Olive Learning and Wriggle Learning Clash Over School Contracts and Financial Stability

A dispute between two educational technology suppliers, Olive Learning and Wriggle Learning, has escalated into a public exchange of accusations regarding financial stability and business practices. The conflict centers around competitive bidding for contracts to provide laptops and tablets to Irish schools.

Background to the Dispute

Olive for Education (OFE), a division of Olive Group, has been gaining ground in the Irish school IT market, winning contracts previously held by Wriggle Learning, the largest supplier of IT equipment to secondary schools in Ireland. This shift prompted Wriggle to question Olive’s financial health, leading to the current dispute.

Wriggle’s Concerns and Communication to Schools

Wriggle Learning sent an email to some schools, sharing a report from The Irish Times about a High Court action taken by OFE. The email, from Jamie Johnson, Wriggle’s head of educator development, alerted schools to the legal action and claims made about Olive’s debts. Johnson suggested an “independent review” of device supply availability and offered contingency plans, stating that Wriggle wanted to ensure “programme stability” for schools. Think Business reported on the growing Irish edtech sector in November 2025.

Olive’s Response and Legal Action

Brendan Kavanagh, chief executive of Olive Group, responded strongly to Wriggle’s communication, sending an email to a wide range of schools. Kavanagh defended Olive’s actions, explaining that the High Court action was taken to protect its business from allegations that former employees were attempting to divert contracts. He asserted that Olive is “financially sound, fully resourced and operational” and has strong relationships with its suppliers. Kavanagh stated that Olive’s solicitors were instructed to demand an apology and retraction from Wriggle. Olive Group was founded in 2006 after founder Brendan Kavanagh identified a require for a more cost-effective health and safety training model.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

OFE initiated High Court action in January against Ian Gaughran, its former chief executive, alleging he attempted to divert school contracts to a modern business. The injunction application is scheduled to be heard on March 13th. Gaughran denies the allegations and has raised concerns about the financial viability of Olive companies. He claims he was promised a 60% share in OFE, a claim that was not honored.

Company Statements

Olive declined to provide further comment on the emails. A Wriggle spokesperson stated that the company does not comment on competitors and remains focused on serving its customers.

Olive Group Overview

Olive Group, founded by Brendan Kavanagh, is a global EdTech company that digitally transforms training, communication, and recruitment processes. As of 2026, Olive Group has over 300 dedicated people, has onboarded over 20,000 trainers, operates in 8+ countries, and has benefited over 3 million learners. Brendan Kavanagh is the Group Chairman & CEO.