Weekend trade skills courses

Homeowners who want to do their own work, hobbyists, people trying a trade before changing career, and sometimes small firms training new starters.

A fee per person per course, with materials often included. Small groups keep the teaching hands-on, and repeat courses fill your calendar. You can add gift vouchers and private group bookings.

• Proven skill in a trade
• Patient, clear teaching
• Organising materials and safe workshop space

• Public liability insurance that covers teaching and students using tools, and check whether you need other cover
• Health and safety: risk assessments, PPE, first aid and safe machinery use for beginners
• Check the lease or hire terms and any planning or business rates implications if you use a space regularly
• Avoid describing courses as accredited or qualifying someone to work in regulated trades such as gas or electrical work unless that is true

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on the workshop, tools and materials you supply. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £1,200 to £6,000, depending on how many courses you run and how many students attend.

Check public liability insurance that covers teaching and students using tools, and whether you need other cover. Check health and safety duties, lease or hire terms, and business rates. Avoid calling courses accredited, or qualifying people for regulated trades, unless that is true.

Typically you need proven skill in a trade, patient and clear teaching, and the ability to organise materials and a safe workshop space. Estimates suggest at least around 8 hours a week, usually on evenings and weekends.