A national learning provider based in the North East has hit a target of reaching one million people through its courses.
County Durham-based Learning Curve Group set itself the million-learner target in 2015 and has reached it despite being forced into a switch to online learning because of the pandemic.
Learning Curve was established in 2004 and has gone through two rounds of equity funding to help it grow to become one of the largest training providers in the country. It has made a number of acquisitions and boasts a headcount of around 500.
The company, which moved to new headquarters near Spennymoor in 2019, works with learners, employers and further education providers to offer a large programmes that support lifelong learning.
Chief executive officer Brenda McLeish said: “Our courses make a real difference to people’s lives, with the potential to bring long and lasting benefits. Gaining good qualifications can open up new opportunities for these individuals, and we are delighted that we are able to support that ambition.
“I think what makes me really proud of the work that our incredible staff do, is the positive impact that we have on lives, particularly for those who haven’t engaged with traditional education for many years and have little confidence in their ability. We can really work to make a difference and support people to gain skills, confidence and get back into employment.
“In a year of uncertainty with the challenges we have all faced from coronavirus, we had an overwhelming response from learners with an increased demand to study online.
“From individuals who were furloughed to those protecting themselves and isolating, looking to fill their time, support their mental health and strengthen their knowledge.
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"Reaching our milestone of one million after the year the country has had is phenomenal, and I’m looking forward to a bright future for us at LCG.”
Learning Curve provides courses from entry level employability programmes up to foundation degree level leadership and management programmes. It has particular strengths in vocational areas such as construction and hair and beauty, and has worked with large employers that include Sainsbury’s and The Hut Group.
Last year the company received investment from private equity partners Agilitas which set in train new growth plans. That deal saw an exit for MML Capital, which had helped Ms McLeish and two other directors acquire the firm from founders Judith Moran and Tony Outhart in 2015.