Edufuturists Edufuturists #327 Flexible Learning for All with Hugh Viney
Jan 19, 2026
Hugh Viney, Founder and CEO of Minerva Virtual Academy, discusses his revolutionary approach to education that caters to students outside traditional settings. He shares insights on the need for alternative schooling models, especially after COVID highlighted the benefits of online learning. The conversation delves into how MVA fosters community and breaks down barriers to happiness in education. Hugh also emphasizes the importance of preparing students, including athletes, for life beyond school while maintaining a human-first approach in a tech-driven environment.
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Origins From Tutoring And Forced Homeschooling
- Hugh built MVA after running a tutoring business and seeing parents forced into homeschooling for neurodivergent, mental-health, athlete and lifestyle reasons.
- He launched a trial in late 2020 and grew to 1,300 students by 2024, keeping community central through trips and meetups.
Four Barriers To Student Happiness
- Hugh defines four 'happiness barriers' blocking students: the building, the classroom environment, the teaching style, and fixed school hours.
- MVA removes those barriers with online learning, asynchronous content, and flexible schedules to boost engagement.
DfE Visit Validated Student Recovery
- The DfE visited MVA, sat in assemblies and lessons, and held a panel with student ambassadors sharing recovery stories.
- Students told officials that MVA made them happier, restored confidence, and helped them re-engage with learning.