This issue focuses on Distance education and play for learning in the context of COVID-19 and lessons learned: innovation, impact and challenges. There is no doubt that the pandemic presents varying challenges and opportunities concerning students’ learning. Many schools have had to adapt their teaching to meet the needs of students by using various online means. This issue includes articles on remote practical science, using tabletop role-play games to aid learning, using web-based diagnostic assessment, promoting science learning through imaginary play, looking at other countries' science curricula, and teaching Darwinian theory. As always, we are grateful to our sponsors, Gratnells, for their support with the journal.