Catch22 transfers apprenticeship delivery division to Learn Plus Us in exciting new acquisition

Two apprenticeship delivery forces, already joined by wider partnership, collide to form the perfect team.

On 1 February 2023, Learn Plus Us; an established childcare apprenticeship training provider working across England, acquired the apprenticeship division of Catch22. The Catch22 apprenticeship business is an award-winning, approved levy-apprenticeship provider with 14 staff operating nationally. Learn Plus Us is part of the Angus Knight Group, an Australian-owned group of businesses working globally, to empower individuals, organisations and communities through employment, training and workforce solutions. The transfer of the apprenticeship division further cements the relationship between Catch22 and the Angus Knight Group, who are joint owners of Jobs 22.

The acquisition is set to skyrocket Learn Plus Us’s delivery capabilities within three new sectors: Business Services, Hospitality and Housing and Property. It will also expand their Childcare delivery with the addition of two new apprenticeship standards. The synergy between the two businesses is a testament to the combined expertise of staff and the shared vision to make a difference to people’s lives and prospects, and in so doing add value to local communities.

Both Debbie Gardiner MBE, the Chief Commercial Officer of Learn Plus Us and Catch22’s CEO, Naomi Hulston recognise the importance of apprenticeship provision in England, particularly in sectors such as hospitality and housing. The hospitality sector is currently facing low employment rates, skills-shortages and elevated numbers of vacancies. With long-term housing challenges facing the country, working within the Housing and Property sector provides Learn Plus Us with the opportunity to partner with local authorities and private housing associations to deliver innovative training that supports the government’s vision to provide affordable and sustainable housing. 

Debbie Gardiner MBE shares, “Our vision is to help individuals of all ages to access fulfilling careers, whilst also addressing the employment gaps within these important sectors, including Childcare. Apprenticeships provide a proven way to future-proof the workforce, as well as to give individuals access to practical, work-based learning. This can empower those who may feel university is not for them as well as those returning to the workplace, changing careers or seeking promotion. Catch22 and Learn Plus Us share many of the same values and both organisations are passionate about supporting people and communities. The potential for sustained growth will have a positive impact on the lives and careers of individuals across England, which is why we’re all delighted to welcome the apprenticeship team from Catch22 into LPU.” 

Angus Knight Group UK and Europe CEO, Ayden Sims said;

“It’s been great to see the benefits of our close integration with Catch22 and Learn Plus Us continue to bear fruit and deliver the best possible service for apprentices across the country. As caution over a UK recession has cooled the growth of vacancies to its lowest rate since February 2021, it’s important that we do all we can to prepare Britain’s workforce for meaningful participation in the future world of work.  The labour market is changing rapidly but Learn Plus Us apprentices can be sure of remarkable support in developing their careers.”

Naomi Hulston, CEO of Catch22 said:

“We were delighted that our apprenticeship provision achieved an OFSTED ‘good’ rating last year, and we’re looking forward to see it flourish with our colleagues at Learn Plus Us. Catch22 already has close links with the Angus Knight Group through our joint venture Jobs 22, and we know that as part of a specialist learning provider, our excellent apprenticeship team will go on to achieve even greater results for learners.”

Commenting on the Acquisition, Duncan Angus, founder Angus Knight Group said:

“This strong cultural alignment and our existing partnership, leaves us confident that this acquisition will allow us to further our mission in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and the businesses that employ them.”

For more information about Learn Plus Us, visit: www.learnplusus.co.uk or email: [email protected]