The promised return of Erasmus+ in 2027 is a welcome boost for UK ELT.  

"It's incredible news – we are delighted that this opportunity is returning for our members as well as millions of people in the UK and the EU," said Annie Wright, joint acting chief executive of English UK.  

Wide-ranging scheme 

The news is a welcome boost for English UK members, with varied opportunities to be involved. The scheme is open to learners, trainees and staff in all forms and stages of education, youth and sport. It includes study, training, volunteering and work placements and exchanges. Professional training is covered. The future of the Turing scheme is currently under review.  

Boost for UK ELT 

James Herbertson, vice chair of the English UK board of trustees, said: "I am delighted to hear this news for both young people and for our language school members. For Europeans that had wanted to spend time studying in the UK but could not and for young Britons that aspired to travel, gain skills and have life-changing experiences in Europe - this is a great moment. For organisations already active in employability, placements, teacher training, and soft skills, Erasmus is a natural funding and delivery partner. This is a welcome boost and opportunity for the future. 

"Thank you to the government for its commitment to opportunities for young people and to growth. Let's seize this moment to build on this and have a reciprocal Youth Experience scheme as well." 

Chair Shoko Doherty added: "Before Brexit, my teaching centre in Cardiff regularly hosted primary and secondary school teachers from Spain, Germany and the Czech Republic through Erasmus-funded programmes. These visits went far beyond language training - teachers engaged in activities that showcased Welsh culture and heritage, visited local schools, and built meaningful professional relationships. In many cases, this led to long-term partnerships between schools in Wales and across Europe. The return of Erasmus has the potential to restore these valuable educational and cultural exchanges, benefiting teachers, learners, local communities, and the wider UK education sector." 

And trustee Neil Harris recalled his own time in Italy under the scheme. "Erasmus changed my life… it opens doors and its return to the UK feels like the best Christmas present ever for young people who lost out so badly when the UK exited the scheme." 

What do we know about the scheme? 

Details of exactly when Erasmus+ will recommence in 2027 are not yet known. The scheme – negotiated as part of a wider settlement - is believed to be wider-ranging than its predecessor and the UK has negotiated a 30% discount on the original cost.  

> Current government guidance on the Erasmus+ programme

Another position paper recommendation realised

Since English UK's position paper was launched at the House of Commons in May, three of our six recommendations for government action have been at least partially realised. It has been announced that a youth mobility scheme will be created with the EU and that ID card travel will be extended to German school groups. The return of Erasmus+ goes a long way to creating exchange programmes for young professionals, which is also one of our recommendations. 

> English UK policy position paper