In our latest Franchisor Interview, we spoke with Lingotot to discuss what makes their franchise opportunity unique and what prospective franchisees can expect when starting a Lingotot franchise.
How is the Lingotot franchise different from other similar franchises in the UK?
The Lingotot method of learning makes use of active, communicative and interactive teaching methods that come naturally to young learners as children learn through songs, stories, games, drama and play. All of our franchisees are passionate about this and ensuring their classes as fun and engaging for the children as possible. This passion brings our network together (we even call ourselves the Lingotot family!) in our shared views on language learning. Each individual in our network is supported, recognised and appreciated.
We work hard to ensure the ongoing success of each Lingotot business and take pride in our transparency and approachability as a business.
What is your biggest achievement at Lingotot so far?
Our biggest achievement to date, other than growing a fantastic, friendly and proactive network, is our response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In order to overcome the complications that lockdowns and restrictions gave rise to in terms of teaching, we introduced innovative ways to safely continue lessons. We launched a Forest School programme, allowing for socially distanced, outdoor learning. We also created a Summer School programme which opened franchisees up to more business and had a new interactive online learning platform ready in time for the first day of lockdown one.
The efforts that we made have been recognised by the British Franchise Association, where we were finalists in the 2020 awards, and by retaining our ranking in the Elite Franchise Top 100 in the most competitive year yet.
What is the best feedback you have heard about your brand?
We are beyond proud to have been a part of supporting children’s education all over the UK throughout the pandemic. The response to our quick shift to online learning was appreciated by schools, parents and franchisees across the network.
One parent whose child has been attending Harriet of Lingotot West Hove’s Spanish classes said, “Once again Lingotot has saved what started off as a very bad morning. We have not been able to attend Spanish since my boy started reception, but with the new lockdown, we have begun online classes again. Harriet’s lessons are the only thing I can get him to do all day without a battle. He is completely engaged and enthralled throughout. Thank you for giving me half an hour of sanity!”
Why would you recommend your franchise to people wanting to open a franchise?
We have proven our business model responds and adapts quickly to challenging circumstances. Between our usual work in schools, nurseries and communities, and our high quality online learning platform, we are set up for success no matter the circumstances.
What qualities does the ideal franchisee possess?
No matter your linguistic background, our franchise package suits all motivated, self-starting individuals who have the drive to start their own business. We will set you up for success with thorough initial training, and stay with you every step of the way thereafter. You will have ongoing, personalised support from HQ and a fabulous franchisee network behind you, and you will be passionate about making your business a success.
How much support and training is offered to your franchisees?
Franchisees benefit from thorough initial training, where you will gain a Franchise Business Qualification and further certificates in safeguarding, data protection, first aid and more! This is followed with regular 1:1 mentoring and personalised support! Behind the scenes we also operate our award-winning intranet, LingoHub. LingoHub provides access to all back of office functions from class booking to financial data, and where you can find support and help from HQ and other franchisees.
In what ways do you help your franchisees achieve a healthy work-life balance?
When you become a Lingotot business owner, you take complete control of your work-life balance. You set your work and teaching hours (or even if you want to teach at all – some of our franchisees solely use tutors for the teaching aspect of the business). This gives you the flexibility to plan your time around family and other commitments.
Sarah Canavan from Lingotot Bexley says, “I love being part of the Lingotot family. I started as a tutor then I couldn’t help myself but to buy not 1, but 2 territories to form Lingotot Bexley. I love my job as a Lingotot franchisee as I can make my own destiny, choose my hours, choose schools and nurseries and areas I want to target and take real ownership of my career. HQ has been hugely supportive to me since the start.”
