Deputy CEO shortlisted for prestigious Charity Times Awards

Action Tutoring’s deputy CEO, Jen Fox, has been shortlisted in the Supporting Leader of the Year category for the Charity Times Awards. In its 24th year, the Charity Times Awards recognises and celebrates outstanding leaders and professionals in the charity sector.

Since joining Action Tutoring in 2015, Jen has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to making high-quality education accessible for all. Susannah Hardyman, founder and CEO of Action Tutoring, said the nomination is a clear testament to Jen’s phenomenal leadership skills, resilient spirit, and drive for transformational positive change.

“We couldn’t be more delighted to have Jen’s skills and contributions recognised publicly in this way. Jen has transformed the delivery of our programmes, in particular developing our curriculum and tutoring resources, driving improvements in tutor training and ensuring impact remains at the heart of all we do.”

Susannah Hardyman

Rose to the challenge

Having worked across a multitude of roles in the last seven years at the education charity, ranging from Programme and Curriculum Director to Director of Transformation, Quality, and Impact, Jen has consistently modelled excellence in all of her work and relationships.

Appointed interim CEO twice before being promoted to Deputy CEO in 2022, Jen navigated the charity through one of its most turbulent academic years to date. During the Covid-19 pandemic with multiple school closures,  Jen rose to the challenge and was at the forefront of launching the online tutoring delivery in record time.

Bedrock of support

Jen’s undeterred leadership and love for innovation and quality improvement have enabled us to make online tutoring delivery a permanent feature, build impact evidence, and support more disadvantaged young people in new geographies.

As a bedrock of support to our CEO in a fulfilling but tough sector, Jen has constantly maintained a laser-sharp focus on our mission to unlock the full potential of the young people we support.

“Jen is an inspiration for all of us to work with – always looking to challenge herself and the team to drive improvements and make a profound difference in the lives of disadvantaged young people and communities we serve.”

Susannah Hardyman

The 24th Charity Times Awards is set for 20th September 2023 at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, where the winners selected by an expert independent judging panel will be publicly announced.

Volunteers take on Hackney Half Marathon to raise funds

The six runners raced for 13 miles at Hackney Half to raise over £2700 to support tutoring

The atmosphere at Hackney Marshes, the start and end point for the Hackney Half Marathon, was electrifying. Throngs of supporters had lined up the streets of the 13.1 mile course.

From shaking tambourines and blowing loud whistles to chanting runners’ names, motivation from the hundreds of thousands of cheering crowds was on full display.

A field of 24,000 runners who signed up for the half marathon were ready to push their minds and bodies to the finish line. Among the runners were six volunteers – Sam, Rhea, Tom, Luke, August, and James – taking on the challenge to raise funds in support of Action Tutoring’s mission.

The run started from the Hackney Marshes, through some of East London’s creative and popular spots including Broadway Market, Hackney Empire, Hackney Wick and Victoria Park.

Ramon, a finance administrator at Action Tutoring, was one of supporters cheering the runners on, alongside their family and friends at the finish line.

It had a festival-like atmosphere with music playing, buzzing energy and a great community spirit to encourage runners to push through to the very end.

Ramon

Physical toll

Running for 13.1 miles, an equivalent of 21 kilometres, is no mean feat and presents a massive challenge to the body. It exerts a physical toll that Tom, one of our brilliant volunteer runners, found out quite early-on in the race.

I had sort of shin splints and knee problems throughout the entire race, but I just had to dig deep. I kept it going, one foot in front of the other.

Tom

For Tom, the core takeaway from this challenge is doing something amazing in the name of charity, regardless of time or speed.

It’s about having a good time, but it’s also about finishing the race and being part of the whole event and not pushing yourself too hard.

Tom

Our volunteer runner, Rhea, also found the race painful but the reward was soothing.

It was so painful for a lot of it. But the whole time, it was amazing mentally yet physically terrifying.

Rhea

Staying motivated

To take on a big challenge like this, you need motivation to keep you going from mile to mile, or even at tougher points, step to step.

Our runners said the big motivators for them included the support from friends and family was a big motivator, people who donated to their fundraising pages and fans who cheered them on as they ran.

