SkillSoft and Global Knowledge Offer Blended Learning Solutions


Organizations Such As Qwest, BellSouth and BearingPoint Benefit from Blended Learning Solutions that Combine World Class e-Learning and Instructor-Led Training

NASHUA, N.H., July 11 / / - SkillSoft PLC (NASDAQ:SKIL), a leading provider of e-learning and performance support solutions for global enterprises, government, education and small to medium- sized businesses, and Global Knowledge, the world's largest privately-held provider of training and enterprise learning services for information technology (IT) and management professionals, today announced the continued success of a strategic partnership through which the two organizations have delivered comprehensive, blended learning solutions for IT and business skills training. Building upon this long-term relationship, SkillSoft Courseware is now available via Global Knowledge distribution channels. In addition, the SkillSoft Courseware is being bundled into creative, blended learning solutions in order to create more relevant and efficient corporate learning solutions offered by both companies.

SkillSoft and Global Knowledge first partnered seven years ago, bringing together their industry-leading e-learning and instructor-led training (ILT) capabilities to successfully deliver blended learning programs for leading business and IT skills certifications, such as Project Management Professional (PMP) and Cisco Certified Network Associated (CCNA). Leveraging a variety of learning assets, including e-learning courseware, Books24x7, live mentoring services, online labs and instructor-led training (ILT), the blended solutions offer a comprehensive, relevant experience on the market while appealing to a wide range of learner preferences, significantly increasing retention and on- the-job application.

The SkillSoft content assets complement Global Knowledge's IT and Business skills curricula, including project management and leading technology companies' courseware such as Cisco and Microsoft. As a result, users can access a wealth of information resources on-demand, anytime and from any location, further enhancing the learning experience while reinforcing acquired knowledge and skills.

"SkillSoft's long-standing relationship with Global Knowledge has enabled us to leverage their world-class ILT, Online Labs and custom training to provide customers with the a comprehensive learning experience," said Jerry Nine, Chief Operating Officer at SkillSoft. "Together, we have executed blended learning programs for a number of blue chip clients, including Qwest, BellSouth and BearingPoint. Based on the tremendous success of these deployments, our partnership has grown and evolved over time and we anticipate that it will continue to thrive in the years to come."

"The strategic partnership between Global Knowledge and SkillSoft has produced very positive solutions and results for our customers during the past several years," added Michael Fox, Senior Vice President at Global Knowledge. "It has provided significant value to our customers, who have benefited greatly from the creative blended learning solutions brought to market by leveraging our joint capabilities."

About Global Knowledge

Global Knowledge is the largest privately held provider of training and enterprise learning services for information technology (IT) and management professionals. The company offers a broad array of hands-on IT, project management, professional skills, and business process training featuring proprietary core and custom curriculum, as well as content from leading companies, including Cisco, Microsoft, Nortel, and Red Hat. Delivered in classrooms, at private facilities, or over the Internet, Global Knowledge has helped Fortune 500 companies, organizations, and government agencies leverage learning to turn knowledge into productivity for employees, customers, and channel partners. Founded in 1995, Global Knowledge employs more than 1,100 people worldwide and is headquartered in Cary, N.C. The company is owned by New York-based investment firm Welsh, Carson, Anderson, and Stowe. For more information visit www.globalknowledge.com.

About SkillSoft

SkillSoft PLC (NASDAQ:SKIL) is a leading provider of e-learning and performance support solutions for global enterprises, government, education and small to medium-sized businesses. SkillSoft enables business organizations to maximize business performance through a combination of comprehensive e- learning content, online information resources, flexible learning technologies and support services.

Content offerings include business, IT, desktop, compliance and consumer/SMB courseware collections, as well as complementary content assets such as Leadership Development Channel video products, KnowledgeCenter(TM) portals, virtual instructor-led training services and online mentoring services. The Books24x7(R) division offers online access to more than 15,000 digitized IT and business books, as well as book summaries and executive reports. Technology offerings include the SkillPort(R) learning management system, Search-and-Learn(R), SkillSoft(R) Dialogue(TM) virtual classroom, and SkillView(R) competency management software.

SkillSoft courseware content described herein is for information purposes only and is subject to change without notice. SkillSoft has no obligation or commitment to develop or deliver any future release, upgrade, feature, enhancement or function described in this press release except as specifically set forth in a written agreement.

SkillSoft, the SkillSoft logo, SkillPort, Search-and-Learn, SkillChoice, Books24x7, ITPro, BusinessPro, OfficeEssentials, GovEssentials, EngineeringPro, FinancePro, AnalystPerspectives ExecSummaries, ExecBlueprints, Express Guide and Dialogue are trademarks or registered trademarks of SkillSoft PLC in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Source: SkillSoft PLC

CONTACT: Donna Keenan of SkillSoft, +1-603-821-3211, Donna_Keenan@SkillSoft.com; or Linda Palmer of Global Knowledge,
+1-919-460-3269, Linda.Palmer@globalknowledge.com

Web site: http://www.skillsoft.com/

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