Inspiring Futures Limited has struck a deal to purchase the school in Berkshire, UK from Padworth College Trust Limited, effective October 10, a partnership directors say will benefit both institutions.

“Padworth College shares the educational philosophy that is in place at Bishopstrow College and complements [the] College’s focus on offering pathway programs to prepare international students for boarding schools,” IFL directors Charlie Freer and Mark Jeynes said in a statement.

“We are excited by the opportunities to develop Padworth College as an independent college offering academic pathway programs to prepare international and British students for entry into top universities.”

Being aligned to a larger organisation offers the college, established in 1963, additional scale and a wider reach.

“There are many similarities in ethos and vision between Padworth College and Bishopstrow College and IFL will provide an excellent home for Padworth College,” according to acting principal of the school, Chris Randell.

“Being part of a larger organisation presents many new opportunities for Padworth and what we offer complements the English language and academic programs on offer at Bishopstrow – we are very much looking forward to the future.”

Padworth College will continue operating as an independent college, offering a British academic  program to students aged 13 to 18, although A-Level and Business Foundation courses make up around 70% of enrolments.

International students historically form around 70% of the college’s student body, with Chinese students forming around 11% of the cohort, and Chinese students from Hong Kong an added 7%.

Students from India make up the third largest international cohort, with 6%, and IFL intends to grow enrolments while maintaining the current ratio of international and British students.

Jonathan Rawes, chair of the Board of Trustees at PCTL said IFL is “well placed to drive the college forward”.

“IFL and its senior management have been successful in developing and expanding Bishopstrow, and share our strong belief in the value of an internationally focussed college. They have seen what Padworth can achieve, as well as the need for the investment required.”

“[IFL] is committed to enhancing the position of Padworth College in the market; and aim to do so without any change to its essential character, identity and ethos.”