Big Kids Little Learners
Three year strategic plan to transition from a sole trader structure to a social enterprise
“Accelerate has been so helpful in working out exactly
where to go with BKLL. The confidence gained in networking
with other similar groups has been important. Slow and steady
wins the race and over the next three years, I hope for BKLL
to be reaching a wider, more diverse range of families.”
- Big Kids Little Learners
The challenge
Big Kids Little Learners (BKLL) provide fun, innovative educational classes for children between 2.5 and 5 years and their families in Renfrewshire. Classes aim to improve literacy and numeracy skills while encouraging parents and children to learn and play together.
BKLL was looking to change direction and increase its social impact, moving from a sole trader structure to a social enterprise. The aim was to focus on more vulnerable children whose parents were not in a position to pay for classes, with a particular focus on families in deprived areas, refugees, asylum seekers and children with learning difficulties.
How we helped
Through Accelerate, we supported BKLL by investigating options around social franchising and licensing intellectual property, looking at different business models in the early-childhood development space across the UK.
We considered alternative revenue models such as fundraising and selling services to local authorities, charities and housing associations. We were also able to link BKLL with Govan HELP to explore piloting its new approach with families in Govan.
The result
Three year strategic plan created to change structure and improve impact
New pilot projects planned
Thanks to Accelerate, Big Kids Little Learners now have a three year strategic plan which lays out milestones to be achieved as they move in a new direction.
As a result, they have been able to move on to document their philosophy and protocols, establish an advisory board and plan other pilot projects.
Feeling inspired?
If you are part of a community group who is not yet trading
and would like free support to become more sustainable
and enterprising, check out our Accelerate programme.