Igniting
Academic Success
for Care-Experienced
Young People

Igniting
Academic Success
for Care-Experienced
Young People

Igniting
Academic Success
for Care-Experienced
Young People

We provide personalised, one-to-one online tutoring and mentorship, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a network of support for young people in care.

We provide personalised, one-to-one online tutoring and mentorship, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a network of support for young people in care.

We provide personalised, one-to-one online tutoring and mentorship, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a network of support for young people in care.

Boy on computer
Boy on computer
Boy on computer

We are partnered with over

We are partnered with over

19

19

amazing schools, and

amazing schools, and

9

9

local authorities, helping

local authorities, helping

100+

100+

students

students

  • Bradfield

    College

  • Caldicott

    School

  • City of London

    School

  • City of London

    School for Girls

  • Dulwich

    College

  • Exeter

    School

  • Homefield Preparatory

    School

  • Ibstock Place

    School

  • John Lyon

    School

  • Knightsbridge

    School

  • Notting Hill and

    Ealing High School

  • Oundle

    School

  • Radley

    College

  • Sedbergh

    School

  • St Albans High

    School for Girls

  • Wells Cathedral

    School

  • Oxford High

    School

  • Harrow
    Virtual School

  • Ealing
    Virtual School

  • Brent
    Virtual School

  • Hillingdon
    Virtual School

  • Barnet
    Virtual School

  • Oxfordshire
    Virtual School

  • Wandsworth
    Virtual School

  • Sutton
    Virtual School

  • Cambridgeshire
    Virtual School

  • Harrow

    School

  • St Edward's

    School

  • Bradfield

    College

  • Caldicott

    School

  • City of London

    School

  • City of London

    School for Girls

  • Dulwich

    College

  • Exeter

    School

  • Homefield Preparatory

    School

  • Ibstock Place

    School

  • John Lyon

    School

  • Knightsbridge

    School

  • Notting Hill and

    Ealing High School

  • Oundle

    School

  • Radley

    College

  • Sedbergh

    School

  • St Albans High

    School for Girls

  • Wells Cathedral

    School

  • Oxford High

    School

  • Harrow
    Virtual School

  • Ealing
    Virtual School

  • Brent
    Virtual School

  • Hillingdon
    Virtual School

  • Barnet
    Virtual School

  • Oxfordshire
    Virtual School

  • Wandsworth
    Virtual School

  • Sutton
    Virtual School

  • Cambridgeshire
    Virtual School

  • Harrow

    School

  • St Edward's

    School

  • Bradfield

    College

  • Caldicott

    School

  • City of London

    School

  • City of London

    School for Girls

  • Dulwich

    College

  • Exeter

    School

  • Homefield Preparatory

    School

  • Ibstock Place

    School

  • John Lyon

    School

  • Knightsbridge

    School

  • Notting Hill and

    Ealing High School

  • Oundle

    School

  • Radley

    College

  • Sedbergh

    School

  • St Albans High

    School for Girls

  • Wells Cathedral

    School

  • Oxford High

    School

  • Harrow
    Virtual School

  • Ealing
    Virtual School

  • Brent
    Virtual School

  • Hillingdon
    Virtual School

  • Barnet
    Virtual School

  • Oxfordshire
    Virtual School

  • Wandsworth
    Virtual School

  • Sutton
    Virtual School

  • Cambridgeshire
    Virtual School

  • Harrow

    School

  • St Edward's

    School

About Us

About Us

Creating a

brighter future

for all young people

Creating a

brighter future

for all young people

Lumina is a transformative non-profit collaboration that breaks down barriers and empowers vulnerable care-experienced young people to achieve their full potential. We provide personalised, one-to-one online tutoring and mentorship, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a network of support for our students - at no cost whatsoever either to the young people, carers or local authorities. We are committed to closing the attainment gap and ensuring that all young people, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to thrive.

