English and Exams

21 September 2012

English connects people with the world and builds trust for the UK.

• As one of the UK’s great assets, the English language has a central role in building the UK’s international cultural relations.
• English language learning creates life-changing opportunities, supports the UK’s contribution to international development, opens new markets and improves security in conflict zones.
• In a recent Chatham House survey, the English language was rated as the most important factor supporting Britain’s international reputation.

• The British Council has a world-leading reputation for providing high-quality English language learning opportunities worldwide, raising the global profile of UK expertise in English language teaching.
• We deliver more than 1.3 million hours of English lessons in over 80 teaching centres and partner premises in 49 countries, reinforcing the UK’s position as the home of the English language. 
• We provide a growing portfolio of English learning products for those who learn English through the Internet, mobile devices, broadcast media and print.
• We help improve the quality of teaching in national school and higher and further education systems through policy work and teacher training programmes.
• Research shows that people who take English classes or sit exams with us develop significantly greater trust in the UK and its people.

• The UK’s internationally recognised qualifications open doors to opportunities in education, work and mobility for millions of people each year, promoting the use of UK qualifications as a global benchmark.
• We support the UK’s English language teaching sector, worth £2bn annually by promoting the UK as a leading destination for English language learners.
• Our examinations work generates £50 million in earnings each year for UK examination boards.
• By providing access to highly valued UK qualifications, with the reassurance of integrity, we build on the UK’s reputation for world-class educational standards.