That parents’ overriding priority is their offspring’s wellbeing and development is obviously good news for franchises that provide childcare and education or entertainment for kids.  Consider that Australian families spend $3.8 billion a year on after-school activities – or $1,859 per household – according to market research from Mozo.

Or the findings of a 2019 Bankwest report, which concluded that a rising under 12s population, increased government funding and rising female participation in the workforce would propel a 16.2% industry growth rate over the next five years.

Or the fact that one in seven schoolchildren receive private tuition at some point, according to statistics from the Australian Tutoring Association.   Increasingly, interactive learning is delivered online as well as in person, a trend given added impetus by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Franchise sector analysis

From ‘edutainment’ to daycare supported by developmental programs, children’s franchises comprise an eclectic range of often long-established, multi-national franchises.

Whether you need a background in related fields varies between franchises. Franchisors often judge applicants more on their character than their resume, prizing business acumen, interpersonal skills and a passion for the welfare of children.

In terms of investment, franchise fees tend to be comparatively modest, and franchisees can often choose their own hours and work from home.

Franchise opportunities include Little Zak’s Academy, a provider of childcare and extracurricular activities, and Creation Station, an award-winning provider of arts and crafts classes.

After-school STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) fundamentals are taught by Young Engineers, through the creative use of K’nex, Engino and LEGO bricks, and Algorithmics, which sees children create cartoons and video games, among other projects.

School is Easy (SIE) tutoring, meanwhile, has prospered by adroitly capitalizing on the aforementioned strong demand for extracurricular tutoring.

Finally, Lollipop’s operates play centres and cafes throughout Australia, New Zealand and Asia.