A successful business owner took time out of her busy schedule to give our students an insight into customer service.

Caroline Mann, who has owned the Charles Barry Barbers in Corby for nine years and The Barbers of Uppingham for four years, spent time with our Year 11 GCSE Business Studies students as part of their course.

Mrs Mann trained as a ladies’ and gentlemen’s hairdresser before launching her businesses.

She said: “I always knew I wanted to own my own business – right from being a child.

“I enjoy the day-to-day challenge of running a business, interacting with customers and making sure my staff are happy.

“I really enjoyed visiting the students at Corby Business Academy.

“They have been really good and have taken on board the things I’ve told them. Spending time with them has also made me think about my business so I think the experience has been beneficial for everyone.

“This is my first experience of working with school students and I would definitely like to work with the students here again.”

Student Samantha Loveday said: “Mrs Mann gave us background information about her business and the services she offers.

“We used the information to produce reports about her business operation and her customer services.

“I found it very useful to speak to a business owner.”

Fellow student Karla Downs added: “It was really helpful to receive the information firsthand from someone who owns a business.

“It helped to bring the subject to life.”

Business Studies teacher Alexandra Allan said: “We really appreciate Caroline coming into the Academy to give our students an insight into her business.

“Our students found Caroline’s comments about running a business and customer service very interesting.”

(Business owner Caroline Mann is pictured with teacher Alexandra Allan and our GCSE Business Studies students)