celebration

A dozen years of making a difference: Action Tutoring turns 12

28 June 2024

On 26th June, Action Tutoring marked its 12th anniversary with a celebratory event at Drapers’ Hall in London. One of our funders, the Drapers’ Charitable Fund, generously donated the hall and refreshments for the evening. It was a truly inspiring evening filled with powerful messages, heart-warming stories, and a renewed commitment to educational equality. Guests mingled over delicious wine and canapes, forging new connections and sharing their experiences of Action Tutoring’s journey. The night ended on a sweet note, with everyone taking home a delightful Action Tutoring cupcake. These were a special creation by Zoe Rafah of Heavenly Creations.

Captivating speakers and special guests:

We were honoured to hear from a host of captivating speakers, including Grant Clemence (Group Head of Insurance Risk and Corporate Insurances, QBE, and Chair of the QBE Foundation) and Simrat Mavi (Deputy Headteacher, St Giles’ CE Primary School, Walsall). We also heard from Janet Cheney, one of our volunteer tutors who has been supporting us for over ten years about her experiences. Their insights and experiences were invaluable, highlighting the crucial role of education in empowering young people. Not to mention, The Rt Hon. the Lord David Blunkett, former education secretary, even sent a personal video message that resonated deeply with the audience (watch here).

Sadly, the National Tutoring Programme has had the money pulled and, of course, Action Tutoring has had the money pulled by the outgoing government. Frankly, I think it’s a scandal. What we need now, is to reinvigorate tutoring with Action Tutoring, and with all those who are willing to give time and effort and energy to ensure that we offer to all youngsters, what those with wealthy parents take for granted. - The Rt Hon. the Lord David Blunkett, Former Education and Employment Secretary and now active in the house of Lords

Celebrating impact:

One highlight of the evening was our new film showcasing some of the inspiring young people who have benefitted from Action Tutoring (watch here).  We would love it if you could share this film on your social media in order to help raise awareness of our crucial work.

Volunteer award winners:

We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and passion of our volunteers. A big congratulations to all our Volunteer Award winners this year, we were thrilled to see so many of you in person at the event:

  • Philip Sims
  • Robert (Bob) Mauger
  • Nicholas Paul
  • Laura Shepherd
  • Matthew Bradshaw
  • Susan Tonge
  • Nehal Patel
  • Claire Gregson
  • Steve Hackett
  • Simon Ximenez
  • Heather Halls
  • Angela Fookes

Your involvement:

We are so grateful to every volunteer, school teacher, funder, partner, and team member who has helped us reach this incredible milestone. Together, we have made a significant impact on the lives of countless young people. Thank you!

It appealed to me enormously their “bang for your buck” in the return of information we get back from Action Tutoring, in terms of seeing where our investments are going, seeing where our materials make difference has just surpassed anything we’ve ever seen from a charity. - Grant Clemence, Group Head of Insurance Risk and Corporate Insurances, QBE, and Chair of the QBE Foundation

We will continue our work until we reach a point where we’re no longer needed. To make this possible, please help spread the word to encourage others to join our mission as a volunteer, partner school or funder.