Check out what's happening at ComputerXplorers.
MP ‘Xplores’ Computers at Hinckley Primary School - 6/08
On Friday 13 June David Tredinnick, Member of Parliament for Bosworth, is attending a special ComputerXplorers class at Battling Brook Primary School in Hinckley to highlight the importance of teaching IT to children.
The theme of the class is clay animation, using stop motion filming techniques as used by Aardman who created Wallace and Gromit. The 11am class is aimed at children aged 8-11 and is being taken by IT teacher Rikin Kotecha.
ComputerXplorers teach computer skills to children aged 3 to 13 by offering weekly classes in schools, nurseries, holiday clubs and community venues. Children are very often asked to ‘power down’ when they enter a class but not in ComputerXplorers classes! Children are given the opportunity to try new experiences, like clay animation, video game design and digital photography. ComputerXplorers can help schools that are struggling in this area to fill the IT gap.
David Tredinnick MP said: “I am delighted to be able to meet the children and find out what they do in this class. IT has such an important role to play in developing children’s confidence and their ability to learn. I would like to see this kind of initiative in more schools.”
Nigel Toplis, managing director of ComputerXplorers will also be attending the visit and said: “The Government has prioritised the improvement of ICT skills amongst school age children so there couldn’t be a better time for an initiative like ComputerXplorers. Children have so much fun at our sessions they don’t realise how much they are learning.
“Schools love our programmes as they are all cross referenced to the National Curriculum and we can compliment the hard work they are already putting in during the school day.”
Mr J Talbot, Head of Battling Brook Primary School said: “As a school we are committed to providing outstanding opportunities for our children. ComputerXplorers has proved to be an exciting and well attended extra curricular activity that fits in well with our goal to provide education at the cutting edge of technology.”
Anyone who would be interested in teaching with ComputerXplorers or parents who would like their children to attend a class should contact Diane Taylor, ComputerXplorers Franchise Owner in South Midlands, on tel: 0116 275 1853 or visit www.southmidlands.computerxplorers.co.uk
The theme of the class is clay animation, using stop motion filming techniques as used by Aardman who created Wallace and Gromit. The 11am class is aimed at children aged 8-11 and is being taken by IT teacher Rikin Kotecha.
ComputerXplorers teach computer skills to children aged 3 to 13 by offering weekly classes in schools, nurseries, holiday clubs and community venues. Children are very often asked to ‘power down’ when they enter a class but not in ComputerXplorers classes! Children are given the opportunity to try new experiences, like clay animation, video game design and digital photography. ComputerXplorers can help schools that are struggling in this area to fill the IT gap.
David Tredinnick MP said: “I am delighted to be able to meet the children and find out what they do in this class. IT has such an important role to play in developing children’s confidence and their ability to learn. I would like to see this kind of initiative in more schools.”
Nigel Toplis, managing director of ComputerXplorers will also be attending the visit and said: “The Government has prioritised the improvement of ICT skills amongst school age children so there couldn’t be a better time for an initiative like ComputerXplorers. Children have so much fun at our sessions they don’t realise how much they are learning.
“Schools love our programmes as they are all cross referenced to the National Curriculum and we can compliment the hard work they are already putting in during the school day.”
Mr J Talbot, Head of Battling Brook Primary School said: “As a school we are committed to providing outstanding opportunities for our children. ComputerXplorers has proved to be an exciting and well attended extra curricular activity that fits in well with our goal to provide education at the cutting edge of technology.”
Anyone who would be interested in teaching with ComputerXplorers or parents who would like their children to attend a class should contact Diane Taylor, ComputerXplorers Franchise Owner in South Midlands, on tel: 0116 275 1853 or visit www.southmidlands.computerxplorers.co.uk
ComputerXplorers – preparing children for the future - 06/08
ComputerXplorers remains a ground-breaking franchise, despite the fact that is has been in existence for over twenty years and has in that time taught more than three million classes worldwide.
ComputerXplorers sets a standard for franchised businesses in the 21st Century and dovetails with the requirements of many modern business owners.
Most importantly, ComputerXplorers operates in the area of ICT and children’s education – both of which are critical in today’s world.
Certainly the children’s market is more popular today that any other time in the past.
There has been huge investment both privately and publicly in children’s support services and education over the last 10 to 15 years and this is set to continue over the foreseeable future.
The experience and understanding that ComputerXplorers has of the market is second to none.
We know that children learn best when they are having fun at the same time – and it’s that premise which successfully underpins the ComputerXplorers programme, and is borne out by testimonials such as.
“The Children have loved going to the ComputerXplorers club at our school. It has provided opportunities for the children to use computer technology that we so not currently have, so therefore the children are widening their skills and knowledge. The fact that the children have been able to take evidence of this home with them too, for example a DVD of their movie, has been an added plus for parents and pupils. The programmes provided by ComputerXplorers are well planned out with timings and costing and leave little for the school to actually do for the club to work successfully.”
