How do I find out which classes at a dance studio are the main money makers?

Start by asking for a breakdown by class or program: how many students are enrolled, what each pays, and how often it runs. Compare it with who teaches it and how much that teacher costs. Include the extras, such as recital fees, costume orders, competition entries and workshops, since these often sit outside the weekly tuition and change the picture.

Then look at room use. A popular class in a prime evening slot is different from a busy class in a slot nobody else wants. Ask which rooms are booked when and whether any class prevents another from running. Check for classes carried by a single teacher, because their income depends on that person staying.

Finally, look at how students move through the studio. A beginner program that feeds the competitive teams may matter more than its own numbers show. Ask the owner which programs bring new families in, which keep them and which they would drop if they could. Compare the answers with the records, since owners sometimes assume the favourites are also the most profitable. Your accountant can help set up a clean comparison. Ask to see a full year, not a single term, so seasonal swings do not mislead you.

Key takeaways

• Break enrolment, fees and teacher cost down class by class.
• Count recitals, costumes and competition fees in each program’s picture.
• Ask which programs bring families in and which keep them.