Parent FAQs
We know parents want to understand how STEMExpress works before registering their child. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
What is STEMExpress?
STEMExpress is an online learning club designed to help secondary-school students strengthen their understanding of STEM subjects.
Our approach is based around three simple stages:
Students learn a concept, practise applying it, and then develop the confidence to explain their understanding in their own words.
Is STEMExpress the same as traditional tutoring?
Not quite. STEMExpress combines teaching with active participation and small-group learning.
Rather than simply watching a tutor solve questions, students are encouraged to think, practise, ask questions, discuss approaches and explain how they reached an answer.
Which students can join?
Our current programmes are focused on GCSE students, including Year 9 and Year 10.
Available clubs may vary as we introduce new subjects and programmes. Please check the individual programme page for the current year groups and subjects.
Which subjects do you offer?
Our GCSE STEM programmes are being developed across:
Maths • Biology • Chemistry • Physics
Additional STEM programmes may be introduced in the future.
How many students are in each group?
Our small-group sessions have a maximum of 6 students.
Keeping groups small gives students more opportunities to participate, ask questions and interact directly with the tutor.
Are the sessions online?
Yes. STEMExpress clubs are delivered live online, so students can participate from home.
Joining instructions are provided after registration.
How long is each session?
A standard STEMExpress club session lasts approximately 60 minutes.
Session duration may vary for particular programmes, workshops or activities, and this will be clearly communicated before booking.
How much does it cost?
Fees may vary depending on the programme, subject and session format.
The current fee will always be clearly displayed or communicated before you register or make a booking.
From time to time, STEMExpress may also offer introductory prices, promotional offers or special programmes.
Do students have to commit for the whole year?
Not necessarily. The booking and commitment arrangements may vary depending on the programme.
Please check the registration information for the particular club. We aim to make joining STEMExpress straightforward without requiring parents to make an unnecessary long-term commitment.
Who teaches the sessions?
Sessions are delivered by carefully selected tutors with strong academic backgrounds and subject knowledge.
Our tutors are chosen not only for what they know, but also for their ability to communicate clearly, engage students and encourage them to think independently.
Are your tutors DBS checked?
Tutors working directly with students are DBS checked in accordance with our safeguarding arrangements.
Safeguarding and student wellbeing are important parts of how STEMExpress operates.
Does STEMExpress follow the GCSE curriculum?
Yes. Our GCSE clubs are designed around the relevant UK GCSE curriculum and examination requirements.
Programme pages will identify the relevant examination board or curriculum focus where applicable.
Will STEMExpress help my child with school homework?
The main purpose of STEMExpress is to develop a student's understanding of the subject rather than operate as a homework-completion service.
However, the knowledge and problem-solving skills students develop should help them approach their schoolwork more confidently.
What happens if my child doesn't understand something?
That is one of the reasons we keep our groups small.
Students are encouraged to ask questions, say when something isn't clear and work through difficult concepts with their tutor. We want students to feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes as part of learning.
What if my child is shy and doesn't like speaking in groups?
Students aren't expected to become confident speakers immediately.
Our Learn. Practice. Explain. approach gradually encourages participation. Tutors aim to create a supportive environment where students can contribute and build confidence at an appropriate pace.
Will my child be required to keep their camera on?
Our session expectations, including camera and microphone use, will be communicated to parents and students before joining.
These expectations will take account of effective learning, student comfort, privacy and safeguarding requirements.
Do parents receive progress reports?
We aim to provide parents with useful feedback about their child's participation and learning progress without turning every session into another formal school assessment.
The type and frequency of feedback may vary depending on the programme.
Are sessions recorded?
If a session is to be recorded, parents and students will be informed beforehand and appropriate consent, privacy and safeguarding procedures will be followed.
We will not assume consent simply because a student attends an online session.
What technology does my child need?
Students will normally need:
- A laptop or desktop computer with a reliable internet connection
- A microphone and speakers or headphones
- A webcam where required
- A suitable web browser
- Access to the relevant online learning platform
Any additional resources required for a particular session will be communicated in advance.
What happens if my child misses a session?
Please let us know as early as possible if your child cannot attend.
The availability of catch-up materials, alternative sessions, transfers or credits may depend on the programme and circumstances.
Please refer to the applicable booking and cancellation terms for further information.
How do you keep students safe online?
STEMExpress takes safeguarding seriously.
We use appropriate procedures covering tutor conduct, student communication, online sessions, professional boundaries, parental communication and the handling of personal information.
Parents can read our Safeguarding Policy for further information.
How do I register my child?
Simply select Register Your Interest and provide the requested parent or guardian and student information.
We will then contact you with information about suitable programmes, group availability and the next steps.
Can I speak to someone before registering?
Absolutely. Parents are welcome to contact us before deciding whether STEMExpress is suitable for their child.
Still have a question?
We want parents to feel comfortable and informed about how their child will learn with STEMExpress.
If your question isn't answered above, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
STEMExpress — Learn. Practice. Explain.