Pearson reports Q1 underlying sales growth of 1%

Assessment & Qualifications sales were up 1%. Pearson (PSO) VUE declined slightly, with growth expected to be weighted to H2 driven by the timing of new contracts and the test prep business building during the year, supported by the recent launch of the Pearson Skilling Suite programme. Clinical Assessment grew due to the continued traction of our products in the market, with further new product releases planned this year, and digital product growth. US Student Assessment saw a small decline due to changes in programme services and timing of delivery. UK & International Qualifications sales benefitted from International growth. Virtual Learning sales decreased 4%, in line with guidance, reflecting the impact of previous partner school losses and timing of funding upsides in the prior period. 2024/25 academic year enrolments increased by 5% in the Spring semester on a same school basis, with positive retention trends. Higher Education sales were up 6% benefitting from the continued innovation and roll out of AI study tools for students and educators and the ongoing successful monetisation of the Channels product. In the quarter, there was growth of 22% in Inclusive Access and 4% in US digital subscriptions. In our International business, 25 AI translated titles were made available for Spring semester courses, expanding the reach of Pearson learning experiences faster and more efficiently. English Language Learning sales decreased 6%, in line with guidance. Institutional declined due to a strong comparator period in Q1 2024, and we expect performance to improve in Q2 and beyond. Pearson Test of English performed well against a tough market backdrop and despite a decline in volumes we grew the business. We continue to lead on the application of innovative technologies with the recent launch of AI-powered Smart Lesson Generator and Digital Language Tutor. Enterprise Learning & Skills sales were up 1%. Vocational Qualifications delivered a solid performance with new contract wins supporting pipeline growth, including apprenticeship courses with the UK Ministry of Defence and T Levels in Health and Science. Enterprise Solutions announced strategic partnerships with Microsoft and AWS in the quarter as we build momentum in our Enterprise approach and related sales capability.