A young man once known as “Britain’s naughtiest kid” has dramatically turned his life around, now earning approximately £360,000 annually running a personal development school in Koh Samui, Thailand. Tom Roberts, 24, first gained notoriety in 2014 when he appeared on Channel 4’s Mr Drew’s School For Boys. His early years were marked by behavioral issues that culminated in two convictions for grievous bodily harm.
Roberts, who faced significant emotional challenges after the death of his father, has openly admitted that his earlier behavior was “awful.” His turning point came after serving time for his offenses, which he described as a crucial “wake-up call.” Released from HMP Hindley in March 2023, he immersed himself in self-improvement literature and sought guidance from wellness coaches, including renowned life coach Bob Proctor.
In December 2023, Roberts established his own personal development academy, Generation I. The academy focuses on providing tailored programs to help clients across the globe transform their lives. Within just two years, he has built a clientele of 240 individuals, generating a monthly revenue of £30,000.
Reflecting on his past, Roberts acknowledged the difficulties he faced growing up in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. His father’s struggle with alcoholism and subsequent death when Tom was just nine years old contributed to his emotional turmoil. He became increasingly rebellious, culminating in expulsion from school shortly before completing primary education.
His mother, Christina Sadler, suggested he participate in the Channel 4 program, which aimed to rehabilitate troubled youths. Despite the challenges he faced during the show, he credits it with providing some structure and support.
Following his television appearance, Roberts transitioned to secondary school but was expelled again within three months. He eventually found success at Archers Brook, a special school where he completed his GCSEs. However, his struggles with anger and emotional regulation persisted, leading to legal troubles.
In November 2020, Roberts received an 11-month suspended sentence for an incident at a bowling alley. His situation worsened in September 2021, resulting in an 18-month sentence after he assaulted another individual. These experiences, he stated, provided the necessary time for reflection.
Roberts describes prison as “a blessing” for his ADHD mind, as it imposed routine and discipline. He dedicated his time to reading developmental books, which sparked his desire to build his own business. Determined to start anew, he relocated to Thailand in November 2023, where he launched Generation I.
His academy offers personalized development programs designed to empower clients to “rewrite their own story.” Roberts expressed a sense of fulfillment in his work, stating, “For most of my childhood—basically until now—people have told me that I’d amount to nothing. And now I’m an entrepreneur shaping lives for the better.”
Looking back on his past, he recognizes the need for help and guidance during his troubled years. He emphasizes that individuals are not defined by their past mistakes, stating, “You are not defined by your past and I’m living proof that you can always turn a new leaf. Never give up!”
Through his remarkable transformation, Tom Roberts serves as an example of resilience and the power of personal development, inspiring others to pursue their own paths to success.
