“I started like you, with a passion for performing arts, a belief in the benefits and a desire to pass it on to as many young people as possible. I love seeing that once shy child progress in confidence and take on a big role in the end of term performance. Nobody believes me now, but I was once that shy child, hanging on to my mother’s legs! I believe my love of performing arts and the training that followed contributed to who I am today and my business success.”
As a Jigsaw Franchisee, you’ll offer weekend performing arts classes for children aged 3–18 years, creating a vibrant, nurturing space where creativity, confidence, and community thrive.
Each Jigsaw school runs on a Saturday or Sunday (either in the morning or afternoon) with optional extras such as Holiday Camps, Birthday Parties, Jigsaw Jumpers, and Youth Theatre to further enhance your offering.
As the business owner, you’ll be at the heart of your school every weekend, ensuring first-class customer service and a fantastic experience for every student. Weekday admin can be managed flexibly around your schedule.
At Jigsaw, our ethos is rooted in inclusivity, individuality, and inspiration. We believe every child deserves a place to belong, to be valued as they are, and to grow through the joy of performing arts. Our child-centred approach nurtures creativity, self-expression, and personal development in a safe, supportive environment.
Our franchise model is beautifully designed to support creative professionals like you, offering the independence of running your own business without the isolation of doing it alone. With the guidance of our experienced head office team and the strength of our nationwide network, you’ll be part of something truly special.
Now the proud owner and manager of Jigsaw Broxbourne, Jigsaw Ware, and Jigsaw Harlow, Rachel brings her love of the performing arts and deep understanding of the Jigsaw ethos to every school she runs. Her journey is a brilliant example of how Jigsaw empowers creative professionals to build fulfilling, impactful careers, while making a real difference in their community.
OUR STORY
Jigsaw has been running since 1995, giving us over 30 years of experience in every aspect of managing and growing a successful performing arts school. We’ve encountered (and solved!) just about every situation imaginable, so you can feel confident that you’re backed by a team who truly understands the day-to-day realities of the business.
When you join Jigsaw, you gain access to:
A recognisable and trusted brand
Tried and tested systems developed over 30 years
Comprehensive training, marketing and operations
Faster business growth with a proven model
Ongoing professional guidance and support
A strong network of like-minded franchisees
A dedicated and experienced Head Office team
Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle
With Jigsaw, you’re never alone, we’re with you every step of the way, helping you build a business you love.
Jigsaw have a proven track record and have crucially kept the family feel which makes us so special. At Jigsaw, we really believe in the benefits of what we provide to young people. There is nothing we love more than hearing from past students and seeing how their performing arts skills have helped prepare them for life’s challenges whether they work in the industry or elsewhere. In fact, some students have remained in the Jigsaw family and become assistants, teachers, managers and now franchisees. That is the ultimate goal and is what contributes to creating a place to belong with our students and franchisees.
What’s more, we have invested in a bespoke online booking and management system, which is leading in this industry. It makes the day to day running of your business easy and you can stay on top of your administrative tasks, anytime and anywhere giving you great flexibility to fit your business with your lifestyle.
Many franchises promise great support but at Jigsaw, it’s truly personal. Our Founder and Company Director, Nicola, still takes a hands-on role in training and mentoring new franchisees. Having lived and breathed Jigsaw since day one, Nicola knows exactly what makes a school thrive. She’ll be by your side throughout your first year, offering guidance, encouragement, and expert insight to help you build a successful, confident start to your Jigsaw journey.
Whether you come from a performing arts background or have business experience paired with a love for theatre, we welcome applications from all walks of life. What matters most is a passion for working with young people, a drive to make a difference, and a commitment to working hard. At Jigsaw, we know that this combination; heart, ambition, and resilience, is what takes to succeed. If you’re ready to inspire, grow, and be part of something meaningful, we’d love to hear from you.
A part time business that can provide you with a full time wage that fits around you and your other life commitments.
Get in touch with franchise@jigsaw-arts.co.uk to view our franchise brochure or book a discovery call to find out more.
Proud members of the British Franchise Association since 2023, your sign of trusted, ethical franchising.
Proud to be a Children’s Franchise Enterprise Member since 2019. Championing quality, integrity, and child-focused excellence.
Part of the Club Hub UK community since 2010, connecting families to trusted children’s activities nationwide. Finalists for Best Franchisor in 2025!