Lumina is a transformative non-profit collaboration that breaks down barriers and empowers vulnerable care-experienced young people to achieve their full potential. We provide personalised, one-to-one online tutoring and mentorship, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a network of support for our students - at no cost whatsoever either to the young people, carers or local authorities. We are committed to closing the attainment gap and ensuring that all young people, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to thrive.

Free Tutoring and Mentorship - Delivered at no cost to pupils, carers or local authorities

Transformative Programme - Driven by qualified teachers & industry experts

Building Self-Esteem and Support Networks - Empowering student potential

"I'm so passionate about working with Lumina Tutoring. Seeing the difference we're making in the lives of these young people is truly inspiring. It's a privilege to be part of their journey towards success."

"I'm so passionate about working with Lumina Tutoring. Seeing the difference we're making in the lives of these young people is truly inspiring. It's a privilege to be part of their journey towards success."

Lumina Teacher

Harrow School

How we help

How we help

Transforming futures with educational opportunities

Transforming futures with educational opportunities

Empowering Academic Success

At Lumina, we bridge the educational gap for vulnerable youth through personalised, one-on-one tutoring. Our measurable success metrics speak volumes, closing the attainment gap and propelling academic excellence among students in care.

Nurturing Self-Worth

With Lumina, self-esteem is nurtured, confidence is kindled, and potential is unlocked. Real stories from students and their inspiring journeys exemplify the transformative impact of our mentorship programs.

Opening Doors to Opportunity

We don't just provide education; we open doors to brighter futures. Lumina creates pathways to higher education, vocational training, and meaningful employment, ensuring no barriers hinder our students' aspirations.

Building Lifelong Connections

Beyond education, Lumina fosters a robust support network. We cultivate enduring relationships among mentors, students, and partners, fostering a community of unwavering support and guidance.

Impact

Impact

The potential Lumina offers

The potential Lumina offers

Hear from a diverse range of stakeholders, their views and opinions of how Lumina is making a difference.

Hear from a diverse range of stakeholders, their views and opinions of how Lumina is making a difference.

Lumina Tutor
Lumina Tutor

What is Lumina

Lumina Tutor
Lumina Tutor

The difference Lumina makes

Lumina Tutor
Lumina Tutor

Why teachers love Lumina

Lumina Tutor
Lumina Tutor

Why independent schools value Lumina

Lumina Tutor
Lumina Tutor

A teacher’s view of Lumina

Lumina Tutee
Lumina Tutee

A student’s view of Lumina

Lumina Tutor
Lumina Tutor

A foster parent’s view of Lumina

Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it

In the past year, Lumina has supported over 60 looked after children and young people, across the full range of educational Key Stages. This is what some of them have shared with us:

  • "Lumina provides an indescribable experience that has prepared me for higher education in a way that I cannot imagine without the presence of this programme. The sheer enthusiasm of the teachers: never once doubting my abilities and building my self-confidence with continuous support, has led to me beginning my Veterinary degree this Autumn. Lumina has enabled a fundamental bridge to higher education pathways and student journey after high school."

    Lumina Tutee

  • “R got a grade 6 - we are so proud of her. Once again, thank you for all your help and support. She wouldn't have been able to do it without you.”

    Carer of student

    Starting grade 5

  • “C received a 4 and 4. He would not have received this mark without the help of M (tutor). Before tutoring with M he was a U. For C this has been an amazing result and he is able to take the course at college he wanted. M went above and beyond expectations to help C. Many thanks and the best of luck with recruiting, you are changing lives.”

    Carer

  • “Thank you for the lessons. They really helped me pass Science. I got a 5 in Biology thanks to you.”

    Lumina Tutee

    Starting grade 3/4

  • “R was on a U in Biology but after tuition she received a B grade.”

    Carer

  • “J really benefits from the tuition with Mr L. We are really grateful for the time Mr L is committing to help him. Many thanks to you and your team for the fantastic help and support you provide to these children.”

    Carer

  • “The online one-to-one tuition organised by Lumina has grown from strength to strength... As professionals we have witnessed first-hand the benefits that this tuition programme has brought to our students; including good academic progress as well as raised levels of confidence across many areas of their lives.”