Jane Newman, ICT coordinator, Oak Cottage Primary, Solihull.
The franchise offers weekly classes to children from the ages of 3-13, in settings such as nursery schools, playgroups, schools, holiday clubs. For younger ages, classes aim to help build children’s academic readiness skills in language, literacy, maths, science, art and music. At the same time, it introduces them to problem-solving initiatives and computer operations.
At ComputerXplorers, we show children a different side to technology – that it’s fun when you know how! In small groups of 10-12, children learn that computers are exciting learning tools, empowering them to make films, create animated slideshows, design their own video game or produce a comic, activities which satisfy and develop creativity while extending their knowledge and use of ICT. Problem solving, critical thinking and team working skills are very useful by-products of participation.
For parents, a ComputerXplorers after school technology club provides a safe place for their children to enjoy themselves while learning new skills and making new friends. For schools, a technology club makes a welcome contribution to the menu of activities and enhances a school’s existing extended hour’s provision.
ComputerXplorers has been introduced to the UK by Nigel Toplis. With more than 13 years of franchising experience to his credit, he is also Managing Director of Recognition Express itself an award winning franchise of some 29 years and is immediate past Chairman of the British Franchise Association.
‘ComputerXplorers is a major initiative for the UK,’ says Nigel – ‘Not only being a highly successful home based franchise, but also in the products and services it provides for its market, and in the marketing systems and programmes we’ve developed to help our Franchise Owners access the market”
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, Cotswolds, Sussex, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
Franchise Owners need to be articulate, good communicators, interested in education and/or children and who are not afraid of technology. They need to be serious about running a business but keen to have a life/work balance enabling them to work at home and take advantage of the flexible working hours.
Successful franchisees will almost certainly have high energy and ambition who take pride in their involvement in education and are keen to deliver a high value product to the marketplace.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
ComputerXplorers sets a standard for franchised businesses in the 21st Century and dovetails with the requirements of many modern business owners.
- Work from home
- Modest entry costs
- Flexible working hours
- Low operating costs; high net margins
- Appeals to both sexes
- Huge existing market which will continue to grow
Most importantly, ComputerXplorers operates in the area of ICT and children’s education – both of which are critical in today’s world.
Certainly the children’s market is more popular today that any other time in the past.
There has been huge investment both privately and publicly in children’s support services and education over the last 10 to 15 years and this is set to continue over the foreseeable future.
The experience and understanding that ComputerXplorers has of the market is second to none.
We know that children learn best when they are having fun at the same time – and it’s that premise which successfully underpins the ComputerXplorers programme, and is borne out by testimonials such as.
“The Children have loved going to the ComputerXplorers club at our school. It has provided opportunities for the children to use computer technology that we so not currently have, so therefore the children are widening their skills and knowledge. The fact that the children have been able to take evidence of this home with them too, for example a DVD of their movie, has been an added plus for parents and pupils. The programmes provided by ComputerXplorers are well planned out with timings and costing and leave little for the school to actually do for the club to work successfully.”
Jane Newman, ICT coordinator, Oak Cottage Primary, Solihull.
The franchise offers weekly classes to children from the ages of 3-13, in settings such as nursery schools, playgroups, schools, holiday clubs. For younger ages, classes aim to help build children’s academic readiness skills in language, literacy, maths, science, art and music. At the same time, it introduces them to problem-solving initiatives and computer operations.
At ComputerXplorers, we show children a different side to technology – that it’s fun when you know how! In small groups of 10-12, children learn that computers are exciting learning tools, empowering them to make films, create animated slideshows, design their own video game or produce a comic, activities which satisfy and develop creativity while extending their knowledge and use of ICT. Problem solving, critical thinking and team working skills are very useful by-products of participation.
For parents, a ComputerXplorers after school technology club provides a safe place for their children to enjoy themselves while learning new skills and making new friends. For schools, a technology club makes a welcome contribution to the menu of activities and enhances a school’s existing extended hour’s provision.
ComputerXplorers has been introduced to the UK by Nigel Toplis. With more than 13 years of franchising experience to his credit, he is also Managing Director of Recognition Express itself an award winning franchise of some 29 years and is immediate past Chairman of the British Franchise Association.
‘ComputerXplorers is a major initiative for the UK,’ says Nigel – ‘Not only being a highly successful home based franchise, but also in the products and services it provides for its market, and in the marketing systems and programmes we’ve developed to help our Franchise Owners access the market”
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, Cotswolds, Sussex, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
Franchise Owners need to be articulate, good communicators, interested in education and/or children and who are not afraid of technology. They need to be serious about running a business but keen to have a life/work balance enabling them to work at home and take advantage of the flexible working hours.
