ISA in a model portfolio?

Which model ISA portfolios offer both high performance and low fees? Hargreaves Lansdown, Interactive Investor and AJ Bell go under…

Read more »

Economic Uncertainty Ahead Sign With Stormy Background
Personal Finance

Is it time to exit emerging markets investments?

Investors may well be sitting on losses from emerging markets funds. Is it worth keeping the faith for a sustained…

Read more »

Personal Finance

Share trading? Three shares with turnaround potential

Share trading has been difficult in 2022, but which companies have turnaround potential? Jo Groves takes a closer look at…

Read more »

Man using credit card and smartphone for purchasing goods online.
Personal Finance

Revealed! Why Gen Z may be the savviest generation when it comes to credit cards

New research reveals that Gen Z may be the most astute when it comes to credit cards. But why? And…

Read more »

Environmental technology concept.
Personal Finance

The 10 best-performing sectors for ISA investors

The best-performing sectors over the past year invested in real assets such as infrastructure, but is this trend set to…

Read more »

Road sign warning of a risk ahead
Personal Finance

Recession risk ‘on the rise’: is it time for investors to worry?

A major global bank has suggested the risk of a recession in the UK is 'on the rise'. So, should…

Read more »

pensive bearded business man sitting on chair looking out of the window
Personal Finance

1 in 4 cutting back on investments amid cost of living crisis

New research shows one in four investors have cut back on their investing contributions to cope with the rising cost…

Read more »

Image of person checking their shares portfolio on mobile phone and computer
Personal Finance

The 10 most popular stocks among UK investors so far this year

As the new tax year kicks off, here's a look at some of the most popular stocks among UK investors…

Read more »