We manage a huge range of activity encompassing arts, science and technology, sport, education and civil society. Our role is to engage with individuals and communities of people, building long-term relationships with mutual benefits.

Over the course of a year, there are 495,000 students learning English and other skills through the medium of English in our teaching centres around the world. None of our staff has more individual contact over time with local people than our teachers. Our teachers are really in the front line answering questions about ethnic diversity in the UK, attitudes to women, teaching style at British universities, Bolton Wanderers’ chances in the League and translations of Elton John lyrics. In many cases, a British Council teacher is the first personal contact our students have with someone from Britain.

In addition to the face-to-face classes offered at our teaching centres, in many more countries we support the existing English language sectors through a variety of projects ranging from teacher training to text-book development. We employ specialist consultants to undertake this work. We also provide ready access to internationally recognised English language exams.

Our work in Britain focuses on supporting the English language sector through an accreditation scheme which allows qualifying schools, colleges and universities to use our kite mark.