Operam Education Group acquires Bespoke Education (Choice Teachers)

Operam Education Group’s acquisition of Choice Teachers and Bespoke Education strategically bolsters its presence in key regions of England, particularly the North West and London. This move underscores Operam’s ambition to expand geographically while leveraging Choice Teachers’ strong local networks and brand recognition. By integrating a 50-strong team and retaining Choice Teachers’ directors, Operam ensures continuity and enhances its operational capabilities. Financing for this acquisition includes capital from Three Hills Impact, BGF, and management contributions, reflecting the strategic importance of the deal to both Operam’s growth trajectory and its financial backers. The transaction mechanics align with Operam’s “buy and build” strategy, positioning it as a leading player in education recruitment. Competitively, this deal reinforces Operam’s market position by increasing its scale and scope. With Choice Teachers’ expertise, particularly in the London and home counties markets, Operam can better compete with larger rivals like Hays Education and Michael Page Education, which have extensive operations across multiple regions. The acquisition also signals to potential competitors that Operam is committed to aggressive expansion through strategic acquisitions. Looking ahead, key integration challenges will include harmonizing the operational practices of Choice Teachers with those of Operam’s existing portfolio companies. Additionally, maintaining strong relationships with schools and clients in new markets while preserving Choice Teachers’ distinct brand identity will be crucial. With over £50 million in revenues post-acquisition, Operam is well-positioned to leverage this scale for further growth through both organic initiatives and future acquisitions.