Welcome to OSI – Your Trusted Partner for School Furniture and Supplies
Since 1993, OSI has been proudly supporting schools with high-quality furniture and essential classroom supplies. As a family-run business, we’re committed to delivering products that combine durability, functionality, and value—helping to create inspiring learning environments across the UK.
From desks and chairs to everyday classroom tools, our wide range is carefully selected to meet the needs of modern education settings. Whether you’re refitting a classroom or simply topping up supplies, we make the process simple, reliable, and efficient.
At OSI, we take pride in offering personalised service, expert advice, and a seamless online shopping experience. Our long-standing partnerships with trusted manufacturers mean you’ll always receive top-tier products at competitive prices.
Why Choose OSI?
High-Quality, Long-Lasting Furniture
Competitive Prices with Exceptional Customer Service
Family-Run Business with Over 30 Years of Experience
Let us help you find the right solutions for your school—quickly, easily, and with confidence.
Our Story – Built on Family, Service, and a Passion for Education
OSI Office & Educational Furniture began with a simple idea and a big ambition. In 1993, founder Steve Dickinson launched the business from his garage in Barnsley, supplying stationery to local businesses. With a strong belief in personal service, honesty, and reliability, OSI quickly earned a loyal customer base.
As demand grew, OSI moved into its first dedicated office premises in 1995, and by 2000, we launched our first website—offering customers a convenient way to order office products online with speed and ease.
In January 2002, the company relocated to its current site in Barugh Green, Barnsley, marking a new phase of growth. Then, in 2008, OSI secured a landmark contract to supply a local council with all of its office furniture over a 3-year period. This milestone not only affirmed our reputation for quality and service—it also led to the creation of our first dedicated Schools Furniture catalogue, which began as a modest 20-page publication.
Since then, the catalogue has grown into a comprehensive 220-page annual resource, widely used by schools across the UK to source high-quality, affordable, and ergonomic educational furniture.
In 2021, after nearly three decades at the helm, Steve’s children proudly took over the running of the business. With a shared vision and deep understanding of OSI’s values, the next generation is now taking the company from strength to strength—expanding our reach, modernising operations, and continuing to deliver the service excellence we’ve always stood for.
What Makes OSI Different
What sets OSI apart is our foundation: a family-run business driven by values, not volume. We bring over 30 years of experience and insight into every product we sell and every school we support. Our customers aren’t just numbers—they’re long-term partners, and we’re proud to provide tailored advice, dependable delivery, and trusted products that last.
We’re passionate about education and believe schools deserve the very best—without compromise. That’s why we focus on three pillars:
Quality – Durable, ergonomic furniture built to last
Innovation – Evolving our range to meet the needs of modern learning environments
Service – Friendly, knowledgeable support from people who care
From a garage in Barnsley to a nationwide supplier, OSI has grown—but our commitment to schools, service, and doing things the right way has never changed.
A Few Words From Our Directors
Tom Dickinson
Managing Director
Tom has been leading OSI for the past 4 years, proudly continuing the legacy started by his father. As Managing Director, he combines industry knowledge with a modern, forward-thinking approach—driving the business with a focus on quality, innovation, and exceptional service.
Outside of OSI, Tom is passionate about mental wellbeing and runs Tom’s.Talks, where he delivers inspiring talks on mental health and mindset coaching. When he’s not working, you’ll find him at the gym, exploring new restaurants with his fiancée, or soaking up the sun in his favourite getaway—Dubai.
Gemma Tinker
Director
Gemma is one of three directors at OSI and has been a key part of the business for over 15 years. Her deep knowledge of the industry and hands-on experience make her an invaluable part of the leadership team, helping to drive the company forward with energy and insight.
Outside of work, Gemma enjoys a busy family life with her husband and two children, Hallie and Theo. She’s also no stranger to the spotlight—having appeared on the hit TV show “Take Me Out”—and loves heading to the mountains for a ski holiday whenever she can.
Alex Dickinson
Director
With over 18 years at OSI, Alex brings a wealth of experience to both his role as Director and Business Development Manager. Known for his customer-first approach, Alex plays a vital role in shaping OSI’s growth and building strong, lasting relationships with clients across the UK.
Outside of work, Alex enjoys family life and is a passionate rugby fan—supporting Warrington Wolves, just like his dad, OSI founder Steve Dickinson. His dedication to both business and personal life reflects the values at the heart of OSI: commitment, loyalty, and a love for what you do.
Meet The Team
Brent Chapman
Credit Controller
Brent has been a cornerstone of OSI for over 25 years, bringing consistency, precision, and a deep understanding of the business to his role as Credit Controller. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Brent ensures our financial processes run smoothly and efficiently.
Outside the office, Brent is a true car enthusiast, with a passion for detailing and an incredible track record—having owned over 1,000 cars. He enjoys unwinding by the coast at Cayton Bay or soaking up the sun in Protaras, Cyprus.
Jody Walker
Internal Operations Manager
With 18 years of service at OSI, Jody plays a key role in keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. As Internal Operations Manager, he ensures the day-to-day operations are efficient, coordinated, and aligned with OSI’s high standards of service.
