Let’s be honest, bookkeeping isn’t exactly the word that sets your heart racing. But if you're a business owner, especially a Children’s Activity Provider working towards expanding your offering, understanding what bookkeeping is could be the difference between running your business and really achieving what you set out to do.

So let’s strip it back, what is bookkeeping, and why is it such a big deal?

Choosing a bookkeeper can feel like one of those grown-up business decisions we put off until something starts creaking in the background - usually the finances.

But here’s the thing: the right bookkeeper won’t just keep things tidy. They’ll help you actually understand what’s going on in your business. And that’s when you stop guessing and start growing.

So if you're wondering how to choose a bookkeeper who gets your business (especially one like yours in the children’s activity world), here’s what to look for - without the jargon.

Running a children's activity business can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you're teaching little ones to swim, dance, or explore their creativity, you’re making a real difference in their lives. But let’s be honest - managing the finances? Not quite as fun. The good news is you don’t need to be a maths whiz to stay on top of your numbers. Let’s break down the key figures that can help your business thrive.

MTD IT (Making Tax Digital for Income Tax) is part of HMRC’s initiative to modernise the tax system. It requires self-employed individuals (Sole Traders) and landlords to keep digital records of their income and expenses and submit quarterly updates to HMRC using MTD-compatible software.

Spring is finally on the horizon - longer days, brighter mornings, and (hopefully) a bit more sunshine! It’s the season of fresh starts, and while you’re decluttering your home, why not give your finances a good spring clean too? Taking the time to organise your books now can save you stress later and help set your business up for success.

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT) is a major change in the way self-employed individuals (Sole Traders) and landlords in the UK manage and report their taxes. It’s part of the government’s initiative to modernise the tax system, making it more efficient and less error prone.

When it comes to claiming travel expenses for tax purposes, the rules around what qualifies as deductible mileage can be complex. One key factor is whether the location you travel to is considered a "temporary workplace" or a "permanent workplace" under tax legislation. For children’s activity providers who teach regular classes at the same locations each week, these locations are typically classified as permanent workplaces.

January flew by in a blur—anyone else feel like they barely had a chance to catch their breath? Running a business can feel like a never-ending juggling act, and before you know it, another month has disappeared. That’s why now is the perfect time to step back and think: How can I make my business run more efficiently?

The New Year is the perfect opportunity to reassess your business goals and align them with your financial aspirations. Whether you’re just starting out or running a well-established business, setting clear financial goals can truly transform your year. Here’s how you can make 2025 your most financially successful year yet.

For sole traders, swim schools, and franchise owners, the self-assessment tax return deadline often looms like a dark cloud. It doesn’t have to be this way. With a bit of forward planning and regular financial habits, you can transform the way you feel about your tax return.

As we head towards the end of the year, you’re probably thinking about ways to show your team some appreciation. A little thank-you gesture here, a festive treat there—it all adds up. But what if I told you that you can give your employees small perks without worrying about the taxman knocking on your door? Enter: Trivial Benefits.

As the air cools and the leaves start falling, autumn gives us that natural pause to reset. For business owners, it's the perfect time to hit the brakes, take stock, and reassess before the year slips away. With just a few months left, now’s your chance to reflect on the wins, the stumbles, and what needs tweaking to end the year with a bang (or at least with your sanity intact).

When you first started your business, you may have considered whether or not a business plan matters. You may have soon found out that to open a business bank account if you’re a limited company, a business plan is essential. 

Business owners face numerous challenges daily, from managing finances to ensuring smooth operations, staying competitive, and planning for growth. We know, because we’re business owners too!

We know that you succeed when you’re financially secure and on the right path. Here’s how to get there.

Stick with us, and we'll show you how keeping your books in order can actually put more cash in your pocket.

As a small business owner, preparing for tax season can be stressful. However, with bookkeeping, you can simplify the process.