The buyout of the Wellington- and Auckland-based English language school means ACG will now teach 13,000 students across 35 campuses.

“The acquisition of The Campbell Institute is an excellent fit with our university pathways programs”

It also adds a number of pathway partnerships to ACG’s portfolio. Campbell currently provides English language pathway programs to a number of secondary and tertiary level education providers including Victoria University of Wellington.

“Strategically, the acquisition of The Campbell Institute is an excellent fit with our university pathways programs and Campbell’s highly sought-after courses and programs are well-recognised,” commented ACG group chief executive John Williamson.

“ACG is committed to growing The Campbell Institute and strengthening our pathways partnership with Victoria University,” he added.

From mid-2017, Campbell’s Wellington campus will co-locate with ACG’s existing Wellington Pathways campus in the city, enabling international students to progress seamlessly from English language study to university foundation studies before beginning a degree at Victoria University, the company said.

Co-owner Tim Mahren Brown, who was one of three English teachers who founded the school, will stay on at Campbell as general manager.

“We are excited about joining with ACG Education,” he said.

“Campbell has been developing pathway opportunities for our students into further study and careers, and our joining with ACG will enhance that further.”

The Campbell Institute has two campuses in Wellington and Auckland and is rated Category 1 by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority – the highest trust level awarded. It is also a member of English New Zealand.

As well as pathway programs, ACG Education also operates private K-13 schools, vocational training and academic English programs.