Drama Kids reflects on a stellar year of national expansion

As the final bow is taken on a show-stopping year, Drama Kids is celebrating a milestone moment in its national growth story – with 10 new launches in 2025 alone. With nine greenfield territories and one resale added to the network, the children’s drama franchise’s new territories stretch from the industrial heritage of Runcorn to the historic streets of Canterbury, with locations also opening in Sutton Coldfield, Norwich, South Leeds, Farnborough, Leicestershire, Abingdon, Stratford and Swindon.

This nationwide expansion reflects both the rising demand for Drama Kids’ confidence-building curriculum and the growing number of people choosing to build a flexible, purpose-driven career that makes a real impact in their community.

One of this year’s new starters is David Wilson, Principal of Drama Kids South Leeds. A lifelong drama enthusiast, David performed throughout school and in amateur dramatics before completing a BA (Hons) in drama. His professional career, however, took him into teaching. He has worked in education since 2013 and is now Creative Arts curriculum lead at a primary school in Leeds.

“I’ve always believed in the life skills drama can give young people,” said David. “But with creativity being squeezed in schools, I wanted to make a change – not just for myself, but for children across the city.”

David had long dreamed of running a drama academy of his own, but the timing never felt right. Working full time while raising a young family meant starting from scratch simply wasn’t realistic. Everything shifted when he came across Drama Kids during a search for children’s drama opportunities online.

“I didn’t have the time to build a business from the ground up,” he explained. “Drama Kids felt manageable and affordable, but also completely aligned with what I believe drama should be – a way of building confidence and self-esteem. Speaking with the team confirmed I’d found the right fit.”

From the very beginning, the level of support reassured him that he could make the leap into business ownership despite never having run a company before. “There’s always someone at the end of the phone,” said David. “The business planning advice, the training, and even having neighbouring Drama Kids principals I can message any time – it’s made such a difference.”

Now a term into running classes, David says the children themselves have been the most rewarding part of the journey. “Seeing them open up, take risks and grow in confidence – and hearing parents say it’s the highlight of their week – that’s what it’s all about.”

Looking ahead, he hopes to expand to two studios, introduce more class options and partner with a local school to bring Drama Kids sessions directly into the curriculum. His message for anyone considering the franchise?

“Be brave, be patient and use your network. Sending that first enquiry was the best decision I’ve made.”

As Drama Kids reflects on its fastest-growing year yet, David’s experience is just one of many stories shaping the network’s next chapter. Becky Goodfield, COO of Drama Kids, said: “David’s journey is a fantastic example of what’s possible for professionals who want to use their skills and passions to create something more for themselves and for the young people in their communities.

“His story reflects the wider picture we’ve seen this year, with 10 new principals bringing their energy, experience and passion into the Drama Kids family. Thanks to them, thousands more children across the country are discovering the power of drama.

“We’re immensely proud of the momentum we’ve built in 2025, and we’re excited to carry that energy into an even bigger 2026.”