How the government can support the UK English language teaching sector
English UK position paper | May 2026 edition
In these uncertain times, the UK needs strong export industries and ways of forging positive links with the wider world. The English language teaching (ELT) sector provides both.
The UK ELT sector supports 40,000 jobs all over our country, contributes £1.8 billion to our national finances, feeds our universities and builds lifelong global affinities to the UK.
We transform lives through learning and intercultural understanding.
Our sector attracts children, students, professionals and older adults to study and experience life in the UK. Students come from all over the world to continue their educational or professional journeys, while enjoying cultural immersion and leisure.
On average, teenage students stay for less than a fortnight and adults stay for under six weeks.
To support our aims, please share this paper with your MP and encourage them to read it. Together, we can drive meaningful change.
Our six policy recommendations
Our policy recommendations cost little to implement and will help UK English language teaching thrive and reap benefits, including increased exports, jobs, gross added value and closer international relationships.
1. Expand career-enhancing travel opportunities for young people
We want the Youth Experience Scheme (YES) agreed in principle between the UK government and the EU to be implemented as quickly as possible after a series of delays.
2. Extend ID card travel for school groups from the EU
We want ID card travel to be further extended to school group visits from other countries, including Spain and Italy.
3. Recognise UK ELT's accreditation scheme for student visas
We want the government to recognise Accreditation UK for Student Visas.
4. Make the most of Erasmus+
We urge the government to provide details on the requirements for the exchange visa and how to apply as swiftly as possible so that ELT providers can plan their offer
5. Increase rent-a-room tax relief to preserve UK ELT's unique offer
We want rent-a-room tax relief increased to £11k from £7.5k, roughly in line with inflation.
6. Provide stronger support for growth in the UK ELT sector
We seek the maximum level of support to help UK ELT thrive, including diplomatic channels and trade missions.
