A Sutton man who left school with no exam qualifications has published his first book after returning to education aged 30.

Carl Ellis, founder of social enterprise Mindful Sprouts, will unveil the multi-lingual educational colouring book at a free launch event taking place in Nottingham Central Library on Saturday, 28th September.

African Elephants – The Gentle Giants is said to be an engaging, educational resource that is designed to captivate young learners, while teaching them about the wonders of African wildlife.

Mindful Sprouts is a passionate social enterprise founded on the belief that every child can achieve their full potential with the right guidance and support.

Founder Carl was supported to start his inspirational business with funding from the Enterprising Ashfield HeadStart programme, which offers guidance and support to local entrepreneurs as they navigate the start-up of their new businesses and provides an invaluable support network of local sole traders.

“Having failed every exam as a teenager and leaving school with no GCSEs, I returned to education at 30 and achieved high grades,” said Carl.

“This personal journey fuelled my mission of Mindful Sprouts CIC — to provide children, aged five to 11, with entertaining, engaging, and educational products that promote self-awareness, intrinsic motivation, and self-guidance.

“The HeadStart programme has helped me to get where I am now. I’ve met many wonderful people and built up a supportive network.”

Richard Ladipo, enterprise advisor for the HeadStart programme, added: “It’s amazing to see how far Carl has come with his vision for his business and we look forward to supporting him as he continues to develop the business and grow during this critical time of any new start-up.”

Carl has also attended free skills courses provided by the Enterprising Ashfield, and is now receiving further support from its growth and research and development strands to further grow his business.

The launch of Carl’s new book takes place from 2pm-3.30pm and all children attending will receive a free copy of the book. Places need to be reserved in advance at www.nottinghamcitylibraries.co.uk/elephant-colouring 

Enterprising Ashfield project is available to businesses, residents, and employees in and around Kirkby and Sutton. It offers free courses to individuals, employees and businesses to increase skills, guidance on how to start a business, and support to established businesses that are looking to grow, innovate and scale up. The project is part of Ashfield District Council’s successful Government Towns Fund bid. Full details of the project are at www.ntu.ac.uk/enterprisingashfield