No, you don't need specific film or teaching credentials, but some experience can be helpful. 

Our franchise partners come from diverse backgrounds. What matters most is your passion for filmmaking, entrepreneurial drive, and desire to make a positive impact on young people's lives. Our comprehensive training programme will equip you for success. 

The best indicators of franchisee performance that we see are: 

• Ability to uphold standards 

• The mindset to overcome challenges 

• Ability to prioritise and be strategic with their time  

Successful Sparks franchisees typically share these characteristics:

• Passion for filmmaking and creative education

• Entrepreneurial mindset and drive

• Tech-savvy and comfortable with digital tools

• Strong communication and people skills

• Commitment to quality and student outcomes

• Investment capital of £30,000+

• Desire to build a meaningful business in their community

We use a straightforward application process:

1. Initial Enquiry: Request our franchise brochure to learn about the opportunity

2. Webinar: Attend a detailed presentation about the franchise model, support system, and financials

3. Personal Follow-Up: One-on-one discussions with our franchising team to answer your specific questions and assess mutual fit

4. Complete an Application Form: This is a detailed process, allowing you to really explore whether this is the right opportunity for you

5. Due Diligence: Engage in market research, business planning and background checks 

The entire process is designed to give you complete information, while allowing us to ensure the fit we need.

It's typically 3-6 months before you deliver your first courses, although some franchisees begin taking revenue 1-2 months later. This includes completing your training, securing your venue, recruiting instructors, setting up your systems, and launching your initial marketing campaigns. Our franchising team supports you through every step to ensure a smooth launch.

The minimum investment is around £30,000, which includes:

• Initial franchise fee: £19,800 + VAT

• Working capital for setup, marketing, and initial operations

Yes, like most franchise systems, there are ongoing fees that cover continued support, curriculum updates, marketing resources, and use of the Sparks brand. Specific details are provided in the franchise brochure and during discovery calls. Our fee structure is transparent and competitive within the education franchise sector.

We work with leading financial institutions to help qualified candidates secure funding:

• HSBC franchise financing

• Natwest business loans

• British Business Bank support

Our franchising team can guide you through the financing process and connect you with the right partners.

Most franchisees break even within 12 months. Timeline depends on factors like your local market, marketing effectiveness, and how quickly you build enrolments. Our proven systems and support are designed to help you reach profitability as quickly as possible and your dedicated Success Manager will help you reach your goals.

After 5 years, Sparks franchises typically have a value of £90,000-£150,000, based on their EBITDA and the UK resale market. Resale values range from £50,000-£150,000. 

Gross profit margins are around 60-70%. 

Sparks franchises benefit from year-round income through:

• Holiday Camps 

• Term-Time Classes 

• Birthday Parties

• School Workshops

Each territory covers approximately 200,000 population with around 20,000 children. Territories are exclusive, meaning you're the only Sparks franchise in your area. We've identified 80 viable territories across the UK, with 40 still available to new operators. 

Contact our franchising team to discuss territory availability in your preferred location. We'll assess population demographics, competition, and market potential to determine if your area is viable.

No, you don't need to own or lease a dedicated space. Most franchisees rent venues as needed for classes and camps. This helps to keep fixed costs low and provides flexibility. 

Yes, many franchisees run the business side (admin, marketing, bookings) from home while renting venues for classes. This is a cost-effective approach, especially when starting out.

Our comprehensive 13-module training program covers:

• Business operations and financial management

• Class management and curriculum delivery

• Marketing and customer acquisition strategies

• Safeguarding (Level 3 certification)

• Paediatric first aid

• Equipment use and maintenance

• Student assessment and progression

You'll receive hands-on experience and direct mentorship, plus 24/7 access to our detailed online Operations Manual.

You're never alone on your franchise journey. Ongoing support includes:

• Dedicated support team available for questions and guidance

• Online community of fellow franchisees for sharing ideas and advice

• Monthly discussions with a dedicated Success Manager

• Regular virtual meet-ups and franchisee events

• Curriculum updates and new programme development

• Marketing resources and campaign templates

• Quality assurance and feedback systems

• Direct access to founders 

Not necessarily. While some franchisees enjoy teaching, others focus on business development and hire qualified instructors to deliver classes. We'll help you recruit instructors with film degrees or 2-3 years of industry experience. All instructors must pass DBS checks and complete safeguarding training.

Your franchise package includes everything you need to launch:

• Cameras

• Tripods and grip items

• Clapperboards and accessories

• Green screen

• Reflectors and lighting accessories

• Marketing materials: banners, t-shirts, flyers, posters...

Yes, many franchisees start part-time and transition to full-time as the business grows, however we ask that you commit to a minimum of 3 days per week. Our most successful franchisees work full time. 

The model is flexible, you can begin with weekend camps and evening classes, then expand as demand increases. However, commitment to marketing and student experience is essential regardless of your schedule. 

This varies based on your class schedule. Most classes run after school (4-6pm) and on weekends. Holiday camps typically run during school breaks. Administrative work (marketing, bookings, planning) can be done flexibly around your teaching schedule.

We provide guidance on recruiting qualified instructors through film schools, industry networks, and education job boards. Instructors typically have film degrees or 2-3 years of experience. All must complete DBS checks, safeguarding training, and paediatric first aid. 

You'll need appropriate business insurance, liability coverage, and safeguarding policies. Our Operations Manual provides detailed guidance, and we can recommend insurance providers familiar with education franchises. All legal requirements are clearly outlined during training.

We provide proven marketing strategies and resources. The Sparks brand reputation and quality standards make marketing easier, parents recognise us as the premium choice for film education.

Absolutely! Once you've established a successful operation and built your team, a second territory can significantly increase your income and business value.

While there are other children's activities and some film programmes, Sparks' professional standards, qualified instructors, small class sizes, and proven curriculum set us apart. We're positioned as a premium film education provider, not just another activity club. Our brand recognition and quality reputation are significant competitive advantages.