Thai breaks

Martial arts, themed parties and holiday clubs are all part of Extended School Activities, a recently launched children's activities franchise

Extended School Activities (ESA) Ltd was set up in 2005 by managing director Richard Wood, a former primary school teacher. Since then, the business has established itself as a professional provider of a range of specialist activities for children. The company's ethos stands for positive reinforcement, a healthy and fun outlook on life, community spirit and social responsibility. ESA Franchising was launched in January 2008 at the British Franchise Exhibition in Manchester.

In just two years, ESA has signed up over 20 primary and secondary schools in Staffordshire, ensuring market-leading status in the county town with the provision of Muay Thai as an after school club.

Muay Thai is ESA's flagship activity and is based on an ancient martial art that is the national sport of Thailand. The techniques learnt are useful for self defence, but are primarily based on the philosophy of positive reinforcement - building and developing self esteem, respect, confidence and discipline.

The children receive kit and a members DVD when they join and regularly learn new techniques and collect badges and certificates. They also enjoy regular event days whereby all the children come together for an afternoon of fun activities, demonstrations, trophies and grading.

Criminal Records Bureau checks are mandatory for all staff and instructors, who also partake in regular ongoing training to ensure they are up to date with the most effective teaching and coaching methods available.

ESA's franchising opportunity includes the teaching of Muay Thai as an after-school club activity and the provision of Holiday Clubs and Themed Parties, which all promote health and fitness for children, a subject which has received a lot of media attention over the past few years.

The Holiday Clubs provide children with an opportunity to experience a wide range of activities such as arts and crafts, multi-sports and Muay Thai, and are hosted at various centres during school holidays. They also provide a lucrative opportunity for franchisees to work closely with local organisations to help deliver sessional activities and before- and after-school provision.

The Themed Parties side of the business was established as a result of receiving requests from parents (and their children!) who were bored with the usual 'soft play' offerings. After a 'think tank' session, some themes were trialled and ESA now has a portfolio of party themes ready to pass on to new franchisees.

The all inclusive franchise fee covers:
• A thorough induction and help with a business development plan
• Help with the recruitment and training of staff
• An analysis of childcare provision in each territory
• Facilitating links with relevant local partnerships
• A dedicated franchise support team to ensure ongoing best practice.

As for the future, managing director Richard Wood has big plans. 'The Government's directive to increase the level of extended provision dovetails together in our ongoing business plans,' he states. 'Together we can help schools and parents support our children as they develop a healthy mind and a healthy body!'

Investment level: £28,950
Website: www.esa4kids.com
Email: info@esa4kids.com
Phone: 01785 665106
Franchise classification: Children's activities