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Monday 8:30am - 5:30pm Tuesday 8am - 5:30pm Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm Thursday 8:30am - 5:30pm Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm

Skills Shop, 2-6 Derry Street, Barrow in Furness (2025)

11/11/2025

On Saturday I found myself doing a three-hour round trip to take my son to an open county chess tournament. Some people might think that’s a long way to travel for a board game, but chess is so much more than that.

Watching Drake compete reminded me how much the game mirrors business. Every move in chess teaches patience, strategy and foresight. You learn to:

✅ Plan ahead
✅ Think several steps forward and;
✅ Adapt when things don’t go as expected.

It’s about:

✅ Understanding risk
✅ Protecting your assets and;
✅ Knowing when to seize an opportunity.

Running a business isn’t all that different. Whether you’re leading a team, managing a project or building a course, success comes from having a clear plan and being able to adjust it when the board changes.

That’s exactly why I help established trainers and coaching build profitable online courses without the tech overwhelm so they can focus on growing their business, which means they keep earning money even when they’re not teaching

And as for Drake? He came joint second against some very tough competition. I couldn’t be prouder of how he handled himself both on and off the board.

Have you ever played chess and noticed how it shapes the way you think in business? Yes or no?

04/11/2025

We’re proud to be featured by Barrow Rising for the work we’re doing through Skills Shop to help local people and businesses grow stronger.

Our focus has always been on making workplaces safer and more supportive through practical, engaging training. From first aid and mental health to conflict management and workplace safety, we give people the confidence to act when it matters most.

It’s great to see how much can be achieved when local businesses work together to lift our community.

You can read the full story here:

https://barrowrising.uk/business/success-stories/skills-shop-limited-for-any-occasion-events/

How are you helping your community to rise?

21/10/2025

You know that sinking feeling when your favourite software quietly announces a price rise and you realise you have no choice but to pay it?

That is exactly what has just happened to countless course creators.

A well-known online course platform has recently added $100 per month to their pricing plans. Not because of a major new feature or breakthrough update, but simply because they can.

Once you are part of their ecosystem, they know how difficult it is to leave.

When your whole business depends on a subscription-based platform for hosting, course delivery, student data and payments, you are locked in. Moving everything elsewhere takes time, money and technical effort that most solopreneurs simply do not have. So, they pay it.

At first, paying $20 or $30 per month sounds like a good deal. Then the price increases start creeping in and before you know it, you are paying hundreds each month just to keep your content online.

For a solopreneur, that kind of increase hits hard. When your software costs rise, you either absorb the extra cost and watch your profit margins shrink, or you pass it on to clients and risk pricing yourself out of reach.

Neither option feels fair. Add in exchange rates, transaction fees and those hidden “upgrade” prompts that push you into a higher plan just to access basic features like certificates or quizzes, and it quickly becomes clear that convenience can come with a big price tag.

As a solopreneur myself, I completely understand how challenging it is to balance delivery, marketing, admin and tech. You turned to online courses for a reason. You wanted to reach more people, deliver great learning even when you couldn’t get everyone in one room, and build something flexible that fits your lifestyle.

But what you didn’t expect was for your overheads to rise just because someone else decided to change their pricing.

That’s why I build online courses using LearnDash LMS. LearnDash gives you full ownership and flexibility. It runs on your own website, grows with your business and lets you decide exactly how it looks, how it works and how your learners engage with it. Most importantly, you control the cost.

As a multiple licence holder of LearnDash, I’m able to pass that stability on to my clients. When I build your course, I can fix the annual cost of your LearnDash licence over a time period that suits your budget, offer multi-year plans that protect you from sudden increases, and even provide a lifetime licence so your platform becomes a one-time investment instead of a forever bill.

That means no unexpected hikes, no nasty surprises and no “pay more or lose access” scenarios. Just a predictable cost that allows you to focus on what really matters – creating brilliant learning experiences.

Think about it. The most valuable thing you can own as a course creator isn’t just your content, it’s the platform that delivers it. When you rely on a third-party service, you’re essentially renting space in someone else’s house. When you build your own LearnDash-powered platform, you own the property outright.

You can brand it completely to your business, add unlimited courses and learners, use your own payment gateways and keep your data safe and fully under your control. It becomes your ecosystem, designed around you. And when the time comes to scale, you’re already ready.

Whether you’re new to online courses or have already tried a few platforms, I can help you create a self-hosted solution that gives you long-term control and stability. Together, we can look at what you already have, design the learner journey and choose the best setup for your goals and budget.

