With the new year well underway, Drama Kids is welcoming fresh talent and exciting opportunities with the start of a new term. One of the latest additions to the network is Joseph Wright, who takes on the role of Principal at Drama Kids Aylesbury. At just 25, Joseph is embarking on this journey through the brand’s innovative Franchise Graduate Scheme – transforming his enthusiasm for drama and child development into a thriving business.
Joseph’s path to Drama Kids has been shaped by his dedication to supporting children. Since 2018, he has worked as a learning support assistant, teaching assistant, and cover supervisor. While he doesn’t have a formal background in drama, his experiences in school productions and local theatre reinforced the lasting impact of performing arts on his own confidence and creativity. When he came across Drama Kids, he immediately saw the perfect way to merge his passions into a rewarding career.
“I started running a drama club at the school where I work, and it quickly became the highlight of my week,” said Joseph. “Watching the kids grow and gain confidence from the start to the end of each term was incredibly rewarding. Drama Kids stood out to me because it focuses entirely on drama, which is what I’m most passionate about. When I learned about the Franchise Graduate Scheme and the level of support offered, I was immediately interested. From my first call with the team, I could feel their energy and commitment, and I knew this was the right place for me.”
Introduced last year, the Franchise Graduate Scheme was created to bring new talent into the performing arts sector – offering a structured route to franchise ownership. The programme provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the guidance, resources and support needed to build a successful business.
“It’s all very new to me, and stepping out of my comfort zone was challenging,” explained Joseph. “I’m autistic, so making phone calls and attending events was daunting at first. However, once I met the team, everything changed. Their encouragement and support helped boost my confidence. The training has been excellent and the seminar in early January was incredibly informative. It was reassuring to see that everyone else was just as excited. The strong support I’ve received from the team has been invaluable, and it’s made me much more confident in this journey.”
Joseph’s progress already highlights the impact of the training he has received. “It’s been a mix of personal and business-related growth. I’ve always worked in education but had no real business experience. Learning to manage the practical side of setting up a business, like registering with HMRC and understanding finances, has been eye-opening. It’s about building confidence in myself and learning how to run a business step by step, knowing I have the support to help me through it all.”
Having already led his first few lessons, Joseph is embracing every moment of his new role. “It’s been an amazing experience so far,” said Joseph. “It was great to have Helen Walls, our Franchise Development Manager, there to support me during my first lessons.
“I’m excited about getting to know a new group of children from different backgrounds and being a positive influence in their lives. It’s a fantastic opportunity to embrace my bubbly, energetic side – especially since I won’t have to hold back as I would in a classroom setting! Looking ahead, I hope to expand, run multiple classes and build a team that shares my enthusiasm for drama and its transformative power.”
Becky Goodfield, COO of Drama Kids, is equally enthusiastic about Joseph’s journey. “Joseph embodies everything we strive for at Drama Kids,” she said. “He’s passionate about children’s development, has incredible energy and truly understands the impact drama can have on young lives. Through our Franchise Graduate Scheme, he’s been able to channel that passion into building a business that we know will positively shape the lives of so many children. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have him on board and can’t wait to see what he achieves in the years ahead.”
Joseph’s arrival comes at an exciting time for Drama Kids, which is experiencing remarkable growth. In 2024 alone, 11 new territories have been acquired by franchisees, including several taken on by existing Principals of Stagecoach Performing Arts – Drama Kids’ sister company under Trafalgar Education. Among them is Hannah James, franchisee of Stagecoach Wolverhampton, who has also expanded into Drama Kids Wolverhampton this month.
This momentum signals a bright future for the brand, as Becky explains. “Joseph joins a wave of passionate franchisees who exemplify the values and mission of Drama Kids. The success of last year’s new locations demonstrates the strength of our network and the incredible opportunities available within our brand. We’re excited to see Joseph and all our franchisees thrive as they bring the joy and benefits of drama to more children across the country.”
To find out more about franchise opportunities with Drama Kids, click here.
