Avenues: The World School

Background

Avenues: The World School is an international system of for-profit private schools serving students from toddler through 12th grade. Founded in 2012 by Benno C. Schmidt, Jr., former President of Yale University; Chris Whittle, an entrepreneur in media and education; and Alan Greenberg, former publisher of Esquire, Avenues aims to redefine education for a rapidly changing world. The school's mission is to develop students as "architects of lives that transcend the ordinary," emphasizing innovation, global citizenship, and personalized learning.

Key Strategic Focus

Avenues focuses on providing a transformative, interdisciplinary education that integrates language immersion, technology, and global perspectives. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, preparing students to address complex global challenges. Key areas of specialization include Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education, bilingual instruction, and a strong emphasis on global citizenship. The primary markets targeted are major urban centers worldwide, with campuses in New York City, São Paulo, Shenzhen, and Silicon Valley.

Financials and Funding

Prior to opening its New York campus in 2012, Avenues raised $85 million, including a $75 million funding round in January 2011. The New York campus opened after a $60 million renovation of the R.C. Williams Warehouse, originally designed by Cass Gilbert in 1928. As of January 2025, Avenues' annual revenue reached $300 million, demonstrating financial stability and capacity for large-scale partnerships and educational offerings.

Pipeline Development

Avenues has expanded its global presence with campuses in New York City (2012), São Paulo (2018), Shenzhen (2019), and Silicon Valley (2022). The Silicon Valley campus is currently operating in temporary space at Mission College in Santa Clara until its newly designed campus opens in San Jose. Plans to open an additional campus in Miami were canceled in March 2024.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Avenues integrates cutting-edge educational technology to support collaboration within and across its campuses. Recognized as an Apple Distinguished School, Avenues utilizes a diverse tech stack, including Como, Java, and YouTube, positioning it as a tech-savvy institution. The proprietary learning platform developed by Avenues' R&D team facilitates one-on-one and small group instruction, regular interaction with peers worldwide, and a culture of continuous innovation.

Leadership Team

Avenues is led by a team of world-class educators and administrators. As of January 2025, key team members include:

Luciana D'Angelo: Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

Jeff: President.

Susan Beans: Chief Financial Officer.

Swati Sharma: Chief Financial Officer.

Min Kim: Chief People Officer.

Steve 韩迪文: Chief Financial Officer and Head of Global Operations.

Leadership Changes

In October 2023, Avenues New York and Avenues São Paulo were acquired by Nord Anglia Education, a global operator of premium international schools. This acquisition is expected to bring strategic leadership changes and further integration into Nord Anglia's global network.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The private international education market is highly competitive, with increasing demand for innovative, globally focused curricula. Avenues' emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, language immersion, and global citizenship positions it uniquely within this landscape.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

International School of Beijing: Offers a comprehensive international curriculum with a focus on bilingual education.

Singapore American School: Known for its rigorous academic programs and diverse student body.

Léman Manhattan Preparatory School: Provides a global curriculum with campuses in major cities worldwide.

These institutions share a commitment to global education but differ in their approaches to curriculum design, language instruction, and technological integration.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Avenues has established significant collaborations to enhance its educational offerings. The acquisition by Nord Anglia Education in October 2023 strengthens its market position and innovation capacity, expanding its capabilities within a global network of premium international schools.

Operational Insights

Avenues' strategic considerations include maintaining a distinct competitive advantage through its interdisciplinary curriculum, language immersion programs, and technological integration. The school's global network of campuses allows for unique cross-cultural learning experiences, setting it apart from competitors.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Avenues' strategic roadmap includes further expansion into major global cities, enhancing its technological platforms, and deepening its commitment to personalized, interdisciplinary education. The integration into Nord Anglia's network presents opportunities for resource sharing, collaborative initiatives, and access to a broader student and faculty community.