If you want a professional, secure and scalable system that doesn’t trap you in rising subscriptions, book a free chat today.

[https://tidycal.com/skillsshop/virtual-chat-with-phil]

Let’s make sure you own your platform, not the other way around.

Have you had seen a recent price hike with your subscriptions?

05/10/2025

Friday night started just like any other...

Everyone tucked up in bed, the dogs chilling downstairs, and the sound of rain tapping gently at the window. That peaceful rhythm didn’t last long.

At 2am (Saturday), the dog suddenly began growling, and then came the sound no parent wants to hear...

My daughter crying.

I rushed to her room and heard a strange banging at the window. When I looked out, my heart sank.

The elm tree in our front garden had come down in the storm.

To my relief, it had narrowly missed the house with the pickup taking the brunt of the damage
But it could have been much worse. It could’ve fallen into our neighbour’s property or out into the road.

That’s when Amy, yes, the storm taught me a valuable lesson.

When life throws you a curve ball, your network can make all the difference.

By 9am that morning, my phone was buzzing with messages from friends and colleagues offering help. Huge thanks to:

* Paul Curwen from MKM Barrow
* Phil Heath from Heaths
* Tim Pearson from Tim Pearson Electrical
* Paul Graves from Identity

Each one offered the use of their van so Lynne could still complete her balloon deliveries. That simple gesture meant the world.

And a special shoutout to Greaves Tree Services, who arrived that morning promptly and cleared the fallen tree so Lynne could get the transit van off the drive and do her deliveries.

Storm Amy may have taken down a tree, but she reminded me of something much stronger the power of a network that truly cares*

👉 When did your network last reach out and help you?

30/09/2025

Running a training business isn’t just about delivering courses, it’s about making sure learners can continue to access the right information long after the training day has ended.

That’s why I’ve been using LearnDash in my own business, not only for courses, but also for creating reference materials and online manuals.

Instead of handing out paper booklets that get lost, thrown in a drawer, or quickly go out of date, I’ve created digital manuals covering First Aid, Neurodiversity, and Mental Health.

Here’s why this approach has been such a game-changer:

1️⃣ No more printing costs

Anyone who’s ever ordered training manuals knows how expensive they can be especially when you’re updating content regularly. Going digital means no printing bills, no storage boxes of outdated guides, and no wastage when regulations change.

2️⃣ Always up-to-date information

If a piece of guidance changes, I can update the manual instantly inside LearnDash. That means clients always see the latest, most accurate information without needing a reprint or reissue. No more outdated pages being used in the workplace.

3️⃣ Easy access, anywhere

Paper manuals live on desks (if they don’t end up in the bin). An online manual lives in the cloud. Learners can access it from their phone, tablet, or computer at work, at home, or even on the go. This accessibility massively increases the likelihood of people actually using the information when they need it.

4️⃣ Better organisation of knowledge

Instead of one big PDF, I can break content into logical sections with LearnDash lessons and topics. That means learners can quickly jump to what they need whether that’s a refresher on CPR steps or guidance on workplace adjustments for neurodiverse colleagues.

5️⃣ More value for clients

By giving clients access to online manuals, I’m not just delivering training I’m giving them a living, breathing knowledge base that supports their team in the long run. It’s added value that sets my services apart.

When I talk to other business owners, trainers, or coaches, one of the biggest lightbulb moments comes when they realise:

❌ They don’t need to rely on paper handouts.
✅ They can give their clients something more dynamic, professional, and easy to access.
✅ They can build a resource once and keep improving it over time.

That’s exactly what an online knowledge base is and LearnDash makes it possible.

So, my question to you is this:

Have you considered creating an online knowledge base for your own business?

If the answer is yes or even if you’re just curious I can help you set it up.

From structuring your content to getting the tech running smoothly, I’ll make sure your clients get the same benefits mine do.

💬 Do you need help setting this up?

17/09/2025

Sunday was one of those moments that makes you beam with pride as a parent. My daughter took part in her second Acro (that’s Acrobatics & Dance) competition at Accrington Town Hall.

She bravely entered two classes, each packed with 30+ incredibly talented dancers.

And do you know what?

She placed 3rd in both. 🥉🥉

Now, as her dad, I couldn’t be prouder. But as someone who spends his days building courses and helping trainers share their expertise, I couldn’t help but notice the parallels between her Acro journey and what we do at Skills Shop.

👉 Empower – Just like in Acro, it starts with giving people the tools and confidence to perform. In course building, that means empowering trainers with the right platform, resources, and structure.

