MOB Academy

What MOB Academy does

MOB Academy is a Queensland Independent Special Assistance School operating as a boys-only secondary education provider for young men in Years 7-12 (expanding from Years 11-12 to include Years 7-8 from April 2026), headquartered at 1-7 Nerang Street, Southport on the Gold Coast. The school serves students who have disengaged from mainstream schooling through a proprietary pedagogical framework called Explicit MOB Instruction (EMI), adapted from research-based Explicit Instruction for boys-specific delivery, combined with the MOB Life rite-of-passage program and whole-school mentorship where every staff member acts as a mentor. MOB Academy is operated by Men of Business Australia Ltd, a registered charity founded by Marco Renai in 2010 that has engaged over 1,000 boys through community programs prior to the Academy opening in April 2020.

The school operates an integrated education and pathways model combining academic instruction (MOB Success for literacy, MOB Metrics for numeracy, humanities, technology, arts, physical education), social-emotional wellbeing support (psychologists, youth support workers), vocational pathways through TAFE Queensland and AMPD Academy partnerships, employer partnerships (Woolworths, Varli Building, Kirra Services), and Australia's first in-house driving school. Enrollment has grown from 4 students in 2020 to 220 students with 45 staff by 2024-2025. The school delivers education at no cost to families through three revenue streams: Queensland Government recurrent funding for Special Assistance Schools (primary), community fundraising and tax-deductible donations enabled by ACNC charity and DGR status (~$2.9M cumulative over 5 years), and a modest $15/week student activity levy.

Name

MOB Academy

Legal name

Men of Business Australia Ltd

Website

https://menofbusiness.com.au

Company type

Private

Founded year

2010

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

MOB Academy is a Queensland Independent Special Assistance School providing boys-only secondary education (Years 7-12) for disengaged young men on the Gold Coast, using a proprietary Explicit MOB Instruction pedagogy, whole-school mentorship, and employer pathway partnerships to deliver no-cost accredited education and vocational outcomes.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Alternative Secondary Education (Special Assistance School)

NAICS

Elementary and Secondary Schools (6111)

SIC

Services-Educational Services (8200)

akta.pro primary industry

Charter Alternative & At-Risk Schools (Continuation, Credit Recovery, Juvenile) (EDAJACAE)

akta.pro secondary industry

Alternative Schools (Behavioral/Disciplinary & Nontraditional Settings) (EDAJAEAC)

Keywords

• Alternative secondary education
• Boys-only schooling
• Special assistance schools
• Youth mentoring programs
• Vocational education pathways

Headquarters

HQ city

Southport

HQ country

Australia

HQ region

Oceania

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Others

Revenue model

1. Government Recurrent Funding: As a Queensland Independent Special Assistance School, MOB Academy receives guaranteed state and commonwealth government recurrent funding allocated to Special Assistance Schools. This covers the full cost of education for enrolled students at no cost to families.
2. Community Fundraising and Donations: MOB Academy raises funds through community events, the annual GC Fundraising Ball, the Buy a Brick campaign targeting $300,000, and individual donations. Men of Business and its community contributed approximately $1m to establish the Academy. The organisation holds DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) status enabling tax-deductible donations.
3. Student Activity Levy: A small weekly levy of $15 per week ($150 per school term) is charged to cover food and extra activities/excursions not covered under government funding.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels1 record

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

MOB Academy is a boys-only Queensland Independent Special Assistance School providing alternative secondary education for young men in Years 7-12 (currently Years 11-12, expanding to Years 7-8 in April 2026). It delivers the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), vocational certificates through TAFE partnerships, work experience, school-based apprenticeships/traineeships, an in-house driving school, and the signature MOB Life rite-of-passage program, using its proprietary Explicit MOB Instruction (EMI) pedagogy. Education is provided at no cost to students, funded by Queensland Government recurrent funding for Special Assistance Schools, community donations, and a small weekly activity levy.

Product overview

MOB Academy is a Queensland Independent Special Assistance School operating as a single unified educational institution rather than a platform-plus-modules architecture. The core product is a boys-only alternative secondary education program for Years 7-12 (expanding from Years 11-12 to include Years 7-8 from April 2026). The educational offering is structured around MOB-branded subjects (MOB Success, MOB Metrics, MOB Life, Humanities, Technology, The Arts, Physical Education) delivered using Explicit MOB Instruction (EMI) methodology. Supplementary programs include the Pathways Program for career transition, MOB Life rite of passage program, vocational certificates (Certificate III in Sport Recreation and Aquatics), TAFE at School partnerships, MOB Academy Driving School, and Futsal sports program. The institution does not offer technology products; all named offerings are educational programs and support services.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• MOB Life: A rite of passage program for young men focusing on life skills including communication, cultural awareness, healthy lifestyle, leadership, self-reflection, and ethical decision-making.
• MOB Success
• MOB Metrics
• MOB Academy Futsal Program

