Tell us a bit about yourself and your business:
I’m Sarah, a Teacher, mum of two and the founder of The Curiosity Cafe — a play-based learning space inspired by The Curiosity Approach. It’s a nurturing hub for families and Early Years Practitioners, where play, connection, and curiosity come together in the most meaningful way.
How and when did you come up with the idea of The Curiosity Cafe?
The idea grew organically from my own experiences as a parent and my passion for Early Years education. After transforming the preschool provision at Earlswood Nursery using The Curiosity Approach, I saw first-hand the impact of a truly child-led environment. I wanted to create a space that offered that magic to more families and educators — and so The Curiosity Café was born.
What is the best part of running The Curiosity Cafe?
Honestly, it’s the people. The little ones who light up the room with wonder, the parents who find reassurance and connection, and the practitioners who leave inspired to make changes in their own settings — it’s all incredibly rewarding.
What do you love most about your industry/job?
I love how creative, meaningful, and heart-led Early Years work is. Seeing a child explore something new or a practitioner gain confidence in their role — those are the moments that matter most.
How would you describe your experience with the Entrepreneurs Academy?
It’s been both empowering and enlightening. I’ve grown in confidence and clarity, and it’s been wonderful to connect with others on similar journeys. I feel much more grounded in the vision of my business thanks to this experience. I honestly never thought I’d have the confidence to do a professional pitch in front of a panel of well respected, experienced business people.
If you could describe the Curiosity Cafe in one word, what would it be?
Magical.
Are there any qualifications/skills required to working at The Curiosity Cafe?
While formal Early Years qualifications are helpful, what matters most to me is a genuine love for working with children, creativity, kindness, and an openness to a child-led way of thinking.
How did you get into this career? What did you do for work before TCC?
I’m a Qualified Teacher, Specialising in the Early Years, most recently the lead Teacher at Earlswood Nursery. That experience showed me the power of curiosity-led learning and inspired me to bring that ethos into a wider community setting.
What are your career goals?
To grow The Curiosity Cafe into a leading space for play-based learning, parent support, and practitioner training. I’d love to run more events, create resources, and maybe even open a second location one day!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to do what you do?
Start small but start. Stay true to your values and don’t be afraid to do things differently. There is so much space in Early Years for heart-led innovation — you just have to trust your vision.
Do you have any advice for next year’s class of the Entrepreneur’s Academy?
Say yes to the opportunities — and take your time figuring out what your version of success looks like. The support is there, but your journey is unique. Don’t be afraid to change your vision if something isn’t working.
If someone was thinking of applying to The Entrepreneurs Academy, what advice would you give?
Absolutely go for it! It’s a space where your ideas are nurtured, your confidence grows, and you’re surrounded by people who want to see you succeed. I have found a lovely group of people through this process and it has provided a great network of support.