Hola from a beach in Mexico! That’s probably the greatest thing about having your own business, particularly with Jigsaw because of the flexibility it gives you.
I’m a Mum of three and I run Jigsaw Performing Arts School Dulwich on Sunday mornings. I work full-time Monday to Friday as chief executive of the Girls’ Schools Association. Some people think I’m mad extending my working week by a day alongside a demanding job but really Sunday does not feel like work. My three children and husband are there with me every Sunday, it’s a real family business and we all pitch in. It’s such a joy to wander between the various classes with over 100 children in full song or dance.
The set up was tougher than I expected, but I did this while on maternity leave so that I could pound the streets of Dulwich (2 kids and baby bump in tow) dropping flyers and chatting with my prospective new students. I opened my school in 2016 with only 12 pupils but that feels like a distant memory now. Baby #3 arrived on a Sunday so I missed that week but my hubbie & small teaching team held the fort and I was back there the following Sunday, as a family of 5.
I can hold a tune (like most Welsh people) but I have no formal performing arts training. But Jigsaw has inspired me to take up dance training aged 40. You’re never too old right? I’m pretty sure I’ll never conquer a ballet leap but I’m quite proud of my chaine turns now.
If you’re keen to run a business (and setting up on your own feels too daunting) I would definitely recommend the franchise route. It’s so great to have a network of people to call on. Like that Saturday message when your teacher is sick, there’s always someone in the network that can help you out in finding cover.
Signing off now as it’s margarita time. And I know that the automated booking system that Jigsaw head office provides will take care of new enquiries!
