Award Sponsor - Hartbeeps

Magical multi-sensory musical classes for babies, toddlers and their grown-ups!

Hartbeeps are the award winning, original musical storytellers and creators of multi-sensory play for babies and young children. Approved by babies and loved by grown-ups. With a different theme each week, every class is full of catchy original songs, sensory props, dress-up, dancing, puppet friends, bubbles and so much more… As well as all this every class ends with a beautiful quiet time lightshow, where you and your little one can enjoy a moment of calm together. Each of our specialist classes has been expertly designed to support your little one with the key areas of their development, matched carefully to their age and stage.

Visit hartbeeps.com to find your nearest class and join us for a magical adventure.

Sarah Godwin OBE, Founder of Hartbeeps 

In 2003, while expecting her second child, Sarah Godwin noticed a lack of classes that blended music with engaging multi-sensory experiences for babies and toddlers. Inspired by her deep passion for music and her extensive experience—not only as a mother but also in supporting children and adults with learning disabilities through her work—she developed the concept for Hartbeeps.

22 years later and Hartbeeps has evolved into a multi-six-figure, award-winning baby class empire. Each week over 35,000 babies, toddlers and their grown-ups enjoy the Hartbeeps Magic, and their classes are a beloved part of their early childhood development.

Such is the impact Hartbeeps has had on both families and communities, that Sarah was honoured with an OBE at Windsor Castle in February. It’s a true testament to the difference Hartbeeps has made to the lives of so many through their music and multi-sensory offerings.

Driven by her passion and determination, Sarah’s initial goal of creating something special for families with young children in her community quickly evolved into a thriving venture due to overwhelming demand. To expand and reach more families, she embraced a franchise model, and today, Hartbeeps has grown to 100 plus franchises across the UK, proudly standing as one of the UK’s leading musical multi-sensory baby class.

At the heart of this success is the personal involvement of Sarah at all levels. Whether it’s the music library of over 450 professionally produced music tracks, the custom-made props, creative scripts and stories, or the caring and supportive environment, Sarah’s love and passion for early years development can be felt throughout.

Despite the amazing success of Hartbeeps, it is still very much a family business. Sarah works alongside her husband Joel, and 2 of her 3 (now grown up!) children.

Why we’re sponsoring the EWiF awards 

Supporting Women in Franchising: A Cause Close to My Heart

As a businesswoman with over 22 years in franchising, I have witnessed firsthand the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives. The mission of Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWiF) is one I wholeheartedly support, as it aligns with my own journey of building Hartbeeps from a single idea into a thriving network of over 100 plus predominately female franchises. Franchising has given me, and so many other women, the opportunity to create businesses that offer both personal fulfilment and financial independence, while balancing the demands of family life. I know from experience that being a female entrepreneur is not without its challenges, which is why initiatives like EWiF are so vital. They provide a platform for women to access the guidance, mentorship, and confidence they need to succeed.

Beyond the success stories, what makes EWiF truly special is the network of female entrepreneurs who volunteer their time to support and uplift others. The spirit of mentorship and collaboration within EWiF is invaluable, ensuring that more women can step into the world of franchising with the support they need to thrive. When I first franchised Hartbeeps in the early 2000s, female franchisors were few and far between, but rather than letting that deter me, it fuelled my determination to carve out a place, not just for myself, but for other women who would follow. Over the years, I have watched with immense pride as more and more women have stepped into franchising, building successful businesses, leading with confidence, and proving that gender should never be a barrier to success.

This remarkable growth reinforces the crucial role women play in shaping the future of business. The landscape has changed, but there is still more to do. That’s why I am so passionate about supporting EWiF, to ensure that women in franchising continue to be recognised, encouraged, and given the opportunities they deserve. By championing their success, we empower the next generation of female entrepreneurs to step forward, thrive, and redefine what’s possible in business.