Products and services

• MOB Academy Secondary Education Program (Years 11-12) Core boys-only senior secondary school program at MOB Academy, delivering Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) attainment, workforce and career-focused education, vocational pathways, work experience, and student wellbeing for young men in Years 11 and 12. Education is delivered at no cost to students, funded by government recurrent funding.
• MOB Academy Junior Secondary Program (Years 7-8) Boys-only junior secondary program combining structured academic learning with character development, community connection, and real-world experiences using the Explicit MOB Instruction (EMI) methodology, opening for Year 7 from April 2026.
• MOB Life Program Signature whole-school rite-of-passage program informed by Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and rite-of-passage theory, guiding boys through self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Topics rotate by year level and term, including communication, cultural awareness, healthy lifestyle, leadership, self-reflection, and ethical decision-making.
• MOB Academy Driving School Free in-house driving school providing lessons, supervised practice hours, and test preparation so students can obtain their provisional driver's license and overcome a key barrier to employment.
• Pathways Program Holistic framework for transitioning students from school into employment or further education, including the Year 10 immersion program, school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, work experience placements, VET pathways, industry-specific courses, and one-on-one career action plans delivered in partnership with MEGT Australia and Apprenticeship Support Australia.
• Certificate III in Sport, Recreation and Aquatics Nationally recognised qualification delivered in partnership with AMPD Academy, including CPR, First Aid, Bronze Medallion in Surf Rescue, and Pool Lifeguard certification, providing students with life-saving skills and an industry credential.
• TAFE at School Program Vocational education partnership with TAFE Queensland's Ashmore campus enabling high school students to complete trade certifications (e.g., Certificate I in Construction) alongside their MOB studies and earn QCE points.
• MOB Academy Futsal Program Twice-weekly futsal training and tournament program that develops students' technical skills, mental resilience, and emotional intelligence; the MOB Futsal team finished 2nd at the Queensland State Titles in its inaugural year and qualified for National Titles.

Quantifiable outcome

• 801+ young men enrolled over 5 years
• +8 more outcomes

Named customers11 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature3 records

Partnerships

24 partnerships are on record, tiered core and supporting.

• WoolworthscoreGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025MOB Academy partnered with Woolworths to create employment pathways for students. Woolworths attended MOB's Murra Pathways event and has since created 26 interview opportunities for students, with 14 boys securing jobs across local Southport Park stores. Woolworths provides part-time employment, interview experience, and flexible shifts that allow students to balance work with their studies at MOB. The partnership focuses on providing genuine employment for boys unsure of their long-term plans while they develop their passions at MOB.
• Varli BuildingcoreGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025Varli Building, a construction company, hired MOB Academy graduate Jamie as an apprentice carpenter. The company provides real-world trade employment, with Jamie progressing to building bathrooms, cladding, concreting, and jackhammering. Operations Manager Elise noted Jamie ' slotted right in' and the team noticed significant growth in just three months.
• AMPD AcademysupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2025AMPD Academy partnered with MOB to deliver life-saving skills as part of the Certificate III in Sport, Recreation and Aquatics. Students received CPR, First Aid, Bronze Medallion in Surf Rescue, and Pool Lifeguard certification through AMPD Academy's hands-on training approach.
• Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA)supportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025ASA delivered apprenticeship and traineeship workshops to Year 11 students, helping them understand employment pathways, how to navigate the world of work, and how to build a portfolio that makes them stand out to potential employers.
• MEGT AustraliasupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025MEGT Australia conducted one-on-one career interviews with every Year 11 student over nine days, helping students explore different pathways, set clear goals, and walk away with a personalised Career Action Plan. MEGT also provides ongoing career guidance and employment support.
• CWETSsupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025CWETS ( Career and Vocational Education and Training Services) participated in Career May and Industry Day at MOB Academy, supporting the school's career exploration programs and connecting students with vocational training opportunities.
• CSQ (Construction Skills Queensland)supportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025CSQ participated in Career May and Industry Day at MOB Academy, providing construction industry-specific career guidance and training pathway information for students interested in trade careers.
• Griffith UniversitysupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2025Griffith University attended MOB's Career May Industry Day to provide updates on higher education pathways and opportunities for MOB students, supporting the school's role in preparing students for life after school.
• Education QueenslandsupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2025Education Queensland representatives attended MOB's Year 10 Immersion Program launch event and MOB Connect Breakfast, collaborating on the school's pathways program and supporting transition of students from mainstream schools.
• Simple CoffeesupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025Simple Coffee provided work experience placement for Year 12 student Michael, offering real-world hospitality industry experience. The placement supports Michael's goal of earning money to buy a car before his 18th birthday while pursuing his dream of becoming a real estate agent.
• Murra PathwayssupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025Murra Pathways attended MOB Academy and connected with Woolworths, which led to the Woolworths partnership creating employment opportunities for MOB students. Murra Pathways is an event that brings together employers and training providers.
• CWBTS Carpentry TrainingsupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025CWBTS Carpentry Training delivered apprenticeship support workshops to Year 11 students, helping them understand trade pathways and navigate the carpentry and construction industry.
• Alwyn (Froggy) DaveysupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2025Indigenous AFL player Alwyn (Froggy) Davey spoke to MOB Culture Crew students about overcoming racism in sport, mental toughness, handling criticism, and maintaining self-belief under pressure - providing cultural connection and resilience mentorship.
• Kirra ServicescoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2024Kirra Services partnered with MOB Academy to deliver an AV (audio-visual) program in partnership with Commbox. The program exposes students to the AV industry including microphone setup, stage configuration, and event production. Students earn qualifications and gain real-world industry experience, including opportunities to work at major events such as Australia's biggest AV trade event in Sydney.
• CommboxcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2024Commbox partnered with MOB Academy and Kirra Services to deliver the AV program. The partnership connects students with the audio-visual industry, providing training, qualifications, and employment pathway opportunities for MOB students.
• TAFE Queensland (Ashmore Campus)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2024MOB Academy partners with TAFE Queensland's Ashmore campus for vocational training. Students undertake the TAFE at School program, completing Certificate I in Construction alongside their MOB studies. A standout project saw students build a spiral staircase from scratch. The partnership enables students to earn QCE points while gaining nationally recognised trade qualifications.
• DreamweaverssupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024Dreamweavers provided generous support for MOB Academy's Rhythm, Art, and Culture Night 2024, an event celebrating student creativity in music, visual arts, and cultural expression.
• XP FinishessupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024XP Finishes, a family-owned premier painting company on the Gold Coast, partnered with MOB Academy to provide industry exposure and potentially employment pathways for students interested in the painting and construction trades.
• Hutchison BuildingsupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024Hutchison Building opened their construction site in Labrador for 17 Year 11 and 12 students to explore the construction industry firsthand, providing hands-on site experience and exposure to various trade careers in the building sector.
• Paddle Australia / Olympic Kayak TeamsupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024Paddle Australia and the Olympic Kayak Team visited MOB Academy for a Team Australia inspiration event, connecting students with elite athletes and sharing stories of achievement, discipline, and pursuing excellence.
• Culture KingssupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024Simon Beard, founder of international streetwear giant Culture Kings, delivered sales and influence training to MOB Academy students, sharing entrepreneurial insights and practical skills for career success.
• Aspire42supportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024Aspire42 partnered with MOB Academy to provide practical experience and mentorship, helping young men navigate their career paths with guidance from experienced professionals.
• PCYC (Police Citizens Youth Clubs)supportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024PCYC partnered with MOB Academy to support student development. MOB student Thomas earned certificates through PCYC as part of his stacked qualification approach at MOB Academy.
• Queensland Ambulance ServicesupportingGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024MOB Academy student Kayleb D was awarded a prestigious Queensland Ambulance School-Based Scholarship, providing a pathway into the ambulance service career through education and practical training.

