First Class Learning (FCL), currently the UK’s fastest growing tuition business with over 300 franchises throughout the UK, has announced that it has opened new tuition centres in Liverpool, Nelson (Lancashire), Aberdeen and Edinburgh.

Extra help for school pupils has never been in higher demand, as worried parents struggle with home schooling. Stressed teachers are also looking at their options career wise as working conditions in schools under the pandemic become more difficult.

These factors have combined to fuel expansion at FCL as student demand rises and the need for more tuition centres throughout the UK. During lockdown the company is delivering its programmes by sending out workbooks to students’ homes and then supporting them remotely via a digital video platform.

First Class Learning is a tuition business, but what it is really selling is success in life; to students, parents and franchisees. Its success is built on investment in people, with the franchise built on the mantra that no child deserves to be left behind.

Ed Hyslop, Chief Executive, First Class Learning explains: “Our maths and English programmes have been created by a team of qualified specialists, with a wealth of experience in the education sector. We are here to make a positive difference to children’s learning development. We base our programmes on the National Curriculum in the two pillars of education, maths and English. With over 300 centres nationwide we are the country’s fastest growing tuition franchise. Our unique study programme is individually tailored for each student. Whether they are struggling at school and lacking in confidence or not being challenged enough to reach their full potential, we work at a pace that’s right for them. We want to make sure every child counts.

“As no two children are alike, we start by assessing every child - irrespective of their age or ability. All our franchisees, or centre managers as we call them, are provided with the tools and training to complete comprehensive diagnostic assessments in both maths and English. By determining a child's strengths and the areas they need to work on, we then create a personalised learning programme for every child, from our extensive range of learning materials.”

In order for First Class Learning to achieve its high growth targets, the company will need to increase significantly its pipeline of prospective franchisees. In particular, it is targeting specific ‘hot’ areas of the UK which have been identified as having the correct demographic profile for potential new franchisees, where FCL is currently under-represented; these include North West England, Yorkshire and Scotland. Although around 80% of the company’s existing franchisees are ex-teachers or have an education background, this is not a necessary pre-requisite as the company welcomes anyone with a business background who can be trained in the FCL learning strategies and methodologies.

Hyslop adds: “We’re looking for like-minded and motivated individuals with the desire to run their own business helping children overcome their personal obstacles in maths and English. Above all else we are looking for people who share our passion for working with children and helping them succeed. Beyond the financial rewards, the hard work pays off when parents share the significance of your role in helping their children to reach their full potential. It is important to us that potential franchisees have the qualities needed for the role – to ensure that working together is the right move.

“Our business model ensures franchisees get a high percentage of profits, as your class grows. Centre managers choose the days and times that suit their venues, as well as the fee structure for their centre. Our set-up also offers a great deal of flexibility based on personal circumstances, and therefore a great work/life balance.”

First Class Learning has low start-up costs, with investment levels varying depending on where a centre is situated with initial franchise fees starting at £8,000. Initial costs cover training, website set-up and access to the Centre Managers Portal, marketing and business support, an Accelerator Launch Marketing Package worth c.£2,000 and exclusive rights to operate an FCL Centre and use the FCL brand in your territory. Furthermore, FCL offers an 100% franchise fee discount in month one, then a 50% discount for a further three months.