A cutting-edge online learning platform, available in every school across Scotland, has expanded its leadership team in preparation for a worldwide launch.
Simon Riddlesden has been appointed as the chief commercial officer at ITZA. He joins from Video Arts, the global e-learning company established by John Cleese and Sir Anthony Jay in 1972.
The E-learning specialist piloted its platform in schools across West Lothian, Dundee and Aberdeenshire earlier this year after securing research and development (R&D) support from government and investors.
ITZA received a £2 million grant and equity investment from Scottish Enterprise, Alba Equity, and private investors to enhance its digital learning, production, and AI analytics centre in Scotland. This investment was aimed at accelerating independent learning for students aged 10 to 16.
Simon Riddlesden brings 15 years of expertise in the education sector, starting with Capita plc as an e-learning designer and later working at Video Arts for 10 years, where he played a key role in developing and launching the company’s award-winning Software as a Service (SaaS) business.
Colin Ramsay, who was the London sales director at STV, has also joined the ITZA team as a consultant sales lead.
Anthony Bouchier, ITZA’s CEO and founder, said: “Simon’s experience will be incredibly valuable as we build out content library, secure further B2B partners, and begin to build ITZA’s go-to-market strategy, and we’re also really pleased to have Colin on board to help support our next phase of growth.”
ITZA’s One Planet digital resource on climate change and how to protect the planet, based on Sir David Attenborough’s four actions to alter our lifestyle to reduce global warming and protect the environment, is being introduced into every Scottish school. An international rollout is scheduled for 2025.
One Planet is being delivered in collaboration with content partners such as the BBC, GettyImages, and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). ITZA’s expanding network of corporate and non-profit partners and supporters includes the Scottish Building Society and the Villars Institute from Switzerland.
ITZA’s web platform enables young learners to study independently through carefully selected content and personalised analytics. The company’s team of filmmakers, cognitive scientists, educators, and game designers work with global brands and organisations to create engaging film, games, and other interactive content that complements and extends the school curriculum.
ITZA is moving forward with its next external investment round and has several significant partnership announcements planned for the coming months.
