Business Name:  Mini Professors

Support Received:  Start Up Loan and Start & Grow

Location:  Norfolk

Website:  http://www.miniprofessors.co.uk/

With a PhD in Biochemistry, six years’ experience working as a research scientist, and a wealth of experience of science communication and running science clubs, when the chance to purchase a franchise of a science education business came along in September 2016, Dr Lucy Catto seized the opportunity.

We spoke to Lucy about Mini Professors and its impact.

Tell us more about Mini Professors?

Mini Professors is a science program specifically tailored for pre-school children between the ages of two and five.

It is very different to other toddler classes on the market.

Mini Professors aims to inspire the future generation.  We offer an environment in which pre-school children can explore and investigate science, as well as socialise, share and nurture scientific skills from a very early age.  With little lab coats supplied, different topics are covered each week – everything from dinosaurs, maths, chemical reactions and rainforests – along with the opportunity to get stuck in and have lots of fun as a group.

What is your background and how has this shaped your route to self-employment?

I have a PhD in Biochemistry, and before having children I worked as a research scientist. I became self-employed when I started science writing and running science clubs in primary schools shortly after my children were born.

I have been involved in Science Communication for over 14 years in one way or another, so when the opportunity arose to buy the Mini Professors Norwich franchise, I jumped at the chance!

How did you feel when you gained your first customer?

I was relieved and very excited!  Being a relatively new business, not many people have heard of us.  Taking over a franchise meant that that I already had some customers, but I was delighted when I gained my first, new customer.