Pioneering online school shortlisted for Sports Business Award

MVA is a finalist in the Sports Innovation Award, where the school will be up against the likes of Warner Bros Discovery for its work on the 2024 Olympics in Paris, and video game publisher Ubisoft for esports competition the Six Invitational, where players competed in Tom Clancey’s Rainbox Six Siege.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London in November.

The Sports Business Awards celebrate the people and organisations making a real impact behind the scenes in sport, whilst the Sports Innovation Award specifically recognises fresh ideas, smart solutions, and forward-thinking approaches that are helping to shape the future of the industry.

Recognised for its groundbreaking approach to education, MVA is redefining what school looks like for high-performing athletes. With over 1,000 students from more than 60 countries, the academy blends cutting-edge online learning with live lessons, one-to-one mentoring by former pro athletes, and a holistic focus on wellbeing and personal development.

At the heart of MVA’s nomination is its High Performance Club - a unique educational pathway designed specifically for young athletes balancing intense training and competition schedules.

The programme provides weekly mentoring, sports psychology support, social media training, and guest sessions with key sports personalities. It’s a system that adapts to the lives of Olympic hopefuls, footballers, motorsport drivers, tennis players, and gymnasts, allowing them to pursue academic and athletic excellence without compromise.

Sol Rolls-Tyson, Business Development Manager - Athletes & Performers at MVA, said: “We’re honoured to be recognised in these awards, alongside some very well known names.

“Traditional education doesn’t always work for elite athletes, who need to juggle their education with demanding training and competition schedules. Our innovation lies not just in the tech, but in how we’ve reimagined what a school can and should be for these young people.

“We’re proud to offer a system that truly supports the whole child, academically, emotionally, and athletically.”

The results speak for themselves. When asked:

• 97% of athletes said MVA allows them to balance their sport and education effectively
• 100% reported improvements in physical health and conditioning
• 94% said MVA has inspired them to excel in their sport
• 97% feel more efficient with their time
• 91% feel fully supported both educationally and athletically
• 91% reported better mental health

Students supported by MVA include skier Ryan Faber, the Under-16 British Champion.

He said: “At Minerva, I can study wherever I am - as long as I have my laptop, I’m good to go. Whether I’m catching up on reading in a ski gondola or watching lessons slope-side, I can fit school around my intense ski training.

“My day includes workouts, physio-recommended exercises, video analysis, and prep for the next day on the slopes. The flexibility MVA provides has been a game changer, especially during peak season. It’s helped me stay on top of my studies while competing across Europe.”

Freddie Slater, a multiple F4 champion, said: “Since joining Minerva Virtual Academy, everything has gone upwards for me.

“Racing life can be chaotic, so having a flexible school schedule is key. If tests come up or races get moved, I can adjust my lessons without falling behind. It’s helped me settle in quickly, stay focused on both school and racing, and keep learning while chasing my dream of becoming a professional driver.

“MVA has been a vital part of helping me stay on track academically and on the circuit.”

MVA was founded in 2020 and now has over 1,000 students around the globe. Earlier this year it became the first online school to ever be nominated in the World’s Best School Prizes.