Successful franchisees will almost certainly have high energy and ambition who take pride in their involvement in education and are keen to deliver a high value product to the marketplace.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
Introducing ComputerXplorers - 04/08
Children learn best when they are having fun at the same time – and this is the premise which underpins the ComputerXplorers programme.
Along with our lungs and mobile phone features, most people use just 20% of the available potential when using computers. Children today are surrounded by technology; digital cameras, Sky Plus and Wii to name but a few, but they largely use computers for the most basic functions of accessing the internet, playing games or chatting with their friends. Conversely, some children don’t have access at home to a computer or connection to the internet, and tend to associate ICT with creating word documents in Science or PowerPoint slides in English at school.
It is important to show children a different side to this technology – that its fun when you know how. Through ComputerXplorers, an innovative educational technology programme aimed at children aged between three and 13 years, small groups of 10-12 children discover that computers are exciting learning tools.
Children are given the expertise to make films, create animated slideshows, design their own video game or produce a comic. These activities satisfy and develop creativity whilst at the same time extend knowledge and use of ICT. Problem solving, critical thinking and team working skills are very useful by-products of participation.
Offering a technology club after school is very simple as ComputerXplorers provides everything needed to run the club, including trained, CRB checked instructors, software, peripherals and all other equipment.
Most importantly, the children have a lot of fun - after school yet still on school premises, the children interact with adults other than their teachers or parents, work together on projects with their friends, and mix with children they would not usually in the course of a school day.
For parents, a ComputerXplorers after school technology club provides a safe environment for their children to enjoy themselves while learning new skills and making new friends. For schools, a technology club makes a welcome contribution to the menu of activities and enhances a school’s existing extended hours provision.
The ComputerXplorers programme can also help schools extend their ICT facilities to the wider community. With exciting, structured activities, holiday camps for children are a popular service for working parents, and can also offer much needed respite for parents at home during long holidays.
Local people interested in developing skills in basic computer operations, digital scrapbooking and using eBay and Paypal can sign up to special adult courses held during the holidays and other out-of-school time, and, as a social opportunity for mums, dads, grandparents and carers to get to know one another, it places the school at the heart of the community.
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, South Birmingham, Sussex, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT – 3rd stage pilot programme available at £18,750 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
Along with our lungs and mobile phone features, most people use just 20% of the available potential when using computers. Children today are surrounded by technology; digital cameras, Sky Plus and Wii to name but a few, but they largely use computers for the most basic functions of accessing the internet, playing games or chatting with their friends. Conversely, some children don’t have access at home to a computer or connection to the internet, and tend to associate ICT with creating word documents in Science or PowerPoint slides in English at school.
It is important to show children a different side to this technology – that its fun when you know how. Through ComputerXplorers, an innovative educational technology programme aimed at children aged between three and 13 years, small groups of 10-12 children discover that computers are exciting learning tools.
Children are given the expertise to make films, create animated slideshows, design their own video game or produce a comic. These activities satisfy and develop creativity whilst at the same time extend knowledge and use of ICT. Problem solving, critical thinking and team working skills are very useful by-products of participation.
Offering a technology club after school is very simple as ComputerXplorers provides everything needed to run the club, including trained, CRB checked instructors, software, peripherals and all other equipment.
Most importantly, the children have a lot of fun - after school yet still on school premises, the children interact with adults other than their teachers or parents, work together on projects with their friends, and mix with children they would not usually in the course of a school day.
For parents, a ComputerXplorers after school technology club provides a safe environment for their children to enjoy themselves while learning new skills and making new friends. For schools, a technology club makes a welcome contribution to the menu of activities and enhances a school’s existing extended hours provision.
The ComputerXplorers programme can also help schools extend their ICT facilities to the wider community. With exciting, structured activities, holiday camps for children are a popular service for working parents, and can also offer much needed respite for parents at home during long holidays.
Local people interested in developing skills in basic computer operations, digital scrapbooking and using eBay and Paypal can sign up to special adult courses held during the holidays and other out-of-school time, and, as a social opportunity for mums, dads, grandparents and carers to get to know one another, it places the school at the heart of the community.
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, South Birmingham, Sussex, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT – 3rd stage pilot programme available at £18,750 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
Lifestyle choice fuels growth in home-based franchises
‘If you can operate a business that generates the same revenue as a retail or office location but with a fraction of the overhead, why wouldn’t you want to work from home?’ asks Nigel Toplis, Managing Director of ComputerXplorers.
ComputerXplorers is part of the revolution in franchising and is a prime example of marrying business opportunity with lifestyle choice.
A refreshing new franchise ComputerXplorers helps young people discover the world of computers and technology through exploration. With a focus on learning through enjoyment, ComputerXplorers has been brought to the UK by Nigel Toplis, a stalwart of the franchising industry.
With more than 13 years of experience to his credit, he is Managing Director of Recognition Express award winning franchise of some 28 years as well as being immediate past Chairman of the British Franchise Association.
