The National Teachers College (NTC) and APEC Schools finalized their merger to form a stronger education powerhouse to reshape the sector.
The merger, approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission in late 2023, combines the strengths and resources of both institutions to provide quality and accessible education to more students.
NTC, with a 95-year track record of excellence in teacher education, will bring experience, while APEC, known for its innovative and progressive teaching methods, will bring fresh ideas and modern approaches to education.
The merger paved the way for NTC SmartClass, blending traditional wisdom with modern technology.
“During the first year, we observed that NTC SmartClass homeschoolers appreciate the additional layers of support that other homeschooling programs do not provide,” said APEC Schools chief learning officer Mark Sy.
“The triangle of support ensures that we support each homeschooler along the way and that no one gets left behind, which fosters a love for learning,” he said.
Many families opted for homeschooling as a safer alternative to traditional schooling during the pandemic due to concerns about health, flexibility and personalized learning.
The NTC SmartClass was introduced in 2023 as a response to the widespread adoption of homeschooling. The program recognized the need for flexible and comprehensive educational solutions tailored to meet the needs of modern-day families.
It builds upon the innovative foundations of online learning during the pandemic, retaining the core of progressive teaching methods while incorporating deep educational insights and expertise from NTC’s long-standing tradition of excellence.
NTC SmartClass, the homeschooling program of the National Teachers College for Kinder to Grade 10, prioritizes each student’s unique learning styles, paces, and interests.
The approach is grounded in the understanding that a one-size-fits-all model of education is not only outdated but also ineffective in nurturing every learner’s full potential.
It offers flexible study schedules using a learning-by-doing approach.