Media group Pearson is set to extend its operations in the online learning market after agreeing to buy a Norwegian company.

Education and information company Pearson is set to extend its operations in the online learning market after agreeing to buy a Norwegian company.

London-based Pearson, the publisher of the Financial Times, is on the verge of adding online education specialist Fronter to its stable of brands. 

The financial terms of the proposed takeover are yet to be disclosed, but Fronter is being sold by co-founders Roger Larsen and Bjarne Hadland as well as other private investors. 

Pearson’s directors believe the acquisition will strengthen its education division while increasing sales through providing a wider range of services and expanding Fronter’s reach into new regions. 

John Fallon, chief executive of Pearson’s International Education business, said Fronter is particularly strong in Scandinavia. “We know there is great demand for this kind of flexible, digital and educationally-effective service and we believe that Pearson’s scale, international reach and broad educational capabilities can help Fronter to achieve its global ambitions.” 

Oslo-based Fronter provides a secure online education service that lets students learn whenever and wherever they choose, either on their own or in groups. It has offices in ten countries, such as Norway and Sweden, serving more than 3,000 clients, including the City of Oslo and the London Grid for Learning.