Gaia Learning, a North West-based online education provider, has secured £550K in venture capital funding to expand its services for neurodivergent children across the UK. This funding comes as Gaia Learning embarks on its latest academic year, offering live, online classes tailored for children aged 8-16 with ADHD and autism.
The EdTech company has seen unprecedented demand, with both UK and international enquiries at an all-time high. This new investment will enable Gaia Learning to continue its rapid growth, extending its reach both nationally and globally.
“We’re thrilled to welcome our new investment partners, who recognise the incredible potential of Gaia Learning to support schools, learners, and families,” said Kate Longworth, CEO of Gaia Learning. “This academic year, we’ve tripled our number of learners, expanded our team to 12 staff members, and are responding to the growing need for flexible, scalable digital solutions that meet the unique needs of neurodivergent children, especially as many struggle in mainstream education environments.”
Since its founding in 2019, Gaia Learning has evolved from a small, specialist tuition provider into an award-winning online school. It is a Cambridge Registered International School and the first online education provider to receive the ADHD Friendly School award from the ADHD Foundation in 2023.
The recent funding round was led by Nesta Impact Investments, with co-investment from Manchester-based GC Angels. Nesta brings both financial support and strategic insight to help close the education outcomes gap, while GC Angels focuses on mission-driven investments that support the growth of early-stage companies like Gaia Learning.
Marc Shirman, Head of Investments at GC Angels, said: “Gaia Learning is exactly what GC Angels is all about. The team’s purpose-led approach is helping children who would otherwise be left behind in education to thrive, and the growth they’ve so far achieved is commendable. As the team continues to grow, and with enquiries on the up, we worked with Kate and the team to ensure Gaia Learning has the necessary investment and resources to drive further expansion and, ultimately, deliver incredible results for young people.”