Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out more information?
Please fill out the online enquiry form and the Franchise Department will be in contact with you shortly.
How do I apply?
Please fill out the online application form and Head Office will contact you. There is no obligation at this stage. If we both feel that we have something to offer each other, we will invite you to an interview at our Head Office, and this will give us the opportunity to answer in depth all of your questions.
How much does a franchise cost?
The costs vary depending on location and whether you are buying a new school or taking over an existing school. Please contact us via the enquiry form or call Head Office on 01932 254 333 for further information on costs.
Do you have age restrictions?
The minimum age for applicants is 24 years
What reassurance and support will I get?
You will have a first point of contact at HO, which is your Franchise Manager. Beyond that we provide comprehensive advice and help both in-house and from third party companies to help deal with every eventuality, e.g. Child protection team, Creative department, Music resource library, VAT issues, Marketing and printed material, Employment law advice etc.
What training do I need?
We provide a compulsory initial Franchise Training week at Stagecoach Head Office in the UK.
Can I franchise if I have no performing arts background?
It is a requirement that applicants have experience either as professional or amateur performers, directors or choreographers, or have trained to degree standard in the performing arts, or are qualified teachers of music or arts related subjects.
I don't have any business experience - is this a problem?
Don't worry, our systems are simple and very easy to manage. There is paperwork, but our bespoke online systems allow you to manage your business easily so that you can concentrate on the enjoyment of running your schools.
Is there additional training if I need it?
We provide training courses around the world which include staff development workshops, Marketing Seminars, Regional Meetings and the Annual Conference. None of these are compulsory, but we recommend franchisees attend as many as possible.
Can I open a Stagecoach in my town?
If there is an available Franchise Territory, or an existing Stagecoach school for sale in your town, then yes.
How do I find out which areas are available?
You will be sent a full information pack after you have enquired online that includes this information.
Do you have existing schools for sale?
Yes, a full list is available upon request.
Why do people sell their schools?
This can be for many reasons, but mainly people sell their schools to retire or relocate.
Can my partner attend the school with me?
Yes, anyone can act as your helper as long as they are CRB checked and over 18.
Can I do alternate weekends with someone else?
No, you must attend every Stagecoach session as named Principal (franchisee). All Stagecoach Principals must make a commitment to attending their schools personally at all times unless prevented by illness or unforeseen circumstances.
Do I have to be present for every school class?
Yes, the Principal must be present for every Stagecoach session.
Do the schools run during the holidays?
All schools take place during term time, with a break for Easter, summer and Christmas. There is no break during the half terms.
Can I teach at the school I franchise?
Stagecoach Principals are not permitted to teach, even if a teacher is off sick. This way they can maintain standards and always be available should any issues arise.
Can I recruit my own teachers?
Yes, you recruit your own staff and Head Office will provide training and advice on doing so.
Please fill out the online enquiry form and the Franchise Department will be in contact with you shortly.
How do I apply?
Please fill out the online application form and Head Office will contact you. There is no obligation at this stage. If we both feel that we have something to offer each other, we will invite you to an interview at our Head Office, and this will give us the opportunity to answer in depth all of your questions.
How much does a franchise cost?
The costs vary depending on location and whether you are buying a new school or taking over an existing school. Please contact us via the enquiry form or call Head Office on 01932 254 333 for further information on costs.
Do you have age restrictions?
The minimum age for applicants is 24 years
What reassurance and support will I get?
You will have a first point of contact at HO, which is your Franchise Manager. Beyond that we provide comprehensive advice and help both in-house and from third party companies to help deal with every eventuality, e.g. Child protection team, Creative department, Music resource library, VAT issues, Marketing and printed material, Employment law advice etc.
What training do I need?
We provide a compulsory initial Franchise Training week at Stagecoach Head Office in the UK.
Can I franchise if I have no performing arts background?
It is a requirement that applicants have experience either as professional or amateur performers, directors or choreographers, or have trained to degree standard in the performing arts, or are qualified teachers of music or arts related subjects.
I don't have any business experience - is this a problem?
Don't worry, our systems are simple and very easy to manage. There is paperwork, but our bespoke online systems allow you to manage your business easily so that you can concentrate on the enjoyment of running your schools.
Is there additional training if I need it?
We provide training courses around the world which include staff development workshops, Marketing Seminars, Regional Meetings and the Annual Conference. None of these are compulsory, but we recommend franchisees attend as many as possible.
Can I open a Stagecoach in my town?
If there is an available Franchise Territory, or an existing Stagecoach school for sale in your town, then yes.
How do I find out which areas are available?
You will be sent a full information pack after you have enquired online that includes this information.
Do you have existing schools for sale?
Yes, a full list is available upon request.
Why do people sell their schools?
This can be for many reasons, but mainly people sell their schools to retire or relocate.
Can my partner attend the school with me?
Yes, anyone can act as your helper as long as they are CRB checked and over 18.
Can I do alternate weekends with someone else?
No, you must attend every Stagecoach session as named Principal (franchisee). All Stagecoach Principals must make a commitment to attending their schools personally at all times unless prevented by illness or unforeseen circumstances.
Do I have to be present for every school class?
Yes, the Principal must be present for every Stagecoach session.
Do the schools run during the holidays?
All schools take place during term time, with a break for Easter, summer and Christmas. There is no break during the half terms.
Can I teach at the school I franchise?
Stagecoach Principals are not permitted to teach, even if a teacher is off sick. This way they can maintain standards and always be available should any issues arise.
Can I recruit my own teachers?
Yes, you recruit your own staff and Head Office will provide training and advice on doing so.
What We Do
The original and largest network of part-time performing arts schools in the world
Franchising is a rewarding and low risk way of starting your own business.
Stagecoach is proud to offer a solid and proven supportive environment in which to franchise.
Stagecoach Theatre Arts is pleased to announce the opening of a new school in Castleknock, Dublin in April 2012!
