top of page

Business Connexions - Interview with Kate Bock

Karen Hall

Jan 15, 2025

Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce feature on local business, Archer Franklin Education's founder Kate Bock

Q1: In a few words, tell us a bit about your business.

Archer Franklin is a bespoke education consultancy based in Battersea, specialising in guiding students through the complex global university admissions processes, particularly in the US and UK. We focus on empowering young people to discover their best-fit academic paths, nurturing their individuality, and preparing them for lifelong success.



Q2: What gives your business the ‘x-factor’?

Our transformative, student-centric approach. At Archer Franklin, we go beyond grades and acceptance letters; we prioritise the whole student—guiding them to thrive academically, personally, and emotionally. I focus on building individuals, not applicants.

While university is about study and academics, it goes beyond that. We so often prepare students for an academic life but not for the realities of real life. I created the Four Pillars of Successful Individuals curriculum to teach students the things I wish I’d known at their age.

Of particular importance are our Financial and Community pillars. Education is an investment, and I want students to understand how loans work, how to save, and how to manage their finances—not just at this next stage but for life.

Community, however, is the thing that always gives back. I want our students to know how to grow where they are planted. Whether it’s building relationships at home, at university, or in professional networks, these skills lay the foundation for meaningful connections and opportunities that will serve them for years to come.

Families trust us to deliver unparalleled expertise with discretion and integrity, ensuring their children are not only prepared for university but equipped to navigate the complexities of life beyond it.





Q3: What motivated you to set up in business?

I wanted to challenge the transactional, impersonal nature of the admissions process. Too often, education systems prioritise statistics over the individual, losing sight of the people they are meant to serve. At Archer Franklin, we shift the focus back to authenticity, individuality, and passion.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked across the global education industry—within universities, rankings agencies, EdTech firms, and alongside institutional leadership. Time and again, I noticed students—who are both the funders and outcomes of these institutions—were rarely part of the conversations shaping their futures. I sat in meetings where the focus was on metrics and league tables, and no one asked, “What does this mean for the student?” That stuck with me.

Higher education must be managed as a business, but someone needs to advocate for the individuals navigating it. Archer Franklin fills that gap. I wanted to build something that empowers families and students with expert, compassionate guidance—ensuring that each young person’s unique potential and aspirations are honoured and nurtured.



Q4: What do you like most about working as a start-up?

The ability to make a meaningful impact. Being a start-up allows me to live my mission every day: building something from the ground up, collaborating with partners, and supporting families in a way that truly aligns with my values.

What I love most is the flexibility to stay nimble, innovative, and deeply personal. We can respond directly to the unique needs of our students and families, ensuring every decision reflects what is best for them.

There’s also something incredibly rewarding about working so closely with families and witnessing a student’s growth and self-discovery. Seeing their confidence flourish as they uncover their path fuels everything we do at Archer Franklin and reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.




Q5: What has been your greatest business success to date?

Each student represents success. When a young person realises their worth isn’t tied to rankings or prestige but to where they’ll truly thrive—that’s the real achievement.

One particularly meaningful moment happened recently when a student I guided nearly 10 years ago as a university admissions counsellor reached out to Archer Franklin for support with their medical residency applications. To see them return and seek mentorship as they take this next step in their professional journey was incredibly rewarding. It reminded me that our work doesn’t just end with an acceptance letter—it shapes who they become. That’s the kind of success I measure.



Q6: What has been your lowest moment?

Navigating the early days when perfectionism met the unpredictability of launching a business. Being a staff meeting of one, every task felt critical, and prioritising what truly mattered was overwhelming at times–when you’re a team of one, the lines between ‘to-do’ and ‘done’ blur quickly. But those moments taught me resilience and the value of leaning on trusted networks and partners

However, those challenges pushed me to grow. I’ve been fortunate to build strong support networks, collaborate with strategic partners, and join professional communities that offered guidance and encouragement. Those connections have been invaluable in helping me navigate challenges with confidence and clarity, allowing Archer Franklin to flourish.



Q7: In terms of business achievements, where do you want to be within the next five years?

Five years can feel like a lifetime (in the best way) when you work with students. I think about the sixth formers we’re currently guiding—where they will be after university, the lives they’ll be building, and the challenges they’ll be navigating. I hope that the support we offer today sets a strong foundation for their future, and that Archer Franklin continues to grow alongside them, evolving to meet their needs as they progress.

I want Archer Franklin to be recognised not just for exceptional admissions outcomes, but also as a trusted voice advocating for student well-being and individuality in education. I envision expanding our global reach—supporting families across continents—while remaining boutique, deeply personalised, and true to our values.

Our commitment to quality over quantity will always remain at the heart of what we do. In five years, I hope Archer Franklin will be known not just for guiding students into the right universities, but for equipping them with the tools to achieve success, fulfilment, and impact at every stage of their lives.



Q8: What would be your top tip to someone thinking of starting up their own business?

Philosophically: Focus on your ‘why.’ Starting a business is deeply personal, and challenges will inevitably arise. Your ‘why’ will guide you through tough decisions, keep you grounded, and fuel your resilience. Stay committed to your values, trust your instincts, and never underestimate the power of authentic relationships. Purpose and connection are the foundation of any successful venture.

Practically: I’ve learned a lot about managing my time and priorities. It’s not just about the big goals but about how you approach your day-to-day. With so many competing priorities, being intentional with your time makes all the difference. Learn to structure your week, think about how and where you work best, and make time for rest and creativity.

Most importantly, ask for help. You’ll be amazed at the support and guidance that will arrive when you need it most. Starting a business is about being a builder—of ideas, relationships, and routines that sustain you. Dream big, but remember: success is built one thoughtful, intentional day at a time.

Stay Connected. Learn from Our Experts. Subscribe to our Newsletter. 

Archer Franklin Logo "Educate Empower Explore"

Thanks for subscribing!

Email

Tel

+44 020 8163 6699

  • Whatsapp
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
© Copyright Archer Franklin Limited

Archer Franklin Limited | Company number 15773789 | Registered England, UK | Registered address 3rd Floor, 86-90 Paul Street, London, England, United Kingdom, EC2A 4NE 

bottom of page