It’s a proud moment for all of us at Minerva’s Virtual Academy (MVA) as we share some thrilling news! In a landmark event since our launch three and a half years ago, Ofsted has released a glowing report about our school, praising us for “giving children their future back.”
When we started MVA in 2020, our vision was to create an environment where every child felt accepted and had the chance to enjoy school Today, with over 800 students from 48 countries, we’re humbled and excited to see our efforts recognised by Ofsted and the Department for Education (UK), who now accredit MVA as as a provider of online education.
Our commitment to well-being is at the core of everything we do. Ofsted inspectors noted that at MVA, everyone – from students to staff – feels “valued, cared for, and supported.” This is the environment we strive to create every day, where each student can thrive academically and personally.
Our incredible staff have been recognised for embodying our mission to deliver a high-quality curriculum. Inspectors highlighted that our leaders have succeeded in replicating the best aspects of traditional schools in an online environment.
One of the aspects that truly sets MVA apart is our mentoring programme. Every student is paired with a one-to-one mentor based on their needs and interests. Ofsted described this program as the “backbone on which the school’s success is built.” This personalised attention helps each student navigate their educational journey with confidence and support.
We’re particularly proud that around 40% of our students have joined us due to mental health challenges. The Ofsted report highlights the positive impact MVA has had on these students and their families. Students have shared how learning with MVA has improved their mental health, and parents have praised our flexibility, engagement, and empathy. One parent’s words, “MVA has given their child their future back,” resonate deeply with our mission and drive.
Hugh Viney, our founder, reflects on this milestone: “Since our launch, we’ve been advocating for robust accreditation for online schools. Receiving Ofsted accreditation places us on par with traditional schools and solidifies online education as a viable, endorsed path. This is a huge leap forward for online schooling in the UK.”
Hugh adds, “I hope this is just the beginning of a greater collaboration between traditional schools, local authorities, and online providers. Together, we can move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to a more personalized education system. I’m incredibly proud of our community – this is just the start of our exciting journey to improve education for young people everywhere.”
Our Principal, Suzanne Lindley, echoed this sentiment: “Ofsted’s glowing report is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone at MVA. From our teachers and mentors to our administrative staff, and not forgetting our amazing students and families, everyone has played a crucial role in achieving this milestone. I’m delighted that our forward-thinking, inclusive, and supportive school has been recognised in this way. We have an incredibly exciting future ahead.”
As we gear up for the new school year starting on September 2nd, we invite families to explore the unique opportunities at MVA. If you’re considering a switch to online schooling, visit our Admissions page for more information.