Swedes to teach English

14 December 2011

Sabres Educational Trust has appointed IES UK, the British arm of Swedish education company Internationella Engelska Skolan, to manage the running of Breckland Free School in Brandon, Suffolk. The company already operates a growing number of schools in Sweden.

IES UK was appointed following a rigorous procurement and assessment process. The company has a "traditional, conservative" approach, with a focus on calm learning environments and high expectations. The appointment of IES marks a milestone in Breckland Free School's development. Now IES has been appointed the Trust will submit final plans to the Department for Education (DfE) for approval. The Trust is aiming to be able to make firm offers of places to parents once its Funding Agreement is in place.

Jodie King, UK Manager for IES UK, said: "We are looking forward to working with Sabres to create an inspiring educational environment for the young people of Brandon and the surrounding area. There will be a strong focus on literacy and numeracy as well as a commitment to ensuring no child is left behind. The schools we run develop high aspirations, positive relationships and student responsibility for their learning and community."

Gordon Warnes, Chairman of Sabres said: "IES UK's proposals for running Breckland Free School match our desire to provide an outstanding education for our young people. Breckland Free School will become part of a worldwide network of international schools providing an amazing array of opportunities for students and community."

On Thursday 19th January, a public meeting will be held at Breckland Middle School, when IES UK will present their vision for education in Brandon. There will be plenty of opportunity for local people and parents to talk to members of IES UK directly and get a real flavour of what the new school will offer.

According to the BBC website this 10-year contract is worth around £21m making it the largest management contract for schools of this type so far.