One Degree - What is in it for the schools?

Become a One Degree School

Sometimes we contact schools and sometimes schools contact us asking for partnership. We run online mentoring and in-person workshops throughout the year, however our core GCSE programme takes place from November to June.

What it takes

Your school doesn’t need to be in a struggling area, nor do your students need to be struggling academically. What truly matters is a shared aspiration to help students achieve better grades and brighter futures.

To ensure a successful partnership, we ask for the following from schools:

Collaboration with teachers and leadership to create a supportive environment
Commitment to shared goals and principles
Consistency in reinforcing discipline throughout the programme

Important Note: We’re not looking for students with top grades—we’re looking for those with high aspirations and the drive to improve.

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Benefits for Partner Schools

Schools participating in the One Degree programme see measurable improvements in student performance, including better class and exam results, as well as increased engagement and participation in school life.

Our students leave the programme with greater confidence, self-belief, and stronger social skills, helping them interact more effectively with their peers.

In the long term, One Degree can enhance your school’s overall reputation and image. Partnering with us also gives your school access to our exclusive linked programmes, providing even more opportunities for growth and development.

Review our Results

“One Degree offered pupils a unique opportunity to learn key skills for their English exam in a really supportive environment. Working with mentors from business really helped pupils focus on the importance of achieving their GCSEs and working hard. It was an invaluable experience for many.”

“One of our pupils was predicted a mid-D grade at the start of One Degree. He achieved a B in English which, considering all the government reforms, is remarkable.”

“The students came to English on a Monday excited to share what they had learnt on a Saturday at One Degree. By Easter we had pupils asking if they could join the programme.”

“As Maths teachers, we noted an increased engagement from the students involved in One Degree. Students who had never before considered themselves as likely candidates for GCSE success now realised that it was within reach.”

“I have worked with One Degree for 3 years and have been deeply impressed by their commitment to the cause of academic and social success in areas of high disadvantage. They have a unique, strategic and successful approach.”

“They work in close alignment with the school and offer the boys a structured, fun programme that boosts their exam performance. Crucially, One Degree also provides a ‘can do’ attitude and ensures that motivational speakers add the extra self-belief that can often be a barrier to achievement. This year, there was a clear step up from the boys who were involved in 1D as exam season approached. This undoubtedly enhanced their performance. I look forward to continued and increased collaboration in the months and years ahead.”

How One Degree Works

Flexible Support for GCSE Students and Alumni
One Degree offers both online and in-person options to provide tailored support for GCSE students and alumni seeking ongoing guidance.

Online Sessions

Our custom-built online mentoring platform provides flexible, cost-effective support that’s both popular and highly effective.

Key features of our online programme:

Flexible scheduling: Students can book 1-on-1 mentoring sessions for Maths, English, and other GCSE subjects 7 days a week.
Saturday group sessions: Small group mentoring and live-streamed lessons every Saturday morning.
Expert instruction: Fully qualified external teachers for each subject, offering curriculum-aligned support and fresh perspectives.
On-demand resources: Lesson replays, online courses, and downloadable resources for Maths and English.

In-Person Workshops

Our in-person sessions are held at either the participating school or a One Degree base, depending on the school’s location.

Key features of our in-person programme:

Focused study time: Up to 5 hours per session, with a strong emphasis on Maths and English, including exam techniques and planning.
Personalised attention: A 1:4 mentor-to-student ratio, combining one-on-one guidance with collaborative group work.
Expert instruction: Fully qualified external teachers for each subject, providing fresh insights and in-depth curriculum support.
Mock exams: Practice sessions to build focus, confidence, and preparedness.
Inspiration and leadership: Guest speakers, team-building exercises, and leadership activities to inspire students.

Core Hybrid Programme

Since 2019, our hybrid programme has been the cornerstone of our mission to improve GCSE grades. By blending online and in-person support, we deliver an effective, flexible approach that meets the needs of students and schools alike (dependent on funding).