Where Different Thinking Excels
Minariel Tutors is designed to empower neurodivergent learners.
We believe that ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia aren’t barriers to achievement, but unique ways of thinking that deserve recognition, celebration, and tailored support.
Our Mission
Founded by neurodivergent graduates of world-leading universities – Cambridge and the London School of Economics – we bring together lived experience and academic excellence to truly understand how your mind works.
We know what it’s like when traditional teaching methods don’t work. We experienced the challenges of inflexible adult education despite academic success, and together we’re building a space where learning adapts to every mind.
Meet Our Co-Founders
Hi, I’m Freya!
I always learned differently – needing movement, colour-coding, and unique systems to absorb information. Despite this, I excelled academically, earning my degree from Cambridge University, a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), and a Master’s in Law. For seven years, I have tutored students in geography through Learn with Freya, of which I am founder and director. I recognised students who struggled in traditional settings, naturally creating methods that helped them thrive.
With a contract at a top international law firm, my legal career seemed set. Then I began my professional qualifications as an adult learner. The rigid, inflexible teaching methods that had never worked for me as a child were now my only option – and I was struggling for the first time in my academic life.
During this challenge, I was diagnosed as neurodivergent: ADHD, autism, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. Suddenly, everything made sense. When I shared my journey – a Cambridge graduate struggling with professional education because of inflexible adult learning – the response was immense. Hundreds of neurodivergent adults and parents reached out with similar stories.
That overwhelming response showed me there was a desperate need for educational support that truly understood neurodivergent minds. I had a choice: continue struggling in a career that didn’t accommodate my learning style, or use my unique combination of academic excellence, tutoring expertise, and lived experience to create something new.
I chose to found Minariel Tutors – a full-service tutoring company exclusively for neurodivergent learners. Because no one should have to choose between academic success and learning in a way that works for their brain.
Hi, I’m Shannon!
I studied Law at the London School of Economics and have over 7 years of teaching, private tutoring, and mentoring experience. My teaching journey has taken me across the world: the UK, China, Hong Kong and Italy. I am an internationally qualified ESL teacher with Level 5 CertTESOL and Level 3 TEFL qualifications, a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid practitioner, and Level 2 SEN certified.
Growing up, I was very quiet, socially anxious, and struggled to fit in. My experiences of feeling different and excluded at school stayed with me, even as I went on to achieve academically. Later in life, I came to understand my neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism), which helped me make sense of the challenges I had faced. This realisation was a turning point, and it drives my passion for placing confidence and wellbeing at the heart of teaching.
I am now the Founder and Director of The Shan Academy, an international educational consultancy. I am also the Founder of Shaan Mentoring, a nationwide non-profit mentoring initiative.
Over the years, I have taught and mentored hundreds of students, been invited to deliver talks at schools and charities, and collaborated with organisations to promote diversity and inclusion. I have advocated for SEN reform internationally, working with schools to improve SEN provision, encourage empathy, and reduce cultural stigma. I am also a volunteer with the charity SOS SEN, supporting families to navigate the EHCP appeals process.
One of my teachers once told me that your differences can be your superpower, and that’s why I chose to found Minariel Tutors. At Minariel Tutors, our mission is to help every neurodiverse learner recognise their potential and thrive. It’s a pleasure to welcome you, and we look forward to supporting you on your journey!
Freya
Shannon
Our Values
What Drives Everything We Do
Neurodivergent Pride
We celebrate different thinking and reject the idea that neurodivergent learners need to be “fixed” or made to fit neurotypical moulds.
Strengths-Based Approach
Every learner has unique talents and abilities. We build on what you’re good at rather than focusing on deficits.
Individual Excellence
One-size-fits-all education doesn’t work for neurodivergent minds. Everything we do is personalised to your specific needs and learning style.
Empowerment
We teach self-advocacy and help learners understand their own needs, building confidence for lifelong learning success.
Family Partnership
We work with whole families, providing support, resources, and guidance for everyone involved in the learning journey.
Our Team
Meet the dedicated experts committed to personalized tutoring and growth.
Why We Are Different
It’s Our Difference That Makes Us Special
We cater for all ages through to professional qualifications.
We offer full holistic support beyond academic teaching.
We build ongoing relationships with families and supporting parents.
Easy simple technology to use
We are led by young people who have been there, so we understand
We offer wellbeing and careers support
Empowering people to believe in their potential and build their confidence
Our Tutors
Educational Specialists
Every Minariel tutor completes our specialist neurodivergent education course and rigorous selection process. We don’t just match on subject expertise – we ensure genuine understanding of different thinking styles, creating perfect partnerships between tutors and learners.
The Meaning Behind Our Name
“Mina” draws from Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and creative intelligence — symbolising the power of different ways of thinking.
“Ariel” comes from the Hebrew lion of God, often linked with air, spirit, and individuality — evoking freedom of thought and nonconformity.
Together, Minariel represents a celestial, wise force that celebrates neurodivergent brilliance.
We want to reframe the language used around neurodiversity — away from medical or deficit-based labels, and toward empowerment, creativity, and strength.
Moving Forward
Growing the Neurodivergent Education Movement
Minariel Tutors is just the beginning. We’re building a future where neurodivergent learners don’t have to struggle in silence, where different thinking is celebrated, and where every student has access to education that works with their brain rather than against it.
Through our tutoring, training courses for other educators, and resources for families, we’re creating a community where neurodivergent excellence is the norm, not the exception.