The desire to run a business which not only addressed a growing need in the local community but also provided a valuable service for local families prompted Mark and Joanna Butler to start their Reading-based Tutor Doctor franchise in April 2014.

With Mark’s successful career in international stock photography and Joanna owning her own podiatry practice they decided to utilise their varied business experiences and look for a new venture.

“We started looking around for other business opportunities.  We were looking for a recognised brand with a proven business model.   We also wanted something which would get us more engaged with the local community.  Subsequently we looked at a number of franchise businesses but Tutor Doctor leapt out, “ said Mark.

“Since joining the franchise we have found the training, support and marketing activity to be very good indeed.  Having control of our own business and making a real difference in the local area has been great.  We now have a bank of over 50 tutors and our aim is to become the largest supplier of tuition services in Berkshire.  Quality control is very important to us and we meet and interview every tutor in person so we can link them to the right student.

“Demand locally has been tremendous.  At present my wife and I run the business but we are growing quickly and intend to bring in two or three support people in the next few months.  The franchise has exceeded our expectations but anyone joining the business needs to do it for the right reasons.  You have to have a passion for the service you are providing to the local community.  You also need to be outgoing as you have to be good at marketing your business through local events and promoting the brand.   We have clients ranging from primary school pupils through to corporate businesses and we have had fantastic feedback on how professional, friendly and helpful our tutors have been,” concluded Mark.