    Mellina Williamson Taylor, Virtual School Headteacher

    London Borough of Harrow

  • “My experience at Lumina has been really rewarding. My tutee has responded very positively to our lessons and his progress is already noticeable. The students that Lumina supports have been dealt some really difficult cards in life. Your help could make a difference in their academic progress and motivation levels. If you are able to, I would like to encourage you to volunteer with Lumina. I did, and it was one of the best decisions I have made this year.”

    Esmeralda Alonso-Ezbakh, Teacher

    Notting Hill & Ealing

  • “It is quickly becoming the highlight of my week. H now sends me questions before so we have plenty to look at during the session and there is very limited work for me to do in preparation.”

    Lumina Tutor

  • “In 15 years of teaching, these are the most impactful lessons that I have done. I have now tutored many different students and all have made extraordinary progress – three of my students went from failing Maths GCSE to passing and being allowed to go to the College of their choice.”

    Lumina Tutor

  • “I am so pleased to let you know that I have passed my GCSE maths, with a grade C. Thank you for the extra tuition and advice which definitely made a difference to my performance in the exam.”

    Lumina Tutee

  • “Thank you! Just thought you'd like to know I got a 9 in Chemistry. Thank you so much for tutoring me.”

    Lumina Tutee

  • "M and I wanted to thank you for the remarkable work you did with her maths work. M received grade 4 Maths and she passed all her GCSEs receiving grades 5 & 6. She was accepted at all the colleges she applied for. We are so proud of her. Thanks again, I’m sure M will never forget."

    Carer

  • "Working with inspirational teachers who mentor and support our young people has made a world of difference in helping to raise aspiration and self-belief. Conversations with inspirational teachers have opened new pathways and possibilities, where pupils can start to envision a life beyond school, realise their personal goals and ambitions and consider a more academic pathway into universities and future successful careers."

    Nayna Joshi - KS4 LAC Advisory Teacher

    Brent Virtual School

Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it

In the past year, Lumina has supported over 60 looked after children and young people, across the full range of educational Key Stages. This is what some of them have shared with us:

  • "Lumina provides an indescribable experience that has prepared me for higher education in a way that I cannot imagine without the presence of this programme. The sheer enthusiasm of the teachers: never once doubting my abilities and building my self-confidence with continuous support, has led to me beginning my Veterinary degree this Autumn. Lumina has enabled a fundamental bridge to higher education pathways and student journey after high school."

    Lumina Tutee

  • “R got a grade 6 - we are so proud of her. Once again, thank you for all your help and support. She wouldn't have been able to do it without you.”

    Carer of student

    Starting grade 5

  • “C received a 4 and 4. He would not have received this mark without the help of M (tutor). Before tutoring with M he was a U. For C this has been an amazing result and he is able to take the course at college he wanted. M went above and beyond expectations to help C. Many thanks and the best of luck with recruiting, you are changing lives.”

    Carer

  • “Thank you for the lessons. They really helped me pass Science. I got a 5 in Biology thanks to you.”

    Lumina Tutee

    Starting grade 3/4

  • “R was on a U in Biology but after tuition she received a B grade.”

    Carer

  • “J really benefits from the tuition with Mr L. We are really grateful for the time Mr L is committing to help him. Many thanks to you and your team for the fantastic help and support you provide to these children.”

    Carer

  • “The online one-to-one tuition organised by Lumina has grown from strength to strength... As professionals we have witnessed first-hand the benefits that this tuition programme has brought to our students; including good academic progress as well as raised levels of confidence across many areas of their lives.”

    Mellina Williamson Taylor, Virtual School Headteacher

    London Borough of Harrow

  • “My experience at Lumina has been really rewarding. My tutee has responded very positively to our lessons and his progress is already noticeable. The students that Lumina supports have been dealt some really difficult cards in life. Your help could make a difference in their academic progress and motivation levels. If you are able to, I would like to encourage you to volunteer with Lumina. I did, and it was one of the best decisions I have made this year.”

