CES (Centre of English Studies) has expanded its footprint by acquiring ACET (Active Centre of English Training) in Cork, marking its ninth year-round centre. This acquisition strengthens CES’s presence, adding to its existing locations in Dublin, the UK, and Canada.

CES has acquired 100% of ACET’s trading business from Joelle Coade, ACET’s Managing Director. “For CES, it will be an excellent acquisition. ACET is an IALC – International Association of Language Centres and EAQUALS school, adding to the CES quality brand,” said Justin Quinn, CEO of CES, to The PIE News.

Established in 1976, ACET has been a prominent player in the language training sector. It was one of the founding members of Marketing English in Ireland and features 25 year-round classrooms. Additionally, ACET has conducted a junior summer residential program at University College Cork.

Quinn emphasized the strategic importance of expanding to Cork. “Many agents worldwide have asked us to open a school in Cork to work with CES across several locations in Ireland,” he said. Quinn, who studied in Cork and whose wife is from the city, will oversee the project.

The ACET team will remain in business with CES, ensuring over 40 years of continuity in the EFL sector. Quinn highlighted that stability and reputation were top priorities in the acquisition.

ACET will be rebranded as CES Cork, enhancing the CES quality brand and aligning with its reputation for excellence in language education.

The acquisition not only solidifies CES’s position in the Irish market but also meets the growing demand for quality English language education in Cork.