ComputerXplorers launched its initial pilot operations in October 2005 and is expanding very quickly given the huge appetite that exists among parents for opportunities to give their child a head-start in life, and ComputerXplorers have a target of 20 franchise owners by the end of 2008/09.
The target market is enormous with more than 11 million children and over 58,000 nursery, pre-school, primary school and holiday schemes throughout the country.
“ComputerXplorers recently provided a large number of technology club sessions at Reading Borough Council Playclubs. Given complete freedom of choice, the vast majority of children at the playclubs were eager to take part in the high quality activities which focus on learning by having fun. I was impressed by their friendly and professional approach and commitment to quality of delivery. I would highly recommend ComputerXplorers to schools, after school clubs and holiday clubs.”
Andy Barker, Targeted Play Manager, Reading Borough Council
Says Nigel “ComputerXplorers is a ground breaking initiative for the UK – not only being a highly successful home based franchise, but also in the products and services its provides for its market, and in the marketing systems and programmes we’ve developed to help franchisees access the market”
The franchise offers weekly classes in information and computer technology to children from the ages of 3 to 13 – in a variety of settings, nursery schools, playgroups, schools, after-school clubs, holiday clubs and others.
The aim of the classes is, at the younger age to build children’s skills in language, literacy, maths, art and science - whilst introducing computer technology, then to extend this as children get older to problem solving initiatives and computer operations.
The home-based business Franchise Owner must be strongly self-motivated, have the drive and ambition to succeed and certainly in the case of ComputerXplorers be prepared to follow the system, implement the marketing activity, visit the decision makers and provide excellent client service.
If you don’t want the cost of a premises but you do want the security and flexibility of working for yourself with all the benefits of a proven business system, a market brand and on-going business support then ComputerXplorers may be for you.
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, Cotswold, Sussex, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
ComputerXplorers is part of the revolution in franchising and is a prime example of marrying business opportunity with lifestyle choice.
A refreshing new franchise ComputerXplorers helps young people discover the world of computers and technology through exploration. With a focus on learning through enjoyment, ComputerXplorers has been brought to the UK by Nigel Toplis, a stalwart of the franchising industry.
With more than 13 years of experience to his credit, he is Managing Director of Recognition Express award winning franchise of some 28 years as well as being immediate past Chairman of the British Franchise Association.
ComputerXplorers launched its initial pilot operations in October 2005 and is expanding very quickly given the huge appetite that exists among parents for opportunities to give their child a head-start in life, and ComputerXplorers have a target of 20 franchise owners by the end of 2008/09.
The target market is enormous with more than 11 million children and over 58,000 nursery, pre-school, primary school and holiday schemes throughout the country.
“ComputerXplorers recently provided a large number of technology club sessions at Reading Borough Council Playclubs. Given complete freedom of choice, the vast majority of children at the playclubs were eager to take part in the high quality activities which focus on learning by having fun. I was impressed by their friendly and professional approach and commitment to quality of delivery. I would highly recommend ComputerXplorers to schools, after school clubs and holiday clubs.”
Andy Barker, Targeted Play Manager, Reading Borough Council
Says Nigel “ComputerXplorers is a ground breaking initiative for the UK – not only being a highly successful home based franchise, but also in the products and services its provides for its market, and in the marketing systems and programmes we’ve developed to help franchisees access the market”
The franchise offers weekly classes in information and computer technology to children from the ages of 3 to 13 – in a variety of settings, nursery schools, playgroups, schools, after-school clubs, holiday clubs and others.
The aim of the classes is, at the younger age to build children’s skills in language, literacy, maths, art and science - whilst introducing computer technology, then to extend this as children get older to problem solving initiatives and computer operations.
The home-based business Franchise Owner must be strongly self-motivated, have the drive and ambition to succeed and certainly in the case of ComputerXplorers be prepared to follow the system, implement the marketing activity, visit the decision makers and provide excellent client service.
If you don’t want the cost of a premises but you do want the security and flexibility of working for yourself with all the benefits of a proven business system, a market brand and on-going business support then ComputerXplorers may be for you.
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, Cotswold, Sussex, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
Teachers love it, Parents want it, Children need it
Children learn best when they are having fun at the same time – and it’s that premise which underpins the ComputerXplorers programme. Along with our lungs and mobile phone features, a lot of us use just 20% of the available potential when using computers! Children today are surrounded by technology; digital cameras, Sky Plus and Wii to name but a few, but they largely use computers for the most basic functions of accessing the internet, playing games or chatting with their friends. Conversely, some children don’t have access at home to a computer or connection to the internet, and tend to associate ICT with creating word documents in Science or Powerpoint slides in English at school.
At ComputerXplorers, we show children a different side to technology – that it’s fun when you know how! In small groups of 10-12, children learn that computers are exciting learning tools, empowering them to make films, create animated slideshows, design their own video game or produce a comic, activities which satisfy and develop creativity while extending their knowledge and use of ICT. Problem solving, critical thinking and team working skills are very useful by-products of participation.
