Tutor Doctor Cambridge 'scrums' together with sports charity to support disadvantaged children

Having delivered more than 200,000 hours of tutoring to students across Cambridgeshire in 2024 alone, Rob and Lynne Kerrison – owners of Tutor Doctor Cambridge – have now gone the extra step in supporting the children in their own area. The community-minded couple have revealed an exciting new collaboration with a leading local sports development charity to launch a dedicated learning hub, providing personalised tuition alongside sports and fitness coaching.

The programme, which has been endorsed and championed by the global Tutor Doctor team, has been designed to support vulnerable children, particularly those unable to attend mainstream schools due to personal challenges, by offering a safe space for tailored learning and well-being support.

Rob and Lynne, the husband-and-wife team behind Tutor Doctor Cambridge, have been dedicated to helping students reach their full potential since founding their business in 2010. Their latest initiative, in partnership with the Cambridge Sports Development Foundation, is set to provide a transformative learning experience for children in need.

Operating on the grounds of Cambridge Rugby Club, this innovative programme goes beyond traditional academic and athletic training. It is designed to foster confidence, discipline and teamwork skills – equipping children with valuable life skills that extend beyond the classroom and playing field – and also, importantly, to trust in their ability to bond with adult role models. It is also designed to be inclusive and accessible, especially for children with special educational and mental health needs, as well as those from families facing various challenges.

“Education is the key to unlocking a child’s potential, and every child, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to succeed,” explains Rob. “With our new programme, we’re not just offering formal tutoring and sports coaching – we’re offering hope, confidence and the chance to break through barriers that may have held these young people back in a more traditional schooling environment. By supporting disadvantaged and vulnerable individuals, we’re giving them the tools to thrive – academically, athletically and in life.

“Our focus has changed greatly over the years, but now the majority of the work we do is directly for local schools and the local authority in Cambridgeshire. In 14 years, we’ve tutored over 5,000 students in schools, in their homes and in external facilities, and we’ve seen many of the challenges families and children face – especially those who feel they’ve been left behind by mainstream education. I believe this initiative will have a real, positive impact on local young people. Whether it’s reintroducing them to a school setting, helping them prepare for specialist support or simply to enjoy the direct benefits of exercise and learning, we’re here to make a difference.”

“Many of these young people have faced challenges with trust and communication, especially when it comes to teachers or authority figures,” adds Lynne. “What makes this initiative so powerful is the opportunity to rebuild that trust in a safe, supportive environment. By working with carefully selected professional tutors and sport coaches, they’re not just learning academic or sporting skills – they’re learning to trust again. The tutors and coaches become mentors, someone who believes in them, sees their potential, and helps them understand that relationships can be positive and empowering. It’s about building confidence, showing them that they matter, and helping them believe in themselves again.”

While the programme is mainly aimed at secondary school students, it also extends support to primary school children. The facility will focus on offering support to those students who may struggle in mainstream education. It aims to help reintegrate children back into school or, where necessary, provide options for longer-term alternatives.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment from Tutor Doctor Cambridge, the Cambridge Sports Development Foundation and Cambridge Rugby Club to create meaningful opportunities for underprivileged children.

“The school environment doesn’t always suit every student, so we have worked closely with Rob and Lynne to offer a more holistic approach, encouraging students to engage, have fun and learn.”
Nick Dance, head of the Cambridge Sports Development Foundation. 

“We want our students to have a healthy lifestyle and work towards their exams all under one roof – no more taxi rides or transport from location to location – this is a one-stop shop for our students’ educational needs.”

Mark Szpak, Vice President of Field Operations at Tutor Doctor, highlights the profound impact of the initiative, emphasising the brand’s dedication to support students beyond the classroom. “By ensuring education remains accessible to all – regardless of the challenges they face – Tutor Doctor continues to break down barriers to learning.

“The programme is a great example of the power of a holistic approach, combining academic support with sports development. By bringing these elements together, students gain not just knowledge but also confidence, resilience and important life skills.”

“Rob and Lynne’s fantastic work is truly inspiring. Their dedication to this initiative sets a great example for others in our network, showing how meaningful partnerships can create a lasting impact in local communities.” 
Mark Szpak, Vice President of Field Operations at Tutor Doctor

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