I saw people that shouted “Action Tutoring”, and that they have a brother and sister who has been tutored by the charity’s volunteers.

James

Eye on the prize

Another big motivation for the six runners through the thick and thin of the half marathon was the cause. Keeping in mind the altruistic reason they had taken on the huge challenge in the first place as the ultimate prize saw them through the race.

All funds raised will help increase access to tutoring for pupils from low-income families across the country. All our runners have previously or currently volunteered on our programmes. Action Tutoring works with volunteers to provide academic support in maths and English to primary and secondary pupils facing disadvantage.

While running, Rhea remained steadfast by thinking of the work and impact of Action Tutoring. 

I’ve signed up for a half marathon before and not followed through with it and then this opportunity came up with Action Tutoring and I just thought that’s an amazing cause to be running for and that I’d love to push myself to be doing something more for them.

Rhea

She urged people wishing to take on a challenge for a cause such as this to definitely go for it, as the pride in personal achievement and charity is worth it.

Definitely do it! Even though I know I just described it as very painful, that is going to be something I can look back on and be really proud of.

Rhea

Planting important seeds

Tom said he felt inspired by his fulfilling tutoring experience and decided to take his support one step further by taking on this challenge.

I’ve been a tutor for over seven months now and I’ve seen the great work that Action Tutoring does. This was just a different avenue that I could the help the charity reach more disadvantaged children and hopefully spread awareness about their work.

Tom

James also shared that the charity’s cause was close to his heart, elaborating why raising awareness for Action Tutoring was important to him.

I know people who have learning challenges or haven’t had the best upbringing or families that don’t necessarily understand the importance of education. I know the value of tutoring. For people to give up their time to help young people, they’re planting seeds – important seeds.

James

Fundraising success

Our runners not only worked hard at the race, but with their fundraising efforts. A staggering total of £2705 was raised collectively, smashing the original group target of £1800, or £300 per runner.

The raised amount translates into purchasing over 450 workbooks for face-to-face tutoring or 108 headphones for online delivery.

We are so proud of our runners for taking on this incredible physical feat whilst fundraising for Action Tutoring. Thank you to all the runners and all those who donated and supported each runner’s fundraiser. We can’t do our vital work without your support and advocacy.

Hannah O’Neill, Head of Philanthropy at Action Tutoring

With the raised funds and visibility from the Hackney Half Marathon, Action Tutoring will continue to work tirelessly to inspire disadvantaged young people and help them unlock their academic potential.

Thank You Day 2023: An Ode to Volunteers

Thank you to the unsung heroes of charity

When we think of superheroes, our minds often evoke images of capes, masks, and incredible superpowers. The true heroes among us aren’t necessarily blessed with X-ray vision or the ability to fly.

They are extraordinary ordinary people who selflessly give their time and efforts to causes that make a difference. Volunteers are the backbone of charitable organisations. They’re the ones who turn compassion into action, showing up day after day, ready to tackle any challenge. 

From feeding the homeless to cleaning up parks, from tutoring underprivileged children to rescuing adorable furry friends, these wonderful individuals are everywhere, making an impact, one selfless act at a time.

That is why we are joining the rest of the UK to mark the third annual Thank You Day on Sunday 2nd July. 

What is Thank You Day?

Thank You Day began with a handful of organisations looking for a way to say a huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who helped the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since then the campaign has grown and an astounding 15 million people have taken part in Thank You Day celebrations. Last year, 61% said that taking part had made their communities feel more united.

The impact of small actions

It’s easy to get caught up in the notion that changing the world requires grand gestures or infinite resources. But small actions can create profound ripples of positive change.  Even the tiniest effort can make someone’s day a little brighter. 

Whether it’s a heartfelt smile, a warm hug, spending an hour to support a young person or a simple “How can I help?”, these unsung heroes understand that the impact of their actions extends far beyond what meets the eye. Their dedication, combined with their unwavering belief in the power of compassion, transforms communities and touches lives in truly immeasurable ways.

