…The Baby Squids Franchise
When you think of health and wellbeing, does the conversation often turn to nutrition, fitness, or mindfulness? Because there’s another powerful contributor to personal wellbeing that doesn’t get the attention it deserves: purpose.
And this sense of purpose is a huge factor in the feel good foundations that Laura at Baby Squids, the UK baby & early years swim school specialists, believes is an essential making a positive difference to our wellbeing.
Laura says: “We believe that doing meaningful work, on your own terms, is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. And for our franchisees, that’s exactly what running their own swim school provides.
“As we celebrate World Wellbeing Week, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how your working life aligns with your values, lifestyle and mental health. For many of our Baby Squids franchisees, making the leap to running their own business has been transformative; not just financially, but emotionally and mentally too.’
Freedom, Flexibility & Fulfilment
Laura continues: “One of the greatest wellbeing benefits our franchisees experience is the flexibility to shape their working lives around what matters most to them. Whether it’s being there for the school run, attending sports day, or simply taking a midday walk, our proven business model is designed to put life first. Baby Squids franchisees aren’t tied to a desk or a rigid routine, they build a schedule that works for them and their families.’
Franchisee Nadina from the New Forest told us, “I’d always wanted to be my own boss but didn’t know where to start. With the opportunity of owning my own Baby Squids swim school, I had the support to build something I loved, without sacrificing time with my kids. I feel more present, less stressed, and proud of what I’m building.
How we support our franchisees is incredibly important to us
Starting a business can be daunting, however, Laura is a proven business mentor, with more than 10 years experience of running her business. She says: “One of the unique aspects of Baby Squids is our dedication to coaching and long-term support. We don’t just hand over a manual and wish you luck – we walk beside our franchisees every step of the way. From business mentoring to technical training, we tailor our support based on what success means to each individual”.
Laura continues: “Some people want a thriving multi-location business. Others want a lifestyle business that brings in income without compromising family time. We celebrate both. That personalisation is at the heart of our franchise model and a major reason our network thrives.”
It’s a concept grounded in evidence. Research published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that a sense of autonomy and support in the workplace is strongly linked to reduced burnout and improved mental health (1). Our franchisees aren’t just business owners – they’re part of a supportive network that celebrates wins, shares ideas and lifts each other up.
Living the HAPPEE Life
At the core of Baby Squids is theirr HAPPEE philosophy – a set of six guiding principles that define how they work, how they teach and how theysupport each other: Honest, Approachable, Positive, Progressive, Excitingand Encouraging.
Laura adds: “These aren’t just words on a wall; they’re daily promises we make to every family, franchisee and teacher. By nurturing a company culture that prioritises communication, playfulness, growth and compassion, we create an environment where everyone, from babies to business owners, feels valued and empowered.
She says: “It’s this sense of alignment and shared values that makes our Baby Squids community truly special, and contributes so powerfully to the overall wellbeing of our franchisees.
Mental Health is front & centre for us
There’s something incredibly nourishing about working with babies and young families. Baby swimming is a joyful, bonding experience and exceptionall rewarding for the teachers and franshisees whos experience these smiles every day.
Laura concludes: “Being part of something unique and rewarding that promotes connection, confidence and water safety creates a ripple effect of positivity“Many of our franchisees say they leave pool sessions feeling energised, proud and emotionally fulfilled. When your work improves the lives of others, it’s hard not to feel good about yourself.
Thinking of running your own business?
If you’re looking for a career that supports your wellbeing, this new business opportunity could be for you. Because it truly sounds like becoming a Baby Squids franchisee isn’t just about running a swim school…
…it’s about creating a life that feels good.
References
(1) Source: Journal of Occupational Health Psychology
All photos © Baby Squids UK
