Minerva Virtual Academy (MVA) has taken an exciting leap forward by assembling a Global Education Advisory Board, marking a pivotal moment in its journey as an award‑winning, Department for Education‑accredited online school for 12–18‑year‑olds. Launched in 2020, MVA has rapidly become a trailblazer in one‑to‑one and group digital learning, and this newly formed board is set to strengthen its global strategy.
Table of Contents
Why This Board Matters
In today’s fast‑evolving educational landscape, virtual schools face unique challenges—from integrating AI responsibly into learning frameworks to ensuring cybersecurity in remote classrooms and navigating international compliance issues. Recognising these complexities, MVA’s leadership, led by Founder and CEO Hugh Viney, saw the need for a high‑level advisory body to guide its technological, pastoral, and regulatory growth.
“This is a huge step for Minerva and, I believe, for education as a whole,” said Viney, emphasising that every student deserves an education they love. With this board, “we can do so much more” in elevating their model.
Who’s On the Board? A Diverse Array of Expertise
MVA has assembled a balanced and global panel. The board comprises seven distinguished leaders with deep experience across AI, EdTech, policy, inclusion, cybersecurity, and regulatory frameworks:
- Dan Fitzpatrick – A specialist in AI in education, advising on both its potential and its risks.
- Al Kingsley MBE – EdTech champion, CEO of NetSupport, and chair of a multi‑academy trust in the UK.
- Mark Steed – Internationally experienced school leader and advocate for cutting‑edge educational technology.
- Ellie Costello – Policy strategist and co‑author of Square Pegs, prioritising inclusion in mainstream education.
- Euan MacLean – CEO of &Parents, fostering proactive engagement between online schools and families.
- Durgan Cooper – A cybersecurity authority with a background in government and military services.
- Todd Viney – Expert in compliance and international audit, proficient in managing global educational standards.
Each member has been carefully selected to support MVA’s next stage—scaling digital infrastructure, reinforcing safeguarding practices, and expanding international partnerships.
Strategic Vision: Scaling with Support and Security
Digital Infrastructure & Student Support
As MVA grows, it needs robust technology platforms to support its flipped learning model—self‑paced study complemented by live group lessons, personalised mentoring, and community initiatives. The advisory board will assist in scaling these systems sustainably, ensuring seamless learning and pastoral care across continents.
International Compliance & Operations
With students across 50+ countries, MVA must navigate a patchwork of local regulations. Input from board members like Todd Viney will be critical in identifying risk, compliance requirements, and audit readiness, enabling smooth expansion into new regions.
Safeguarding & Cyber‑Security
In virtual schooling, student safety hinges on more than physical measures—it’s about secure platforms, consistent ethical practices, and strong privacy protections. Cybersecurity veteran Durgan Cooper will advise on safeguarding digital systems, while Euan MacLean will guide student‑family engagement policies.
Inclusion and Accessibility
Building an inclusive global community requires deliberate design. Board members Ellie Costello and Al Kingsley will advise on policies and EdTech adoption that promote accessibility, ensuring that no student feels overlooked or marginalised.
MVA’s Journey: From Tutoring Roots to Award‑Winning Online School
Before launching MVA, Hugh Viney founded Minerva Tutors in 2014, providing tailored homeschooling support. Customer demand for a structured, affordable alternative drove the creation of Minerva Virtual Academy in late 2020. Since then, MVA has achieved full DfE accreditation (June 2024), garnered top exam results, and earned industry recognition, including nominations for the World’s Best School Prize and multiple awards from Edufuturists and National Tutoring Awards.
Its innovative flipped-learning model blends flexible digital coursework with live interaction, group projects, subject-specific mentoring, and ongoing pastoral care. This well-rounded approach has empowered over 1,000 students in more than 50 countries, backed by a growing community of educators and parents.
Global Ambitions: Reaching Students Everywhere
MVA is particularly focused on expanding its reach in new time zones. In recent months, it welcomed a new Vice‑Principal for the Middle East and established ties with COBIS—the Council of British International Schools—further embedding its global credentials. The Board will play a key role in such developments, offering strategic advice on entering emerging markets while maintaining academic and pastoral standards.
Executive Confidence: Why the Advisory Board is a Game‑Changer
Hugh Viney stated the board will “level up everything we do in terms of technology, student support, and overall industry impact.” This sentiment reflects a broader shift in global education: online schools must combine innovation with oversight to thrive. The board’s multidisciplinary perspective—from AI ethics to cyber-resilience—ensures MVA is equipped for tomorrow’s challenges.
By bringing experienced voices into its planning, MVA aims to sustain momentum, avoid pitfalls, and achieve excellence in educational offerings and operations. It’s a bold move to institutionalise growth, responsibility, and quality.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Students and Families
For prospective students and parents, the board’s formation brings clarity and confidence. It signals a long-term investment in:
- Technological resiliency—platforms that grow with student needs.
- Secure learning environments, with proactive safeguarding.
- Inclusive practices, making education accessible and equitable.
- Streamlined international expansion, promising stability across regions.
Families choosing MVA can now be sure the school’s infrastructure—academic, technological, and pastoral—is being guided by expert oversight.
Final Thoughts: A New Benchmark for Online Education
Minerva Virtual Academy’s creation of a Global Education Advisory Board represents a mature and strategic advancement in online learning. With rigorous governance and expert insight, MVA is paving the way for credible, scalable, and student-centred digital education.
As the academy continues to win awards and attract global learners, this advisory board will play a vital role in shaping what online education becomes: a trusted, inclusive, and innovative alternative to traditional school.
Join our WhatsApp community
Join Our Social Media Channels:
WhatsApp: NaijaEyes
Facebook: NaijaEyes
Twitter: NaijaEyes
Instagram: NaijaEyes
TikTok: NaijaEyes
