English UK Fairs

Voting has started for the 2012 STM Star Awards

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:36:09 +0000

Voting for the seventh Study Travel Magazine (STM) Star Awards for International Education is now officially open. Over the years, many English UK member centres have won awards for excellence and in both 2007, 2010 and 2011 English UK won the Star School Association category.

The STM Star Awards are voted for by agents and educators, and reflect excellence in business performance.

If your experience with English UK as an association has been positive, we encourage you to nominate us as your STM Star School Association for 2012. We also urge you to recognise your star partner English UK members centres by voting for them in these awards.

Click here to nominate English UK as your STM Star School Association. The last day for voting will be Friday 18 May 2012, and a shortlist of the nominees for each category will be published in the August issue of Study Travel Magazine.

English UK's 2012 Fairs get off to a fantastic start

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:27:17 +0000

English UK's decision to increase the number of its overseas fairs to meet market demand was proved correct when the first of 2012's events sold out within weeks.

The number of fairs has been increased to four in 2012, and the Athens event, being held in March, now has a waiting list of agents disappointed to have missed out.

"We're absolutely delighted with the success of the small fairs, and agents and educators alike tell us it's a winning formula," says Jodie Gray, English UK's Senior International Manager who has been responsible for organising the innovative workshops since the first one in 2007.

"It's really simple. Each fair is held in a different market area. We limit numbers and choose a luxury hotel in a fantastic resort destination. The result is small and intimate fairs with a very friendly atmosphere: three days of quality time for everyone.

"The agents and educators still get those formal appointments, but supported by many chances to socialise and enjoy sightseeing, which helps them develop lasting partnerships much more quickly than usual.

"It's unique: people really get to know each other, but in a very relaxing atmosphere. Having fun together is a brilliant way to bond."

English UK's insistence on quality is also a significant factor: only selected top quality study abroad agencies are eligible to sign up for each event, where they will meet 30 of the organisation's fully-accredited members.

The Athens fair takes place at the Arion resort and spa from March 6-9, with agencies recruited from Central, Eastern and South-East Europe, home to Turkey and Russia, both major markets for English UK member centres, as well as several developing markets.

The other three fairs organised for 2012 are in Panama (April), Dead Sea Jordan (October), and Macau (November). The English UK series are the only agents' workshops focused exclusively on the UK's English language teaching sector.

English UK gets "Banned colleges" story corrected

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:32:21 +0000

A news story issued to most national and local media wrongly claiming that fully-accredited English language centres had been "banned" from bringing international students into the country has been corrected.

More than 22 English UK member centres were infuriated when they were named on a list of 66 "banned colleges" released to the media in November, alongside institutions which had been banned for breaking the rules. The story was widely used and several news websites published the list in full. Several instructed lawyers to demand a full retraction and apology from the Home Office.

These centres had taken a business decision to voluntarily resign from the Register of Sponsors (RoS) when a prohibitively expensive new inspection regime became compulsory. They can still legitimately teach EU students from Europe or those on courses of up to 11 months, and had not in any sense been banned, but the story did not make this clear.

After several months of wrangling, the UK Border Agency last week told one of the affected schools, Brighton International Summer School (BISS), that it had had supplied two separate lists of centres no longer on the RoS and stressed the different reasons for removing centres from the register in its press briefings. It blamed the media for getting the story wrong.

English UK immediately brought this to the attention of the Press Association (PA), the national news agency which had written and circulated the story and the list of "banned colleges" to media outlets through the UK.

"It is regrettable that despite the considerable efforts made by the UK Border Agency and the Home Office press office to ensure that the media outlets understood the detail of the information provided to them, that this was not better reflected by some media in their subsequent publications," said the email.

PA swiftly agreed to "clarify" the story and sent out the following version, agreed with English UK, to all its media customers:

"In 1 POLITICS Immigration List (COLLEGES IN FOREIGN STUDENT BAN) transmitted on 01/11/2011 and repeated early on 02/11/2011, we reported that hundreds of colleges had been banned from bringing foreign students into the UK as part of the Government's plans to control immigration. English UK, which represents accredited English language colleges, a sector worth around £2.5 billion to the UK economy, has asked us to make it clear that its members who were named had voluntarily chosen not to apply to stay on the list, for legitimate business reasons, because they can still bring in students on visitor visas and do not need a Tier 4 licence." It has also taken action to ensure that any of its customer websites still displaying the banned list will remove it.

Tony Millns, Chief Executive of English UK, said: "We're pleased that PA has acted quickly on this and included a fuller explanation of the facts for its users. We are also hoping that everyone involved, including the UKBA press team, PA and the wider media will now have a better understanding of the issues involved so that similar, potentially defamatory mistakes, will not be made on future occasions."

In its email to BISS, the UKBA's Litigation and Correspondence Team claimed it had even contacted a national broadcaster which ran the list on its website under the headline "banned" to reiterate that this was inaccurate and should be amended.

It explained: "In telephone briefings with journalists the day before the publication, the Home Office press office made clear that revocation of a licence did not necessarily indicate non-compliance or poor educational standards. While explaining various figures within the press notice, it was stressed to journalists that education providers may have decided for their own reasons not to apply - for example, because they no longer were looking to attract overseas students, or had decided to focus on the extended Student Visitor Visa route.

