Local man launches education initiative

Local man launches education initiative

After almost 20 years as a teacher, Newport-based John Reynolds felt it was time for a career change and has launched his own business, ComputerXplorers South East Wales.

ComputerXplorers is founded on an innovative educational technology programme aimed at children aged between three and 13 years. Children in ComputerXplorers classes enhance their learning skills using programs and specifically designed curriculum that are age and developmentally appropriate in pre-schools, nurseries, after school clubs and summer camps. Each session is strategically planned to cover a range of educational skills and subjects in a fun and inspirational way. John will employ fully trained, CRB-checked teachers to facilitate these classes and he is currently recruiting in the South East Wales area, from Cardiff to Abergavenny to Chepstow.

John, who lives with his wife and two children in Malpas, Newport, decided to go into business for himself after being made redundant from his last teaching post. John previously worked as a secondary school teacher in Cardiff but had become increasingly disillusioned with working within the education system. He dreamed of setting up his own business and when he was made redundant last year, it presented the perfect opportunity to turn his dreams into a reality.

“I first decided I wanted to go into business for myself when I started to become frustrated with teaching and the redundancy gave me the push I needed to start up on my own. The thought of going into business by myself was really daunting and I looked into a number of different options before deciding on a franchise. You get so much support from a franchise. Although it is your own business, there is always someone at the end of the phone to provide support should you need it.”

“As part of my research, I visited the National Franchise Exhibition in Birmingham last year and it was there I first learned about ComputerXplorers. It seemed like the perfect option for me, combining my passion for IT with my skills in teaching,” explained John. “After the exhibition, I did a lot of research into ComputerXplorers and learnt about their fun method of teaching and the bright, new opportunity the company represents. I knew it was for me. Since becoming a franchisee, I have thoroughly enjoyed the superb training and support ComputerXplorers has to offer and I am now really looking forward to helping the children of South East Wales to learn more effectively using computers!”

Nigel Toplis, managing director of ComputerXplorers, said: “ComputerXplorers is a fantastic scheme and we’re getting great feedback from parents, teachers and children in all our franchise areas. John brings a passion, enthusiasm and level of experience with him that can only benefit his business and ensure the children receive ICT classes that combine education with fun. It is great to see him so enthused about teaching again and I’m sure he’ll make a real difference in his community.”

John can be contacted on 01633 665 932 or info@sewales.computerxplorers.co.uk

What the professionals say:

“We have been very impressed with the professional approach of the tutors. Activities are well planned, the software is of a 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.”

Marika Mears, HEAD TEACHER

St. Martin at Shouldham CE VA Primary School, Norfolk

“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 do 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 costings and leave little for the school to actually do for the club to work successfully.”

Jane Newman, ICT Coordinator

Oak Cottage Primary, Solihull

“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

About ComputerXplorers:

Franchise organisation ComputerXplorers has been hugely successful in the US for more than 20 years. Recognised as a leading expert in the children’s education arena, ComputerXplorers UK has at its disposal a team of dedicated educational professionals, a comprehensive training schedule and an instructional methodology that incorporates carefully designed lesson plans and hands-on activities.