Start your business with training and support from start up school
Starting a business doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right support, simple tools, and a clear step-by-step path, you can turn an idea into something real, purposeful, and profitable — even alongside work, family life, or a busy schedule.
Start Up School gives you eight weeks of guidance, encouragement, and practical action so you finally build momentum. No jargon. No pressure. Just clear direction and a friendly community cheering you on.
Start up school runs online
our next cohort is start up summer school – we start on Monday 29th June and run through to Friday 21st August
Who Start Up School Is For
Start Up School is designed for everyday people who want to build something of their own without the confusion or stress. It’s a perfect fit if you:
- Have an idea but don’t know how to get started
- Want to turn a hobby or skill into income
- Keep circling around the same ideas but never take action
- Feel overwhelmed by marketing, audience growth or “tech stuff”
- Want support, encouragement, and a clear structure
- Are ready to take your business seriously — even if you’re starting small
If you’ve ever said “I want to start a business” the this is exactly the programme for you.
Start Up School: Your 8 Week Journey from Idea to Action
What your’ll learn over your 8 weeks with us
Week 1 — Foundations & Vision
Get clear on your business idea, your goals and the vision for the business you want to build
Week 2 — Your Audience & Message
Understand who you help, the problems you solve and how to communicate your value clearly and confidently
Week 3 — Your Marketing Planning
Create a simple marketing plan that helps you attract the right people and build momentum consistently
Week 4 — Lead Magnet & Email Marketing
Learn how to grow your audience with a valuable free resource and start building relationships through email marketing
Week 5 — Content & Visibility
Discover simple ways to show up consistently, build trust and become more visible to potential customers
Week 6 — Social Media That Works
Choose the right platforms for your business and learn how to use them effectively without spending hours online
Week 7 — Launch Planning
Create a practical launch plan so you’re ready to share your offer with confidence and attract your first customers
Week 8 — Sales & Next Steps
Learn simple sales strategies, create an action plan and leave with clarity on your next steps for growth.
What’s Included
- Weekly training (replays available)
- Printables for each module
- Simple templates to save hours of planning
- Private group support and coffee catch ups
- Clear action steps every week
- 12 month access to the training content
about us
Shine Business Academy is a supportive, down-to-earth space for people who want to build a business that works in real life. We focus on practical marketing, confidence-building, and clear step-by-step strategies that help new entrepreneurs make steady progress without the overwhelm. Through our membership, resources, and community, we help people grow their audience, build simple funnels, and create sustainable income — all with encouragement, clarity, and support along the way.
about your host
Hi, I’m Lorna — a business owner, coach, and mum from Scotland.
Building my own business has given me something I value deeply: flexibility and financial freedom. It’s allowed me to work around school runs, caring for family and all the moments I never want to miss. I built my business to fit my life — not the other way around — and now I help others create the same freedom for themselves.
Shine was created to support entrepreneurs who want to grow in a way that feels achievable, sustainable, and aligned with real life.
Everyone deserves flexibility, and the financial freedom to build a life that works for them.
what our community tell us about start up school
can we answer any questions for you?
who is start up school for?
Start Up School is designed for people who want to start or grow a small business or side hustle, and want clear guidance without overwhelm. Whether you’re beginning with an idea or already offering something and want more structure, you’ll fit right in.
Do I need to have a business idea before joining?
No — many people join at the idea stage. You’ll learn how to explore your strengths, validate ideas, and choose an idea that feels right for you.
How much time do I need each week?
Around 1-2 hours to get through the content with extra time for planning out your business. Each session is focused and practical, and you’ll get simple steps to work on between sessions.
What if I can’t attend a session live?
All sessions are recorded and added to your private course area. You can watch them back at a time that suits you and you have access to them for a year so you can revisit the modules.
Does this course cover marketing?
Yes. You’ll learn the foundations of audience building, simple funnels, visibility, and how to market your business in a way that feels manageable.
What if I already have a small business?
You’re welcome here. Many people join to get clarity, structure, and accountability, especially around marketing and planning.
Is there support between sessions?
Yes — you’ll have access to a private space where you can ask questions, share wins, and get guidance throughout the 8 weeks.
Is there a refund policy?
We’re confident you’ll love Start Up School, but if you feel it’s not the right fit after the first week, just let us know and we’ll arrange a refund.
What happens after the 8 weeks?
You’ll have a clear plan, confidence in your business foundations, and the option to continue your learning with us inside the Shine Marketing Membership if you choose.
Are there any breaks during the programme?
During our summer school we are not taking a break. There is however no rush to do the content, you have access to do it over 12 months.
next steps
If you’re ready to create a real, thriving business, we’d love to support you.
Start Up School gives you the clarity, structure, and encouragement to move forward with confidence — one simple step at a time. Join us and let’s build something you’re excited about.