In competition with a number of players, the municipals in Richmond chose Kunskapsskolan to administer two out of three schools. The Richmond schools are a step forward for Kunskapsskolan’s expansion in England. In ten years, the plan is to manage app. 30 schools, says former Managing Director Anders Hultin, in charge of international expansion.
– There is a tradition in England of managing international schools, which obviously facilitates our expansion. In addition, the English language is applicable in large parts around the world, says Anders Hultin.
A major difference between the Swedish and the British school system is the Swedish school-fee system. This means that schools receive certain compensation for each pupil who chooses their school. You don’t have that system here and English private schools have to look for financing from private sources.
– Only public schools get public funding. This is where we are breaking new grounds to get public funding for private schools as well.
In addition to England, Kunskapsskolan is planning to expand in other foreign markets. It has not yet been decided where this expansion will take place, but east Asia is an interesting region, says Anders Hultin.
Emelie Ring, Editor