Writing a Martial Arts School Business Plan

After every period of quiet, whether it's a pandemic, winter, summer, or any other challenge, it's time to focus on rebuilding and expanding our schools. With every downturn, there's an upturn, and you want to position your school to seize this opportunity for growth. 

You should consider writing a "post-dip" business plan for your school. It does not have to be complicated - a single page is sufficient. We recommend committing ideas to paper because doing this is special. Seeing your thoughts on paper creates an energy that turns these thoughts into actions.

Your plan should include:

• A high-level statement about your school's core values and objects
• A description of what your school provides and your target market
• Some metrics, e.g. membership target, retention target and/or revenue target
• SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats)
• Marketing strategies, e.g.
  • Re-engagement with members who left during Covid
  • Engaging with prospective new members in your target market
• Specific Actions, e.g.
  • Partnering with a local school if you train children
  • Social Media/Digital advertising (can be paid or unpaid)
  • Engaging with the Sports promotion officer in your local Council
  • Open-air classes in a park or at a broader demonstration to engage with the public

These are just a few initial thoughts, but whether you manage a small or large school, having a Business Plan in some form will be crucial in capitalizing on the rebound in the months ahead.