The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience operates childcare centers providing educational programs for children aged six weeks to 12 years old. Known for its curriculum-based learning approach, it offers franchises with systems, trademarks, and procedures. Part of the early childhood education sector.
About The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a Center ranges from $805,799 to $5,658,799 per Center, depending on whether you purchase an existing Center, develop your own Center or retain the franchisor to develop it for you (excluding the cost of purchasing land). [p.1]
What is the initial franchise fee?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD excerpts discuss the allocation and recognition of initial franchise fees but do not specify the amount of the initial franchise fee.
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is 7% of the monthly Gross Revenue, due on the first day of each month following the month that franchisee's sales occur [p.286]. Advertising fees are charged when incurred; however, specific ongoing percentages or amounts for franchisees are not detailed in these excerpts [p.121 and p.282].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial franchise agreement has an initial term of fifteen years commencing on the opening date of the franchise [p.279]. You have the opportunity to renew the franchise for up to three additional five-year terms provided you meet certain conditions as defined in the agreement [p.92, p.4.3.2].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, you can transfer your franchise but certain conditions apply. You must pay a Transfer Fee of $25,000 before transferring, which remains fixed for the first five years of the agreement term [p.96]. Additionally, you cannot cancel the agreement unless you transfer and assign your rights to an approved replacement franchisee, and you may only receive an amount equal to or less than any amounts paid by you as of the date of such transfer and assignment [p.162].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
According to [p.157] and [p.158], it is unlawful for the franchisor to cancel the franchise without reasonable cause as defined by Virginia Retail Franchising Act or Virginia laws. If any stated grounds for default or termination do not constitute 'reasonable cause,' those provisions may be unenforceable.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
Based on the excerpts, you receive a protected territory but not an exclusive one [p.53, p.54]. You have the right to operate within your Protected Territory without competition from other franchisees, but you may face competition from outlets owned by the franchisor or other channels of distribution controlled by them [p.55].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides two main types of initial training: Essentials training [p.51], which covers core operational, business, and leadership knowledge needed to run a TLE Center; and Foundations training [p.50], which gives an overview of the development timeline and standard operating procedures. Additionally, franchisees are entitled to technical support for proprietary TLE software but should arrange third-party support for hardware issues [p.49].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, the company's network consisted of 436 franchised centers [p.279]. There is no specific number given for closed or terminated franchisees in the provided excerpts; however, a list of those that left the system in 2025 is available [p.263], and all current franchised locations are detailed as of December 31, 2025 [p.80].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor does provide some historical financial performance data in Item 19 [p.71], but this data is not a forecast for future performance and should be reviewed with your own financial advisors. Additionally, the franchisor may provide actual records of an existing outlet if you are purchasing one [p.66]. However, the franchisor does not make any financial performance representations other than those specified in Item 19, nor do they authorize their employees or representatives to make such representations [p.72].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are required to offer and sell all of the Approved Products and Services that the franchisor designates as required [p.62]. You must purchase all products, equipment, supplies, and materials used or sold by the Center solely from approved suppliers designated by the franchisor [p.104].