Touring children's theatre company

Primary schools, nurseries, libraries, arts centres and councils, who book you for a fixed fee.

A flat fee per performance or per day, with extra for workshops. Schools often book several shows in one visit, which makes touring days more worthwhile.

• Acting or directing
• Writing or adapting scripts for children
• Organising bookings and travel
• Confident with groups of children

• Public liability insurance, which schools and venues often ask to see
• Enhanced DBS checks for anyone working with children (check how to apply as a self-employed person)
• Child licensing rules if you use child performers, check with the local authority
• Using copyrighted stories or music without permission, check licensing for any adaptations
• Bookings are seasonal and tied to school terms, so plan your cash flow

Startup costs are typically around £800 to £5,000, depending on your set, costumes, props, insurance and any script or music licensing. These are estimates, so budget for your first show carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £3,500, depending on how many bookings you win and the fees you charge. The estimate starts from around 12 hours a week. Bookings follow school terms, so plan cash flow.

Check public liability insurance, which schools often ask to see, and how to apply for enhanced DBS checks as a self-employed person. Also check child licensing rules with the local authority if using child performers, and copyright permissions for stories or music.