About us

About The Indytute

Hi there! You’ve probably landed on this page because you want to know what The Indytute is all about. So let’s start at the very beginning...

My name is Calypso Rose (yes, really). Before The Indytute, I ran a business called Clippykit - a customisable handbag brand that became a bit of a phenomenon. It was stocked in shops across the UK and beyond, winning awards from ITV’s Young Business Person of the Year to The Daily Mail’s Enterprising Young Brit. But after a decade of accessories and "stuff", I hit 30 and had a moment. A big one. NO MORE STUFF! I had stuffocation.

So, I licensed Clippykit, moved onto a canal boat, and launched something completely different: The Indytute - Indy as in independent, Tute as in tutor.

The idea? To make brilliant experiences that help people spend time together, learn something new, and laugh a lot in the process. Not long courses. Not serious hobbies. Just joyful, memory-making moments.

We launched in 2013 on a small glittery table in Selfridges, running 90 workshops in 90 days from the gift department. There were swing dancers in the aisles and 40 ukulele players in the bedding section (true story). Since then, we’ve worked with hundreds of incredible independents - chefs, musicians, craftspeople, historians, comedians, bakers, and bartenders - all doing what they do best: sharing their skills in unforgettable ways.

But with any small business things need to change and The Indytute really has been my labour of love so now...

We have a new chapter!

Recently, The Indytute was acquired by Activity Superstore - a brilliant business run by founders Shaun and Vicki, who’ve been in the experience game for 30 years (you might have seen their products in Boots or Next). They’re not a faceless giant, and that’s why we said yes. With their help, we can reach more people and share more joy, while still staying true to our roots.

You'll find me, Clare and Helen (mostly) running the show. Still independent in spirit.  Still championing the bold, the bonkers, the beautiful. And 100% on a mission to replace plastic tat with real good times.

As ever, thank you for your support.
Calypso
(Head of Good Ideas - Formally Head of Everything)

Get in touch via Instagram, Facebook or Contact us here 

The Indytute Limited, 41-45 High Street, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1AR. 
Company registration:  08429623