What started as a small tuition business in Whitley Bay has grown into a worldwide operation, providing education and employment opportunities for young people and parents alike.
North East tuition organisation, Vireo Tuition, provides education and support to young people aged eight to 18. Founder Jane Bilham first stepped into the world of self-employment after the birth of her son over 10 years ago, using the teaching experience she’d gained over the previous 20 years. More recently, she made the decision to set up a new company to further develop connections with clients from across the world.
On being a Tuition Entrepreneur
Sharing her thoughts on the hard-won success of Vireo Tuition, Jane says:
“We now have a team of over 20 tutors who deliver tuition worldwide, with the majority of students studying in international schools in China, Hong Kong and Singapore, as well as the UK. I also support tutors to attract international clients through online coaching, allowing them to work daylight hours and enjoy better work/life balance.
“Tuition has allowed me to create a business that works for me and I am passionate about extending this opportunity to other talented parents, either through using our services for their own children, joining my team or participating in my online coaching for tutors.”
Since the launch of her limited company in 2023, the business has gone from strength to strength, allowing Jane to help parents and children on a global scale:
“Helping students to gain top grades will always be the number one reward in any teaching role – we’ve supported students to gain access to top UK universities and independent schools. The international aspect of my business is hugely rewarding too – learning about other cultures is fascinating!
“I’m also proud to be able to provide tuition opportunities to those beyond the school gates, including incredibly talented teachers who left the classroom to spend more time with their children. Supporting parents to work more convenient hours is a wonderful feeling.”
Jane received help setting up and growing her company from the North East’s TEDCO Business Support, who directed her through the Enterprising North programme. Funded by the UK Government, this programme brings together business support providers from across the North East to provide expert advice, guidance and exciting opportunities to realise early-stage business ventures.
Jane says:
“North Tyneside surpasses anything on offer in other regions. My colleagues from other parts of the UK are envious of the support available to us! In particular, Jeff [Thompson, Business Advisor at TEDCO Business Support], has been invaluable. He has offered me guidance with business planning, signposting opportunities for funding and supported me with growing my confidence as a business owner.
“My business and I have grown so much thanks to Jeff’s guidance and the whole TEDCO team.”
TEDCO Business Advisor, Jeff Thompson, adds:
“It’s a pleasure and a privilege to be able to work with businesses like Vireo Tuition. TEDCO Business Support prides itself on helping entrepreneurs like Jane access the tools, opportunities and knowledge available to them. I’m thoroughly delighted to see how our support has helped Jane expand her business into something truly extraordinary, offering education and guidance to young people all over the world. I can’t wait to see where Vireo Tuition goes next, and we will be behind Jane every step of the way.”
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