Stagecoach celebrates new beginnings with an office move and 12 new franchisees

The global children’s services franchise said hello to its new HQ in Woking to keep pace with its ever-expanding team and the need for a contemporary and customisable space

With over 350 franchisees operating 700 schools worldwide, the existing premises in Walton-on-Thames, which the brand called home for over 30 years, could no longer house the rapidly-expanding franchise support, events and talent agency teams.

The move now sees the Stagecoach staff share an office space with Trafalgar Entertainment, which acquired the franchise last year.

“This has been a really significant move for everyone at Stagecoach Performing Arts. Not only has it brought us closer to our colleagues at Trafalgar Entertainment, but it’s also enabled us to offer first-class training sessions and support for our principals in a future-proofed office environment,” said Sarah Kelly, CEO of Stagecoach Performing Arts.
                                   
No sooner had they moved in, Stagecoach welcomed their newest franchisees at HQ, for their initial week of training. The new recruits included Stagecoach alumni, former teachers, franchising professionals, entertainment industry experts and father-mother-daughter teams.

A commonality among the new franchisees is their passion for making a difference in the lives of the children from their local communities.

Having taught for various schools across Surrey and Berkshire for over six years, Sasha Cairns will be taking over operations as a franchisee and principal of an existing franchise in Brentwood.

Extremely familiar with the brand, she said, “I thought I knew everything there was to know about Stagecoach, but the franchise training certainly proved me wrong! Despite having experience with the teaching style and brand values, there’s a lot to learn about the business management aspect of running a franchise.

“That’s why the training is invaluable – not only do you have an opportunity to speak with more established franchisees and the support team, you really get to know the other franchisees who are at the same stage as you. That’s very reassuring and gives me such confidence as I take over operations of my franchise.”

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