Not Going to Uni… How One Young Woman Built Her Own Business Instead!

At just 22 years old, Jodie Hall became the Principal of Razzamataz Derby. She didn’t take the traditional university route. Instead, she built her career from the inside out and is now running her own theatre school.

Here’s how she did it.

Transition from Student to Leader

Jodie joined Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield at just 13 years old, loved it so much that by the age of 16, she decided to study performing arts at college. While some young people were planning university applications, Jodie was already gaining hands-on experience, encouraged by her Razzamataz Principals.

She became:

  • A Teaching Assistant
  • A Teacher for Mini and Junior students
  • Involved in admin and behind-the-scenes operations
  • Assistant Principal at Razzamataz Derby in 2020

So when the opportunity came to take over the school, she was ready.

The University of Life 

“I didn’t have any previous business experience, so I was nervous. It was a huge commitment.”

Taking over a theatre school at 22 isn’t a small decision.

But here’s the difference: she wasn’t doing it alone.

Being part of an established franchise meant:

  • Structured training
  • Proven systems
  • Ongoing mentorship
  • A collaborative network of experienced Principals

“If it wasn’t a franchise network, it would have been so much more daunting. I don’t think I would have been prepared to take it on at this age.”

Instead of learning business theory in a classroom, Jodie learned through:

  • The Razzamataz Teacher Training platform
  • Comprehensive franchise training
  • Real-world leadership experience

The Lifestyle Factor

Owning her own franchise doesn’t mean being tied to a desk from 9–5.

“I love that this is not a 9–5 job and I can work flexibly to suit my lifestyle.”

For young people who value flexibility, creativity and purpose, franchising can offer something traditional pathways sometimes don’t: control.

An Investment in your Future 

University is a great investment, but if your passion is performing arts, maybe the smartest investment isn’t in a lecture theatre… it’s in yourself. Step into a proven model, gain real-world experience, and start building your future today.

Curious to find out more? 

Book a Discovery Den: https://www.razzamataz.co.uk/discovery-dens/