Meet the trailblazer that challenges life-chances everyday
In an era where many students face barriers to accessing quality education, Ruth Minhall and the Tuition Extra Group are leading the charge to bridge the gap. By combining academic rigor with therapeutic support, Ruth’s organization is not only improving academic outcomes but also fostering personal growth, resilience, and emotional well-being in young people facing adversity.
Can you provide an overview of Tuition Extra & its core mission?
Tuition Extra Group is an educational organization based in Canterbury, Kent, serving young people aged 4 to 25 across the UK South East. Our core mission is to improve life chances for children and young adults particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), Social Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) challenges or complex needs. Many of the students we support have experienced adverse childhood experiences, trauma or difficulties accessing mainstream education.
We take a creative and individualized approach to education removing barriers to learning, ensuring that students who might otherwise be left “Our success is not just measured in grades, but in transformed lives.” behind not only access education but thrive. Our work focuses on engaging young learners in meaningful ways helping them to achieve positive academic and personal outcomes.
Tuition Extra is dedicated to challenging the traditional education system, which often fails this vulnerable cohort. We aim to break cycles of low aspiration, poor qualifications and limited life opportunities preventing young people from being fast-tracked to secure units or even the criminal justice system. By demonstrating that these students can achieve aspirational learning outcomes, we are not only transforming individual lives but also creating a positive impact on society and the economy.
At the heart of our work is the belief that every young person—regardless of their background, circumstances or past experiences—has the potential to grow, succeed in education and build a better future.
How does technology play a role in your teaching & tutoring services?
Technology plays a vital role in Tuition Extra’s teaching and tutoring services enhancing accessibility, engagement and learning outcomes. One of our key developments is the creation of an online classroom system and portal, which is currently under construction. This platform enables us to teach students remotely, extending our reach to learners both across the UK and internationally. By delivering high quality educational programs online, we can support students who may be geographically distant or unable to attend in-person sessions.
Beyond online learning, technology also supports many of our vocational and academic pathways. For example, subjects like music production, computer programming and design technology heavily integrate digital tools allowing students to explore creativity in innovative ways. This hands-on experience not only builds essential skills but also provides a safe space for students to experiment, learn from failure and ultimately succeed.
We recognize that technology in education comes with both advantages and challenges. While digital tools and AI can enhance learning, there is a growing concern about students becoming passive consumers of content rather than active thinkers. Excessive reliance on screen-based entertainment and social media can limit critical thinking, problem-solving and executive function skills.
We believe in a balanced approach— leveraging technology to enrich learning while ensuring that students remain engaged in active, critical and creative thinking. Our focus is not just on academic achievement but on developing essential life skills, encouraging debate, questioning and fostering independent thought. By using technology thoughtfully, we aim to empower young learners to be more than just passive participants in the world, and instead active, analytical and engaged individuals.
How do you stay competitive in the rapidly changing education sector?
We lead the way in providing high quality education programs for young people who might otherwise be excluded from learning. Our competitive edge comes from our ability to think beyond traditional educational models and offer a truly holistic, solution-focused approach.
We are committed to improving life chances by ensuring that our students—many of whom face significant challenges—have access to education that not only supports their academic growth but also nurtures their confidence, resilience and life skills. We encourage a culture where failure is seen as a learning opportunity, empowering students to take risks, build problem-solving skills and develop a strong sense of identity and belonging.
Unlike many conventional educational institutions, we do not operate within rigid boundaries. Our approach integrates academic learning with therapeutic interventions and emotional development programs, ensuring that each student receives the individualized support they need. This means that we don’t just focus on achieving outstanding exam results— though we are very proud of our students’ academic successes—but also on personal growth, well-being and long-term independence.
Our staff, a team of over 160 dedicated professionals, share this vision and play an essential role in maintaining our competitive edge. We foster an environment where our team is encouraged to think creatively, identify challenges and present innovative solutions that remove barriers to learning. This proactive mindset ensures that we continually adapt and refine our approach staying ahead in the rapidly evolving education landscape.
We work with some of the most vulnerable young people in society, many of whom have faced repeated failures in traditional education settings. We represent a final opportunity to re-engage not just with learning but with society as a whole. By recognizing that challenging behaviors often serve as a form of communication, we strive to understand the individuals behind these challenges and provide them with the support they need to succeed.
Ultimately, our ability to stay competitive comes down to our unwavering commitment to our students. By thinking beyond conventional models, integrating education with emotional and social development, and focusing on each student as a whole person, we are not just changing education—we are transforming lives.
Does Tuition Extra engage in community or social initiatives to promote education for underprivileged students?
We are deeply committed to inclusive education and ensuring that every young person—regardless of background or circumstances— has access to meaningful learning opportunities. We actively engage in community and social initiatives to support underprivileged students, removing financial and social barriers to education.
Does Tuition Extra engage in community or social initiatives to promote education for underprivileged students?
We are deeply committed to inclusive education and ensuring that every young person—regardless of background or circumstances—has access to meaningful learning opportunities. We actively engage in community and social initiatives to support underprivileged students, removing financial and social barriers to education.
Pro Bono Educational Support
We believe that cost should never prevent a young person from accessing education. On a case-by-case basis, we provide pro bono support to children, young people and even their wider families, ensuring that those in need receive the educational assistance required to succeed.
Family Thrive Program
We incorporate the Thrive Approach, a powerful emotional development framework, into our work. Our trained practitioners deliver a Family Thrive course—a three-day program designed to help parents and carers understand brain development and the emotional needs of young people. This initiative educates and empowers families and professionals, enabling them to better support children in their care.
