Relocation Helps Language School Grow
One of the UK’s leading English language schools is relocating from its city centre base as it expands its operations in Newcastle.
International House is moving from Stowell Street in China town and investing in larger four-storey premises on Gallowgate after support from Tyne and Wear Development Company.
The language school, which currently employs around 22 full-time staff and enrols around 1400 students a year, offers general, business and academic English classes and teacher training courses. It is part of the global International House network which has over 140 schools worldwide.
The move will pave the way for International House to cope with growing demand from students around the world wishing to study in Newcastle and is likely to create a number of new posts in the months ahead.
Trevor Udberg, Managing Director of International House, said: “We take students from all over the world and the numbers are growing. Western Europe has always been popular but the enrolments from the Middle East, South America and The Far East, particularly Korea, are now dramatically increasing.
“Numbers are rising as students increasingly want to take advantage of Newcastle’s great location and the outstanding attractions we have in the region. Alnwick Castle, in particular, is really popular with Harry Potter fans. We’ve also worked hard to market the school more around the world by attending numerous international workshops and fairs.
“Moving premises will provide more space and help us to improve the high standard of services we provide to our students.”
International House initially contacted Newcastle City Council which then referred the organisation to Tyne and Wear Development Company. The Company has helped the school to identify its new site and also attract the funding of up to £65000 from regional development agency, One North East, to support the investment.
Mr Udberg added: “With the help from Tyne and Wear Development we are now able to look to the future. Everyone’s really enthusiastic about the new premises and what they mean in the development of our school and services.”
The school is looking to complete the move around November time this year, opening its doors to students in January 2010.
Manager of Tyne and Wear Development Company, Paul Buie said: “This is excellent news for the region and the school. International House attracts a growing number of students to the area every year, which is great for the regional economy and our profile worldwide.
“The new site is in an excellent location in the heart of the city and will help them to enhance the services they offer. It’s been a pleasure to work with them and support their investment plans.”