Moore Kingston Smith advises St Albans Education Group on merger with St George’s Ascot

Moore Kingston Smith has advised St Albans Education Group (STAEG) on its recent merger with St George’s Ascot.

This marks the second transaction in which STAEG has entrusted Moore Kingston Smith, following the acquisition of Stormont School in April 2024.

Established in 2024, STAEG is a dynamic and innovative education group comprising highly regarded independent schools, including St Albans High School for Girls Senior School (STAHS Senior) in St Albans, St Albans High School for Girls Prep School (STAHS Prep) in Wheathampstead and Stormont School in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire. The group is recognised for its academic rigour, outstanding pastoral care and forward-thinking leadership.

Founded in 1877, St George’s Ascot is a well-established independent school for girls aged 11 to 18, with a strong heritage and values centred on ambition, integrity and community, closely aligned with those of STAEG.

Joining STAEG will provide St George’s Ascot with the strength and collaborative benefits of being part of a respected education group, including enhanced cross-school networking and a stronger platform for long-term investment and innovation. STAEG will support the school in delivering its strategic plans, ensuring it continues to offer an outstanding education that is fit for a rapidly changing world.

In this transaction, Moore Kingston Smith provided financial and tax due diligence on the transaction, working closely with Mike Lewis, Chief Operating Officer of STAEG.

The Moore Kingston Smith team was led by Dan Leaman, Corporate Finance Partner and education sector specialist, supported by Florence Horne, Corporate Finance Manager specialising in transaction services. The tax advisory work was delivered by Dave Coates, M&A Tax Partner, and Sam Talbot, M&A Tax Manager.

Amber Waite, Principal and CEO of STAEG, comments: “We are delighted to welcome St George’s Ascot into our group. The school’s values and ambitions align perfectly with our own, and this merger will strengthen our shared commitment to providing exceptional education within a supportive community.”

Mike Lewis, COO of STAEG, adds: “Moore Kingston Smith has once again proven to be a trusted adviser, providing clear, pragmatic and highly effective support throughout the process and a clear understanding of the education sector in times of change.”

Dan Leaman, Corporate Finance Partner, Moore Kingston Smith, concludes: “STAEG continues to build an impressive group of high-quality independent schools, underpinned by a clear strategic vision and strong leadership. It was a pleasure to support the group on this merger and to work closely with Mike and his team.

“St George’s Ascot is an excellent cultural and strategic fit, and we look forward to seeing the benefits this partnership will bring to pupils, staff and the wider school community.”