We had the pleasure of recently catching up with OW, Jenni Ringland to hear all about her business venture, Jenni's House, since leaving Westholme. After visiting Jenni's House for ourselves we can see the passion and hard work she has and continues to put into her business and found it to be a warm, inviting, educational and safe space for children, parents, families and mums to be in the community. 

We caught up with Jenni to find out more and also take a trip down Westholme memory lane, reflecting back on her time at school. 

How would you describe your Westholme experience? Did you have any favourite subjects/hobbies/clubs? 

I began my Westholme journey aged 4 in Reception with Mrs Martell at Billinge House and left in Upper Sixth after completing my A-Levels. I loved my time at school and feel lucky to have been able to experience the education that I received. I enjoyed all the practical and hands on lessons, like DT and Art. My favourite in Upper School was definitely Home Economics with Mrs Smith in the bungalow.

What is a ‘day in the life’ at Jenni's House?

Each day at Jenni’s House can be vastly different. As the owner, I can end up doing anything from bills and accounts to cooking in the Café or even cleaning the toilets! I’m sure many other small business owners are in the same boat. Generally, my day is spent welcoming customers to playgroup sessions, supporting families during playtime in The Playroom and leading our Story Times and Rhyme Times. Story Time is my favourite part, sitting in our story telling chair and get children hooked on wonderful books. I also lead various support groups and baby sessions.

What inspired you to develop Jenni's House? Could you talk us through the creation and development of it from where you started out to where you are now?

Jenni’s House was created after seeing friends enter motherhood and receive very little support during this time from local services. I wanted to create a place that families can feel safe and seek support and guidance, as well as an educational space for children to play and develop. I hunted for the right location for many months and in the meantime set up Jenni’s House at a local Rugby Club renting the space 2 days a week. A year later, we viewed the new building and had our offer accepted. After 6 months of renovations, we opened to the public in January 2024 and it’s been a whirlwind ever since. We not only have our beautiful Playroom where we host 2 playgroup sessions per day, we offer pregnancy support groups, sessions for newborns, baby massage and yoga plus an onsite café providing homemade family friendly meals and cake.

Any advice for current students here at Westholme? 

Although you may think you have decided on your path in life, don’t be afraid to let it lead you to new places. I never imagined being where I am now. From leaving University, teaching in the UK & Dubai and thinking it was my forever career, I now have a whole new path ahead of me that I and so lucky to be able to explore. Enjoy life and grab hold of opportunities that might present themselves as you never know where you may end up.