Market Rasen group launches new education hub for children 'falling through the cracks'
A dedicated group of teachers and parents in Market Rasen is launching a new, out of school education service for children who they believe have been "unsupported" by the mainstream system.
The EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than At School) initiative was born out of a shared mission to catch those who have "fallen through the cracks" of traditional schooling, specifically focussing on home-educated children and those with Special Educational Needs (SEND). Operating both through face-to-face classes and online teaching, the hub, called the Learning Loft, situated at 7 Queen Street, is staffed by a blend of specialist instructors and fully qualified teachers, coordinated by Nicola Brooksbank.
Nicola transitioned from traditional classroom teaching and educational leadership roles to focus on family and then ran a community cafe hosting a weekly home schooling program for students, as well as offering an extensive online teaching practice.
By offering a hybrid approach, the group aims to ensure that every child — regardless of their anxiety levels — can access a high-quality education. "Our goal is to provide the support that many of these families have been searching for," said one of the founding members. "We aren't just a tutoring service; we are a community designed to catch those who the system has missed." The organisers say the provision offers a wide range of subjects designed to engage children from age eight upwards, including core subjects of English, Maths, and Science. There is also creative & life skills tuition in Art, Cooking, Music, and Humanities. Students can work towards GCSEs, functional skills and other accredited qualifications. Classes start from just £9 each subject.
A spokesperson said: “We are also going to be launching after school clubs from £2. We even offer 11-plus entry examination classes. And top up tutoring classes for those in school but need extra help all the way up to A-Levels.” They added: “For many local parents, the launch represents a vital lifeline. By providing a structured environment with expert staff, the group hopes to transform the educational experience for Market Rasen families, moving away from the struggle of unsupported learning toward a future where every child can thrive.
"We are hoping to seek donations of computers and music equipment to help our students.”