The new Lord Mayor of London has chosen Education, Training and Qualifications as his mayoral theme for his year of office. A global campaign to promote London internationally as a financial and professional learning centre was launched on 14th November. English for financial services is included as one of the 12 key themes of the campaign following work with the Lord Mayor’s Steering Group. See: www.cityoflondonlearning.org.uk.

By 2008 all visa applicants will have to provide biometric data with their application. Biometric capture is a European regulation covering all EU member states. UKVisas has provided the attached text outlining the process and benefits to international students and the UK.

biometrics-international-students-14-11-06.pdf

The Home Office today announced changes to the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) with the introduction of new rules for highly skilled foreign workers applying to come to the UK. The changes are outlined below and include a mandatory English language requirement at IELTS Level 6 or equivalent. (more…)

Long-established Eastbourne centre, the Meads School of English, closed today, Friday 3 November, after its Board decided that it was at risk of trading insolvently. (more…)

The first ever open day for agents, organised by English UK, the British Council in Brazil and the British Consulate, will take place at the British Council office in Rio on Tuesday 21 November 2006. Selected agents will be invited to the event.