Sepia-mist

Our Story

Sepia-mist began in 2019 when a group of finance professionals and educators noticed something troubling: brilliant people struggling with basic money management simply because nobody had ever taught them. Schools covered algebra and history but rarely touched on budgeting, debt, or compound interest.

We started with Saturday workshops in a community centre, teaching adults how to track expenses and build emergency funds. The demand was immediate and overwhelming. Parents asked if we could teach their children the same skills. Before long, we developed age-appropriate programmes spanning from primary school through retirement planning.

Today, we operate from our dedicated learning centre on Wellington Street, serving hundreds of students each term. Our curriculum has expanded, but our mission remains unchanged: practical financial skills for everyone, without jargon or intimidation.

Modern office workspace with natural light

What Guides Our Work

The principles that shape every course, workshop, and interaction

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Practical Application

Every concept we teach connects directly to real decisions. Students leave each session with something they can apply that same day, whether tracking their first budget or restructuring debt payments.

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Age-Appropriate Depth

A nine-year-old and a forty-year-old need different approaches to the same topic. We tailor complexity, examples, and exercises to match each group's life stage and existing knowledge.

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Non-Judgemental Space

Financial mistakes carry shame for many people. Our classrooms are judgement-free zones where questions are welcomed and past struggles become learning opportunities rather than sources of embarrassment.

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Long-Term Habits

Quick fixes rarely last. We focus on building sustainable routines and mindsets that compound over years, not gimmicks that fade after the initial enthusiasm wears off.

Our Teaching Team

Experienced professionals who combine financial expertise with genuine passion for education

Marcus Thornton

Founder and Lead Tutor

Catherine Walsh

Curriculum Director

David Okonkwo

Youth Programmes Lead

Hannah Priestley

Adult Education Coordinator

Our Learning Environment

Located in the heart of Leeds city centre, our teaching space was designed specifically for interactive financial education. Small class sizes ensure personal attention, while our resource library gives students access to tools and materials beyond session hours.

Maximum 12 students per class
Accessible facilities throughout
Resource library with financial calculators and workbooks
Refreshments provided during adult sessions

About Our Academy