The Maypole Foundation & Maypole Farm
We are also proud to have launched The Maypole Foundation, a charitable initiative dedicated to providing aspirational educational opportunities for individuals at risk of exclusion from both education and society. The foundation operates out of Maypole Farm, a 52-acre site where young people engage in hands on learning experiences that nurture personal growth, social inclusion and practical skills.
At Maypole Farm, we provide:
- Animal Care & Equine Therapy – Rescued and rehabilitated animals serve as therapy partners, helping young people build emotional connections and develop trust.
- Environmental & Wildlife Projects – Initiatives focused on supporting biodiversity, protecting wild habitats and promoting sustainability.
- Hands-on Vocational Learning – Mechanics, construction, horticulture and natural art installations, allowing students to develop valuable skills in an interactive setting.
These programs foster a sense of community, inclusion and aspiration supporting young people who might otherwise struggle to find their place in society.
Through these initiatives, Tuition Extra is not only providing education but also creating pathways for young people to build confidence, develop resilience and flourish in both their personal and academic lives.
Are there any specific curricula or unique teaching methodologies you employ?
The Tuition Extra Group is a game changing trailblazer in education and one to watch with its unprecedented success within the fields Special Educational Needs (SEN), complex needs and Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH). Our approach removes barriers to learning for a group of young people who have historically been overlooked or written off.
Exceptional Academic Outcomes
The UK national average for GCSE results (A*-C / Level 9-4) among SEN and complex needs students is just 13%. In contrast, our students achieve a remarkable 74% success rate—a testament to our groundbreaking methodologies and holistic approach.
Triangulated Teaching Methodology
Our approach is unique because we do not focus solely on academics. Instead, we triangulate learning by integrating:
- Therapeutic Interventions – Addressing trauma, emotional regulation and self-development.
- Emotional Development Programs – Supporting well-being, resilience and social integration.
- High-Impact Academic & Vocational Learning – Ensuring qualifications that lead to real world success.
This methodology does not just improve academic results; it also prevents vulnerable young people from being fast-tracked to secure units, unemployment or the criminal justice system. By investing early, we provide life-changing opportunities while also delivering long-term economic benefits.
A Curriculum That Goes Beyond Academics
We follow the National Curriculum but expand it to include:
- Core Academics – English, Maths and essential subjects tailored to individual needs.
- Vocational Training – Construction, mechanics, horticulture and hands-on skills.
- Creative & Performing Arts – Music technology, drama and visual arts.
- Mentoring & Life Skills – Building confidence, independence and self-worth.
- Holistic Well-being – Nutrition, emotional support and trauma-informed care.
We recognize and harness students’ aspirations and interests, offering meaningful, student-centered education that helps them to develop a strong sense of identity and motivation.
Beyond the Classroom: Meeting Basic Needs First
Many of our students have faced trauma, neglect or adverse childhood experiences. Before expecting them to focus on learning, we ensure their fundamental needs are met:
Have they eaten? Do they feel safe? Do they feel heard & valued?
By addressing these basic needs first, we create an environment where real learning can happen, transforming education into a powerful tool for life change.
Can you tell us about the leadership & the team behind Tuition Extra?
We are driven by a shared vision— to transform young lives through education. Our success is not the result of one individual, but rather the collective expertise, passion and dedication of an exceptional team of professionals. Every member of our organisation plays a critical role in ensuring that students with complex needs, Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges receive the education, support and opportunities they deserve.
Visionary Leadership & Senior Team
Ruth Minhall – Founder & CEO
“We do not just educate—we empower, uplift and change lives.”
Leading with Vision & Innovation As the CEO, I have the privilege of shaping the vision and direction of Tuition Extra. But vision alone is not enough—our team turns ideas into action, ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to succeed, no matter their circumstances.
Angela Hughes – Group Head of Education
Angela is my right hand and a driving force behind our quality, innovation and academic excellence. She ensures that our unique methodologies—which combine therapeutic interventions, emotional development and academic learning—are effectively implemented. Under her leadership, our results have outperformed national averages, setting new benchmarks in special education.
Steff Dowle – Head of Haven Nook Independent Special School
Steff leads Haven Nook, a specialist school for neurodiverse students who cannot access mainstream education. His leadership ensures that students who may have previously been excluded or struggled within traditional education, are given an environment where they can truly flourish.
Jamie Pickles – Head of Maypole Farm
Jamie leads our 52-acre Maypole Farm, a groundbreaking educational site that integrates animal therapy, horticulture, mechanics and forest school activities. His leadership allows students who struggle in conventional settings to develop life skills in an outdoor, therapeutic environment.
Lydia Blench – Head of Tuition Extra Education Services
Lydia leads our Tuition Extra Tutoring Services, ensuring high-quality, individualised teaching and learning. Her team works both onsite and in outreach settings, helping students achieve qualifications in academics, vocational studies and personal development.
A Team Dedicated to Transforming Lives
The 160-strong team at Tuition Extra Group is made up of:
- Specialist teachers trained in SEN, SEMH & trauma-informed education
- Therapists & emotional development experts supporting mental health & self-regulation
- Mentors & vocational trainers developing life skills, confidence and aspirations
- Tutors & academic coaches driving outstanding results with a pass rate of 86% in 2023-24
We are not just educators—we are changemakers, ensuring that young people who have been written off, get the second chance they deserve.
“Our focus is not just on academic achievement but on developing essential life skills”
“Our success is not just measured in grades, but in transformed lives.”
“We are not just changing education—we are transforming lives.”
“We encourage a culture where failure is seen as a learning opportunity.”
Company Name : Tuition Extra (Kent) Ltd
Website : https://tuition-extra.co.uk/
Management Team
Ruth Minhall | Founder & CEO