The timeless gift of time

Imagine a world where everyone was too busy for kindness. Luckily, volunteers graciously donate their most precious resource – their time – to make a difference. Amidst their responsibilities and commitments, these extraordinary individuals carve out moments to lend a helping hand, becoming the living embodiment of the saying, “time is the most valuable gift.”

From organising food drives to planting trees, from tutoring pupils to comforting the lonely, volunteers invest their time to improve the lives of others. They are like time travellers, moving between the past, present, and future to create a better world for all. Their acts of kindness ripple through time, leaving a lasting impact that resonates with the souls they touch.

The magic of connection

Volunteers possess an uncanny ability to forge connections. They are the bridge builders who effortlessly bring people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. In a world that sometimes feels disconnected, these unsung heroes have the power to create bonds that transcend barriers and unite us all.

Through their compassion, volunteers ignite a spark of hope in the hearts of those they serve. Whether it’s sharing stories, helping to solve difficult study questions, offering a listening ear, or simply offering a warm smile, they make everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. 

In an era dominated by screens, volunteers remind us of the magic that unfolds when we connect with our fellow human beings on a deeper, more meaningful level.

A heartfelt thank you

So, here’s to the volunteers who keep the gears of kindness turning. Today, we express our sincerest gratitude for your unwavering spirit, your boundless energy, and your refusal to let obstacles dim your commitment to making a difference.

Thank you for donning your superhero capes without expecting recognition or applause. For reminding us that there’s always room for kindness and that we, too, can be part of something greater than ourselves. For being the quiet catalysts of change, selflessly working behind the scenes to create a better world.

As we mark Thank You Day nationally, let’s all reach out to these everyday heroes – volunteers, supportive friends, family, and colleagues to shower them with appreciation, and let them know that their efforts are noticed, valued, and cherished.

Highlights: Committee inquiry report on education recovery

Today, the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee has published its inquiry report on Education Recovery in Schools in England. The report assessed the value and effectiveness of education recovery programmes in schools based on written and oral evidence.

Following the disruption to education by the Covid-19 pandemic with multiple school closures, the Department for Education (DfE) introduced a number of recovery initiatives to help pupils and schools to catch up, most notably, the National Tutoring Programme (NTP).

The Committee’s inquiry assessed the DfE’s management of the recovery programme, the effectiveness of the NTP in meeting its objective, and if the scheme was achieving value for money.

The report found that the DfE did not fully appreciate the ‘pressures schools are under as they seek to help pupils catch up’ with evidence of persistent issues of funding constraints, growing mental health needs among pupils and challenges with teacher recruitment and retention.

As one of the education charities that submitted written evidence to this inquiry, we believe in the potential of the flagship recovery scheme, the National Tutoring Programme (NTP), to help reverse the Covid-19 pandemic disruption in education. 

However, we believe that this progress can only be achieved if the NTP is mainly targeted at disadvantaged pupils, tuition delivery is of high quality, funding is increased and outcomes are properly monitored.

Swift action to close the attainment gap

The report revealed that the Department for Education believes it will take a decade to return the attainment gap – which is at its widest in ten years at primary and secondary levels – to pre-pandemic levels. 

“The 10-year timeline to witness pre-pandemic attainment gap level is too long and stands to ruin the life chances of millions of pupils across the country”

Susannah Hardyman, founder and CEO of Action Tutoring

It recommended that the DfE publish a plan setting out how it will reduce the disadvantage gap as quickly as possible and the expected trajectory, building on good practice.

Without swift action to consolidate and implement multiple recommendations from this report and many others to improve the NTP, there will be far-reaching consequences of learning loss to this generation in schools.

It recommended that the DfE publish a plan setting out how it will reduce the disadvantage gap as quickly as possible and the expected trajectory, building on good practice. Without swift action to consolidate and implement multiple recommendations from this report and many others to improve the NTP, there will be far-reaching consequences of learning loss to this generation in schools.

High absence rate among the disadvantaged

In the autumn and spring terms of 2021-22, the average absence rate for all pupils was 7.4%, compared with 4.5% for the same terms before the pandemic in 2018-19. For disadvantaged pupils, the rate was 10.4% in 2021-22, compared with 7.2% in 2018-19.

