Enterprising Ashfield - Ian Sawyer
Ian has completed the HeadStart programme to help set up his new business as a driving instructor. He's also attended a number of the free courses offered by the Enterprising Ashfield project.
Enterprising Ashfield is being delivered by NTU in partnership with Ashfield District Council and is part funded by the Government's Town Fund. The project provides support to enhance business productivity and improve the skills of local residents and employees in the Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Sutton-in-Ashfield areas.
Ian Sawyer, Enterprising Ashfield HeadStart participant
My wife heard about the Enterprising Ashfield course on the radio and told me about it. I contacted Richard and undertook the screening interview and so started the whirlwind of training and fantastic business advice.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your business?
Having left my previous profession in HR, I decided it was time for a change and now is a good time to set up my own business. I decided to enter the world of driving instructors, having previously tried this profession and finding that I still miss it.
The Enterprising Ashfield HeadStart programme has provided me with the opportunity to fulfil my ambition and to the next chapter in my career.
With HeadStart, I have been able to plot my path to success very clearly and identify my Unique Selling Point, in what is otherwise a crowded marketplace, I only know of one other instructor in my area providing the same as I plan to deliver, i.e. electric car lessons.
How did you hear about Enterprising Ashfield and the HeadStart programme?
My wife heard about the Enterprising Ashfield project on the radio and told me about it. I contacted Richard and undertook the screening interview and so started the whirlwind of training and fantastic business advice.
Richard told us about the short courses, and I have attended one so far with another three booked and I’m now waiting for them to start.
Which of the short courses have you attended?
I completed the Consumer Psychology for Designers course and it proved most interesting, and I only wish it was longer as two days didn’t do the course or tutor justice as there was so much to cover in so little time. I’m so looking forward to the next courses. I have also attended the following courses; Social Media and Content Creation for Businesses, Finance for Freelancers and Small Businesses, Product Photography using Smartphones, and Confident Presentation Skills.
What was your favourite thing about HeadStart?
The programme was well structured and covered a lot of material. I really enjoyed preparing the business plan, as I have never written one previously. The research needed to complete it added to my learning about my business.
Would you recommend HeadStart and Enterprising Ashfield to other people?
In a word - YES! I cannot praise the scheme highly enough; it helps people in their chosen business and does everything possible to ensure success.
Let's make Ashfield a shining light in the world of small businesses and prove this Levelling Up funding really works to help local people succeed in their dreams.
How to access the support available
If you are interested in the Enterprising Ashfield project, contact the team at enterprisingashfield@ntu.ac.uk.
