Why did you become a franchisee?
I teach singing privately to adults and MD North London Military Wives Choir, and previously spent 13 years in secondary schools as a music teacher and Head of Music. But I was so disillusioned with schools and the music education they were providing. I wanted control of my life and what I was going to teach. I wanted to provide education that was worth something, and not teach to simply produce results.
I hated what schools had become and I hated the pressure that was on me. I had a rant on Facebook one day and my old school friend, Jane Maudsley, contacted me to tell me about Little Voices. I went up to a discovery day a few weeks later and I was sold! I love what we offer, and I could see immediately that it was exactly the sort of thing I wanted to do.
What is your typical day like working on your franchise?
It’s so much fun! I rarely get a full day to work as my son is only in nursery for 3 mornings a week, but in the time I get I always have lists of things to achieve.
I try to use at least an hour of that time working on something to grow my business.
Tuesdays are when we have our lessons, so that’s my favourite day – I just love being around the energy of my amazing pupils and tutors! So while I no longer teach myself, I’m always there ‘front of house’, meeting and greeting new pupils, entertaining anyone who turns up early or needs to be picked up late for whatever reason. And sometimes I just join in!
What advice would you give to someone considering buying a Little Voices franchise?
Do it! I’d also say to remember that it’s a business, and you do have to treat it as such – but it is fun! Plus you get the feeling of satisfaction that comes through knowing that you are giving the world a wonderful gift and really changing these children’s lives.
I’d also say that the level of professionalism throughout the network is outstanding – and if you are prepared to listen, learn, and implement, you can’t help but be successful!