It is alarming that persistent pupil absence continues to pose a significant challenge to schools and the well-being of pupils, especially the disadvantaged. Without pupils attending school, their outcomes are unlikely to improve.

Our evidence to the Education Select Committee on persistent pupil absence contained helpful recommendations to tackle the issue including:

• Sharing drinks and snacks during tutoring sessions to reduce hunger
• Letters and text reminders to parents about upcoming sessions in the day
• Parent information sessions about tutoring and its benefits
• Incentives such as vouchers if pupils attend the majority of tutoring sessions
• Certificate presentation and awards in assembly at the end of programme
• Integrate attendance into the positive behaviour management system such as gaining points for their ‘house’ through attendance

The report charged the DfE to develop a better understanding of why disadvantaged pupils have higher rates of absence than others and take targeted action to reduce absence rates among them.

“Continuing to invest in ensuring the most vulnerable pupils show up in the classroom is critical to breaking the cycle of low attendance rates currently. Persistent pupil absence will give rise to a surge of problems in the future for young people if the root causes are not addressed.“

Susannah Hardyman

Funding constraints for schools

Although the steep subsidy cut for the NTP has been reversed, schools are still grappling with funding constraints and budget squeezes. Schools that are struggling to pay 40% of tutoring costs this academic year will still struggle to make up for the 50% next year.

Additional funding commitment is needed long-term to ensure tutoring is sufficiently embedded in the education system widely and particularly for pupils facing disadvantage.

Increasing take-up of NTP

It is discouraging that 13% of schools did not take up the NTP and missed out on the benefits of subsided tutoring. The DfE must ramp up its efforts through a campaign to win the hearts and minds of parents and ​conscientise schools on the value and moral imperative of channelling the NTP funding towards those eligible for Free School Meals.

The report urged the DfE to do more to understand why some schools are not taking part in the National Tutoring Programme and take more effective action to increase participation.

We believe the Department should work with tuition providers with demonstrated impact to expand into cold spots and areas with low uptake to ensure that every disadvantaged child in the country, regardless of where they live, can access high-quality tutoring.

Applying recommendations

The recommendations set out in the Committee’s report also include progress reports on measures for 2030 attainment targets and funding intervention when schools struggle to bolster NTP uptake.

If the proposed solutions are applied, they will have a meaningful impact on closing the attainment gap and reversing the damage done by the pandemic’s disruption to education. The NTP can elevate its reach and impact to ensure it delivers on the intended objectives of the scheme, all in the best interest of disadvantaged young people.

Championing for the future of children today

Exactly 11 years ago, Action Tutoring piloted its first tutoring programme supporting 20 pupils in two secondary schools in Peckham, London. The goal was to provide tutoring to disadvantaged children who couldn’t afford the cost of private provision. 

The positive feedback from pupils and volunteer tutors on the preliminary programme spurred the charity to scale up the tutoring model in state schools across the country. Fast forward to this academic year, we’ve supported over 26,000 pupils with the help of over 9,000 committed, high-quality volunteer tutors from a fascinating range of backgrounds.

As well as  replicating our tutoring model in several regions across England, we’ve continued to increase our reach within London.

What is the Champions for Children campaign?

It’s a fundraising initiative launched in 2020 in response to the devastating effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on vulnerable children. Since then, the Champions for Children has continued to raise funds to support children across four key priority areas: Physical Health, Mental Wellbeing, Home & Community Environment and, Learning & Work Readiness 

We’ve ran match-funding campaigns before, but this is our first year taking part in this fantastic campaign run by The Childhood Trust, in collaboration with The Big Give. 

The Childhood Trust’s research shows that as much as 35% of London’s children live in poverty. With your support, we can help tackle this problem and reduce the effects of poverty on vulnerable young people. 

Starting from 6th June, until 20^th  of June, we are aiming to raise £4,000 in donations  to fight education inequalities in London. To further the impact, this £4,000 will be match-funded, raising our total target to £8,000. That means one donation = double the impact!