    Esmeralda Alonso-Ezbakh, Teacher

    Notting Hill & Ealing

  • “It is quickly becoming the highlight of my week. H now sends me questions before so we have plenty to look at during the session and there is very limited work for me to do in preparation.”

    Lumina Tutor

  • “In 15 years of teaching, these are the most impactful lessons that I have done. I have now tutored many different students and all have made extraordinary progress – three of my students went from failing Maths GCSE to passing and being allowed to go to the College of their choice.”

    Lumina Tutor

  • “I am so pleased to let you know that I have passed my GCSE maths, with a grade C. Thank you for the extra tuition and advice which definitely made a difference to my performance in the exam.”

    Lumina Tutee

  • “Thank you! Just thought you'd like to know I got a 9 in Chemistry. Thank you so much for tutoring me.”

    Lumina Tutee

  • "M and I wanted to thank you for the remarkable work you did with her maths work. M received grade 4 Maths and she passed all her GCSEs receiving grades 5 & 6. She was accepted at all the colleges she applied for. We are so proud of her. Thanks again, I’m sure M will never forget."

    Carer

  • "Working with inspirational teachers who mentor and support our young people has made a world of difference in helping to raise aspiration and self-belief. Conversations with inspirational teachers have opened new pathways and possibilities, where pupils can start to envision a life beyond school, realise their personal goals and ambitions and consider a more academic pathway into universities and future successful careers."

    Nayna Joshi - KS4 LAC Advisory Teacher

    Brent Virtual School

Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it

In the past year, Lumina has supported over 60 looked after children and young people, across the full range of educational Key Stages. This is what some of them have shared with us:

  • "Lumina provides an indescribable experience that has prepared me for higher education in a way that I cannot imagine without the presence of this programme. The sheer enthusiasm of the teachers: never once doubting my abilities and building my self-confidence with continuous support, has led to me beginning my Veterinary degree this Autumn. Lumina has enabled a fundamental bridge to higher education pathways and student journey after high school."

    Lumina Tutee

  • “R got a grade 6 - we are so proud of her. Once again, thank you for all your help and support. She wouldn't have been able to do it without you.”

    Carer of student

    Starting grade 5

  • “C received a 4 and 4. He would not have received this mark without the help of M (tutor). Before tutoring with M he was a U. For C this has been an amazing result and he is able to take the course at college he wanted. M went above and beyond expectations to help C. Many thanks and the best of luck with recruiting, you are changing lives.”

    Carer

  • “Thank you for the lessons. They really helped me pass Science. I got a 5 in Biology thanks to you.”

    Lumina Tutee

    Starting grade 3/4

  • “R was on a U in Biology but after tuition she received a B grade.”

    Carer

  • “J really benefits from the tuition with Mr L. We are really grateful for the time Mr L is committing to help him. Many thanks to you and your team for the fantastic help and support you provide to these children.”

    Carer

  • “The online one-to-one tuition organised by Lumina has grown from strength to strength... As professionals we have witnessed first-hand the benefits that this tuition programme has brought to our students; including good academic progress as well as raised levels of confidence across many areas of their lives.”

    Mellina Williamson Taylor, Virtual School Headteacher

    London Borough of Harrow

  • “My experience at Lumina has been really rewarding. My tutee has responded very positively to our lessons and his progress is already noticeable. The students that Lumina supports have been dealt some really difficult cards in life. Your help could make a difference in their academic progress and motivation levels. If you are able to, I would like to encourage you to volunteer with Lumina. I did, and it was one of the best decisions I have made this year.”

    Esmeralda Alonso-Ezbakh, Teacher

    Notting Hill & Ealing

  • “It is quickly becoming the highlight of my week. H now sends me questions before so we have plenty to look at during the session and there is very limited work for me to do in preparation.”

    Lumina Tutor

  • “In 15 years of teaching, these are the most impactful lessons that I have done. I have now tutored many different students and all have made extraordinary progress – three of my students went from failing Maths GCSE to passing and being allowed to go to the College of their choice.”

