It is wonderful to hear about teachers who have successfully created their own business. We caught up with Shelley from Nature Makers to hear about her journey from teaching to a better work/life balance for her and her young family.
What Franchise Do You Own?
I own the Nature Makers Droitwich & Worcester.
What’s Your Background?
Teacher, Tutor, Educator.
Why Did You Want To Leave Teaching?
I found that working in schools was not compatible with a young family.
Why Did You Pick A Franchise?
In order to feel that I had support and that I was part of a team.
What Does Your Week Look Like?
Term-time, I take Mondays off, I run a class on Tuesdays which I take my nearly-3 year old son to. Wednesdays I drop him at nursery and then run a class.
On Thursdays I complete paperwork and admin tasks and on Fridays, I do a class which my son also comes to.
On the weekends I offer parties and other special events and in the holidays I offer HAF (Holiday activities and food) programmes and run Big Nature Play Days.
What Did You Wish You Knew Before Starting A Franchise?
Simply that I could have done it sooner!
What Support Did Your Franchise Give You?
A great deal – we have an operational document and were offered instruction and advice on the legalities and the logistical aspects.
We also have regular strategy meetings, catch-ups and team days as well as online contact. We are also in a private Facebook group where we can all ask questions and provide support for one another.
What Skills Did You Use From Teaching?
The obvious one is my skills as an educator – we actively teach in our classes and having a teaching qualification helps me differentiate tasks and explore learning through art and play with the children and families that come to sessions.
Of course, school work is also easier as I am familiar with the settings and the day-to-day aspects.
In addition I use my organisational skills, my ability to manage groups, adapt to the needs of the individuals and the communication skills that us teachers have.
Even the aspects of the business that are newer to me such as the marketing side of things have been made easier by the behind-the-scenes admin that I had to do as a teacher.
What Are Your Top 3 Tips For A Teacher Looking For A Franchise?
- Look for a franchise that naturally interests you – something that you can do that doesn’t feel like work!
- Do some research and get advice for things that you are not sure about before committing.
- Talk to people who are part of the franchise – it’s a bit like a family so it is important that you feel a personal (not just business) connection.
Anything extra?
Just go for it! The right franchise is out there for you…
Thank you so much Shelly for taking the time to share your journey with us.
If you would like to learn more about Nature Makers you can visit our Nature Franchise Page or Nature Maker Website