Most importantly, the children have a lot of fun – after school yet still on school premises, the children interact with adults other than their teachers or parents, work together on projects with their friends, and mix with children they would not usually in the course of a school day.
For parents, a ComputerXplorers after school technology club provides a safe place for their children to enjoy themselves while learning new skills and making new friends. For schools, a technology club makes a welcome contribution to the menu of activities and enhances a school’s existing extended hours provision. Offering a technology club after school is very simple as ComputerXplorers provides everything needed to run the club, including trained, CRB checked instructors, software, peripherals and all other equipment.
The ComputerXplorers programme can also help schools extend their ICT facilities to the wider community. With our exciting, structured activities, holiday camps for children are a popular service for working parents, and also offer much needed respite for parents at home during long holidays! Local people interested in developing skills in basic computer operations, digital scrapbooking and using ebay and paypal can sign up to special adult courses held during the holidays and other out-of-school time, and, as a social opportunity for mums, dads, grandparents and carers to get to know one another, it places the school at the heart of the community.
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, South Birmingham, Sussex, Cotswold, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
At ComputerXplorers, we show children a different side to technology – that it’s fun when you know how! In small groups of 10-12, children learn that computers are exciting learning tools, empowering them to make films, create animated slideshows, design their own video game or produce a comic, activities which satisfy and develop creativity while extending their knowledge and use of ICT. Problem solving, critical thinking and team working skills are very useful by-products of participation.
Most importantly, the children have a lot of fun – after school yet still on school premises, the children interact with adults other than their teachers or parents, work together on projects with their friends, and mix with children they would not usually in the course of a school day.
For parents, a ComputerXplorers after school technology club provides a safe place for their children to enjoy themselves while learning new skills and making new friends. For schools, a technology club makes a welcome contribution to the menu of activities and enhances a school’s existing extended hours provision. Offering a technology club after school is very simple as ComputerXplorers provides everything needed to run the club, including trained, CRB checked instructors, software, peripherals and all other equipment.
The ComputerXplorers programme can also help schools extend their ICT facilities to the wider community. With our exciting, structured activities, holiday camps for children are a popular service for working parents, and also offer much needed respite for parents at home during long holidays! Local people interested in developing skills in basic computer operations, digital scrapbooking and using ebay and paypal can sign up to special adult courses held during the holidays and other out-of-school time, and, as a social opportunity for mums, dads, grandparents and carers to get to know one another, it places the school at the heart of the community.
ComputerXplorers now has Franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, South Birmingham, Sussex, Cotswold, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.
More information:
Investment level: £24,500 + VAT
Business type: Children’s computer tuition
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey
ComputerXplorers Ltd. Unit 2, Cartwright Way, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Coalville LE67 1UB
lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Web: www.computerxplorers.co.uk
ComputerXplorers expands its franchise into six locations
The new franchises have been launched in Thames Valley, Norfolk, Mid Sussex, South Midlands, the Solent and East Berkshire. All the franchises have been well received by local educational organisations and are running popular classes within their local community.
"I am thrilled by the expansion of our franchise network," says Nigel Toplis, Managing Director of ComputerXplorers. "ComputerXplorers is a fantastic proposition and we're getting great feedback from parents, teachers and children in our franchise areas. It provides a fun yet structured way for children to learn lifelong skills and is delivered by enthusiastic and committed instructors who make a real difference within their community."
Marika Mears, Head Teacher of St. Martin at Shouldham CE VA Primary School, Norfolk, adds: "We have been very impressed with the professional approach of the tutors. Activities are well planned, the software is of high quality and support is provided depending on the children's needs. We offered a taster session during one of our school activity days and parents signed pupils up for sessions. What could be easier? We only need provide the room and pupils receive a very productive after-school activity. We would highly recommend ComputerXplorers to schools. We are looking forward to expanding this activity to our Foundation stage pupils next."
"I am thrilled by the expansion of our franchise network," says Nigel Toplis, Managing Director of ComputerXplorers. "ComputerXplorers is a fantastic proposition and we're getting great feedback from parents, teachers and children in our franchise areas. It provides a fun yet structured way for children to learn lifelong skills and is delivered by enthusiastic and committed instructors who make a real difference within their community."
Marika Mears, Head Teacher of St. Martin at Shouldham CE VA Primary School, Norfolk, adds: "We have been very impressed with the professional approach of the tutors. Activities are well planned, the software is of high quality and support is provided depending on the children's needs. We offered a taster session during one of our school activity days and parents signed pupils up for sessions. What could be easier? We only need provide the room and pupils receive a very productive after-school activity. We would highly recommend ComputerXplorers to schools. We are looking forward to expanding this activity to our Foundation stage pupils next."
