Getting started is simple if you are ready to run your own performing arts school. The first step is to download our franchise brochure and complete the enquiry form. You’ll then be invited to a discovery call with one of our franchise team, followed by a Zoom meeting with our Directors. If you’re a good fit, we’ll guide you through initial training and help you set up and launch your school within around 3 months of signing your agreement.

As a Principal, you’ll oversee your own theatre school and franchise effectively using our proven business model. Your role includes recruiting and managing teaching staff, building relationships with families, and running the day-to-day business. You don’t have to teach unless you want to — many Principals focus on leadership and growth, while our teachers deliver the classes.

The founding franchise fee is £6,995 (standard franchise fee £8,995) – discounted for our first 3 partners in 2026 that sign a franchise agreement and no VAT to pay, making Spotlights one of the most affordable performing arts franchises in the UK. Ongoing fees are 11.5% of turnover (10% management + 1.5% marketing). Spotlights offers an accessible and affordable franchise opportunity, backed by the same professional support and training you’d expect from a leading franchise system.

Your earnings will depend on how many classes you choose to run and the size of your territory. A single weekend school can generate over six figures in annual revenue, with additional after-school clubs and holiday workshops boosting income further as your business grows in the right location.

We provide comprehensive training before you launch, covering business operations, marketing, recruitment, and safeguarding so you can run the business successfully even if you have limited business experience. You’ll also receive a detailed Operations Manual and ongoing operational support and mentoring from our three Directors, who have run Spotlights since 2006. In addition, our marketing agency partners help with lead generation, marketing materials, social media, and website visibility — so you’re never on your own.

• • Lower start-up fee: founding franchise fee is £6,995 (standard franchise fee £8,995) – discounted for our first 3 partners in 2026 that sign a franchise agreement with no VAT to pay.
  • More available territories: We currently have wide UK availability, giving the right person a genuine chance to choose the right location.
  • Detailed curriculum: Lesson plans, scripts, and resources provided — something not all franchises offer, giving you comprehensive advice and structure from day one.
  • Flexible business model: Weekend-only, after-school clubs, or both.
  • Inclusive ethos: Costumes are provided at no extra charge, and fees remain competitive for families.

Spotlights is big enough to be established, but small enough to give franchisees personal support so you can franchise effectively without needing extensive business knowledge.

Not necessarily. We look for people who are organised, people-focused, and motivated. A passion for performing arts helps, but you don’t need professional performing arts background or prior business knowledge — we’ll provide training and you can hire qualified teachers. Some franchisees come from business or education backgrounds, others from theatre or dance — what matters most is your leadership and commitment.

Yes. As a Spotlights franchisee, you’ll own and operate your own limited company under the Spotlights brand. That means you’re in control of your income and your business decisions, while benefiting from our proven systems, marketing, and ongoing support. It’s the best of both worlds: independence to be your own boss with the safety net of a trusted brand.

It’s entirely up to you. Some Principals enjoy teaching and lead classes themselves, while others focus on running the business and hire teachers to deliver sessions. Either approach works — what matters is that students receive the high-quality training Spotlights is known for, while you focus on managing your franchise opportunity and future plans for growth.

Our model is flexible. Many franchisees start with weekend-only schools (part-time) and then expand to after-school clubs or multiple venues if they want to go full-time. This means you can fit Spotlights around your lifestyle.

We’ll help you secure a venue in your exclusive territory and give you proven marketing strategies to attract new families. Our marketing partners will support you with digital ads, website promotion, and local outreach. Most new schools build strong enrolment quickly — many with waiting lists within their first year.

We currently have wide availability across the UK. To find out what’s available near you, simply download our franchise brochure and complete the enquiry form. Our franchise consultant will then confirm which territories you could operate in.

Download our franchise brochure here.