NTC SmartClass, a homeschooling program developed by the National Teachers College in partnership with APEC Schools, offers a compelling alternative to traditional schooling.

For many Filipino families, traditional education often feels like a daily balancing act. Lengthy commutes, rigid schedules, and a one-size-fits-all model can restrict opportunities for creativity, personal growth, and quality time. It’s no surprise that more parents are seeking learning solutions that prioritize both academic success and holistic development.

More than just a shift in format, it represents a reimagined approach to modern day education—one that empowers students to learn at their own pace, explore their interests, and stay actively engaged in both their studies and their lives

Flexible Learning That Adapts to Real Life

Eighth-grader Gabby appreciates the freedom that comes with NTC SmartClass.  “Here, you can study however you like,” she explains. “It fits into my lifestyle.” For Gabby, this flexibility allows time for her hobbies, social life, and active involvement in her church’s music ministry. “It helps us explore different interests and stay active outside school,” she adds—a welcome contrast to the isolation she once felt in more rigid learning environments.

Tenth-grader Rianne, who often travels, values how NTC SmartClass prepares her for the real world.  “It trains you for the future,” she says. “We work independently but also receive direct guidance from Subject Matter Experts.” That support encourages her to stay curious. “When I’m interested in a topic like physics, I can speak directly with an expert to dive deeper.”

Despite time zone differences, Rianne is able to balance academics and her personal life through a customized schedule. “I can adjust my learning routine to fit both,” she shares, emphasizing how the program’s adaptability supports her overall well-being.

Education That Empowers the Whole Family

For Mommy Jackie and her husband, both working from home in Pangasinan, the rigid schedules and logistical demands of traditional schooling were a challenge. As parents, they needed an educational option that offered flexibility and allowed their children to take ownership of their learning.

“Because my husband and I both work from home, we were looking for a homeschooling partner that could offer the same hybrid flexibility,” Jackie shares. “What we found with NTC SmartClass is more than just convenience; it’s a chance for my kids to take responsibility for their learning.”

Her sons, no longer weighed down by a rigid curriculum, now pursue their passions with enthusiasm. Jackie proudly shares that her eldest son independently took up swimming and surprised the family when he entered and won a local tournament. Her youngest, meanwhile, has become a “video editing teacher,” helping Jackie with her VA work.

With NTC SmartClass, Jackie sees her children thriving not only in their education but also in their personal growth. “It’s been wonderful to see them not just learn, but also truly live—balancing both schoolwork and their passions”

A Student-Centered Philosophy by Design

The success of NTC SmartClass is rooted in a thoughtfully designed educational philosophy that encourages students to take an active role in their learning.

Mary Ann C. Barcelon, the Instructional Design and Professional Development (IDPD) manager at NTC, leads this vision with deep expertise. A seasoned educator with over 15 years of experience, Mary Ann now guides the team behind NTC SmartClass’s academic content and instructional approach. She oversees the content specialists who create the program’s modules and resources, as well as the coaches who train NTC SmartClass Subject Matter Experts.

More importantly, she’s also a parent. Her two children, currently in Grades 2 and 3, are enrolled in the program.

“I want my kids to grow up with the freedom to play, explore, and stay curious—without unnecessary stress,” she shares. “That’s the kind of learning environment we’re building at NTC SmartClass.”

At its core, the program is a learn-by-doing model. It goes beyond passive knowledge delivery, prioritizing meaningful engagement and critical thinking.

“It’s not just about downloading information,” she explains. “It’s about actively working with it—asking questions, applying concepts, and connecting learning to real life.”

Structured flexibility is key. Students have the autonomy to:

• Design their daily schedules
• Decide the order in which they complete learning tasks
• Select live sessions that suit their pace and interests
  

This approach promotes accountability, allowing students to integrate learning seamlessly into their daily routines.

The curriculum is also anchored in relevance. Older students explore real-world issues through interdisciplinary lessons, while younger learners build foundational skills through project-based activities. Assessments emphasize demonstrated understanding over test scores, shifting the focus from performance to progress.

A Smarter Way to Learn, Live, and Thrive

NTC SmartClass demonstrates that education doesn’t have to be a source of stress—it can be a foundation for confidence, curiosity, and growth. By cultivating student agency, offering practical flexibility, and grounding lessons in real-world application, it equips children with the tools they need to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.

As Mary Ann notes, students in NTC SmartClass become more vocal, self-reflective, and purpose-driven.

“They learn to see the value in what they’re doing—not just for school, but for life,” she says.

This emphasis on curiosity, self-regulation, and relevance reflects what truly defines quality education: preparing children not just for exams, but for a dynamic future in the Philippines and beyond. As both a teacher and a parent, it’s a deeply personal mission.

At NTC SmartClass, that vision is coming to life—for her family, and for many more across the country.