All funds raised will support our brilliant pupils t in London, as we want to celebrate where Action Tutoring started whilst combating education inequalities in the capital.

What is a match-funded campaign?

Match funding does what it says on the tin! Donations from you are matched from the pot to double the fundraised income. So, for every £1 you donate, £1 is added  from our match fund. This pot has been kindly built up by generous pledgers and The Childhood Trust.

What will my donation be going towards?

Your donation will contribute towards workbooks for face-to-face sessions and headphones for online sessions so pupils can benefit from high-quality tutoring.

Some of the funds will also  provide DBS checks for tutors volunteering with us in London, which is vital for safeguarding.

The minimum donation amount is £1 and the maximum is £25,000, so you are free to give an amount that suits you best.

How can I get involved?

We encourage you to get involved with the campaign in as many ways as possible! You can:

• Donate here
• Share, comment, and like related posts on our Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram pages
• Tell your friends and family (and anyone that’ll listen!)

With your help and donations, we will be better placed to provide support for pupils facing disadvantage in London and take several steps closer to levelling the playing field in education.

102 miles in 24 hours: Ultramarathon fundraiser for disadvantaged children

Andreas takes on the 102-mile ultramarathon fundraiser to raise £3000 for Action Tutoring

Andreas Vassiliou has been volunteering as a tutor with Action Tutoring since January this year. Each week, makes time to provide maths tutoring to pupils in community schools in Lambeth and Islington, London.

After experiencing first-hand the value of tutoring and our consistent advocacy in education, Andreas has become a strong proponent of Action Tutoring’s mission. He believes in the charity’s work to help pupils make meaningful academic progress as a means to open doors to better future opportunities.

“I have seen first hand the impact Action Tutoring has, and I also admire the determination of Action Tutoring to advocate for policy changes at the national level”

Andreas

In May, Andreas decided to up his support by taking on a daunting, personal fundraising challenge – a 24-hour ultramarathon.

When Andreas was deciding to take on this test of endurance for charity, he knew two things: he would run to fundraise for Action Tutoring and this challenge would massively push his physical and mental capabilities.

“This challenge came to mind whilst sitting on my sofa only a couple of months ago and Action Tutoring immediately came to mind as a charity I will do it for.”

Andreas

Run as many miles

His determination was to run as many miles as he could in 24 hours. After arming himself with all the essential snacks and smoothies to fuel him in his pursuit, Andreas was off.

He ran along the London Thames path and even took on the Southwark Parkrun around the 18th hour of his marathon.

Mentally tough

Andreas had ups and downs throughout the run, with the last two hours being the toughest mentally. However, he had incredible support all throughout the challenge, with friends and family lifting his spirits at the start of the run and some even doing parts of the run with him at different points.

“The final two hours on my own were mentally tough and I couldn’t manage more than 20 metres of jogging by the end. I had incredible support throughout as I did Southwark Park Run on Saturday morning with a big group of friends and family which really lifted my spirits.”

Andreas

Funds from ultramarathon fundraiser

By the end of the arduous run, Andreas had raised a total of £3000 for Action Tutoring. The amount can cover the purchase of 500 workbooks or train 48 more volunteer tutors to expand academic support to more children facing disadvantage.

“On the fundraising front, I used social media – Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, whatever it is to spread the word.“

Andreas

Andreas’ family and friends cheered him on at the end of the exhausting 102-mile run. After catching some breath, Andreas enjoyed a well-deserved Korean meal as a reward for the vigorous and inspiring fundraising effort.

Outside your comfort zone

Reflecting on the run and sharing lessons for others wishing to take on a walk, run, cycle, or hike for charity in the future, Andreas recommends setting realistic goals. However, he will challenge people to also go the extra mile to push themselves out of their comfort zone.

“If a goal doesn’t scare you a little it probably isn’t challenging enough! I’m a strong believer in growth coming from outside your comfort zone.”

Andreas

Taking on a fundraising challenge for charity can be very rewarding and fulfilling. If you are wondering how you can contribute to our work, find out more about getting involved with fundraising, volunteering, donations or advocacy to support young people facing disadvantage.