SEND & Neurodiversity support
A world-class flexible online school for 11 - 18 year olds where neurodiverse learners are supported to thrive — with expert mentors, personal pacing, and no pressure to fit a mould.
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Welcome note from Suzanne, MVA Principal
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Suzanne Lindley
Principal, Minerva Virtual Academy
For too long, school has asked families to shape their lives around it. At MVA, it couldn’t be more different.
Our unique timetable blends independent, student-led learning with Live Lessons delivered by our brilliant teachers. The result is a calm, balanced approach that gives students both structure and freedom, so they can learn in a way that truly works for them.
We’re a British school with a global, inclusive spirit. Wellbeing sits at the heart of everything we do, and we’re proud to welcome families from anywhere in the world who want to learn with us.
I very much look forward to welcoming you soon.
How We Teach
SEND Support at MVA
At MVA, our dedicated team, led by our SENDCO, Wayne, is committed to cultivating an inclusive and nurturing environment that recognises and celebrates the unique talents of all our students. We take pride in our customised educational approach, ensuring that every student is empowered and set up for success.
“Both of our children are enrolled and it’s already been an amazing start to the year. The neuroaffirming structure of the school and language and approach used by teachers is so refreshing.”
Most asked questions
about our SEND support
What SEND training do the mentors have?
Mentors undergo specialised training to support SEND students effectively, focusing on understanding and addressing diverse needs. Some are trained SENDCos, many are specifically employed due to their extensive experience working with children with SEND. Our SEND team deliver regular training for all staff throughout the year as well - we have training on a variety of topics such as PDA, and have a virtual module on SEND info for all staff on our platform.
My child does not want to attend Live Lessons, is this possible?
There is no official requirement that a student must attend the live lessons, however it is encouraged. If the student will not be attending Live Lessons we request that they attend their 1:1 Mentoring sessions, and the school assembly. If your child will not be attending Live Lessons please notify us.
Does my child have to have their camera on in Live Lessons?
MVA does have a "cameras-on" policy to help create the rapport of a lesson and for safeguarding reasons. However, if your child is particularly anxious about this, we can arrange an exemption that all teaching staff will be aware of. If your child isn't comfortable asking questions on the microphone, they can also make use of the private chat function with the teacher as an alternative option.
Can Minerva’s Virtual Academy meet all provisions outlined in an EHCP?
We can meet most EHCP provisions thanks to the flexibility of our online learning programme. However, some provisions may not be deliverable in our setting, and these will need to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
What EHCP provisions might Minerva’s Virtual Academy be unable to provide?
Some examples include:
• Daily check-ins with a key member of staff (although students have weekly 1:1 mentor sessions)
• Direct provision of therapies such as Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT) or Occupational Therapy (OT). These need to be arranged by the local authority and delivered at home or elsewhere.
• Physical learning environments or multi-sensory inputs, which must be managed by the student and their family at home.
How does MVA’s online setting impact students with EHCPs?
Because our students learn from home, they typically have more autonomy over their learning. This can be beneficial, especially for students who need to control their learning environment. However, it also means they need to take more responsibility. If this is difficult, additional adult support at home may be required.
Where can I get additional SEND help and advice?
If you need general advice and support about SEND-related issues and queries here is a list of useful organisations to get in touch with:
"It’s not an exaggeration to say that MVA has saved my neurodivergent daughters education."
Make friends in Social rooms throughout the week
- Make friends in dedicated social rooms
- Find nearby MVA families on our Classlist app
- Join in on our extracurricular activities and speaking opportunities
Drop into our after school clubs
- Express yourself in Art Club
- Get your body moving in Run Club
- Get your game on in Esports
- Explore and celebrate diversity of thought in Neurodiversity Club
- And many, many more!
Connect with friends through MVA trips
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Help & Support
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