👉 Elevate – Training, practice, and guidance help dancers elevate their performance. The same is true with online courses — we help elevate your ideas into engaging, professional, and polished programmes.

👉 Expand – Every competition opens up new possibilities for growth. In your business, every online course expands your reach, impact, and income.

So, whether it’s stepping onto the stage at Accrington Town Hall or launching your first online course, the values are the same: Empower, Elevate, Expand.

If you’re ready to take your knowledge and turn it into something that makes an impact, let’s have a chat.

The stage is set — the only question is, are you ready to step onto it?

\

[https://tidycal.com/skillsshop/virtual-chat-with-phil]

10/09/2025

As I was approaching my office today, I came across a scene that made me slow right down.

A transit van was stopped in the middle of the road, hazard lights flashing, and for a moment I thought there’d been an accident.

But then I saw it...

A little Dachshund (darting about, clearly frightened and confused.

It had escaped from a yard and was now aimlessly running in circles, not sure where to turn.

The van driver was out trying to catch it, but the dog was too scared to be caught.

So I did what anyone would do...

I pulled over, flicked my hazards on, and got out with Coby, our Border Collie.

Within moments the Dachshund spotted Coby, came over to make friends, and we were able to secure it safely.

A quick check showed no injuries, but it had no collar, no ID tag, nothing to identify where it belonged.

After a few knocks on doors we finally tracked down the owner and the little escape artist was back home safe.

It was one of those moments that makes you smile afterwards 😌.

But it also got me thinking...

Are Your Potential Clients Aimlessly Roaming Too?

That little dog was running scared because it couldn’t find its way home.

And I see the exact same thing happening with potential clients online every single day.

People are out there, searching the internet desperately for solutions to their problems.

You’ve got the very thing they’re looking for – but they can’t find you.

No webpage. No online course. No way of knowing...

That’s where online courses change the game.

When you build an online course:

✅ You create a clear path that directs people straight to you.
✅ You position yourself as the expert, the trusted guide who knows the way.
✅ You give people instant access to the knowledge, tools, and support they’re searching for.
✅ You stop potential clients from wandering off to competitors because you’ve made it easy for them to engage with you.

Instead of chasing aimless traffic, you build a structured, branded platform that works 24/7, attracting the right people and giving them a safe place to land.

Ready to Stop Losing Clients in the Crowd?

Building an online course doesn’t just help your clients.

It builds your credibility, saves you time, and creates an asset that can generate income over and over again.

So here’s my question to you:

If you’d like to stop leaving it to chance and start creating a course that positions you as the go-to expert in your field, then let’s have a chat.

📅 Book a call today and let’s talk about how you can create a course that brings your clients straight home. [https://tidycal.com/skillsshop/virtual-chat-with-phil]

Are your potential clients aimlessly roaming the internet, or are they finding their way safely to you?

19/08/2025

Saturday was a special day for me. Not only did the world mark 48 years since Elvis left the building, but I was also celebrating my own 48th birthday and, to top it off, my 18th wedding anniversary.

Family is the most important thing in my life, so there was no better way to celebrate than by spending the afternoon monkeying around together at Go Ape in Grizedale Forest. I’m fortunate to have this amazing adventure park practically on my doorstep.

If you’ve ever been, you’ll know the mix of excitement and nerves as you step out onto a wobbly obstacle high in the trees, or clip in ready to launch yourself across a zip line. It’s that blend of thrill, fear, and achievement that makes the experience unforgettable.

And honestly it’s not so different from building your first online course.

At the start, standing on the platform (or staring at a blank screen), it feels daunting. You’re not sure where to place your feet, or whether you’ll make it to the other side. But with the right support, guidance, and step-by-step plan, you find your balance. Each obstacle you overcome builds confidence, until suddenly you’re flying along the zip line your course live, learners enrolling, and that wave of pride rushing over you.

That’s exactly what I do at Skills Shop. I help trainers, coaches, and business owners tackle the obstacles of course building so they can reach the thrill of launch day without the fear or overwhelm.

So, if you’ve been putting off creating your course because the climb looks too steep, remember you don’t have to do it alone. I’ll help you harness up, take those first steps, and make the leap.

Are you ready to step off the platform and finally get your course online?

[Let's have a chat: https://tidycal.com/skillsshop/virtual-chat-with-phil]

13/08/2025

This weekend I ticked something off my bucket list!

🚴‍♂️ cycling from home, around Coniston Water, and back home.

