Stagecoach Performing Arts welcomes talent – old and new – into its growing franchise network

The global children’s services franchise records a phenomenal 13 terms of consecutive network growth

The 350-strong franchise network is made up of a combination of former performers, mainstream teachers and entrepreneurs, all looking to capitalise on the demand for children’s performing arts opportunities. The recent franchisee training week, which took place at the brand’s support office in Woking, is a great example of the breadth of experience looking to invest in their future with Stagecoach.

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New franchisee, Claire Gissing, will take over operations of Stagecoach Performing Arts Havant in time for the new term in January. The assistant headteacher and inclusion specialist has spent 13 years working in mainstream education. She came across the Stagecoach franchise opportunity through taking daughter, Maddie, to its weekly lessons.

“I’d always been a very hands-on parent when it came to Maddie’s time at Stagecoach,” explained Gissing. “I’d chaperoned events, including the annual trip to Disneyland, and never missed an end-of-term performance. I was always so taken aback by the professionalism of Stagecoach and quickly saw it for what it is – an incredible business opportunity. When the current franchisee told me they were thinking of retiring, I jumped at the chance to invest in the business and take over as principal. This new endeavour combines my passion for child development and my love of the Stagecoach brand.

“Whilst my skillset is going to be beneficial, I had no real experience of Stagecoach in a wider sense. That’s why the franchisee training was so invaluable. For me, I was instantly impressed with the vast size of the support team and the resources available for franchisees. I’m really looking forward to greeting my students – including Maddie – in 2020 and putting all that I’ve learnt into practice.”

Kate Davies came across the Stagecoach brand much earlier on in her career, having taught for various Stagecoach schools across South Wales for 15 years. The mum-of-one had been managing the franchise in Cardiff for just over a year when the opportunity arose for her to invest and operate it for herself.

She said: “My variety of experience with Stagecoach is what established my dream of owning my own franchise one day. Over the years, I’ve taught at schools in Bridgend, Cowbridge, Caerphilly and Cardiff, often witnessing the success franchisees have benefited from. Alongside my career with Stagecoach, I’ve also worked for the United Dance Organisation for 15 years. Since having my daughter, Darcie, four years ago, I’ve limited my hours so owning my franchise will fit perfectly around my life. My experience with Stagecoach means that I already have knowledge of the franchise model and how to maximise the potential of my business.”

2018 was a year for the history books, as Stagecoach celebrated its 30th year with a record-breaking international performance and summer party. 2019 broke records of its own, with continued growth across the board. With franchisees like Gissing and Davies having now joined the network - and many others in the pipeline - 2020 is set to be another exciting year for the global brand.

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