Spokes Education is a digital learning agency based in Duston. They specialise in working with non-profit and public sector organisations on the creation of accessible bespoke learning resources, suitable for self-study or a blended approach. They cover a full range of digital learning services to include interactive courses, mobile courses, video and animation, publications, learning platform administration, translation, training and consultancy. They have also recently set up UnfoldEd, a social enterprise (CIC) which provides free interactive lessons for schools, with the option to connect with local businesses looking to create enriching education outreach programmes.

Growth and Development: Founded by Philip Spokes in November 2013, Spokes Education started as a one-person operation, primarily doing consultancy and freelance work. In 2018, Phil hired the first employee. Today they have a team of 10, all of which comes from an education and/or creative background. They have won contracts with a number of internationally recognised organisations such as Save the Children, UNICEF, Plan International, Global Fund, The Commonwealth, Johns Hopkins, UCLA and many more. They have now created hundreds of courses, covering a vast range of topics, most of which are aligned to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Why West Northants is the perfect location: Although the team adopts full flexible working, being based in West Northants means they are central enough for everyone to come together when needed. Spokes Education saw West Northants as the perfect place to launch UnfoldEd, too. Aswell as a number of great local businesses looking to create a social impact, the team have been overwhelmed by the support from schools and the likes of the Digital Northants community to help them get up an running.

Future Growth Plans: Spokes Education aspire to be one of the go-to organisation for non-profit and public organisations, looking to create impactful learning experiences. Their main aim is to develop UnfoldEd further, through strategic partnerships and funding streams to create an extensive library of free interactive lessons for schools across the world. They are starting locally, connecting with schools and business across Northampton, visiting them and delivering workshops themselves.

The Future of the Industry: Spokes Education realises that AI has already had an impact on all creative businesses, so they are looking forward to see where else it takes them. They hope to continue to support people on their own learning journey, particularly those who are striving to do good in the world. The team have lots of experience of working in schools, either as teachers, governors or volunteers so with UnfoldEd, tbey feel that there is a gap and need for high quality, free resources that not only support teachers, but can be supplemented by enrichment opportunities, provided through industry experts.