International franchise, JumpingClay, is looking to build on its 450 worldwide locations by expanding across Ireland.

Founded in South Korea in 2001, JumpingClay offers a selection of courses, workshops and parties for children that aims to educate and entertain. The company already has three locations operating in the UK and Ireland and is set to open a further two in March.

Its most recent franchise owner, Pauline Walsh, launched her business in August 2011. She launched her franchise through an event in a shopping centre in Ballymena and immediately began receiving her first birthday and workshop reservations.

Walsh said: "The fact the company is built around such a unique and fun product is what clinched it for me. It is not like any job I've ever had; it's fun, rewarding and helps a child's imagination, concentration and spatial awareness develop.

"I can honestly say I have not looked back and gained so much satisfaction from my chosen career especially when my own children can sit down with me and start creating."

JumpingClay has only a couple of territories left in Northern Ireland and is keen to expand into the Republic of Ireland.