Lynne Kerrison, franchisee for Tutor Doctor Cambridge, is celebrating after being shortlisted as a finalist for the prestigious Woman Franchisee of the Year award at the NatWest Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWiF) Awards 2025.

Founded in 2012, the EWiF Awards celebrate the achievements of women in franchising, recognising their innovation, dedication and leadership. Lynne’s inclusion as a finalist in the Woman Franchisee of the Year category is testament to her exceptional contributions to the franchising industry and her unwavering commitment to improving educational opportunities for students in her community and beyond.

“It’s been an incredible journey with Tutor Doctor – having launched more than 14 years ago, we’re thrilled to have made such an impact right on our doorstep,” explained Lynne. “The opportunity to combine my passion for education with my desire to make a positive impact in the community has been truly fulfilling. I’m proud to have been recognised by such a respected organisation as EWiF.”

2024 was a landmark year for Tutor Doctor Cambridge, marked by both triumphs and challenges. Along with her husband, Rob, Lynne and the Tutor Doctor Cambridge team delivered nearly 200,000 hours of tutoring. The couple also grew the size of the business by 9%, expanding the reach of their stellar tutoring services to more students through Tutor Doctor’s pioneering School’s Delivery Programme.

“Whilst our success is unprecedented, it’s the positive impact that we’ve had on our own community that shines through as a milestone,” added Lynne. “Through our partnerships with schools and local authorities, we’ve helped children who may not have otherwise had access to extra educational support. To have been recognised for the hard work that we do above the usual call of duty is a proud moment for me and for the entire team.”

Earlier this year, the couple partnered with a local charity, the Cambridge Sports Development Foundation to launch a new programme for vulnerable children. The initiative combines personalised tutoring with sports coaching at the ‘Tutor Doctor Learning Hub’ based at Cambridge Rugby Club.

"Many of these young people have faced challenges with trust and communication, especially when it comes to teachers or authority figures,” said Lynne. “What makes this initiative so powerful is the opportunity to rebuild that trust in a safe, supportive environment. By working with carefully selected professional tutors and sports coaches, they’re not just learning academic or sporting skills —they’re learning to trust again. The tutors and coaches become mentors, someone who believes in them, sees their potential, and helps them understand that relationships can be positive and empowering."

Despite facing personal challenges in the last 18 months, including the illness of close family members and the loss of a dear friend and fellow franchisee, Lynne remained steadfast in her commitment to her business and community. Her ability to balance the demands of running a successful business with her role as a mother and a mentor to fellow franchisees reflects her true leadership and entrepreneurial spirit.

“As a female entrepreneur, I’ve balanced the demands of running a successful business with family life. I’ve lived the full educational journey alongside the thousands of students we’ve supported, which gives me immense pride. It’s this combination of growth, innovation, and heart that defines my journey with Tutor Doctor, and I’m over the moon to have been recognised for the hard work that I do,” added Lynne.

Winners of the Woman Franchisee of the Year award will be announced at the NatWest Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWIF) Awards 2025 on Thursday 15th May.

For more information about the services Tutor Doctor provide, visit: https://www.tutordoctor.co.uk/