    Lumina Tutor

  • “I am so pleased to let you know that I have passed my GCSE maths, with a grade C. Thank you for the extra tuition and advice which definitely made a difference to my performance in the exam.”

    Lumina Tutee

  • “Thank you! Just thought you'd like to know I got a 9 in Chemistry. Thank you so much for tutoring me.”

    Lumina Tutee

  • "M and I wanted to thank you for the remarkable work you did with her maths work. M received grade 4 Maths and she passed all her GCSEs receiving grades 5 & 6. She was accepted at all the colleges she applied for. We are so proud of her. Thanks again, I’m sure M will never forget."

    Carer

  • "Working with inspirational teachers who mentor and support our young people has made a world of difference in helping to raise aspiration and self-belief. Conversations with inspirational teachers have opened new pathways and possibilities, where pupils can start to envision a life beyond school, realise their personal goals and ambitions and consider a more academic pathway into universities and future successful careers."

    Nayna Joshi - KS4 LAC Advisory Teacher

    Brent Virtual School

Join the movement

Become a Lumina Fellow and volunteer your time as a one-on-one online tutor or mentor for care-experienced young people. Your contribution will support the ongoing operation of the Lumina program and enable us to reach more deserving students.

Join the movement

Become a Lumina Fellow and volunteer your time as a one-on-one online tutor or mentor for care-experienced young people. Your contribution will support the ongoing operation of the Lumina program and enable us to reach more deserving students.

Join the movement

Become a Lumina Fellow and volunteer your time as a one-on-one online tutor or mentor for care-experienced young people. Your contribution will support the ongoing operation of the Lumina program and enable us to reach more deserving students.

FAQs

Your questions answered

Explore our frequently asked questions section to learn more about Lumina's programs, eligibility, and the impact we create.

What is Lumina's primary mission?

Lumina's core mission is to provide transformative, personalised online tutoring and mentorship to empower vulnerable young people, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a supportive network.

What measurable impact has Lumina made so far?

Lumina has supported over 60 children and young people looked after, across all educational Key Stages, resulting in significant improvements in academic performance and raised levels of confidence among students.

Who is eligible to benefit from Lumina's programs?

Lumina primarily supports children and young people in or on the edge of care, including those in local authority care, offering tailored educational support to help them thrive.

Is there any cost involved in participating as a student or carer?

No, Lumina provides its services entirely free of cost to the young people, carers, or local authorities involved.

How can I get involved with Lumina as a volunteer?

You can get involved by becoming a mentor,  or offering your time and skills. Explore our ‘Get Involved’ page to learn more about volunteer opportunities and how you can contribute.

What kind of support is provided to volunteers or mentors?

Lumina offers comprehensive administrative support, training, and ongoing assistance to volunteers, ensuring they're well-equipped and supported in their roles.

What subjects are covered in Lumina's tutoring program?

Lumina covers a wide range of subjects. Currently, there's a high demand for specialists in English, Maths, and Science, although experts in all fields are welcome.

How long does a mentor work with a student?

A mentor typically works with the same student throughout an entire academic cycle, usually up to a public exam, ensuring a lasting and impactful relationship.

How can schools or local authorities partner with Lumina?

Schools and local authorities interested in partnering with Lumina can reach out through our contact page to explore collaboration opportunities and the benefits of partnership.

Are there opportunities for businesses or organisations to collaborate with Lumina?

Yes, Lumina actively seeks partnerships with businesses, community organisations, and charities to maximise its impact. Contact us to discuss collaboration possibilities.

FAQs

Your questions answered

Explore our frequently asked questions section to learn more about Lumina's programs, eligibility, and the impact we create.

What is Lumina's primary mission?

Lumina's core mission is to provide transformative, personalised online tutoring and mentorship to empower vulnerable young people, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a supportive network.

What measurable impact has Lumina made so far?

Lumina has supported over 60 children and young people looked after, across all educational Key Stages, resulting in significant improvements in academic performance and raised levels of confidence among students.

