Praesidian provides first lien debt for UK education group

Praesidian Capital Europe has provided a first lien debt investment in UK-based education business Progress to Excellence Group.

The funding supports the recapitalisation of the group, refinancing of existing debt and a bolt-on acquisition of Complete Training Solutions, a business that focuses on health and safety courses.

Birkenhead-based Progress to Excellence was founded in 1997 and provides employer-led apprenticeship training with a strong footprint in health and social care, business administration and management courses. It is backed by A2E Industries, a growth investment manager.

Sandra Kirkham, managing director of Progress to Excellence, said: “The Progress to Excellence team is excited about working with Praesidian to support our businesses’ growth. The timing is perfect as we are building out additional service offerings and growing our already established trainings business.”

Praesidian investment director, Serkan Dede, said he will “look forward to working together with Progress to Excellence and A2E Industries on future bolt-on acquisitions.”