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Graphite Capital Achieves Successful Exit with Sale of Empowering Learning Group to THI Investments
10 Jul 2025, 1:43 pm GMT+1
Graphite Capital announces the successful sale of Empowering Learning Group (ELG), an education services provider, to THI Investments. ELG, under Graphite’s ownership, has grown into a market leader, addressing key issues facing schools, including behavioural challenges and staff attrition.
In a major move within the UK’s education services sector, Graphite Capital has announced the successful sale of Empowering Learning Group (ELG) to THI Investments, a leading pan-European private equity firm focused on the education industry. This marks a highly successful exit for Graphite, which initially backed CEO Mohammed Azam in launching ELG as a start-up with a mission to provide innovative and tech-enabled solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing schools today.
Founded to address the growing behavioural challenges in classrooms, particularly in the wake of post-pandemic disruptions, social media influences, and increasing mental health concerns among students, ELG has made substantial strides in improving both the learning environment and the welfare of students.
With the backing of Graphite Capital, the company has expanded its services significantly, reaching a turnover of £60 million in 2024. ELG has grown not just in the UK, but internationally, making it one of the foremost players in education services today.
Graphite’s role in ELG’s growth
Graphite Capital’s partnership with ELG began with the aim of creating a diversified, technology-driven education services provider. From the outset, the firm recognised the importance of addressing the growing issues in schools, particularly behavioural challenges in classrooms.
Graphite’s investment helped ELG develop both training courses for behavioural management and recruitment support services for schools, significantly reducing staff attrition and improving the overall learning experience.
Under Graphite’s stewardship, ELG launched several initiatives that helped expand its reach and impact. One of the key developments was the introduction of Team Teach Connect, an innovative ed-tech platform.
This platform provided proprietary content for educators, including training and accreditation modules, helping schools manage their educational services efficiently. It became a valuable tool for teachers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to manage classrooms effectively and improve student outcomes.
ELG’s expansion and innovation
The evolution of ELG from a start-up to a market leader is a direct result of its innovative approach to education services. The company grew its turnover to £60 million in 2024, bolstered by its expansion into international markets.
This growth was driven by ELG’s unique offering of high-quality behavioural management training courses and recruitment services. By providing schools with the tools to tackle behavioural issues and reduce staff turnover, ELG became an invaluable partner in improving classroom dynamics and student well-being.
Graphite’s focus on technology also played a crucial role in ELG’s growth. The development and successful launch of the Team Teach Connect platform allowed ELG to combine cutting-edge educational technology with practical training solutions. This not only enhanced the company’s offerings but also positioned it as a leader in the tech-enabled education services sector.
Mohammed Azam, CEO of Empowering Learning Group, expresses his gratitude to Graphite for their instrumental role in the company’s success.
He said, “Empowering Learning Group is at the forefront of solving classroom challenges. Our services have a strong and demonstrably positive impact for our customers in the education and health & social care sectors – not just in the UK, but in many countries around the world. A big thank you to Graphite, who have been an invaluable strategic and investment partner since day one. Their clear vision and unique understanding of our sector have been instrumental to our success.”
Following the successful acquisition by THI Investments, the future looks bright for Empowering Learning Group. As a company that has demonstrated a proven ability to scale its operations and deliver positive results for both students and educators, ELG is poised to continue its growth under new ownership.
A Strong Legacy for Graphite Capital
Graphite Capital’s exit from ELG marks another success in its long history of investments in the education sector. The firm has previously invested in other successful education companies, including Explore Learning, Higher Ed International, and Storal.
With a strong track record of backing market-leading businesses, Graphite continues to focus on opportunities within the education sector, looking for companies that have the potential to make a significant impact on society.
Tony Saade, Partner at Graphite, commented on the sale: “We are very pleased with the success of our investment in ELG. We built a market-leading school service provider with a growing international footprint, underpinned by significant investment in technology. Our partnership with Az and the team was built on a shared vision to help address the significant issues faced by schools in their classrooms. We are confident that ELG will continue to fulfil its mission of positively impacting children’s education and well-being.”
About Graphite Capital
Graphite Capital is a private equity firm that specialises in investing in mid-market companies in the UK. It focuses on management buy-outs and development capital opportunities, backing businesses with enterprise values ranging from £30 million to £175 million.
The firm’s current fund, Graphite Capital Partners IX, is valued at £500 million. With a strong focus on the education sector, Graphite continues to invest in businesses that are driving innovation and addressing key societal challenges.
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Shikha Negi
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Shikha Negi is a Content Writer at ztudium with expertise in writing and proofreading content. Having created more than 500 articles encompassing a diverse range of educational topics, from breaking news to in-depth analysis and long-form content, Shikha has a deep understanding of emerging trends in business, technology (including AI, blockchain, and the metaverse), and societal shifts, As the author at Sarvgyan News, Shikha has demonstrated expertise in crafting engaging and informative content tailored for various audiences, including students, educators, and professionals.
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