Brisbane performing arts school acquired by UK-based Global Education Holdings

The Australian Performing Arts Conservatory (APAC) has new owners following the announcement that the Brisbane-based cultural institution has been acquired by UK-headquartered Global Education Holdings (GEDU).

Founded in 1993 by Marcus Hogan, who remained Chief Executive until 2020, APAC has produced many successful TV, theatre, and film professionals including Mirko Grillini (The Chronicles of Narnia, Home and Away), Libby Munro (Wild Woman, Grounded), Lasarus Ratuere (Mabo, Ghost in the Shell), Luke McKenzie (Wentworth) and Ilai Swindells (Bay of Fires).

Formerly known as the Australian Stage Combat School (ASCS) and with its campus in the heart of Brisbane's CBD, APAC is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).

To link up with industry and other educators, the conservatory has agreements and cooperative relationships with Village Roadshow, TAFE Queensland, Perform Australia and TOC Australia.

The announcement marks GEDU's zrrival into the Australian market, expanding a global footprint that has recently included acquisitions of maritime school MLA College in the UK, French management school École de Management Appliqué (EMA), and US-based Schiller International University, having campuses in Tampa, Madrid, Heidelberg and Paris.

Explaining the expansion, GEDU Deputy Chief Executive, Professor Ray Lloyd stated "GEDU is creating a diverse portfolio of educational institutions and services to offer high quality, accessible, skill-oriented higher education across the globe.

"The acquisition of APAC, with its outstanding reputation in delivering performing arts education, allows us to extend our curricula offer whilst also extending our geographical reach into Australia."

The amount GEDU paid for APAC was not disclosed.

Image credit: APAC.