Specialist education provider snapped up by national group
Mansfield-based R.E.A.L. Education, a provider of specialist education for young people with additional needs, has been sold to The Aurora Group, in a deal backed by investment firm Octopus.
Accounts show that R.E.A.L. employs around 190 staff, all of whom will transfer to Aurora, with no job losses expected.
The move comes as Aurora looks to grow its presence in the East Midlands, adding to its national network of education and care services.
Founded in 2008, R.E.A.L. supports 7–19-year-olds with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who cannot access mainstream education.
It runs 17 sites across the region, blending vocational training with academic learning.
Richard Smith, co-founder of R.E.A.L. said: “Finding a buyer who shares our deep commitment to the people we support and employ was crucial to us, and we are glad to have found in The Aurora Group an organisation that shares our values, commitment to excellence and belief in the strength of our team. Their vision aligns with ours and we are confident that this transition will bring new opportunities for growth and continued success.”
Aurora supports more than 1,200 young people nationwide and is the only B Corp-certified provider in the sector.
Its acquisition of R.E.A.L. follows the upcoming launch of Aurora Ryefields School in Derby and strengthens its footprint in the region.
PKF Smith Cooper acted as lead adviser on the sale, supported by Flint Bishop and EFM.
David Crump, corporate finance director at PKF Smith Cooper said: “We are delighted to have assisted in securing a bright future for R.E.A.L. The work it does and the opportunities it provides for young people are truly excellent. We are pleased to have advised on the sale to Aurora, who share the same passion and purpose.”
Flint Bishop, under the leadership of Martyn Brierley, head of corporate, with support from corporate solicitor George Ottewell, commercial property partner Janet Rhodes, fellow commercial property team member Jess Ryan-Dawkins, and employment solicitor Joseph Weston, provided full legal advice to the sellers.
Financial management services were provided by Glyn Abba of EFM.