Business Franchise – 'One Year On'
1. How and why did you get involved with the franchise?
I first began looking seriously at franchises in September 2006. I was keen to do something that was more than just another job. I took part in some career coaching sessions to try and ensure my next move would be the right one for me, and those sessions clarified my desire to be able to control my own destiny. Something where I felt my efforts would enable me to directly reap rewards, and I would be less reliant on other people.
Having come to this conclusion, I did some research on the internet about franchising and attended the National Franchise Exhibition at the NEC in October 2006. I went there with a shortlist of potentially interesting franchises that I had already researched. These were all management franchises and my aim was to gather information and to see what sort of opportunities there were.
As it turned out, the most important thing to me during the day was who I felt most comfortable with. This was because I felt the franchise exhibition was full of a lot of people who were very pushy, promoting either get-rich-quick schemes or franchises that were cheap to get into. As selling points, neither of those gave me confidence that the franchise would be a good long term investment for me.
My biggest concern was to manage the risk in the best way that I could while looking for a franchise that I felt would be of real benefit to the customers. The fact that the chair of the British Franchise Association was also the master licence holder for the ComputerXplorers franchise was a considerable factor in my decision, as I felt he would need to make the franchise a success given his position.
I initially came across ComputerXplorers on the internet and, after discussing the idea within the family, it sounded like a good proposition. There was a lot of government interest in providing extended school activities and schools were under pressure to be open from 8am to 6pm. They therefore needed a way to manage this, and with staff having already worked a full day, the opportunity to provide some ICT activity in a fun way after school seemed to me to be a winner. A lot of money had been invested in IT infrastructures in schools and this equipment was not being fully utilized, and that was the unique selling proposition of ComputerXplorers. They had a significant amount of curriculum, with lesson plans all linked to the National Curriculum. This I felt was the ideal way to get the attention of schools and nurseries.
I quickly got myself into the mindset that said I should do this unless something was uncovered that would stop me. This approach was important to me as it would be very easy to talk yourself out of doing something like this given the size of investment and level of commitment required. There was training scheduled in the USA at the end of October 2006 and I resolved that I should be on it. It was important to me that the franchisor had the sense of urgency to make that happen, and I felt having come to this conclusion that to wait longer would just make me over analyse the decision.
2. What did you make of the training and support?
The initial training took place in the USA and was handled in a relaxed yet thorough fashion. As well as the specific areas relevant to the day to day operation of the business, there were sessions on marketing, business planning and recruitment. They also ran sessions on personal development, which were interesting. Additionally, it was great to meet people who had a long experience with this type of franchise and this made me feel more comfortable about the decision I had made in purchasing the ComputerXplorers franchise. The training took place in the global HQ, and visiting such an impressive facility was also very reassuring.
3. Had you had previous experience of franchising?
No, none at all except the knowledge that some of the names you see on the high street are run as franchises, such as McDonalds, Subway, Kall Kwik. I felt I understood the basics of franchising and did more research on the internet and read franchising books to make sure I understood how a franchise operated. I was surprised at how large the franchise sector was here in the UK.
4. If not, was it daunting starting the new franchise?
Any new venture of this sort is always daunting. However I felt the idea of going into a franchise, even one that was in its infancy, was a more managed risk than setting up in business on my own. The idea of working to a proven formula appealed to me and was part of my risk assessment of the opportunity. I was able to do research on the internet and through books on franchising. I also spoke to a couple of the high street banks about franchising and the franchise I was most interested in. This research was very useful and did not highlight any issues with the chosen franchise.
5. How have you found your first year?
Pretty much as expected, growth has been hampered a little by lack of staff, which was a concern I had before starting. However I feel that to build a long term business, growth needs to be in a controlled manner. I think year 1 is about getting established in the area, beginning to get the name known in the appropriate circles. Year 1 also allows you to bed in your processes and methods of working and this gives you a good foundation for growth in year 2.
All the children have enjoyed the variety in the lessons that we deliver. I like to compare them to classes at school, in that school is Education with a capital E and fun with a small f. At the ComputerXplorers classes, it is education with a small e and fun with a capital F.
6. Highlights and lowlights?
The biggest highlight was getting my first class at a local school. In fact, I actually got 2 classes for different age groups, which was great. Other significant highlights include landing contracts with a couple of nurseries, running a class that was for 19 children and needed 2 teachers to run it, and getting the first recommendation based on word of mouth. On a personal level, being told by one of the children that I was the second best teacher in the world was special and made even more so as his number one teacher was his dad!
The lowest points all relate to staffing issues. Both initially and ongoing, it is difficult to recruit staff of the right calibre. The numbers and skill-levels of the applicants has been quite low in general, and often the work appeals to students. The hardest part of working with the children is class management, and I believe you need a level of maturity and presence to manage a class which has often been missing from the applicants. I was also disappointed to lose a teacher who felt uncomfortable with the technology aspect of what we do. This was a shame as she was great with the children.