Scale indicators11 records

Recent moves10 records

Others

• TAFE Queensland: Queensland's primary vocational education provider and a strategic partner to MOB through TAFE at School. Comparable as the ecosystem enabler providing trade certifications that MOB students complete alongside their senior secondary schooling.

Broad incumbents

• Berry Street: Large Australian not-for-profit providing education, child protection, and family services, including school-based alternative education programs. Comparable in serving at-risk youth via structured educational pathways and wellbeing support.
• Clontarf Foundation: National not-for-profit operating school-based engagement programs for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males, focused on attendance, completion, and employment. Comparable as a boys-focused school engagement model with strong employer partnership pipeline, but operates within existing schools rather than running a standalone academy.
• Edmund Rice Education Australia: National network of Catholic schools including FlexiSchools and alternative education campuses serving disengaged youth. Comparable as a larger-scale alternative education provider with similar social-justice and re-engagement mission, though broader in scope (co-ed and multi-age).

Direct peers

• The Spot Academy: Queensland alternative education provider also previously led by Jason Sessarago. Comparable model targeting disengaged or at-risk secondary students with re-engagement-focused pedagogy and pathways programs.
• Australian Technical College: Queensland senior secondary college focused on technical and trades pathways. Jason Sessarago was involved in its establishment, and the model aligns with MOB's TAFE-partnership, school-based apprenticeship approach.
• Australian Industry Trade College: Queensland senior secondary college combining academic study with structured school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. Jason Sessarago was involved in its accreditation and establishment, making it a direct parallel to MOB's vocational pathways approach.
• Arcadia College: Queensland alternative secondary school for disengaged youth; led previously by MOB's current Executive Manager Jason Sessarago. Directly comparable as a Special Assistance-style school serving at-risk adolescents with smaller class sizes and vocational pathways.
• Ohana for Youth: Queensland-based youth re-engagement program also under Sessarago's prior leadership. Comparable as a not-for-profit organization focused on supporting at-risk young people through education, mentoring, and pathways.

Emerging players

• Murra Pathways: Indigenous-focused employer engagement and pathways initiative that connected MOB with Woolworths. Comparable as an emerging player building bridges between schools and corporate employment partners, though broader than a single school operator.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/_menofbusiness
• YouTubeyoutube.com/watch?v=imTD3fMc26M
• Facebookfacebook.com/MenofBusinessAcademy
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/men-of-business-australia-ltd
• Instagraminstagram.com/menofbusiness_mob

Compliance1 record

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about MOB Academy