Surveys show that the main goal of one-third of language school students is to increase earnings. Indeed, knowledge of foreign languages is an important part of the qualifications of modern professionals. And because everyone wants to earn decent money, the demand for the courses will only continue to grow.
If you plan to open a language course, do not confine yourself only to English. Popularity is gaining:
Chinese;
Hindi;
Spanish;
Arabic;
French;
Malay.
The ideal business option is to open a language school with instruction in several of the most sought-after languages. There is also a growing demand for classes with native speakers – to develop correct pronunciation.
Advantages and disadvantages of language courses as a business
Running a language school is quite easy. Moreover, it is realistic even without knowledge of the foreign language and teaching experience. Hire language graduates, form groups of students, make a profit.
Other advantages of the business:
stable profits due to high demand;
fast payback;
the ability to work around the world – online;
the ability to develop – to an international network of schools;
Absence of restrictions on the use of author’s methods of teaching.
In fact the only disadvantage of the niche – high competition. Because of the demand for language courses, schools are already open in almost every district of large cities. In addition, have to compete with the tutors. So the new schools have to put a lot of effort to promote the brand.
The format of the school, the target audience.
Thinking about how to open a language school and drawing up a business plan, be sure to include in your plans to obtain a license from the Ministry of Education. The license gives the right to issue certificates of completion. A graduate will be able to attach the certificate to his resume, which will greatly increase the chances of getting a decent job.
Once you get your license, decide on the format – online, offline, or hybrid. If you have little capital, start with online teaching. Determine your target audience and their needs.
Formats of language schools:
courses for children and adults;
accelerated learning;
highly specialized courses;
preparation for school, international exams;
corporate courses.
How relevant is it to open language courses offline?
The world is rapidly moving to online, but also the classical format of training is not losing popularity. This is due to the disadvantages of online courses:
It is difficult for students to motivate themselves;
Learning can be hindered by the instability of the Internet connection;
There are often difficulties with communication when working in a group.
Offline learning is especially relevant for children who, in addition to knowledge, need to get experience interacting with peers and a mentor. Many adults are also more comfortable learning in a real classroom.
How to open your own language school: 5 key steps
Having figured out the benefits of the idea, let’s move directly to the launch. Before the school opens its doors to students, you have 5 important steps to take:
Choose a concept. Create formats or teaching methods for which students will break contracts with competitors. Launch, for example, an express course with a native speaker teacher.
Register a business. At a minimum, you need to set up a sole proprietorship. This will allow you to get a license for educational services.
Rent a room, buy furniture. Even an online school needs an office – a room where managers, methodologists, and teachers can work comfortably.
Find teachers and administrators. Experienced entrepreneurs advise starting a language training business with the selection of staff. This is due to the need for additional training for teachers to unify their pedagogical approach.
Engage in promotion. Create a website, the institution’s profiles in social networks, set up contextual advertising in search engines.
And get down to business – recruit groups, schedule classes! Schedule is better to adjust in the process, adjusting to the needs of students.
Ideally, the project will pay for itself in six months. But in practice, it usually takes 1-2 years for new entrepreneurs to break even.