7. What is your future with the franchise?
I view this as a long term opportunity and am looking to grow the business in a steady way by developing long term relationships with the schools. The franchise is new and needs to develop, and it can only do that with input from current and new franchisees as they explore the market in their locality. The continued expansion of this new franchise is important to me at the local level as it promotes the brand and gives access to more fellow franchisees to share experiences and ideas with.
I feel it is good to be in at the start of something like this. Whilst the risk may be slightly higher, you are in a great position to influence the development of the franchise. In summary, I feel I have made the right decision for me and am really enjoying the freedom that running my own business affords me.
I first began looking seriously at franchises in September 2006. I was keen to do something that was more than just another job. I took part in some career coaching sessions to try and ensure my next move would be the right one for me, and those sessions clarified my desire to be able to control my own destiny. Something where I felt my efforts would enable me to directly reap rewards, and I would be less reliant on other people.
Having come to this conclusion, I did some research on the internet about franchising and attended the National Franchise Exhibition at the NEC in October 2006. I went there with a shortlist of potentially interesting franchises that I had already researched. These were all management franchises and my aim was to gather information and to see what sort of opportunities there were.
As it turned out, the most important thing to me during the day was who I felt most comfortable with. This was because I felt the franchise exhibition was full of a lot of people who were very pushy, promoting either get-rich-quick schemes or franchises that were cheap to get into. As selling points, neither of those gave me confidence that the franchise would be a good long term investment for me.
My biggest concern was to manage the risk in the best way that I could while looking for a franchise that I felt would be of real benefit to the customers. The fact that the chair of the British Franchise Association was also the master licence holder for the ComputerXplorers franchise was a considerable factor in my decision, as I felt he would need to make the franchise a success given his position.
I initially came across ComputerXplorers on the internet and, after discussing the idea within the family, it sounded like a good proposition. There was a lot of government interest in providing extended school activities and schools were under pressure to be open from 8am to 6pm. They therefore needed a way to manage this, and with staff having already worked a full day, the opportunity to provide some ICT activity in a fun way after school seemed to me to be a winner. A lot of money had been invested in IT infrastructures in schools and this equipment was not being fully utilized, and that was the unique selling proposition of ComputerXplorers. They had a significant amount of curriculum, with lesson plans all linked to the National Curriculum. This I felt was the ideal way to get the attention of schools and nurseries.
I quickly got myself into the mindset that said I should do this unless something was uncovered that would stop me. This approach was important to me as it would be very easy to talk yourself out of doing something like this given the size of investment and level of commitment required. There was training scheduled in the USA at the end of October 2006 and I resolved that I should be on it. It was important to me that the franchisor had the sense of urgency to make that happen, and I felt having come to this conclusion that to wait longer would just make me over analyse the decision.
2. What did you make of the training and support?
The initial training took place in the USA and was handled in a relaxed yet thorough fashion. As well as the specific areas relevant to the day to day operation of the business, there were sessions on marketing, business planning and recruitment. They also ran sessions on personal development, which were interesting. Additionally, it was great to meet people who had a long experience with this type of franchise and this made me feel more comfortable about the decision I had made in purchasing the ComputerXplorers franchise. The training took place in the global HQ, and visiting such an impressive facility was also very reassuring.
3. Had you had previous experience of franchising?
No, none at all except the knowledge that some of the names you see on the high street are run as franchises, such as McDonalds, Subway, Kall Kwik. I felt I understood the basics of franchising and did more research on the internet and read franchising books to make sure I understood how a franchise operated. I was surprised at how large the franchise sector was here in the UK.
4. If not, was it daunting starting the new franchise?
Any new venture of this sort is always daunting. However I felt the idea of going into a franchise, even one that was in its infancy, was a more managed risk than setting up in business on my own. The idea of working to a proven formula appealed to me and was part of my risk assessment of the opportunity. I was able to do research on the internet and through books on franchising. I also spoke to a couple of the high street banks about franchising and the franchise I was most interested in. This research was very useful and did not highlight any issues with the chosen franchise.
5. How have you found your first year?
Pretty much as expected, growth has been hampered a little by lack of staff, which was a concern I had before starting. However I feel that to build a long term business, growth needs to be in a controlled manner. I think year 1 is about getting established in the area, beginning to get the name known in the appropriate circles. Year 1 also allows you to bed in your processes and methods of working and this gives you a good foundation for growth in year 2.
All the children have enjoyed the variety in the lessons that we deliver. I like to compare them to classes at school, in that school is Education with a capital E and fun with a small f. At the ComputerXplorers classes, it is education with a small e and fun with a capital F.
