Susannah Hardyman

Pronouns: she/her

Susannah is the founder and CEO of Action Tutoring. Susannah was inspired to start Action Tutoring following experiences working in the charity sector and as a private tutor, recognising the potential to make the benefits of tutoring available to those that might not otherwise afford it, using volunteers.  You can read more about how Action Tutoring was established on Our story page.

Susannah is a fellow of the RSA and a Leaders Plus alumni.

I founded AT in 2011-12 with support from a brilliant group of people. I could see how much the private tutoring industry was booming, but at the same time it was clear how that only stood to exacerbate inequality for young people, when so many who could really benefit from the impact tutoring has are not able to afford it. It struck me that there were likely many talented people out there who would be willing to tutor for free for those who wouldn’t otherwise afford it and that hunch proved right. It’s the dedication, time and efforts of our now thousands of volunteer tutors that keeps us going and growing today!

I love how passionate the staff team are about Action Tutoring’s mission. Getting to work with such a motivated and talented group of people who really care about making a difference to young people’s lives is a huge privilege. I also really enjoy the variety of my role – from working with the team and board to further our vision and mission, to fundraising, advocacy work and connecting with new schools amongst many other things! I love getting people excited about what we’re doing and to see them come on the journey with us, whether as a staff or board member, funder, partner school, sector partner or volunteer tutor.

The effects of the pandemic on young people’s education are still being felt strongly, plus it’s a very challenging time for schools with the current financial pressures they are under. Both of those factors mean our work is needed more than ever to ensure that young people facing disadvantage can be given the support they need to unlock their potential. I’m excited that there are still so many opportunities for us to strengthen our model, demonstrate our impact and grow to reach new areas, supporting many more pupils.

Our team days are always a huge highlight of the year. Getting the whole team together has such a buzz and energy. I always leave inspired and motivated about what we can achieve together.