For many parents, finding the right support for their child’s learning can feel overwhelming. But in Bath, a new name is quickly building a reputation for doing things differently – and for putting confidence and wellbeing at the heart of academic success.
At Approach Tuition, founders Dan and and Sarah Richards bring decades of classroom experience into a more personalised setting, helping children rediscover their love of learning.
“My wife Sarah and I taught in West Country secondary schools for 36 years between us,” says Dan. “We both loved teaching, and about nine years ago, we saw that we could take the best parts of our profession and use the skills we’d gained to help the young people of Bath and Midsomer Norton.”
That decision marked the beginning of their tutoring journey, which has now evolved into two fully independent centres.
“Our two centres officially started in January 2026, but we’ve been providing tuition in Bath and Midsomer Norton for nine years,” he says. “We were part of an Australian franchise company but realised the young people coming to us needed resources and strategies better suited to the National Curriculum here in England. Stepping away from that model has given us the freedom to deliver what’s right for our students and their families.”
Building skills and confidence
Approach Tuition supports children aged six to 16, in English and maths across all stages of the National Curriculum.
“We offer personalised learning that builds both skills and confidence,” says Sarah. “In English, that might be reading, comprehension, spelling and grammar, developing into GCSE English Language and Literature. In maths, it ranges from early numeracy skills right through to Grade 9 GCSE.”
She points to key transition points where children often need extra support.
“The move from Year 2 into Year 3 can be a real challenge as children shift from learning to read to reading to learn,” she says. “Later on, from Year 7, schools quickly ramp up content to prepare for GCSEs. We’re often helping to fill gaps from earlier learning so students can catch up and stay ahead.”
Complementing school, not replacing it
Rather than working separately from schools, Approach Tuition is designed to reinforce what children are already learning in the classroom.
“Our activities are closely matched to the National Curriculum and all our tutors are qualified teachers with years of experience,” Dan says. “We make sure what we’re doing links directly to school work, so students feel immediate benefit and support.”
Each centre brings together a team with a wide range of subject knowledge and experience across different year groups, allowing sessions to be tailored to each child.
Understanding the real challenges
Dan and Sarah are clear that no two students are the same.
“Every young person’s experience of school is different, so the challenges they face are personal,” Sarah says. “Often, misconceptions arise from distractions in class or when something just needs a bit more time and practice. Students can internalise those difficulties and try to cope on their own for too long.”
That’s where their diagnostic approach comes in.
“We use bespoke assessment tools to identify the root causes, not just the symptoms,” she explains. “Then we adapt sessions to suit each child’s learning style, creating a calm, purposeful environment where they feel comfortable to try, ask questions and succeed.”
A personalised approach
Every child begins with a free assessment, which shapes their learning plan from the outset.
“We quickly identify gaps and any areas that might need further investigation, including possible learning difficulties,” Dan says. “From there, we design sessions that suit their learning style while also gradually broadening their ability to tackle different types of questions.”
More than just academic progress
While results matter, Dan and Sarah believes confidence is the real foundation of success.
“Removing anxiety around a subject allows a young person’s brain to start absorbing new information again,” Sarah says. “We encourage students to try, to make mistakes and to learn from them. They’re always praised for their effort and approach, and success follows naturally from that.”
The impact can be transformative.
One student, ‘J’, was advised to drop to a lower maths tier but went on to achieve a Grade 8 and is now studying A-Level maths. Another, ‘I’, returned to school after a period of refusal and secured passes in both English and maths. Others have simply rediscovered belief in themselves.
“When students realise they’ve had the ability all along, their relief and excitement is incredible,” Dan adds.
A space where children want to learn
The centres themselves are designed to feel calm, spacious and welcoming.
“Students enjoy the atmosphere, the working space and the support they receive,” Dan says. “They also love our reward system, earning points and choosing prizes – we even source our books from local independent shops.”
There’s also a sense of community, with children of different ages and abilities learning side by side.
“They can see that everyone needs help sometimes, and asking for it is a strength.”
Looking ahead
Now fully independent, Approach Tuition is focused on continuing to grow and refine its approach.
“We’ll keep evolving our practice and strengthening what we offer,” says Dan. “For families, this is a good time to look at school reports, especially in Years 3, 7 and 9. Those are key stages where a boost in skills and confidence can make a real difference.”
Find out more
Parents can arrange a free assessment or get in touch via:
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01225 668246
Or book online at:
https://bath.approachtuition.co.uk/book-assessment
Whenever it’s needed, Approach Tuition is there to help young people and their families.
