Fiona saw a big gap in childcare provision in her area, so decided to do something about it.
Launched in September 2022 and based at Hillcrest Primary School in Downham Market, Puddle Ducks Before/After School Club is the creation of Fiona Penny who accomplished her degree in Leadership and Management for Early Years at the age of 50. She also has a BTEC Nursery Nurse and other childcare related qualifications.
Fiona saw a big gap in childcare provision in her area, so decided to do something about it.
What does your business offer?
Based in Downham Market, Puddle Ducks Before/After School Club offers children a happy, safe and stimulating environment through which they learn to become good communicators, build confidence and develop their independence.
How did the support from Nwes assist you?
It was really amazing. I was able to complete cash flow charts and understand what I needed to achieve through the first year of opening. I had a lot of support from my advisor via videoconferencing and telephone calls which gave me the confidence to complete my dream of opening my business.
What has been the highlight of starting your own business?
I have been in childcare for over 30 years, but feel that finally setting up my own business has made me flourish during the last few months.
What is the one thing you wish you would have known sooner on your journey?
Get support straight away. Thoroughly research the services that are available to you when starting up a business. There is help out there.
What are your plans over the coming year?
I would like to take on more staff and am in the process of taking on apprentices this October half term. I would also like to open a few days over the holiday period to support those parents/carers working all year round.
If you’d like to find out more about Puddle Ducks Nursery & Before/After School Club, email puddleduckshillcrest@gmail.com
If you would like to begin your own business journey just like Fiona, call us on 01603 227840 or use the live chat on the bottom right of your screen, and a member of the team will be more than happy to talk you through the support available.
The Enabling Self Employment programme is a UK Government Programme delivered in partnership with The New Anglia LEP and Nwes.