I took a career break from my work as an accountant following the birth of my third child. I was keen to get back into the workplace when he started school, and wanted a job which was flexible but still rewarding.

Kumon offered me the possibility to run my own business, work in education, and to do so flexibly. The training was over the course of a year, with a great deal of the work being done at home. I attended three training sessions lasting two days each in Manchester, with preparation and follow-up assignments and research being doing from home.

Kumon provided all of the initial training sessions, and I could contact staff members and experienced instructors if I had any questions. Personal development is extremely important in the role of an instructor, and Kumon provide regular meetings and training sessions. instructors in my area also work together to provide a support network.I attend meetings regularly and ensure that I keep up-to-date with programme developments.

The teaching side
The role of instructor involves building good working relationships with students and parents, and I have found that working with my own children over the years has provided me with invaluable experience.

Students progress through the Kumon maths programme in small steps, developing maths skills and self-learning skills as they progress. The worksheets are structured with examples and notes where necessary, and students also develop the confidence to tackle new material. Of course, the instructor is also there to give advice when needed.

Although I have a degree in maths and English, it has been invaluable for me to work through the programmes myself. It has given me an insight into the student’s experience, and highlighted areas where students may need more support. Just as I encourage my students to do, if I come across something I don’t understand immediately I look back at previous examples, and practise previous worksheets, until I have a clear understanding.

Words of wisdom
I would advise new instructors not to be daunted, but to think of the Kumon training as an ongoing part of being an instructor. We are all learning as we work, and the initial effort will be well worth it.

Could you become a Kumon franchisee?
Whilst Kumon do not require a teaching qualification applicants should be comfortable with GCSE level work and beyond in both maths and English. Candidates come from many different backgrounds so we judge each application on a range of skills and experience already gained either in business, marketing and/or working with children. Experience in all is preferable but not essential.

After an initial appraisal of the application, eligible candidates will be invited to attend an information session which includes a test and interview.

Following this, successful candidates will be invited to a training cycle which starts with venue and market research. Training is over four days in our London or Manchester Office, split into two day sessions, two weeks apart. Throughout this time trainees complete homework and a thorough business plan, in addition to confirming venue bookings, so is ready to open their business the next month. On average it takes two months to open a new centre, from the initial invite to training.

We've

profiled hundreds of business mums who are making it - big and small. This week, the highlight is on mothers who have bought into the franchise business model. If you have thought of buying a franchise but don’t know what to expect, mum-of-three Ella Ritchie, who bought a Kumon franchise, talks about the training and support she received as part of her package.