Member Article

Education recruitment startup expands to Darlington’s Business Central

Education recruitment startup 123 Teachers, established by entrepreneur Christopher Gent in May, has expanded to Business Central, Darlington.

Originally a member of the Centre’s co-working facility, owner Christopher has now secured a lease on one of the Centre’s offices.

The company assists schools across the region providing supply teachers, cover supervisors, support staff and SEN specialists.

Christopher said:“I have worked in the education recruitment sector for over 14 years now and I have always had an urge to start my own business.

“I decided it was time to utilise my extensive experience and start my own company providing a dedicated service to schools.

“Here at 123 Teachers the candidates we work with are as important to us as the schools we are sending them to.

“We build relationships with potential candidates and I believe this is vital to getting the right people for the job.”

Christopher first visited Business Central when he attended a meeting with Tedco Business Support for advice. During his visit, Christopher met the team and decided it was an ideal environment to launch his new business. He adds:

“I believe I am the only educational specialist based in Darlington and as I live locally the location was perfect for me. The state of the art building is fantastic and the facilities are ideal for my business needs.

“Open Space was a very cost effective facility to use when getting my business off the ground. I am thrilled that I am now in a position where I can exchange my Open Space membership for my very own office space and plan to employ at least two more consultants.”

Vanessa Wood, centre manager at Business Central added “The co-working facility at Business Central is proving very popular for start-ups as well as existing businesses.

“I am delighted that we have been able to support Christopher throughout his start-up journey and the fact he is expanding just six months after the business launched is amazing.

“The Open Space membership includes use of our fantastic Business Lounge which has been designed for those who don’t require a fixed office.

“We offer bespoke packages so users can simply drop in and work, and with flexible easy in easy out terms it’s simple enough to upgrade when the time is right.”