6. Highlights and lowlights?
The biggest highlight was getting my first class at a local school. In fact, I actually got 2 classes for different age groups, which was great. Other significant highlights include landing contracts with a couple of nurseries, running a class that was for 19 children and needed 2 teachers to run it, and getting the first recommendation based on word of mouth. On a personal level, being told by one of the children that I was the second best teacher in the world was special and made even more so as his number one teacher was his dad!
The lowest points all relate to staffing issues. Both initially and ongoing, it is difficult to recruit staff of the right calibre. The numbers and skill-levels of the applicants has been quite low in general, and often the work appeals to students. The hardest part of working with the children is class management, and I believe you need a level of maturity and presence to manage a class which has often been missing from the applicants. I was also disappointed to lose a teacher who felt uncomfortable with the technology aspect of what we do. This was a shame as she was great with the children.
7. What is your future with the franchise?
I view this as a long term opportunity and am looking to grow the business in a steady way by developing long term relationships with the schools. The franchise is new and needs to develop, and it can only do that with input from current and new franchisees as they explore the market in their locality. The continued expansion of this new franchise is important to me at the local level as it promotes the brand and gives access to more fellow franchisees to share experiences and ideas with.
I feel it is good to be in at the start of something like this. Whilst the risk may be slightly higher, you are in a great position to influence the development of the franchise. In summary, I feel I have made the right decision for me and am really enjoying the freedom that running my own business affords me.
Children's franchises
ComputerXplorers is a franchise based around the teaching of ICT to children between the ages of three to 13 years. Originating in America over 20 years ago, the company was introduced to the UK in 2005. There are currently seven franchises located across the country, in the Thames Valley, Norfolk, Mid Sussex, South Midlands, the Solent, East Berkshire and Bromley.
Each franchise has trained instructors who run classes that reveal the world of computers and peripherals to children in after school clubs, summer camps, pre-schools and nurseries. Sessions are strategically planned to cover a range of educational skills and subjects in a fun and inspirational way, appropriate for each age group.
ComputerXplorers offers each of its franchisees a proven business model, extensive training and ongoing support and marketing. Every teacher employed by ComputerXplorers’ franchises is fully CRB-checked and trained to provide quality ICT education that puts an emphasis on fun. It is a combination that is proving successful for both franchisees and schools.
The cost of purchasing a ComputerXplorers franchise is £24,500. However, the franchisor is currently running pilot programmes which are discounted to £18,750 until 31 March 2008.
ComputerXplorers’ existing franchisees come from a wide range of backgrounds, including the IT/telecommunications industry, retail and aeronautical engineering. It is certainly not necessary to have experience of computers or of working with children to build a successful business in the sector. However, the franchisees share a belief in the importance of IT education in today’s world.
Nigel Toplis, managing director of ComputerXplorers, gives this advice to anyone thinking of buying a franchise, particularly one relating to children: “Going into business and picking a franchise is a huge decision. However if you are looking for a sector that is rewarding, interesting and satisfying, you should certainly consider a children’s franchise.”
“Working with children can be hugely fulfilling and allows our franchisees to run a successful business whilst making a real difference to their communities. At ComputerXplorers we have been delighted by the reaction we have received from parents, teachers and children,” Nigel added. “However, the most important advice I can give on buying any franchise is to ensure that you choose a franchisor that you can trust to offer you the ongoing knowledge and support you will need to allow your business to thrive.
Each franchise has trained instructors who run classes that reveal the world of computers and peripherals to children in after school clubs, summer camps, pre-schools and nurseries. Sessions are strategically planned to cover a range of educational skills and subjects in a fun and inspirational way, appropriate for each age group.
ComputerXplorers offers each of its franchisees a proven business model, extensive training and ongoing support and marketing. Every teacher employed by ComputerXplorers’ franchises is fully CRB-checked and trained to provide quality ICT education that puts an emphasis on fun. It is a combination that is proving successful for both franchisees and schools.
The cost of purchasing a ComputerXplorers franchise is £24,500. However, the franchisor is currently running pilot programmes which are discounted to £18,750 until 31 March 2008.
ComputerXplorers’ existing franchisees come from a wide range of backgrounds, including the IT/telecommunications industry, retail and aeronautical engineering. It is certainly not necessary to have experience of computers or of working with children to build a successful business in the sector. However, the franchisees share a belief in the importance of IT education in today’s world.
Nigel Toplis, managing director of ComputerXplorers, gives this advice to anyone thinking of buying a franchise, particularly one relating to children: “Going into business and picking a franchise is a huge decision. However if you are looking for a sector that is rewarding, interesting and satisfying, you should certainly consider a children’s franchise.”
“Working with children can be hugely fulfilling and allows our franchisees to run a successful business whilst making a real difference to their communities. At ComputerXplorers we have been delighted by the reaction we have received from parents, teachers and children,” Nigel added. “However, the most important advice I can give on buying any franchise is to ensure that you choose a franchisor that you can trust to offer you the ongoing knowledge and support you will need to allow your business to thrive.
