The tertiary provider said the buy-out of the Queensland-based English language provider, with two campuses, provides the “perfect springboard” for the reopening of the international education sector, after two years of disruption as a result of the pandemic.

“The addition of BROWNS comes after an extensive search of the education market and at the cusp of the rebuild and redevelopment of the international sector,” Monarch CEO Nick Chapman said.

“There will be challenges in the short to medium term as the sector rebuilds, but Australia remains a unique and compelling destination. BROWNS will continue to support students, listen to what they need, and promote Australia’s education capabilities.”

As former owner and managing director of BROWNS, Richard Brown, told The PIE in early 2022, Chapman predicts that ELICOS will be the first education segment to rebound.

Face-to-face classes will begin under the new ownership in June.

“English language skills are a priority for international students who must meet certain requirements for study and work,” Chapman added.

Over 19 years, BROWNS has “provided a world-class English language education”, Brown stated, having won export awards and hosted more than 35,000 students from 102 countries.

“Monarch is perfectly positioned to take BROWNS forward. I am excited by this opportunity, which will significantly enhance both businesses, and by the prospect of being able to re-energise and further cement BROWNS’ reputation and traditions.

“We are so pleased that BROWNS will shortly be welcoming back our cherished international students to Queensland and that we are very much open for business in the new Covid-normal world.”

While Brown will pursue new ventures, Monarch director of Strategic Projects Justin Blake has been appointed general manager and principal of the English language provider.

“Combining Monarch Institute’s prized reputation for real-world education delivered via innovative online technologies with BROWNS’ standing as a premium English Language School will enable us to thrive and return international students to our shores,” Blake said.

Along with its General English, Cambridge and IELTS exam preparation courses, Barista and RSA, primary and high school preparation courses, and its business school BROWNS Professional, BROWNS also offers BROWNS Virtual.

Previously speaking to The PIE, Brown said that the company’s online learning program has been attractive for students during the pandemic “who can’t make it [in person] or [for those who] prefer a hybrid solution to learning online and then potentially completing the remainder of their course face to face” at one of its Queensland campuses.

“Expanding our offering into the international education market is a key strategic pillar”

Chapman added that the move is a “natural strategic fit”, with BROWNS also enabling partners and students to experience Monarch’s digital skills flagship business – Digital Academy.

The Melbourne-based family-owned professional services training organisation is “a long-term investor in high quality education”, he continued.

“Expanding our offering into the international education market is a key strategic pillar of the group’s growth plans.

“As international borders re-open, we will re-establish the existing Gold Coast and Brisbane teaching centres and diversify the portfolio of BROWNS courses to appeal to a broader international student market.”