Xaverian students recently had the privilege of meeting Ryan Harris, a successful entrepreneur from Manchester, whose inspiring story of risk, resilience and reward left a lasting impression.
Ryan, Founder and Head of Business Development at School of Play, visited the College to share the real-world highs and lows of starting your own business, talking candidly about everything from personal doubts and family concerns to moments of fulfilment and the freedom that comes with being your own boss. His message? “Running a business is a marathon, not a sprint.”
What began as a simple offer to run after-school tennis sessions at his former primary school has since grown into a thriving business offering holiday camps, before and after school clubs and sports programmes for young people. School of Play generated over £1 million in annual revenue – with projections set to double in the coming year, but Ryan’s path to success wasn’t always smooth.
After leaving a secure job at David Lloyd, Ryan spent months reaching out to schools, facing countless rejections. Still, his commitment to consistency and self-belief kept him going. During the pandemic, he doubled down on personal development, reading entrepreneurial books and listening to business podcasts, sharpening both his mindset and his vision.
Throughout his talk, Ryan emphasised the value of building strong relationships, staying curious, and embracing every opportunity to grow. He also reminded students of the importance of a balanced lifestyle – making time for family, fitness and fun alongside the demands of business life.
The students were captivated by his honesty, humour and hands-on advice, asking thoughtful questions and gaining a real-world understanding of entrepreneurship.
Ryan’s visit left our students inspired and energised, proving that with passion, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks, incredible things are possible.
A few days later, students were joined by Ben Kirk, Founder & CEO of The Pool and Room Co. for another honest, inspiring, and energising talk. Ben shared how he built a luxury wellness brand before the age of 25, what he learned along the way, and why success doesn’t always follow a traditional path.
Ryan and Ben’s visits are examples of Xaverian’s ongoing commitment to bringing real-world experiences into the classroom. Throughout the year, the College welcomes a wide range of entrepreneurs and industry professionals to share their journeys, offer practical insights and connect with students. These encounters not only enrich the curriculum but also empower students to think creatively, build confidence and explore a wide range of career pathways with clarity and ambition.
Xaverian College is a leading sixth form in Manchester, dedicated to helping young people thrive academically and personally. To find out more, visit www.xaverian.ac.uk.