AIL Español, a leading provider of Spanish language courses in Madrid and Malaga since 2006, has acquired Olé Languages, a highly regarded and Instituto Cervantes accredited language centre, located in Barcelona’s fashionable L’Eixample neighbourhood.

After 18 years of developing Olé Languages, founder Javier Sánchez taken the decision to focus on other career projects. “Olé Languages has been my pride and joy since its birth back in 2005. I’d like to thank co-founder, Rosa Ribas, for being with me from day one and offering her unconditional support. The amazing teaching staff combined with the welcoming admin team have given Olé a special vibe and feeling which has been enjoyed by tens of thousands of students over the years”, commented Javier. “I know that the future of Olé could not be in better hands as part of the AIL Group, in my opinion the most innovative and forward thinking Spanish school in Spain. I am delighted that the long serving Olé School Manager, Valerio Vari will step up to lead the Barcelona school. He has the skills and experience to continue its development and success with the added support that the AIL Group can offer.”    

The Barcelona school will continue using the prestigious Olé Languages brand, with AIL Barcelona being introduced in parallel.  

“Barcelona is undoubtable one of best cities on earth, both as a place to live and as a place to visit. For several years, I have eagerly wanted to add Barcelona as a destination for AIL students and am delighted now to be able to do so”, said Chris Haworth, the AIL Español founder. “I have long admired and respected Olé’s professionalism and quality teaching. The school is focused on the wellbeing of its teachers, staff and students and this has created an amazing culture and learning dynamic, so I am clearly ecstatic to have Olé join the #AILfamily” 

The acquisition represents a good commercial fit as AIL Español and Olé both focus exclusively on Spanish teaching in small groups, to young and adult learners from all over the world. The now expanded AIL Group offers courses in three of Spain’s leading destinations; Madrid, Malaga and Barcelona. 

AIL boasts 90 highly qualified Spanish teaching professionals who are supported by a 40-strong dedicated administrative team. 5,000 students are expected to be welcomed to its schools in 2023.