Rhondda Cynon Taff-based Educ8 Ltd, a leading provider of vocational work based learning in Wales, has announced that it has acquired Network Training Services Ltd and doubled the size of its work based learning contract.
The purchase of Port Talbot-based Network Training Services supports Educ8’s strategy to deliver high quality apprenticeship and Jobs Growth Wales opportunities within a range of economically important, priority driven sectors ranging from Engineering and Management to Health and Social Care and Early Years.
Network Training Services will retain its well established brand and separate identity and continue as an equal partner within the Vocational Skills Partnership (Wales) Ltd consortium.
The focus of the Educ8 Group over the medium to long term is to continue to deliver high quality learning programmes in key economic areas driven by Welsh government priorities, utilising the current expertise in both businesses.
The acquisition was supported by Nigel Greenaway of Greenaway Scott and Julian John of Sullivans Accountancy Services with funding support from Finance Wales.
CEO of the Educ8 Group, Colin Tucker commented: “The acquisition of Network Training Services provides a fantastic opportunity for employees and learners of both organisations, we have identified a real synergy between both organisations.
“Both Educ8 and Network Training are extremely community focused and value-driven and we are excited about the prospect of adding to our capacity and geographical presence.The acquisition broadens our ability to deliver apprenticeships and work placement opportunities to key sectoral industries across Wales enabling us to meet key Welsh Government objectives. We would particularly like to thank Jeff Davies the outgoing CEO and sole shareholder of Network Training for his assistance in ensuring a smooth completion.
“We would also like to thank Finance Wales for their continued support, and Greenaway Scott and Sullivans Accountants for their professional and diligent approach throughout the process, ensuring the growth aspirations of the Educ8 Group are achieved.”
Grant Santos, Managing Director of the Educ8 Group, added: “The Educ8-Network combination is an excellent strategic fit, presenting a unique opportunity to leverage and learn from the complementary strengths of both organisations’ robust product portfolios, systems and process and delivery methods.
“We fully recognise the huge challenges in the training and education sector over the next five to ten years and with our shared expertise we are confident that we can maximise the opportunities to deliver high quality learning in strategically important sectors to the Welsh economy.”
Nigel Greenaway, director at Greenaway Scott, said: “We are extremely pleased that we were able to help secure a favourable deal for all parties involved in the acquisition. Both companies have developed enviable reputations for delivering high quality learning programmes and the acquisition will, no doubt, strengthen their combined offering in the marketplace.”