Our Story
We believe education should adapt to the learner, not the other way around.
This is the foundation of what we do. Our vision is shaped by experience, a commitment to our values, and a focus on meaningful education that serves every individual.
About the Founders
Fletcher Foundation Academy was founded by experienced educators Kate and Tim who recognised that traditional education does not always work for every learner, and we believe there are other ways to get young people to reach their potential.
Having worked across secondary and post-16 education, including leadership roles, we have seen first hand the growing number of young people who become disengaged. Many of these learners are capable, motivated in the right environment, and often highly committed to their sport, yet struggle to succeed within rigid, classroom-based systems.
This is particularly evident among athletes balancing training commitments, as well as learners facing challenges with attendance, confidence, or previous educational experiences. Too often, these young people fall behind, not because of ability, but because the model does not suit how they learn.
Fletcher Foundation Academy was created to address that gap.
Our approach combines academic structure with flexibility, allowing learners to access high quality education in a way that supports both their development and their circumstances. Through a flipped learning model, targeted support, and clear progression pathways, we provide an environment where learners can re-engage, rebuild confidence, and achieve recognised qualifications.
Alongside personal development and performance mindset, ensuring that learners are not only supported in the short term, but prepared for meaningful progression beyond 18. This is not about lowering expectations. It is about delivering education differently, while maintaining high standards, clear accountability, and strong outcomes.
Our aim is simple. To provide an education model that works for those who have not been fully served by traditional systems, and to ensure that every learner has access to a pathway that allows them to succeed.
About Kate
Kate Fletcher
Mathematics Lead, Designated Safeguarding Lead, and Co Founder
An experienced mathematics teacher and senior leader with over a decade in secondary and sixth form education. Former Assistant Head (Pastoral), Designated Safeguarding Lead, and Acting Head of Sixth Form, with responsibility for safeguarding, student wellbeing, academic outcomes, and post 18 progression.
Kate specialises in GCSE and A Level Mathematics, supporting learners across the full ability range, from re engagement and core qualifications through to university preparation and UCAS progression.
Her work has focused on academic advocacy, supporting students to manage academic pressure, build confidence, and develop clear next steps beyond education.
Don’t just take
our word for it…
“Mrs F was my teacher 8 years ago. And still ‘til this day have never met anyone that will go above and beyond to see a student succeed.”
About Tim
Tim Orford
Performance Psychology, Inclusion Lead, and Co Founder
An experienced Head of Physical Education, performance coach, and educational leader with a strong background in SEND and inclusive provision.
Tim brings a combined approach to athlete development, integrating physical training, technical coaching, and applied performance psychology. His background includes military service as a Physical Training Instructor, UEFA B coaching, and ongoing postgraduate study in Performance Psychology.
His work focuses on developing confident, resilient learners through structured support, mindset development, and personalised provision.
Don’t just take
our word for it…
“Tim provided my son with invaluable performance coaching that got him over the line in more ways than one. We didn’t believe it was possible to establish such a positive relationship online, but turns out it is 100% possible if the right person is on the other end!”