From classroom to centre stage: Exeter teacher Paul Clark wins national franchise award
02-November-2026
An Exeter performing arts teacher who built a thriving theatre school alongside a full-time teaching career, giving young people opportunities to perform from the Royal Albert Hall to New York's Central Park, has been named a winner of the Great British Franchisee Awards 2026.
Paul Clark, who runs Theatretrain Exeter, has been recognised for his dedication to developing young people's confidence and creativity, his business achievements and his contribution to the wider Theatretrain franchise network.
A secondary school teacher with extensive performing arts experience, Paul previously taught at Theatretrain centres in Northampton and Rugby before opening his own franchise in November 2017 with just seven students.
Within three months, numbers had grown to more than 30, laying the foundations for a business that has continued to develop over the past nine years.
He has since expanded into Tavistock, where a musical theatre class launched in 2021 has attracted up to 50 students for productions including Beauty and the Beast.
But for Paul, Theatretrain has always been about much more than performing.
He believes the confidence, friendships and life skills young people develop through singing, dancing and acting can have a lasting impact beyond the stage.
His students have enjoyed extraordinary experiences, including performing at the Royal Albert Hall, attending a drama festival in Switzerland and travelling to New York to perform in Central Park.
They have also appeared on television, including Don't Tell the Bride, and performed at numerous local events.
Building the business alongside a five-day-a-week teaching job has required considerable dedication, particularly while overseeing classes, recruiting staff and organising productions.
One of Paul's biggest challenges came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when restrictions prevented students from attending classes.
Determined to maintain their connection with Theatretrain, he immediately moved sessions online, organising weekly singing, dancing and acting activities, even during school holidays.
Students completed creative challenges at home, often involving parents and siblings, and took part in an online production edited into a film.
The initiative helped maintain a sense of community during an exceptionally difficult period and enabled students to return when in-person classes resumed.
Paul commented, “Winning a Great British Franchisee Award is an incredible honour, but more than anything, it is a validation of the relationships we’ve built. Being a great franchisee isn't just about hitting business targets; it's about being a trusted part of your local community and delivering for your customers day in and day out. Knowing that our hard work has made a real impact locally makes this recognition extra special.”
Creating a welcoming, family-style atmosphere remains central to Paul's approach.
As an Ofsted-registered provider, Theatretrain Exeter combines professional standards and safeguarding with a supportive environment where every child is encouraged to participate.
Paul believes every student deserves their moment on stage, and productions are carefully planned to give young performers opportunities to shine.
Parents regularly praise the dedication of the teaching team and the confidence their children develop, with one describing a recent show as an “amazing, uplifting production”.
Paul also places considerable emphasis on supporting his seven staff members through training, mentoring and opportunities to contribute ideas to the business.
His commitment extends into the local community, with students performing at Christmas celebrations, school fundraisers and other events.
Theatretrain Exeter has also supported charitable causes, including a flash mob at a local shopping centre that raised more than £500.
Beyond his own business, Paul plays an important role in supporting fellow Theatretrain franchisees.
As the network's Franchise Support Leader, he provides advice and practical guidance to other business owners and runs a peer support group where franchisees share experiences and ideas.
He is also preparing to take on the role of Operations Manager at Theatretrain's head office, allowing him to support the national network while creating more time to develop his own franchise.
Jenny Dowsett, Director and Franchisor at Theatretrain, praised Paul's achievements and generosity towards others.
She said: “We're absolutely delighted that Paul has been recognised with a Great British Franchisee Award. He has built a thriving Theatretrain business in Exeter but what makes him such an exceptional franchisee goes far beyond the success of his own company.
“Paul is enormously generous with his time, knowledge and experience and has become a trusted source of support for franchisees right across the Theatretrain network. He genuinely wants other people to succeed and is always willing to step in, solve a problem or simply reassure someone when they need it.
“He combines commercial success with a real commitment to the children and families he serves and to the wider Theatretrain community. We couldn't be happier for him – this recognition is thoroughly deserved.”
The judges of the Great British Franchisee Awards were particularly impressed by Paul's dedication to young people and his contribution to the wider franchise network.
They commented: “Paul is an exceptionally deserving winner of a Great British Franchisee Award, having demonstrated outstanding dedication, strong business performance and a genuine passion for making a difference to young people's lives.
“What particularly impressed the judges was Paul's unwavering commitment to his students and their families, alongside his determination to continually develop and strengthen his business. His ability to adapt during challenging times, particularly throughout the pandemic, while maintaining a strong sense of community is truly commendable.
“Paul's contribution to the wider Theatretrain network is equally outstanding. His commitment to developing others, strengthening the network and making a lasting difference in his local community makes him a fantastic ambassador for franchising and a truly worthy winner.”
Looking ahead, Paul plans to expand Theatretrain Exeter's offering with a show choir and an advanced musical theatre class, alongside ambitions to establish new classes in Cornwall.
His Great British Franchisee Award recognises not only nine years of business achievement, but also his dedication to inspiring young performers and helping fellow franchisees succeed.
From opening with just seven students to creating opportunities for children to perform on international stages, Paul's story demonstrates the difference that passion, determination and a genuine commitment to others can make.