A North West firm exporting education and learning resources to international schools around the world has already landed four new projects in 2021, worth around £2.5m.
CES Holdings works with global suppliers and publishers delivering resources to more than 90 countries worldwide. The firm said its new projects secured in the past month will span a range of learning environments - including science laboratories, design and technology, performing arts, early years, libraries, and general classroom resources.
The work will include the consolidation of three campuses into one for a school in Amsterdam, which will accommodate 1,200 pupils. CES will provide furniture for new early years and primary settings, in addition to dining areas.
That's as well as the provision of a "wide range" of education resources and library books for a school in Indonesia, and the design and installation of classroom environments for two new-build schools in Qatar, including DT and science laboratories, fixed furniture, and structural works.
Matt Palmer, international director at KCS Group and director at CES Holdings, said: “After a challenging year for the education sector globally, these project wins mark a significant step forward both for CES and the wider sector.
“We have worked closely with schools during this time, creating COVID-safe learning environments and ensuring they have all they need for the delivery of the English curriculum to pupils overseas. This investment in new equipment and facilities demonstrates the confidence in the marketplace during what has been a tumultuous period.
“Our UK based supply partners represent the best of the best in the global education landscape. We look forward to working together to deliver these inspirational learning environments that will be enjoyed by pupils for many years to come.”
Several North West manufacturers and suppliers will work with CES on providing the equipment and furnishings, including laboratory furniture maker S+B UK Ltd and Flamefast Education, a supplier of workshop solutions.
Spaceright Europe Ltd – headquartered in Cumbernauld, Scotland - will provide nursery furniture for the Amsterdam project via its subsidiary company, Millhouse.
Works are scheduled to begin in spring and anticipated to conclude in late 2022.
Focussing on primary and secondary education, CES’ procurement package sources and exports items to international schools with an English curriculum, including books, furniture, and classroom equipment.
CES was established in 1980, and employs 70 staff at its headquarters in Manchester.
In 2020, it was acquired by KCS – a subsidiary of Kent County Council and one of the largest local-authority owned trading organisations in the UK.
