EC English’s Brighton school has stopped operating after the international language education group began formal insolvency and wind-down processes. The closure affects the centre at Dolphin House in Manchester Street and forms part of a wider shutdown across the group’s international network.
The company said difficult financial conditions and an unsuccessful search for new investment left the relevant businesses with no reasonable alternative but to begin insolvency, administration or winding-up procedures.
What the EC English Brighton closure means
Industry publication The PIE News reported that teaching and trading stopped with immediate effect on 14 September 2026 across 25 EC schools in seven destinations.
In Brighton, EC English had operated from Dolphin House in Manchester Street since 2003. The school taught adults and young learners and could host more than 400 students during busy periods, according to a local report by Brighton and Hove News.
That report says students have been left needing clarity about their courses, while local suppliers and individuals are among those owed money. The exact number of Brighton students and employees affected has not yet been formally confirmed.
What EC English has confirmed
In its official statement, EC English said the group had faced sustained financial and market pressure in recent years. Directors and advisers explored potential investment and other options, but no transaction was secured.
The company said its immediate priorities include the welfare and safeguarding of students, fair treatment of creditors and the interests of employees. It added that the appropriate legal process will be determined separately in each country.
EC English has not yet published full arrangements for every affected school. Further information for students, employees, agents and suppliers is expected as insolvency professionals and local authorities confirm the next steps.
What affected students and suppliers can do now
Anyone affected should keep copies of course bookings, invoices, payment records and correspondence. Students should monitor the EC English statement page and contact the organisation or education agent through which they booked for case-specific information.
People who paid by card or through a finance provider may also wish to contact that provider to ask what protections could apply to their transaction. The available remedy will depend on the payment method and individual circumstances.
Employees or contractors looking for current local vacancies can also browse the Brighton Locals jobs section.
This article will be updated if EC English or appointed insolvency professionals publish confirmed arrangements for the Brighton school.
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