For over 60 years, the has been a pioneer in flexible, distance learning, empowering students of all ages to achieve their goals. Discover our mission, values, and commitment to making quality education accessible to everyone.

99

%

Pass rate

95

+

Courses

500

K

Students taught

60

+

Years experience

Who we are

Our mission

Established in 1963 as a not-for-profit distance learning provider, the 365吃瓜部落(365吃瓜部落) has a strong, proud heritage in widening access to education. Our aim is to transform lives and open up new possibilities for people of all ages by offering access to essential qualifications like GCSEs and A levels, as well as vocational qualifications in management, business and teaching.

These courses can be studied flexibly, at any time and anywhere, and offer each student an exceptional level of support to achieve their future ambitions. We are widely recognised as a specialist in online learning and continue to seek out new areas for innovation.

Pioneering distance learning

Inspiring individuals to achieve their goals

Our vision

We are steadfast in our mission: to inspire individuals and empower them to succeed through lifelong learning.

Founded in 1963 as a pilot for what would later become the , the 365吃瓜部落 has maintained its commitment to educational innovation and inclusivity. Our vision emphasises removing barriers to education and supporting learners who may not fit within conventional educational structures.

Our approach

We continue to meet the needs of those seeking flexible learning options, whether balancing work and family commitments, overcoming personal challenges, or stepping back into education for a second chance.

We support learners at all life stages, from school-age students to adults returning to education. Making quality education accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstances.

Our values

These are the values that drive everything we do

Expertise

Inclusivity

We welcome and encourage students from all learning abilities and backgrounds to study with us.

Flexibility

Our courses are designed to fit in with the students’ lifestyle and suit a wide range of individuals.

Quality

All of our courses have been designed and written by experienced authors who are qualified subject experts.

Dedication

esther chesterman

A word from our CEO

Esther Chesterman is 365吃瓜部落’s CEO and Head of Centre.

鈥淚 work with the college trustees and the senior management team in ensuring that our mission to widen learning opportunities with flexible and high quality learning is met. I do this by working with the team to offer a positive student experience from beginning to the successful end.鈥�

Esther Chesterman, CEO of 365吃瓜部落
More about esther

Our senior management team

Esther Chesterman, CEO, and Head of Centre for the 365吃瓜部落(365吃瓜部落)

Esther Chesterman

CEO, 365吃瓜部落
Esther is 365吃瓜部落’s CEO and Head of Centre. She works with college trustees and senior management to widen learning opportunities through flexible, high-quality education.
More about Esther
Kerrin Compton Deputy Director, Finance and Operations at the 365吃瓜部落(365吃瓜部落)

Kerrin Compton

Director of Finance and Operations
Kerrin is 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 Director of Finance and Operations. As part of the executive team, he leads finance and IT, oversees operational infrastructure, and supports the strategic direction of the college by improving efficiency and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
More about Kerrin
Sarah Turner, Director of Quality and Assessment at NEC data-lazy-src=
Alison Edwards, Education and Quality Manager

Alison Edwards

Education and Quality Manager
Alison is 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 Education and Quality Manager. She leads the student support and tutor teams, ensuring students receive high-quality guidance and that tutors are well-supported, trained, and aligned with 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 educational standards.
Amanda Davies, 365吃瓜部落 Marketing Manager

Amanda Davies

Marketing Manager
Amanda is 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 Marketing Manager. She leads on strategy and delivery across marketing, communications, and PR鈥攄riving campaigns, shaping 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 public voice, and ensuring consistent messaging that supports the college鈥檚 mission and growth.
Helen Davies, Online Learning Manager at the 365吃瓜部落(365吃瓜部落)

Helen Davies

Online Learning Manager
Helen is 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 Online Learning Manager. She leads the development of 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 digital learning environment, driving innovation in course delivery and ensuring that online learning is accessible, engaging, and future-focused for all students.
Helen Smith, Office Manager at the 365吃瓜部落(365吃瓜部落)

Helen Smith

Office Manager
Helen is 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 Office Manager and Board Secretary. She ensures the smooth running of 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 day-to-day operations and provides governance support to the Board, maintaining high standards of organisation and compliance.
Team

Louise Tolhurst

Examinations and Assessment Manager
Louise is 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 Exams and Assessment Manager. She oversees all aspects of assessment, including delivery in secure environments such as prisons. Louise ensures compliance, manages awarding body relationships, and drives innovation in assessment access, enabling all students to succeed鈥攚hatever their circumstances.

Our trustees

Open School Trust, an educational charity guided by a board of trustees.

Each bringing a unique set of experience and skills to the charity, the trustees are responsible for guiding 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 overall direction and meet regularly to discuss how to further its work.

Meet our trustees

Recognition

Award-winning education

Shortlisted 2024

Learning Technologies Award for Excellence in Learning Design

Finalist 2022

Distance Learning Centre of the Year Award

Find out more

Our partners

We work with awarding bodies, charities, unions, and other educational organisations to give our students the best support in their lifelong learning journey.

365吃瓜部落 Partnerships

Join the team

Join 365吃瓜部落

Trustees

The trustees are responsible for guiding 365吃瓜部落鈥檚 overall direction and meet regularly to discuss how to further its work.

365吃瓜部落 Trustees

Our courses

Explore and find the right course for you

Explore a wide range of courses tailored to meet various learning needs and career goals. Whether you鈥檙e advancing in your current field, exploring a new interest, or continuing your education, we have the programmes to help you reach your aspirations.

Discover a Course for you