How Academy21 helped Rheo thrive in a flexible learning environment
In 2021, Rheo was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) while attending a mainstream school in southeast London. Despite receiving support, he started losing his motivation to learn, preventing him from fully engaging in his education. His mother, Kim, quickly noticed that the traditional classroom environment wasn’t working.
Together with his school, they decided to change his schedule to part-time in the hopes that this would alleviate his stress and give him more flexibility to learn. Unfortunately, as Kim recalls, “We restricted his timetable, but it didn’t really help him academically. Although I tried to supplement his learning at home, it was difficult to gauge the right level of support he needed.”
It became clear that Rheo needed a more structured learning environment that could cater to his unique needs. This is when Rheo’s school suggested Academy21 as a hybrid learning solution. “The school signed him up with Academy21, and he started attending. It made a world of difference,” says Kim.
The transition to Academy21
Rheo joined Academy21 in 2023, continuing his Year 8 studies through a mix of online classes with Academy21 and in-person lessons at his school. This hybrid approach offered the flexibility and tailored support that he needed. Academy21 provides a broad British curriculum that mimics that of mainstream schools, so he maintained continuity in his education and avoided any learning gaps, all while addressing the challenges he faced in a traditional classroom setting.
For Rheo, the structure of Academy21’s classes proved to be transformative. He thrived in the environment, feeling renewed motivation and responsibility. “He loved attending Academy21 lessons. It wasn’t like I was forcing him – he wanted to log in daily. He was very self-motivated,” Kim notes. This newfound eagerness contrasted with his earlier reluctance to engage in classroom learning.
“He liked the idea that there was a teacher who was responsive to him. Although he couldn’t see anyone else in the class, having that sense of one-to-one interaction really helped him"
Individualised support
One of the significant benefits that Academy21 offered Rheo was the feeling of individualised support. Although he only saw his teachers online, Rheo felt connected to them. “He liked the idea that there was a teacher who was responsive to him. Although he couldn’t see anyone else in the class, having that sense of one-to-one interaction really helped him,” Kim explains. This environment allowed Rheo to focus on his favourite subject, Maths, and regain confidence in his academic abilities.
Kim also appreciated the regular updates on Rheo’s progress, which kept her informed of his engagement levels and academic performance. While their time with Academy21 was relatively short—just a few months—it had a significant impact. Kim reflects, “Even in that short time, we saw such positive changes in his motivation to learn and his willingness to participate.”
Leaving Academy21
After completing the summer term with Academy21, Rheo transitioned into full-time education, with a different local school in his borough. While there were still challenges, the time spent with Academy21 equipped Rheo with renewed enthusiasm for learning. “It was never a chore for him to attend classes with Academy21. That shift in attitude towards learning was the most impressive part for me as a parent,” says Kim.
Rheo’s time with Academy21 was instrumental in bridging the gap between his part-time schooling and a full-time educational environment. It provided him with a safe space to learn at his own pace while also preparing him for a smoother reintegration into mainstream schooling.
“What stood out most was the change in Rheo’s attitude. He wanted to engage and learn, and that made all the difference.”
A renewed love for learning
Rheo’s story is a testament to the importance of tailored learning solutions for students with special educational needs. Academy21 helped him rediscover his love for learning and gain the confidence he needed to take on new academic challenges. Kim’s experience highlights the value of flexible education options that adapt to each student’s needs.
Reflecting on the journey, Kim shares, “What stood out most was the change in Rheo’s attitude. He wanted to engage and learn, and that made all the difference.”
Academy21 works closely with schools and local authorities to support students like Rheo in accessing high-quality education, regardless of their unique circumstances. For parents like Kim, the academic and wellbeing support Academy21 offers can be just what their children need to unlock a brighter and better future.
Reflecting on his time with Academy21, Rheo says “I really enjoyed my time with Academy21 and miss having my online lessons. I found that the personal interaction and the lesson structure really worked well for me.”
