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. With nearly two decades of experience in corporate Learning & Development, she’s passionate about creating dynamic, down-to-earth training solutions that actually make a difference – for both learners and the organisations they work in.
Her work spans in-person delivery, virtual training, eLearning and video – always shaped around the needs of the client, not just the tools available. She’s designed everything from contact centre onboarding and systems training to full-scale induction programmes, working across sectors including healthcare, finance, construction, transport and higher education.
Since going self-employed in 2017, Kim’s not only built a thriving L&D business – she’s also been a champion for others doing the same. As founder of the L&D Free Spirits community and a former Vice-Chair of The Learning Network, she’s known for supporting emerging freelancers and helping people navigate the realities of self-employed life.
Thinking of going freelance in L&D?
Not sure where to start – or if it’s even the right move for you?
Book a 90-minute deep dive call with Kim for £120 – or get it free as part of your L&D Free Spirits membership.
This isn’t a sales pitch or a generic chat – it’s a proper conversation about your situation. You’ll explore your ideas, dig into your plans, and get honest advice, practical steps, and real-world insight into what freelancing in L&D actually looks like. Whether you’re just curious, feeling stuck or nearly ready to leap – you’ll leave with clarity, confidence and next steps that work for you.
Meet The Team
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.
Accentua
Corporate Partner
As a freelancer, your clients rely on you to deliver solutions – even when they involve languages you don’t speak. That’s where Accentua Group comes in. Specialising in expert translation and language services, Accentua Group ensures your projects shine across any language barrier.
Whether it’s translating technical documents, localising marketing materials, or bridging cultural gaps, their team of linguistic professionals has you covered. They can help you impress your clients with flawless communication, no matter the language.
CLO100
Corporate Partner
CLO100 support, develop, and connect Learning Leaders, empowering them to become influential strategic business partners. By aligning learning with organisational goals, we drive measurable outcomes and empower L&D Teams with the skills and resilience needed to excel in a constantly evolving world.
With a focus on connecting learning leaders, we’ve created a private community for trusted peer networks and collaboration, fostering psychological safety and shared growth.
By addressing key leadership needs and providing formal accreditation (Levels 5 & 7), CLO100 ensures L&D leaders can lead with confidence, progress their careers and make a meaningful impact within their organisation and industry.
