What’s the Difference Between Classic and New Class Manager?

This article outlines the differences between Classic and New Class Manager, explains the timeline for switching, details payment and subscription changes, and highlights the latest updates to New Class Manager.

With the launch of New Class Manager on July 1, 2025, we’ve received some questions from existing customers, particularly from those who only offer manual payment options (such as cash or cheque). This article aims to clarify:

1. The timeline for moving to New Class Manager

2. What support is available for schools using manual payments

3. Key differences and recent updates in New Class Manager

📅 Timeline for Moving to New Class Manager

We understand that switching platforms mid-term or mid-season can be disruptive. To help ease the transition, we’ll continue supporting the current system - now referred to as Classic Class Manager = until the end of the 2025/2026 season:

• Northern Hemisphere: Supported until July 2026

• Southern Hemisphere: Supported until December 2026

We’re also developing a 1-click migration tool to transfer your data (classes, customers, and transactions) from Classic to New Class Manager. This will be available once certain key features - such as direct debit - are live in the new system.

In the meantime, if you'd like to move early to take advantage of features like monthly billing, you can do so by:

• Recreating your seasons in New Class Manager

• Allowing us to manually move families, students, and staff (transaction data cannot currently be migrated)

💳 Subscription and Payment Options

As of July 1, 2025, we’ve removed the monthly subscription fee for New customers, and instead introduced a small percentage-based fee per transaction. This model applies to existing customers moving to New Class Manager as well.

We believe this model is fairer - schools won’t pay a subscription fee during off-seasons, and for most, this will reduce overall costs. However, there are two options available for existing Classic customers:

Option 1: Use Automated Payments (No Monthly Subscription)

If you choose to accept automated payments (such as credit or debit cards), you will not pay a monthly subscription.

Option 2: Use Manual Payments (Keep Monthly/Annual Subscription)

If you prefer to only accept manual payments (e.g., cash or cheque) and handle reconciliation yourself, you can continue with your existing monthly or annual subscription. All core features will remain available.

We’ve also created a ‘cash or card’ guide to help schools evaluate offering card payments for the first time.

Credit Card Processing Fees (via Stripe)

🚀 Upcoming Features in New Class Manager

New Class Manager was built to be a powerful and flexible class enrolment platform that’s easy for both schools and customers to use. Based on positive feedback, we’re expanding functionality further. Coming soon:

• Price classes by season, month, or individual lesson

• Allow payments upfront, monthly, fortnightly, or weekly

• Accept payments via direct debit, bank transfer, and more

We'll keep our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section updated with the latest feature comparisons between Classic and New Class Manager so you can decide when the time is right to move over.

If you’d like to talk through your options, your Account Manager will be reaching out to check in. You’re also welcome to contact our support team if you have any immediate questions.