Who is eligible to benefit from Lumina's programs?

Lumina primarily supports children and young people in or on the edge of care, including those in local authority care, offering tailored educational support to help them thrive.

Is there any cost involved in participating as a student or carer?

No, Lumina provides its services entirely free of cost to the young people, carers, or local authorities involved.

How can I get involved with Lumina as a volunteer?

You can get involved by becoming a mentor,  or offering your time and skills. Explore our ‘Get Involved’ page to learn more about volunteer opportunities and how you can contribute.

What kind of support is provided to volunteers or mentors?

Lumina offers comprehensive administrative support, training, and ongoing assistance to volunteers, ensuring they're well-equipped and supported in their roles.

What subjects are covered in Lumina's tutoring program?

Lumina covers a wide range of subjects. Currently, there's a high demand for specialists in English, Maths, and Science, although experts in all fields are welcome.

How long does a mentor work with a student?

A mentor typically works with the same student throughout an entire academic cycle, usually up to a public exam, ensuring a lasting and impactful relationship.

How can schools or local authorities partner with Lumina?

Schools and local authorities interested in partnering with Lumina can reach out through our contact page to explore collaboration opportunities and the benefits of partnership.

Are there opportunities for businesses or organisations to collaborate with Lumina?

Yes, Lumina actively seeks partnerships with businesses, community organisations, and charities to maximise its impact. Contact us to discuss collaboration possibilities.

FAQs

Your questions answered

Explore our frequently asked questions section to learn more about Lumina's programs, eligibility, and the impact we create.

What is Lumina's primary mission?

Lumina's core mission is to provide transformative, personalised online tutoring and mentorship to empower vulnerable young people, fostering academic success, building self-esteem, and creating a supportive network.

What measurable impact has Lumina made so far?

Lumina has supported over 60 children and young people looked after, across all educational Key Stages, resulting in significant improvements in academic performance and raised levels of confidence among students.

Who is eligible to benefit from Lumina's programs?

Lumina primarily supports children and young people in or on the edge of care, including those in local authority care, offering tailored educational support to help them thrive.

Is there any cost involved in participating as a student or carer?

No, Lumina provides its services entirely free of cost to the young people, carers, or local authorities involved.

How can I get involved with Lumina as a volunteer?

You can get involved by becoming a mentor,  or offering your time and skills. Explore our ‘Get Involved’ page to learn more about volunteer opportunities and how you can contribute.

What kind of support is provided to volunteers or mentors?

Lumina offers comprehensive administrative support, training, and ongoing assistance to volunteers, ensuring they're well-equipped and supported in their roles.

What subjects are covered in Lumina's tutoring program?

Lumina covers a wide range of subjects. Currently, there's a high demand for specialists in English, Maths, and Science, although experts in all fields are welcome.

How long does a mentor work with a student?

A mentor typically works with the same student throughout an entire academic cycle, usually up to a public exam, ensuring a lasting and impactful relationship.

How can schools or local authorities partner with Lumina?

Schools and local authorities interested in partnering with Lumina can reach out through our contact page to explore collaboration opportunities and the benefits of partnership.

Are there opportunities for businesses or organisations to collaborate with Lumina?

Yes, Lumina actively seeks partnerships with businesses, community organisations, and charities to maximise its impact. Contact us to discuss collaboration possibilities.

Sign up for our newsletter

You can stay informed about Lumina's updates, success stories, and events by subscribing to our newsletter or following our social media channels.

By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy

© 2024 Lumina. All rights reserved.

Sponsored by

Designed & Built by

Sign up for our newsletter

You can stay informed about Lumina's updates, success stories, and events by subscribing to our newsletter or following our social media channels.

By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy

© 2024 Lumina. All rights reserved.

Sponsored by

Designed & Built by

Sign up for our newsletter

You can stay informed about Lumina's updates, success stories, and events by subscribing to our newsletter or following our social media channels.

By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy

© 2024 Lumina. All rights reserved.

Sponsored by

Designed & Built by