Minerva Virtual Academy (MVA) has achieved a double accolade – a landmark moment that signals growing respect for the role of online teaching in the education sector.
MVA Principal Suzanne Lindley has become the first leader of an online school to be named as an International Associate of HMC (The Heads’ Conference), the prestigious association of heads at the world’s top independent schools.
In a further show of growing recognition for quality online education, MVA has also been welcomed as a member of COBIS (Council of British International Schools), joining a global community of more than 400 high-quality schools across 80 countries.
Founded in 2020, MVA has rapidly grown into a trusted provider of online education for pupils aged 11–18.
The school combines expert teaching, bespoke mentoring, and an innovative digital platform to offer a flexible, personalised curriculum – attracting families across the UK and internationally.
Suzanne’s new associate status with the HMC marks a historic moment, underlining the increasing credibility and excellence of online education providers within the traditional independent sector.
HMC represents over 300 of the most respected school leaders in the UK and around 50 more globally, united by their commitment to educational excellence, innovation and independence.
Suzanne said: “This is a proud moment not just for MVA, but for the entire online education community.
“To be recognised by HMC, an organisation with such an exceptional heritage, shows that high-quality online education is now being taken seriously alongside more traditional models.
“We’re proving that virtual schools can be as rigorous, enriching and community-focused as bricks-and-mortar institutions.”
Hugh Viney, founder of MVA, said: “Suzanne is a truly outstanding Principal. Her vision, compassion and deep understanding of how to support every student – both academically and emotionally – have helped shape MVA into the school it is today.
“It’s vital that voices like hers are heard at the top table of education, and I’m thrilled she now has the platform she deserves.”
Joining COBIS also marks a significant step in MVA’s journey, connecting it to a thriving global network of British international schools and giving it a platform to share and develop best practices in digital learning.
Hugh said: “When we launched MVA, our goal was to create a flexible online school that could be accessed from anywhere in the world together with numerous opportunities to meet up in person creating a thriving global community.
“This recognition from HMC and COBIS are powerful endorsements of what we’ve built – and the students, teachers and families who make it a success every day.”
For more information about MVA, visit: www.minervavirtual.com
