Pingu's English, an English course for children aged between three and seven, has sold its first Master Franchise. Part of the UK based Linguaphone Group, Pingu's English uses the popular television character Pingu to teach children English.

The company has sold its first Master Franchise to babyArt, a specialist in developing young children's creativity through art, which will open their first Pingu's English School in Shanghai in May.

Additionally Linguaphone Group's partners in Portugal, American Station, is looking to open Pingu's English to a network of schools throughout Portugal in the coming year.

Derek Price, Chief Operations Officer of the Linguaphone Group, said: "Pingu's English is a fun and imaginative way for young children to learn English and gain a better start in life. We are delighted to welcome these first new partners to the Linguaphone Group, and look forward to working with them and others in the months and years ahead."