✅ 40 miles
✅ 2,500 calories burned
✅ 3,000 ft in elevation

It was tough. My legs screamed, the climbs tested my grit, and there were moments I thought about turning back.

But the views… the sense of achievement… the feeling of pushing myself outside my comfort zone it was worth every pedal stroke.

Here’s the thing: getting your online course live can feel the same.

You might be worried about dipping your toes into the water of online courses.

It’s unknown territory...
It feels like a huge climb....
And you might be tempted to put it off until “next month” or “when things are quieter.”

That’s where I come in.

I help trainers, consultants, and business owners take their idea and turn it into a fully functioning online course without the overwhelm, tech headaches, or endless delays.

I handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on sharing your expertise, not stressing over the process.

If you’re ready to take that first pedal stroke into the world of online learning, let’s talk.

https://tidycal.com/skillsshop/virtual-chat-with-phil

07/08/2025

We’ve got some brilliant news for those in the construction sector…

Skills Shop is now officially registered as part of the CITB Employer Network, which means eligible construction companies can claim back up to 70% of their training costs – even on courses you’ve already got planned.

Whether you’re booking in-person, blended, or e-learning, you could get support for most of our training courses – including:

🩹 First Aid
🧠 Mental Health First Aid
⚠️ Workplace Health & Safety

Here’s what makes us different…

✅ You choose the date, start time and location.
✅ You book by seat, not by name – so you can swap staff in and out last minute without penalty.
✅ No hidden fees. No corporate faff. Just great training that works around you.

If you're in the construction industry and want to upskill your team without breaking the bank, give me a ring on 07563 246 110 and let’s talk through your options.

30/07/2025

Last night, I was just heading up the road to take my daughter to gymnastics when I spotted a delivery van parked awkwardly: hazards flashing, half a mile from the kerb, completely blocking a driveway on a sweeping bend.

I’ll be honest, my first thought? “Typical delivery driver.”

But within seconds, he jumped out and explained he’d broken down.

His drive shaft had gone, and he was stranded. Not reckless, just stuck.

Fast forward 90 minutes: I returned home, and there he was still in the van, still waiting for recovery.

It was now 8:15pm.

I got chatting with him and it turned out he was from Bury not far from where I grew up.

I offered him a drink, the loo, and most importantly, a portable battery pack when I found out his phone was on 2% and he was worried about staying in contact.

He was genuinely grateful.

And it hit me...

Things aren’t always as they first appear.

We can be quick to judge, especially when something looks like it’s in our way.

But behind the scenes, there’s usually a story.

Just like course building.

From the outside, you might assume it’s all smooth sailing… until you’re halfway through and something breaks down.

⚠️ You lose your structure.
⚠️ You hit a tech wall.
⚠️ You feel stranded.

At Skills Shop, we anticipate the detours and help you stay on track even if you break down halfway round the bend.

Whether you’re building from scratch or just need help getting it over the finish line, I’m here to make sure you always deliver.

Have you ever had one of those moments where you assumed the worst… only to be surprised?

Yes or no? 👇

15/07/2025

Last Friday, I took a day off to spend time with the kids and headed to Preston. Two years ago, I tried the Guild Wheel, a 20-mile loop around Preston popular with cyclists. Unless you get lost and head toward Southport, then it’s 43 miles of soul-searching 🤣

This time, I was confident I'd conquer the loop with my kids' expert guidance (they're better at directions than I am). In 30-degree heat, it took us 2 hours and 53 minutes, with moments of me saying, “Not much further… just around this bend.”

And that got me thinking…

Whether cycling or creating an online course, you don’t power through it all at once.

✅ Break it into chunks.
✅ Take breaks when needed.
✅ Stop to check your progress.
✅ Have someone alongside you to keep you going.

That’s how I approach course creation with clients. It’s not “write a course in a day.” It’s about reaching milestones with expert guidance to keep you on track and avoid detours. 😅

💡 Course Creation Looks Like This:

Start with your map – Define your destination and key outcomes.
Break the route into checkpoints – Your modules and lessons.
Plan for hydration stops – Time for reflection, quizzes, activities.
Ensure your kit works – Tech, LMS, videos, resources.
Finish strong – Publish and promote with confidence.

Overwhelmed? That’s what I’m here for. Whether you're at the start line or stuck halfway, I’ll guide you through each stage without the heatstroke.

Ready to stop circling and start building? Is it time to get your course live?

[Book a call 👉🏻 https://tidycal.com/skillsshop/coursebuilder-chat]

Skills Shop

11/11/2025

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Monday	8:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday	8am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday	8:30am - 5:30pm