Galore Park Turns Pages in Education
In 1998, teacher Nick Oulton decided to take matters into his own hands. Frustrated by the lack of quality material with which to inform and inspire his pupils, he set about producing a rigorous and challenging textbook for his subject – Latin. Ten years on and Galore Park – named after an Edwardian comic novel about a croquet tournament - has firmly established itself amongst the UK’s top schools and its innovative range of educational resources are proving popular with children and adults alike. The success of Galore Park lies in its refusal to ‘dumb down’ learning. Using traditional, well-proven teaching methods, the textbooks’ simple yet informative structure make them as appropriate for lessons when a teacher is present, as they are for home-schooling (an ever-growing market for Galore Park) and revision time.
“All of our textbooks follow a clear, uncomplicated formula, making them ideal reading for those wishing to supplement school learning� says Nick. “A good textbook cannot replace a good teacher, but we aim to get as close as we can.�
Whilst Galore Park’s range of textbooks and revision guides are primarily aimed at 8-13 year olds – their courses are used in around 90% of preparatory schools and many are published in association with the Independent Schools Examinations Board – Nick has found that their accessibility and no-nonsense approach are also suitable for adults wanting to continue their learning. As testament to this, due to popular demand, Nick is now holding lunchtime Latin lessons for his twelve staff at their office in Tenterden, Kent.
Nonetheless, Nick is perhaps an unlikely proprietor of an educational publishing house. Prior to founding Galore Park he spent three years as a cavalry officer (16th/5th Lancers) and three years as a merchant banker at Schroders, before moving into teaching. However, Nick’s understanding of the needs of teachers and pupils has clearly informed his publishing strategy. After all, with a current turnover of over £1 million and ambitious plans to apply Galore Park’s winning formula to new audiences, the business looks set to transform learning in schools and homes across the globe.
Says Nick, “As a teacher and parent, I was shocked by the lack of comprehensive and up-to-date textbooks available to students. Galore Park’s books are designed to teach – not simply entertain – and make intelligent use of illustrations, tables, charts, and prose. “Though the style is straightforward, it is not patronising, so it challenges and encourages students to achieve their full potential. A reassuring thought for pupil, teacher and parent!�
For more information please contact Charlotte Hutley or Mindy Bhachu at the SPA Way on 0207 403 6900 or mindy.bhachu@thespaway.com
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