AQA acquires Realise Training Group to strengthen vocational education and skills delivery
AQA has purchased Realise Training Group in a move that expands the exam board’s role in technical and vocational education and links qualification design with work-based training.
AQA, the UK’s largest exam board for GCSEs and A-levels, has acquired Realise Training Group from private equity firm Endless for an undisclosed sum. Realise will operate as an independent subsidiary of AQA, which is a not-for-profit education charity. The deal gives AQA a direct presence in vocational and technical training as the government increases its focus on post-16 skills development.
Colin Hughes, Chief Executive Officer at AQA, says: “Acquiring a training provider is a tremendously exciting development for AQA. We’re well-known as the most popular exam board for GCSEs and A-levels but for some time we’ve been building our presence in the vocational sector.”
Realise delivers apprenticeships and adult skills programs across England, supporting more than 18,000 learners each year. Its training offer spans early years, health and social care, business services, and transport, with programs operating in regions including West Yorkshire, the Liverpool City Region, the West Midlands, Greater Manchester, and Lincolnshire.
Hughes adds: “I’m confident that, with our new acquisition, we will be well-placed to enhance our offer to employers and young people in line with our charitable purpose. In light of the Government's emphasis on growing vocational education and extending the impact of skills training in the recent Post 16 Education and Skills White Paper, this is an area that has great potential for growth.”
Realise to remain operationally independent
The training provider employs over 500 staff and will retain its existing leadership team. AQA says the acquisition ensures long-term stability for Realise and will allow both organizations to expand their support for learners while reinvesting profits into education.
Gregg Scott, Chief Executive Officer of Realise Training Group, says: “We are delighted to announce this acquisition which provides Realise with a new, long-term home while creating a unique link between two of the country’s leading educational organisations.”
Both AQA and Realise say they are committed to providing high-quality training aligned with individual learner needs. Scott adds: “It also means that all our profits will be re-invested into education for the benefit of many thousands of people in the UK, which aligns with the philosophy of both AQA and ourselves to deliver long-lasting and tangible social value.”
He concludes: “We have enjoyed a hugely successful period and look forward to a bright future at our new home of AQA.”
