National Theatre Collection vs PBS LearningMedia

National Theatre Collection brings filmed theatre productions and related learning materials into classrooms. Its catalogue covers UK productions ranging from Shakespeare to literary adaptations and classic comedies. Each play is accompanied by resources to help students explore themes, performance, and technique. Learning Packs include plot synopses with timecodes, production notes, and pointers for further research; where available, Rehearsal Insights provide rehearsal diaries and Staff Director notes. Primary Packs and Cross-Curricular Learning Guides support English, History, Geography, and PSHE. The collection also offers Key Stage 3 Packs and lesson plans for some productions. It is designed for schools and further education, including a curated selection for UK state primary schools. UK state-funded schools and FE colleges have free access. Higher education institutions can request a trial and subscription through the sales team, while UK independent and worldwide schools can ask JCS Online Resources about subscription and trial details. The service is available on the web.

PBS LearningMedia is a free digital media service for educators and students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Its library contains more than 30,000 classroom-ready materials from PBS member stations and partners, including videos, images, interactives, lesson plans, articles and primary sources. Content aligns with state and national curriculum standards, and search filters include grade, subject, resource type, video length, accessibility supports and language. With an account, educators can browse by standards, save favorites, build lessons and create shareable folders. Users can also watch videos, complete assignments, search and share content. The platform integrates with Google Classroom, Clever and Remind. PBS says classroom use does not require permission, including distribution through Lesson Builder or those integrations. Printed pages must include the website URL and cannot be distributed to students for a charge. PBS says it will not sell student data or use it for targeted advertising, and describes technical, administrative and physical safeguards. A free account is required for all features.