I’ve been busy interviewing some of our incredible members inside the Children’s Activity Business Club. Today I want you to meet Ruth Saunderson, the founder of Happy Harmonies. Her journey is a powerful example of turning frustration into purpose, and it all began in the classroom.

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Leaving teaching to follow her passion

“I was a primary school teacher for 15 years, 10 of those as a music specialist in one school. I ran choirs and performing arts clubs and absolutely loved it. But over time, music just got pushed aside.

“I’d be teaching, and the children who weren’t doing well in maths or English were being pulled out of my lessons to do more of the subjects they struggled with, instead of staying in music, which they loved and were good at. They felt like they were being punished!

“Then my dad, who was also a musician, sadly passed away. He always wanted me to do more with my music, and I thought, life is too short to keep saying ‘one day.’ That’s when I left teaching to finally do what I really loved.”

That moment took guts. So many teachers feel trapped in the security of the classroom, but Ruth refused to let fear stop her.

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First steps in business

“At first I started a toddler group and focused on singing,  but it just didn’t take off where I live. There are so many in my area, and being on the outskirts of London, lots of parents go back to work quickly, and children are in nursery.

“So I stopped and shifted. Someone asked if I taught piano, and I said yes. That’s how the piano side began.

“Then a parent approached me about teaching their autistic child. She had speech and language difficulties and I couldn’t find any resources that worked for her. So I started creating my own SEND piano course to break down those barriers and make music more accessible, and not just dots and squiggles on a page. It’s worked not only for SEND children, but for younger students too.”

How amazing is that? When something didn’t exist, Ruth built it herself, and now it’s shaping into something that could help so many more families.

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The difference the Business Club has made

Ruth joined the Children’s Activity Business Club two years ago after taking part in the Market Like a Pop Star challenge.

“There are so many benefits to being part of the Business Club. Obviously, there’s your knowledge, the masterclasses, the training sessions, but one of the things I find wonderful about the Club, is the mix of experiences members bring.

“People come from all sorts of backgrounds. Some have been teachers, some in finance, some in other careers, and when you put a question in the group, there’s always someone who’s been there and can help.

“We’re not competing with each other. We all do something slightly different, and that makes it supportive rather than scary.”

She’s right, the children’s activity sector is one of the most collaborative you’ll ever find.

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Learning to show up

“I was a bit of a dinosaur when it came to social media. I only got Instagram when I started the business, and I was terrified of it. My friends all joked about me being 20 years behind.

“But through the Business Club, I learned how important consistent branding is and that being visible matters. The first time I went live was awful, but I did it. Now I know it doesn’t matter if it’s not perfect.

“That confidence has made such a difference.”

So many teachers are comfortable being silly in front of kids, but freeze when it comes to going live for adults. Ruth’s shown that it’s just another performance, and the more you do it, the easier it gets.

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Creating offers and getting results

Earlier this year, Ruth took part in the £1K in 7 Days Challenge inside the Business Club.

“I put out an offer of five summer lessons for the price of four. It worked well because summer is usually quieter for me with families on holiday. It gave existing students continuity and gave new families a chance to try lessons.

“One of my families even carried on while they were in France for a month, so I taught them online. That’s something I wouldn’t have imagined doing before.”

And I know the offer works, because I bought it myself for my daughter, who does performing arts and loves to sing! Ruth has proven that sometimes it’s just about putting your offer out there, because people are looking for exactly what you provide.

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Why investing in yourself matters

When I asked Ruth what she’d say to anyone hesitating about joining the Business Club, she didn’t hold back.

“You need to think about what value you place on yourself. Are you worth investing in? If you’d tell someone else they’re worth it, then you need to put your money where your mouth is and invest in yourself.

“It’s not spending, it’s investing in your business, your skills, your future. Think about the priorities you want.”

Spot on. Too many providers will happily buy props or kit, but the biggest growth happens when you invest in learning how to market, how to sell, and how to stay visible.

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Looking ahead

Ruth’s SEND piano course has huge potential, and I’ve already told her we need to get it out there. She’s proof that with creativity and resilience, you can carve out your own unique space in the sector.

If you’re still sat on the fence, this is your nudge. You’re worth it. Your business is worth it. And your future is worth it.

Join the Children’s Activity Business Club here.