It’s not every day you are presented with an opportunity to combine work with play. But that is exactly what happened to local Dad Shaun Rapley, for he is on track to open two new children’s ‘stay and play’ franchises – one in the Leicestershire village of Newtown Linford, the other a little further north-west in Swadlincote.
The Train Time ‘Stay and Play’ franchise is centred around trains – and lots of them! Over 200 feet of track will be laid and an endless supply of carriages promise to make for an exciting play time. Train Time Newtown Linford opens Sunday 14th July at Newtown Village Hall. Train Time Swadlincote opens Sunday 21st July at Moira Village Hall.
36 year old Operations Manager Shaun, decided to combine corporate life with a franchise opportunity with ‘Train Time UK’ as it offered him the opportunity to combine work and family life in a flexible and fun way.
So, what was it that made Shaun jump onboard? He commented, “ There are so many possibilities to bring Train Time to play groups, schools and other educational settings. It’s not only a great way to have fun but also a chance to engage with and get involved in the local community, meeting new people and providing an amazing activity for families. “I love everything it stands for. The emphasis on children’s play, children’s imagination and love of trains. The concept is just amazing! And I cannot wait to see the children’s faces when they enter the room for the first time!”
The appeal of a trainset for children remains a mystery, but if one thing is certain, it is that trains are a fascination – for boys and girls, not forgetting their parents too. And, they have a purpose which can also enhance a child’s development in many ways.
Shaun added, “ I have my own 4 year old train enthusiast daughter who can't wait to get involved!."
Have fun with your little one and play trains until your heart is content’ is how the sessions are promoted – and this is evident as soon as you step into a Train Time venue. It is suitable for 'active babies and beyond' and each session lasts for 60 minutes.
The little ones’ minds go into overdrive; it helps develop their motor skills, their problem solving abilities and it helps expand their vocabulary and communication skills, whilst also encouraging creativity and imagination.
The Train Time ‘stay and play’ enterprise, is the idea of entrepreneur Jim Pycraft. Jim, father of two girls, aged 3 1/2 and 7 months, was only too aware of the demands placed upon parents seeking unique ways to entertain their children so he created Train Time UK.
Jim commented, “It has been an absolute pleasure to welcome Shaun to the Train Time UK family and we know he is going to make a fabulous conductor! We appreciate how difficult it can be to find a balance between working and family time. Running a Train Time UK franchise really is the ultimate flexibility franchise opportunity for those who are passionate and enthusiastic about working with children and building a successful business in a fun and friendly environment.”
Newtown Linford and Swadlincote will bring the total number of Train Time venues to 39 which collectively span West Midlands, Leicestershire, Worcestershire and Wiltshire.
Very low overheads
Access to an inspiring HQ team for hands on help to success
Flexible family-friendly working hours