"Two lists of those sponsors whose licenses had been revoked were emailed separately to the Press Association who expressed interest in regionalising the story - one list was of the revocations due to non-compliance of sponsor duties and the other of revocations further to the new educational oversight and Highly Trusted Sponsor (HTS) arrangements. Before these lists were sent to the Press Association, the Home Office press office explained over the telephone the differences between these two lists and the various reasons why a college might appear on them."

StudyWorld registration opens for agents and service providers

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:18:10 +0000

Online registration is now open for StudyWorld London 2012 for invited agents and service providers.

Join over 850 study-abroad professionals from over 60 countries at this leading international student recruitment forum.

London is going to be an exciting place to be this year with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in June and the Olympics kicking off in July. StudyWorld is pleased to follow those two grand events and will take place from Monday 3 - Wednesday 5 September 2012 at the Hilton London Metropole Hotel.

Exhibition stands for service providers always sell out very quickly, so if you are interested make sure you register soon to guarantee your company a stand.

For agents the 2012 prices have been frozen. Our great value all-inclusive package is exactly what you need to get you connected with top-quality educational institutions. Register before Friday 4 May to get the early bird rates.

For more information, browse the StudyWorld website or email info@studyworldfair.com.

Forming new partnerships: English UK Fair participants highlight the most important factors

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:29:12 +0000

Accreditation is the single most important factor which helps agents to choose an English language centre, whilst language centres look for references and recommendations.

These are the findings from a series of informal sessions held at English UK's three 2011 overseas fairs, where small groups of member centres met agents from all over the world.

Icebreaker sessions at each event, in Muscat, Singapore, and Buenos Aires, tackled the question underpinning the international student market: what factors make schools and agents trust each other enough to do business together?

"Trust is key," agreed the Argentinian group, but discussions in the three sessions looked at what helps to build that trust.

Workshops were rated the most useful way for agents to find new schools and schools to find new agencies. This was mentioned twice as often as other routes, and generally came top of the list for each group of people.

The icebreaker sessions in the three fairs were themselves rated very highly.

"The group discussion before meeting sessions is good and effective. Agents learn more lessons about how to evaluate international schools for students. On the other hand, schools also know how to judge a good agent," said Le Thi Yen Binh, of International Consultancy and Educational Development, Vietnam .

The next most important factor for agents seeking new language centres was a visit and the chance to talk to its students. In third place for this type of information are the agent associations, followed by other recommendations, the English UK website, and students themselves.

For language centres seeking new agents, recognised status-- such as the English UK Partner Agency Scheme -- was the second most important method, followed by Fam Trips and word of mouth. Feedback from students was also rated as important.

Agents and educators then turned to discussing what factors seal the deal. "What information do you need to make your decision?" they were asked.

For agents, accreditation, course options, commission and nationality mix got equal top rating. Almost as important were price, facilities and location, with hours taught, accommodation, teacher qualifications, visa support, efficiency and leisure activities also scoring highly. Among the many other factors mentioned were safety, references, personal appearance of schools and highly trusted status.

Information which educators wanted to have about new agents were led by references, the number and type of other language centres the agency worked with, recommendations and marketing methods. Other factors mentioned included efficiency, accredited agent training, the number and type of student sent, and "gut feeling".

Educators and agents are looking for quality, but how do they judge that? Agents gave a broad sweep of factors they would look for in a language centre, led by response time, teacher qualifications and accreditation. Price, feedback, honesty, visa knowledge, sensitivity to cultural issues, honesty, the sharing of feedback and good student care were among many other factors mentioned.

For language centres, accreditation, honesty, and timely payment were at the top of the list for judging the quality for agents. Other factors mentioned in the three workshops were monitoring student progress, evidence of pre-departure counselling, knowledge, feedback, and "no surprises."

Groups were also asked what made the perfect workshop. Agents went for location, whilst educators were more motivated by price, fitting in more meetings, and the opportunity for group discussions.

Both agents and educators liked smaller workshops such as the English UK Fairs. Of less importance, but mentioned, were a good percentage of good faces, good organisation, two days maximum at the event, serious commitment and good organisation. English UK member Richard Day, known for his lively presence and presentations at the Fairs, also got a special mention by several groups.

There will be four English UK fairs in 2012. You can register online now. As places are limited, we encourage you to secure your place early in order to avoid disappointment.

English UK approves 100th partner agency

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 13:08:24 +0000

English UK's Partner Agency Scheme this week welcomed its 100th agency to have achieved partner agency status, just over a year after it was officially launched.

Agencies from all over the world have now joined the scheme, which is restricted to those who meet high professional standards and are already working closely with English UK members. The scheme was praised in an official report by MPs into the student visa system earlier this year.

Jodie Gray, English UK's senior international manager, said: "We're really delighted by the popularity of the scheme.

"Much of the continuing success of our business has been down to quality partnerships between the best agents and the best language centres, and we believe this scheme will help to support and develop these relationships.

"We've responded to the demand this autumn by creating an online briefing system for agents who are applying to join the scheme. