Since 1982, the British Council has set the UK's benchmark for English Language Teaching (ELT). In partnership with English UK since 2006, Accreditation UK is recognised as one of the world’s most rigorous inspection regimes for English language providers. Our commitment to upholding the highest standards is reflected in our accreditation of over 367 language centres across the UK.
Our Impact
In 2023, accredited UK ELT centres welcomed nearly 400,000 students from around the globe. This vibrant sector is crucial to the UK economy, driving employment and fostering economic growth. Historically, it has generated £1.4 billion annually and supported 35,700 jobs across education, hospitality, and tourism. As we strive to return to pre-pandemic levels, the sector continues to bolster the UK’s prestigious global educational reputation.
Participation in Our Scheme
Participation in our scheme as a language centre, student, parent, or educational tour operator ensures an exemplary experience in UK ELT. It reinforces our international reputation and supports the ongoing development of our industry while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
Language centres gain visibility, service improvement opportunities and English UK membership eligibility. Students benefit from assured quality in teaching and welfare, protection through a complaints procedure, and continuity in case of provider closures.
Governance and Quality Assurance
AccreditationUK is an independent scheme managed collaboratively by the British Council and English UK. Our governance structure includes an Executive Board and an Accreditation Scheme Advisory Committee (ASAC), ensuring that strategic oversight and industry expertise inform our standards.
Our comprehensive inspections cover all facets of ELT, including teaching quality, premises and resources, student welfare, safeguarding, and management. Each accredited centre is subject to a four-year inspection cycle, complemented by unannounced interim visits to uphold continuous quality assurance. Visit our compliance and governance page to learn how we monitor accredited centres.