An online learning resource for neurodivergent children has reported a record growth year, securing £100,000 in angel investments in just three months.
Gaia Learning, founded by Kirstin Coughtrie from Salisbury, has gone through its biggest period of growth to date, with its users tripling since the start of the current academic year. Established in 2019, Gaia Learning delivers live, supplementary online learning for children aged 8-16 diagnosed with ADHD and autism.
Kirstin Coughtrie said, “We’re going from strength to strength and are ending this financial year on a high – totalling our investment to £100,000, growing our team to 13 staff members and seeing interest coming in from schools across the UK. Now, more than ever, schools need flexible, digital solutions that can scale within budget supporting each neurodivergent child’s needs.”
Geography teacher Kirstin set up the business in response to the inadequacies she faced in mainstream school for her neurodivergent son who, like herself, has ADHD. In 2021 she teamed up with experienced tech entrepreneur Kate Longworth after connecting on LinkedIn.
Together they have taken Gaia Learning from a small, specialist tuition business to an award-winning Cambridge Registered International School Online, partnering with schools, local authorities and families across the UK and beyond.
In December last year they set out to fundraise £500,000 to continue Gaia Learning’s expansion – with its latest angel investor making them reach £100,000 already.
Susanna Lawson, Gaia Learning investor, said, “Gaia Learning is a fantastic solution to support all stakeholders with an increasing market need. And so I’m thrilled to be able to invest in two amazing female entrepreneurs, who have demonstrated strong traction, a recognised brand in the EdTech space and impressive entrepreneurial spirit. I’m excited to be part of their journey.”
