Networking and sharing ideas

Informal networking over coffee, lunch and dinner or in the evenings is an essential part of our seminars and many contacts and friendships have developed through our events. Plenary sessions form the basis of our seminars but workshops, discussion groups and case study presentations from participants provide plenty of opportunity to contribute to the discussions. The contribution made by participants is a vital part of our seminars and being able to exchange ideas with colleagues is often cited as one of the major benefits of attending our events.

Professional programme

Our event directors are all experts in their area, very often with an international reputation, and are present throughout the seminar to chair and facilitate the sessions. Professional input during the seminar is provided by specialists from the UK (and sometimes overseas). Each seminar has between 8–15 contributors.

Our contributors are policy-makers and professionals from academic institutions, government, government agencies, NGOs, institutions and businesses.

Professional visits are included in the programme to help set the discussions in context and provide a ‘hands-on’ experience of current practice in the UK.

Experience the UK

The social programme gives you an opportunity to experience a little more of UK culture and our famous cuisine! It includes time for sightseeing and shopping, or other leisure and cultural activities, such as a visit to the theatre. Seminars always end with a formal closing diner where participants often dress in traditional costume and provide the after dinner entertainment.

We hold our seminars throughout the UK, including the devolved countries. We may choose a particular region or city to host a seminar due to its association with the theme under discussion.

Continuing dialogue

The experience does not finish when you return home.  Following a seminar we encourage you to maintaining contact with your local British Council office. We have a network of offices in 110 countries worldwide where our staff will be able to discuss ways in which you can develop your ideas further.

You will also have access to the contributor’s presentations and other documents and resources relevant to the seminar. If you need further advice or information, the event director and contributors will help to answer your questions.

Participants often continue their dialogue by setting up email discussion groups following a seminar. These have been successful in establishing international networks of specialists and maintaining friendships.