Training in Childcare
Training in Childcare aims to train unqualified individuals and then place them into professional jobs in the community, via the company's social enterprise offshoot, The Childcare People.
When did you start up?
2001
How has your business grown since you first started it?
When I first started the business, it was just a small project in South Shields. Now the company employs numerous lecturers and there are currently 40 people enrolled onto the placement programme. We are based all over the North East and in 1996 we won a prestigious National Training Award.
Did you have plans for growth when you first began?
No, not really. I didn't particularly consider myself as a businesswoman as such when I set the company up. When I started the business it wasn't with the intention of building a business - it was more just an opportunity to give some kids the best possible start in life and a good education. However, the fact that it's growing is great as it means we can try to help more and more children.
How has work affected your working life / home life?
I work harder and longer hours now than I've ever done but I've got more control over the business as a result.
What have been the challenges of growing your own business?
I think one of the main challenges has been trying to please everyone. I want to do right by people but when you're running your own business you encounter a lot of situations where this is not always possible.
Where do you see yourself in two years time?
Hopefully we'll see the company expand across the UK, which ultimately will lead to the improved welfare for children across the country. This has always been the businesses main motivation and we're all driven towards this goal.
A highlight from your experiences?
Enabling children to gain a good education and at the same time really benefiting people who have wanted to get into childcare but never really thought they were capable.
If you had one piece of advice for people starting a business, what would it be?
Get as much help as you can and ask as many questions as you can, people are out there whose sole purpose is to offer support and advice, so don't be afraid to make the most of it.
