Sector feedback helps shape UK ELT Sector Action Plan

English UK has published a summary of findings from its recent consultation on the UK ELT Sector Action Plan (SAP), which will support delivery of the government's International Education Strategy (IES) from 2026 to 2030.

The consultation brought together feedback from stakeholders across the UK ELT sector, helping to identify key priorities, opportunities and challenges. The findings informed revisions to the Sector Action Plan and helped shape recommendations that better reflect the sector's needs and ambitions.

> Download the consultation findings summary

Developing a plan for the future of UK ELT

The UK ELT SAP forms part of the government's International Education Strategy 2026-2030. Action Plans are being developed across different parts of the education sector to help deliver the strategy, which aims to strengthen the UK's international competitiveness and support sustainable growth. 

English UK is one of seven core members of the Education Sector Action Group (ESAG). ESAG is the government-sector forum that supports delivery of the International Education Strategy (IES). As the representative body for accredited English language teaching providers, English UK is leading the development of the UK ELT SAP on behalf of the sector.

The plan will set out how the ELT sector can support the ambitions of the IES, identify opportunities for growth and partnership, highlight barriers, and propose practical actions for the sector, government and wider stakeholders.

Why we asked for feedback

In June, English UK launched a consultation on a draft content framework for the UK ELT SAP. We invited feedback from across the wider ELT ecosystem, including providers, university language centres, pathway organisations, agents, awarding bodies, publishers and other organisations involved in international education. 

The consultation was designed to test, validate and strengthen the proposed direction of the plan. We wanted the final recommendations to reflect the opportunities, challenges and priorities facing the sector, and draw on the expertise and experience of those working across UK ELT and international education.

Key consultation findings

The consultation highlighted strong support for coordinated action in areas including:

• rebuilding and expanding European mobility

• improving international confidence in the UK as a study destination

• promoting the UK's quality assurance and safeguarding strengths

• strengthening progression pathways into wider UK education

• improving sector data, evidence and coordination

How feedback has shaped the UK ELT Sector Action Plan

English UK carefully reviewed and analysed stakeholder feedback. The insights helped refine the recommendations submitted on behalf of the sector and strengthened the evidence base underpinning the final UK ELT SAP.

The consultation also helped identify areas where stakeholders felt that greater emphasis, clarification or additional action was needed. This has helped ensure the plan better reflects the needs and priorities of the wider ELT community. 

English UK would like to thank everyone who took the time to participate and share their views. Your feedback has played an important role in shaping a stronger, more representative plan for the sector.

What happens next 

English UK submitted the revised recommendations to government in July, following completion of the consultation process. 

The full UK ELT Sector Action Plan is expected to be published in early September 2026. The final document will set out the sector's shared priorities and recommendations for supporting sustainable growth, enhancing international competitiveness and contributing to the delivery of the International Education Strategy. 

In the meantime, the consultation findings summary offers an early insight into the issues that matter most to the sector. 

> Download the consultation findings summary