Minerva Virtual Academy launches opt-in ‘Cameras On Classes’ to lift engagement
Online school introduces optional “cameras on” lessons alongside existing formats after student and staff feedback.
Photo credit: Hugh Viney
Minerva Virtual Academy, an online independent school for students aged 12 to 18 offering GCSEs, one-to-one mentoring, and live group classes, introduced an opt-in “Cameras On Classes” track. Founder and CEO Hugh Viney shared the update on social media.
Viney wrote, “This year at Minerva Virtual Academy (MVA) we’ve launched an initiative that I’ve been keen to make happen for years: Cameras On Classes.”
Viney outlined why a blanket rule had been avoided, citing anxiety and mental health considerations for some students and a desire for more visible classroom interaction from others. He wrote, “At the same time, we also have a lot of students who choose MVA for its thriving community and love when the virtual classroom is filled with friendly faces they can engage and cooperate with.” He added, “It’s a difficult balance to hit, and one we struggled to address for a long time.”
Viney credited Principal Suzanne Lindley for the approach: “Then, Principal Suzanne Lindley had an idea – instead of picking a side and pushing for a general change in policy, we create a subset of ‘cameras on’ lessons that students can opt into if they would like to.”
He continued, “The results have been phenomenal.” Adding, “Student engagement is up. Teacher feedback is glowing. Mentors are reporting that the kids love it. And we’re seeing more cameras on across the board, regardless of what kind of lesson it is.”
Viney framed the move as part of a wider culture shift toward visibility and connection in virtual classrooms. He concluded, “We’re affecting a wider cultural shift across the school where the kids get to see each other smile more often, contribute to lessons more often, and feel more connected and confident.”
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