About us
Millie Cheetham Founder and CEO
Hi, i'm Millie the Founder of SmartStart Academy. I have recently graduated Durham University with an LLB Law Degree and I am taking a gap year to fully focus on launching SmartStart Academy.
I am from West Yorkshire and growing up, I noticed how little we were taught in school about preparation for the real world. I have seen numerous people, myself included, strugle with life skills and financial independence due to lack of essential education.
During my Degree, I volunteered for Citizens Advice County Durham, where I quickly noticed that this was a national problem, leaving thousands of young people facing challenges that could have been prevented with the right knowledge.
With three years experience as an online tutor for pupils aged 11-18, I have extensive experience in delivering fun and engaging content.
Furthermore, my Law Degree has been an invaluable tool in shaping the workshops I create, as young people need to understand their rights, whether as an employee, tenant, homeowner etc.
I strongly believe that my passion for SmartStart Academy's mission will transform this platform into a revolutionary way in which Financial Education is approached.
The problem runs so much deeper than understanding bank accounts and savings, and it is my mission to offer well-rounded services that are suitable for all post-education pathways.
Please take a look at what we currently offer, and if you think we're missing anything, let me know! As a start-up, we are always open to feedback as it is our mission to create the most helpful resources possible.
From one (relatively) young person to the next, let's fix this problem together!
Location
Although based in West Yorkshire, we offer in-person and virtual services across the UK.
Please enquire for more details.
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Volunteering Opportunities
We currently have a range of volunteering opportunities across the UK. We are looking for like-minded individuals who are as passionate about our mission as we are! With the opportunity to receive training and deliver workshops, you have the chance to make a difference whilst gaining invaluable experience. If you still want to help but would prefer a more behind-the-scenes role, we have a range of marketing, admin, and sales volunteering opportunities.
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Paid Opportunities
Unfortunately, we do not have any paid vacancies at the moment. However, if you are interested in joining the team when a position becomes available, please email us a CV and Covering Letter.
Core Values
Quality Education
SDG 4 is at the forefront of our mission. We ensure that all of our resources are of excellent quality to ensure they make a difference to the lives of young people.
Equal Opportunities
When leaving education, no one should be disadvantaged due to knowledge and guidence they do not have access to. We are on a mission to change this!
Accessibility
In order to make our services accessible to those who will benefit the most, we offer generous concessions for low-income and disabled young people. We also offer generous large-school booking discounts.
Inclusivity
It a priority for us that our services are available to everyone. Therefore, we are currently working on offering SEN, British Sign Language, and visual-impairment suitable versions of our services.
Community
We strive to build a supportive community for young people by creating an online platform offering various follow-up support.