The UK’s largest independent tuition provider has appointed Lisa Haycox as its CEO as the business enters its next phase of growth.
Haycox succeeds founder Bill Mills at the helm of Explore Learning, who remains on the board as founder director.
She joined Explore Learning over two decades ago in 2002 as a tutor and held several senior roles, most recently serving as COO, where she led the company’s digital transformation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Haycox will now lead the EdTech which supported 50,000 school-aged children in 2024, either at one of 94 learning centres nationwide or online.
Its proprietary AI platform, Compass, personalises each child’s journey, providing real-time adaptive learning and progress data.
The Guildford-based firm’s monthly membership model includes ongoing access to Compass outside of tutored sessions, enabling a route for its members to typically make 19 months of progress in 12 months.
urfuture appoints 22-year-old founder as chief growth officer
The business has significantly accelerated growth in the last five years, doubling EBITDA in 2024.
“At a time of seismic change in education, Explore Learning stands at the forefront, redefining what learning could and should look like,” said David Kelly, chairman of Explore Learning.
“Since its inception, Explore Learning has pioneered an innovative approach to education outside of the classroom, blending expert educators with technology. Together, this approach enables children to achieve not only academic goals but also equips them with essential life skills.
“Having overseen Explore Learning’s digital transformation, we are delighted Lisa will lead the business through its next phase, scaling impact and delivering results in a high growth market worth £2bn today.”
Haycox added: “Explore Learning is uniquely positioned within the ecosystem to transform the future of education. Teachers are doing a phenomenal job, but with significant pressure on the system, an increasing number of families are looking for additional support.
“Our vision is to ensure every child, regardless of background or location, has access to high-quality, personalised learning, using data to work with families and teachers to deliver better outcomes.
“By combining the best of our AI-powered technology with the expertise of our educators, we will continue to drive innovation, unlock potential, and empower the next generation to thrive.”