South Yorkshire, UK–Fedcap has acquired BP Learning UK Ltd—an alternative education provider that uses the internationally recognized Big Picture Learning model.
BP Learning UK runs Big Picture Doncaster, a successful school commissioned by the City of Doncaster Council to support students in grades equivalent to U.S. 4th through 7th who are struggling in traditional classroom settings or with the transition to secondary school. Since opening six years ago, the school has supported more than 400 young people and their families, with over 90% of students making measurable academic progress.
Big Picture Learning was founded over 30 years ago in the United States and is rooted in a highly personalized approach to education. The model focuses on building strong, trust-based relationships with students, tailoring learning to each child’s interests, strengths, and needs, and working closely with families and schools. Today, the model is used in more than 150 schools around the world.
“Fedcap is committed to improving economic mobility by expanding access to high-quality, effective education—especially for children at risk of falling behind,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of Fedcap. “We’re proud to welcome BP Learning UK into the Fedcap family to bring a proven, student-centered model to more communities—ensuring children get the support they need, at the right time and in the right way, to succeed in school and in life.”
“We’re proud of the results we’ve achieved alongside the City of Doncaster Council and local schools—helping students rebuild confidence, stay engaged in learning, and be recognized as individuals,” said Colin Goffin, CEO of BP Learning UK and Principal of Big Picture Doncaster, UK. “Fedcap shares our values, our ambition, and our belief in the power of personalized education. Together, we’re excited to build on our success in Doncaster and explore new opportunities to expand the Big Picture approach across South Yorkshire and beyond.”
“This is about scaling what works. When young people disengage from school, the outcomes can often be predicted—but with the right support, that story can change,” said Brian Bell, President of Fedcap Employment UK. “By combining with BP Learning UK, we can leverage Fedcap’s reach to expand a proven, transformational model and deliver it to more children who need it most.”
This partnership further strengthens Fedcap’s education and training portfolio in the UK, which includes job readiness programs and a growing green skills offering through The Verdancy Group and the Apex Clean Energy Training Center.
About The Fedcap Group
For nearly ninety years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable, innovative, and potentially disruptive solutions to some of society’s most pressing needs. The Fedcap Group drives economic mobility through four practice areas—education, workforce development, health, and economic development. The Fedcap Group also invests its time and resources in broader system change—working in partnership with federal, state, and local government to improve the way services are designed, funded, and delivered. For more information visit https://fedcapgroup.org.
About Fedcap UK
Fedcap UK is a leading provider of services designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment and achieve sustainable career success across the United Kingdom. As part of The Fedcap Group, Fedcap UK delivers innovative programs that address unemployment, skill development, and social inclusion. Working in partnership with local governments, employers, and community organizations, Fedcap UK offers personalized support, vocational training, and job placement services to individuals from all walks of life. With a commitment to creating economic opportunities and fostering long-term positive impact, Fedcap UK is dedicated to building stronger communities and transforming lives across the United Kingdom. For more information, visit https://fedcap.org.uk.
About BP Learning UK
BP Learning UK was formed in 2018 to be the delivery arm of an innovative partnership between City of Doncaster Council and the Innovation Unit, funded under a social impact bond and supported by Big Issue Invest and the National Lottery Life Chances Fund. Having successfully delivered the initial contract, BP Learning is now a distinct entity and directly commissioned to deliver services. Its first provision, Big Picture Doncaster, opened in early 2019 and is an inclusive provision for children in Years 5 to 8, supporting young people who struggle with the challenges of transitioning to secondary school, or maintaining a successful position in mainstream education. It’s the first and only Big Picture Learning provision in the UK and is part of a global network that personalizes learning to each student’s interests, talents and needs.
For more information visit www.bigpicturedoncaster.org.
Contact:
Jim Malatras, 212-727-4200, (JMalatras@fedcap.org)