Education provider lands seven-figure backing

A North East education provider is set to expand its services, create new jobs and invest in new technology after securing a seven-figure funding package.

National Learning Group has received investment from the North East Elevate Fund, managed by FW Capital, to support the next phase of its growth.

The Gateshead-based business, which has a registered office in Hexham, provides one-to-one online tutoring for around 4000 students each year through a network of more than 350 tutors.

Its services span all age groups, from primary school pupils to adult learners, covering core curriculum subjects, GCSE and A-Level preparation, adult skills training and support for international qualifications.

Bosses say the funding will enable the company to strengthen its infrastructure, including the development of its own proprietary software to enhance its online tutoring platform.

They add the investment will also support the expansion of the senior leadership team, with Neil Stephenson joining as chairman, alongside plans to establish an Alternative Provision Centre for children unable to attend mainstream education.

The centre will also support the company’s expansion into wider commercial education services.

Oliver Batten, managing director at National Learning Group, said: “We’re experiencing significant growth and this funding is helping us to expand our presence.  

“The addition of a new alternative provision educational centre means we can meet the increased demand for accessible high-quality tuition.  

“We’ve been very pleased with the backing from FW Capital who have recognised our potential and are excited to have an investor on board who is aligned to our vision. 

“Keith Charlton and the team at FW Capital couldn't have been more supportive, they were patient and ensured we got the funding quickly. 

“That speed and understanding allowed us to move from the planning phase to being fully operational without losing any momentum."  

Oliver added: “We’ve also welcomed Neil Stephenson as chairman of the business, he is a highly experienced and respected businessman who will make a great impact at The National Learning Group.  

“I’m looking forward to working together to take the business to the next level of growth.”

Neil added: “I’m an active tech investor with vast experience of scaling businesses rapidly and working alongside institutional funders. 

“My commercial and marketing expertise alongside the vast executive experience I have makes me a good fit. 

“I was attracted to the opportunity to work in a business which makes a positive impact to young people’s lives and to support a fabulous chief executive as he personally and professionally grows.”

The investment was made through the North East Elevate Fund, part of North East mayor Kim McGuinness’ £100 million regional investment framework administered by The North East Fund.

The programme, alongside the North East Accelerate and North East Spinout Inspire funds, is designed to improve access to early-stage finance for start-ups, scale-ups and growing businesses across the region.

FW Capital was introduced to National Learning Group by Armstrong Watson.

Keith Charlton, fund manager at FW Capital, added: “There is a clear and growing demand for high-quality online tutoring, and the National Learning Group team has shown they have the vision to meet it. 

“We’re proud to fund this next chapter, strengthening senior management and launching the new educational centre, to help drive both economic opportunity and educational excellence.”

David Wilson, corporate finance partner at Armstrong Watson, added: “Oliver and the team at National Learning Group are a valued client of Armstrong Watson and they have managed to build a strong, highly credible business which is growing at an exceptional rate.  

“It was clear during the investment process that FW Capital were very much aligned with the business and their aspirations and goals, and I look forward to following Oliver and the teams progress on the back of this significant investment.”

To find about more about the North East Fund and its Elevate and Accelerate Funds, click here.

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