Stagecoach report record-breaking international student numbers
Stagecoach Performing Arts, the children’s performing arts franchise with a global presence in eight countries, has reported incredible growth in student numbers and retention in their International markets.
With multiple new franchises launching in Canada and Germany in time for the September term and expansion on an international scale, franchisees are profiting from the brand’s well-respected name.
Student numbers have consistently increased over the last six consecutive
terms, with over 48,000 students now attending more than 2,000 schools and classes, operated by 350 franchisees across eight countries. The demand for extra-curricular performing arts opportunities for children continues to increase, as opportunities in mainstream education fall below parents’ expectations.
“What we’re seeing more and more, both in the UK and on an international
scale, is that parents are more than happy to invest their earnings in activities for their children which offer personal development as well as being fun,” explained Andrew Walters, Director of International Business Development at Stagecoach. “Our presence around the globe is increasing, with more families thinking of us as the go-to performing arts provider. This is having an incredible impact on student numbers, allowing
our franchisees to really capitalise on this growth. In September alone our
International business grew by just under 15%. Outside of the UK we opened 12 new schools and classes and we launched in four completely new territories. We expect to accelerate this rate of international growth well into 2020.” One such franchisee who has benefited from the increased market demand is Kristi Wenaus. Before the former Business Development Manager launched her franchise in Halifax, Nova Scotia she welcomed prospective students to a Stagecoach taster session on the 14th September.
“I couldn’t believe how many people came along to that first Discovery
Day,” said Kristi. “With the support of Stagecoach head office, I’d worked
really hard to promote the fact that a new school was coming to the area
but nothing could have prepared me for just how many families showed up. That gave me a great idea of how many students to expect when the time came for enrolments. As I’d hoped, I was inundated with enquiries from parents, looking to sign their children up for their first term. We’ve already had our first few sessions, which have gone really well, and the calls are still coming in. My long-term goal is to open five schools in five years and, if these initial few weeks are anything to go by, I’m set to achieve
that.”
Stagecoach will continue to rapidly strengthen its network of franchisees
in Canada, Germany and Australia and expand to new markets. With plans for large-scale expansion due to come into fruition in early 2020, enquiries from international prospects are coming through thick and fast. “It’s an exciting time for us, in terms of growth on a worldwide scale,” continued Andrew. “We’re delighted to see such a variety of talented and dedicated prospects enquiring about our opportunity. Many of our new franchisees have either worked in performing arts or have been performers themselves but experience in the performance sector isn’t necessary. As long as these prospects are passionate about improving the lives of children and have the desire to develop a successful business of their own, they’ll enjoy the work and rewards of being a Stagecoach franchisee.”
To speak with Kristi Wenaus or Andrew Walters, contact Kelly Ayres
at Rev PR on 07895 876745 or email [email protected]
For more information, visit
www.stagecoachfranchise.com