L&D Free Spirits is the premier network for freelancers in the Learning and Development (L&D) sector, championing the cause of independence, flexibility, and fulfilment. This vibrant community provides a rich ecosystem of resources, from practical guides for setting up a freelance business to cutting-edge professional development.
Aimed at those making the leap from corporate or teaching roles to freelance, L&D Free Spirits tailors its offerings to overcome the unique challenges of this transition, offering insights into business setup, market adaptation, and pricing strategies. Members enjoy benefits like course discounts, exclusive resources, and a directory to showcase their services and portfolios, all while learning from case studies and success stories that inspire and guide.
For companies, the network offers valuable sponsorship opportunities, providing a platform for brand visibility and thought leadership in the L&D industry. These partnerships enable companies to market their services at a discount, reaching a dedicated audience of L&D professionals.
At its heart, L&D Free Spirits is a movement aimed at redefining the future of education and corporate training. We envision a world where L&D freelancers thrive, crafting careers that align with their values and aspirations. By offering the necessary tools and fostering a supportive community, we aim to break down barriers, encourage innovation, and promote entrepreneurial spirit, ensuring our members are always ahead of the curve.
L&D Free Spirits is more than a network—it’s a catalyst for transformation, empowering every member to achieve success on their terms.
Meet The Founder
About Kim Ellis
Kim is the original Free Spirit and the founder of Go Ginger Learning Solutions. She is passionate about creating dynamic training solutions that make a meaningful impact on both learners and organisations. With nearly two decades of experience in corporate Learning and Development, Kim looks to incorporate in-person, virtual training, eLearning, and video content into her solutions depending on the need of the client. She is also dedicated to mentoring emerging self-employed L&D professionals, providing expert advice and support to help them navigate the early stages of their careers.
Kim’s expertise includes designing training for contact centres, systems, and comprehensive company induction programmes. Since launching her business in 2017, she has worked across various sectors—such as healthcare, finance, construction, transportation, and higher education—applying her creativity and innovation to design training programmes that are both effective and engaging. Additionally, Kim has been an active member of the L&D community, serving on the Board of Directors for The Learning Network and spending one year as the Vice-Chair.
Meet The Team
Do you want to join the team?
Hit the button to find out more and apply.
Meet Our Corporate Partners
We are thrilled to highlight our amazing corporate partners, a prestigious collective of companies passionate about Learning and Development (L&D) and committed to supporting the self-employed. These organisations are essential to L&D Free Spirits, aiding us in providing outstanding resources, events, and networking opportunities. With their support, our members gain access to the latest industry insights, driving their professional growth.
Maisey Marketing
Corporate Partner
Maisey Marketing is a small consultancy run by Hayley Maisey.
A Chartered Marketer with over 20 years’ experience, Hayley partners with small business owners who have limited marketing expertise and time. With strong leadership, she provides direction and a range of support services.
She’s largely collaborated with digital training providers, learning technology suppliers, learning consultants, and membership organisations across L&D.
Through Maisey Marketing and her previous employment at Brightwave Group/Capita Learning and The Association for Learning Technology, she’s built a solid network and developed a strong understanding of the industry.
Mint HR
Corporate Partner
Mint HR is a HR consultancy founded by Director, Tracy Carpenter.
Tracy believes all companies – no matter what their size – deserve to have access to top notch, compliant HR.
Mint provides people-related solutions to small businesses across Yorkshire and beyond in a variety of industries including IT, marketing, manufacturing and the charity sector.
From hiring and firing to people inspiring, the team have over 50 years combined HR experience offering no-nonsense solutions that are right for your organisation.
Mint can either be fully integrated with a business or simply be on hand to act as a sounding board.
There’s no lengthy contracts or retainers with Mint HR. Instead, they offer HR Support Packages of hours that don’t expire – meaning every second of a package is dedicated to supporting you at the times you need it most.
2Late
Corporate Partner
Transform Your Client Acquisition Strategy
Are you ready to expand your client base but struggling with introductions and pitches? Don’t let your competition get ahead—act now don’t be 2 Late!
Neil Lasher and his small team are revolutionising the client acquisition process. At 2 Late, we prioritise your needs over the clients’. Unlike traditional methods that rely on passive advertising, we actively get to know you and approach potential clients on your behalf.
Why Choose 2 Late?
- Personalised Approach: We take the time to understand your expertise and unique selling points.
- Proactive Outreach: Instead of waiting for clients to come to you, we leverage our extensive network to make the introductions.
- Direct Client Interaction: You will work directly with the clients and charge your standard rates.
- Grab this opportunity to streamline your client acquisition process. Register now and let 2
Late help you get ahead of the competition!
Plus Accounting
Corporate Partner
At Plus Accounting, we believe in doing business differently. We are committed to delivering not just exceptional tax and accounting services, but also contributing positively to the communities we are part of. We offer a full spectrum of financial services, from supporting startups to guiding businesses ready to scale or even sell. Our mission is to empower businesses to achieve financial clarity and efficiency while making a meaningful impact.
What truly makes us stand out from the crowd is our deep-rooted commitment to our clients and their goals. We don’t just work for you; we work with you. We take the time to understand what drives your business, your values, and your vision for the future. This personalised approach allows us to tailor our services to your unique needs—whether it’s setting up an efficient Xero accounting system, optimising profitability, or navigating complex tax regulations.
Beyond numbers, Plus Accounting is an active participant in the local business ecosystem. We look to support local business events, share insights through our blog, and maintain a strong network of professional contacts. These connections enable us to offer additional support in areas like legal matters, HR, workplace pensions, and raising finance, ensuring that you have the resources you need.
K&K Legal Consulting
Corporate Partner
At K&K Legal Consulting, we do more than just provide legal services – we partner with you on your business journey. Founded by Kirsty and Kate, our mission is to make legal support accessible and flexible for freelancers, small businesses, and entrepreneurs. With 30 years of combined legal experience, we understand the unique challenges you face, and we’re here to help you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
What sets us apart is our commitment to truly understanding your business. As part of our bespoke services we offer solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s drafting legal documents, providing GDPR guidance, advising on business legal matters and compliance or reviewing legal documents that you are being asked to sign. Our goal is to deliver professional legal services without the hefty fees of traditional law firms.
Beyond legal services, we also empower you with resources. Our website offers a library of affordable contract templates, terms & conditions, guides, and policies, perfect for budget-conscious business owners who still want to stay compliant and protected.
At K&K Legal Consulting, we’re not just lawyers; we’re your partners in success, offering personalised legal support that adapts to your business needs and helps you thrive.