Outside of work, Jody is a man of many interests—an avid gardener, dedicated gamer, and a passionate music fan who’s attended over 100 concerts spanning a wide range of genres. He loves travelling across the UK, making the most of his downtime, and lists Madeira as his favourite holiday destination.
Tobi Sixsmith
Office Manager
Tobi is a true OSI veteran, having been with the company for over 25 years. As Office Manager, she keeps the heart of the business ticking—overseeing daily operations, supporting the team, and ensuring everything runs smoothly with her trademark calm and efficiency.
Outside of work, Tobi cherishes time with her husband and three children, and has a love for travel—especially to Dubai and Salou, places filled with special childhood memories. A fun bit of trivia? She once met David Beckham at Manchester Airport just before his infamous World Cup red card against Argentina!
Steven Sanderson
Assistant Office Manager
Steven has been a valued member of the OSI team for 20 years, supporting day-to-day operations in his role as Assistant Office Manager. Steven helps keep the office running efficiently while providing essential support across departments.
Outside of work, Steven is a sociable and curious spirit—he enjoys gaming on Xbox, spending time with friends, and has a unique passion for the paranormal, often taking part in ghost hunts. His favourite holiday destinations are Malta and Ingoldmells, where he loves to relax and unwind.
Spencer Furniss
Digital Media Marketer
Spencer has been a key member of our team for over three years, driving our digital media strategies with creativity and precision. Outside of work, he channels his passion for football by founding and managing Silkstone Common Miners FC, a local Sunday league team that impressively won the league and secured promotion in their debut season. Fun fact: Spencer is a non-identical twin, and when it comes to travel, Greece ranks as his top holiday destination.
Tracey Pygott
Accounts Payable
Tracey has been a valued member of the OSI team for over two years, ensuring our accounts payable operations run smoothly and efficiently. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, socialising with friends, walking her dog, listening to music, shopping, and dining out. A keen traveller, Tracey lists Thailand and the Maldives as her top destinations, and says visiting the Burj Khalifa in Dubai was an unforgettable highlight.
Gabriella White
Sales & Customer Care
Gabriella has been a friendly and dedicated part of our Sales & Customer Care team at OSI for over two years, always focused on delivering great service and support. Outside of work, she loves spending time with friends and family—and openly admits to having a slight addiction to Ribena. When it comes to holidays, Tenerife tops her list as the ultimate getaway.
Tony Pearce
Account Manager
With over 20 years of experience, Tony brings a wealth of knowledge and reliability to his role as Account Manager. A true sports enthusiast—with interests ranging from football to lawn bowls—he enjoys staying active and engaged in the world of sport. Recently, he’s also taken up selling homemade jams, preserves, and sauces at the local market. When it comes to travel, Toronto is his favourite destination.
Laura Phillips
Business Development Manager
Based in Manchester, Laura has been OSI’s Business Development Manager for over two years, bringing energy and insight to driving new opportunities. Outside of work, she enjoys unwinding with sound baths and spending quality time with her daughter. Her middle name is Hilda, and at the top of her travel wish list is Maine, USA—the home of her favourite author, Stephen King.
Dave Marriage
Business Development Manager
Dave joined OSI in 2025, bringing extensive experience in the educational furniture industry. A passionate supporter of Arsenal, Dave enjoys gaming on his PS5, reading novels and graphic novels, and is a dedicated fan of rock and heavy metal music—often catching concerts when he can. His claim to fame includes meeting Iron Maiden many years ago and more recently, Ian Wright, the Arsenal legend. When not immersed in work or hobbies, Dave enjoys spending quality time at home with his family and their dogs. His industry expertise and personal passion make him a valued member of the OSI team.
Bradley Simpson
Business Development Manager
Bradley joined OSI in 2025 as a Business Development Manager, bringing fresh energy and a passion for growth. Outside work, he enjoys hitting the gym and playing football to stay active. Fun fact: Bradley is one of eight siblings! When it’s time to relax, Jamaica tops his list as the ultimate holiday destination.
Zac Cable
Warehouse Manager
Zac has been a cornerstone of OSI for over 10 years, expertly managing the warehouse while also serving as our lead technician. When he’s not keeping things running smoothly, he’s out enjoying the great outdoors—biking, fishing, running, camping, hiking, and paddleboarding are all on his list. His favourite travel destinations include the stunning Lake District and the beautiful island of Madeira.
Kieran Hyde
Warehouse Manager
Kieran has been OSI’s Warehouse and Logistics Manager for over 10 years, ensuring operations run efficiently and smoothly. Outside of work, he enjoys spending quality time with his kids and playing rugby league for the local team, Dodworth Miners. When it comes to travel, Australia’s Gold Coast is his favourite getaway.
Alex Lang
Warehouse Project Manager
Alex has been with OSI for 2 years and now leads as our Warehouse Project Manager. When he’s not managing projects, he loves watching films—especially Star Wars—attending festivals and concerts, and working out. His favourite holiday destination is Protaras, and he’s excited about an upcoming trip to Florida.
Connor Wright
Furniture Installer
Connor has been a key part of OSI’s warehouse and installation team for over 2 years, contributing to smooth and efficient furniture installations. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active at the gym and unwinding by playing the guitar. His favourite holiday destination is the sunny shores of Greece.
