In today’s digital age, learning isn’t confined to the classroom. For UK primary students, there are countless free educational websites that make studying fun, engaging, and accessible. Whether your child is improving math’s skills, practicing reading, or exploring science, these platforms offer interactive activities that align with the UK National Curriculum. Here’s a list of the top free educational websites every primary student (and parent) should know about.
1. BBC Bitesize
Website: bbc.co.uk/bitesize
BBC Bitesize is one of the UK’s most trusted educational resources. It offers age-specific lessons for Key Stages 1 and 2, covering subjects like English, math’s, science, geography, and history. The platform includes games, quizzes, and short videos that simplify complex topics. It’s perfect for homework support and revision.
2. Top marks
Website: topmarks.co.uk
Top marks is a go-to site for teachers and parents. It offers hundreds of free interactive games for children aged 5–11. From Hit the Button (a math’s favorite) to spelling and phonics games, Top marks helps kids practice essential skills in a fun way.
3. Oxford Owl
Website: oxfordowl.co.uk
Developed by Oxford University Press, Oxford Owl provides free eBooks and learning resources for children aged 3–11. It’s especially useful for early readers, offering a digital library that matches the Oxford Reading Tree scheme used in many UK schools. Parents can also find expert advice on helping children read at home.
4. National Geographic Kids
Website: natgeokids.com/uk
For curious minds, National Geographic Kids combines education with adventure. Children can explore fun facts, quizzes, and videos on topics like wildlife, space, and the environment. It encourages critical thinking and a love for science and nature.
5. DK Find Out!
Website: dkfindout.com/uk
Created by Dorling Kindersley (DK), this website turns learning into a visual experience. With colorful diagrams, videos, and infographics, DK Find Out! helps primary students explore subjects such as history, computing, and the human body. It’s great for visual learners who thrive on images and interactivity.
6. PhonicsPlay
Website: phonicsplay.co.uk
PhonicsPlay is ideal for younger learners developing reading skills. It features phonics games and printable worksheets designed to match Letters and Sounds phases used in UK schools. The site offers free access to several games that support early literacy.
7. NASA Kids’ Club
Website: nasa.gov/kidsclub
For budding astronauts, NASA’s Kids’ Club offers games, videos, and educational challenges related to space and science. It inspires curiosity about space exploration while teaching problem-solving and STEM concepts.
8. Crickweb
Website: crickweb.co.uk
Crickweb provides over 250 free interactive resources for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 students. It includes games and quizzes on subjects like maths, literacy, and geography, making it a valuable classroom or home learning tool.
9. FunBrain
Website: funbrain.com
While it’s US-based, FunBrain offers universally useful games that improve logic, math’s, and reading comprehension. The colorful design and story-based approach keep primary students engaged for hours.
10. BBC Teach
Website: bbc.co.uk/teach
BBC Teach provides free educational videos, live lessons, and resources created for teachers but equally helpful for parents supporting home learning. Its lessons cover all subjects from the UK curriculum.
Final Thoughts
These free educational websites offer an engaging blend of learning and play for UK primary students. From improving literacy to exploring the universe, they turn screen time into productive time. Parents and teachers can use them to supplement school lessons and make education a joyful, everyday experience.