From Classroom to Boardroom: James' Journey of Building Number Stacks

In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, host Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, interviews James, a former head teacher and founder of Number Stacks.
James shares his 16-year journey from being a cadet first aid instructor at age 13, through his teaching career, to becoming a business owner. He details the challenges he faced, the inspiration behind creating Number Stacks, and the steps he took to transform his idea into a tangible product used in classrooms.

He emphasises the importance of persistence, financial security, and finding market need. James also discusses his marketing strategies, including leveraging social media and adjusting to COVID-19 challenges.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for education entrepreneurs looking to grow their own businesses.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:09 Meet James: From Head Teacher to Entrepreneur

02:07 James' Journey into Teaching

07:54 The Birth of Number Stacks 

10:59 Creating and Launching the Product

22:17 Marketing Strategies and Challenges

30:08 Reflections and Advice for Education Entrepreneurs

33:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

All About James:
After 16 years working in primary schools as a teacher, maths-lead, deputy and then headteacher, James took the leap away from schools to start a new education business. Number Stacks is a maths intervention resource aimed at primary age pupils to help them develop a better understanding of key maths skills.

Website: www.numberstacks.co.uk 
Instagram: @Number_Stacks
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/james-aylott-numberstacks
Facebook: https://facebook.com/numberstacks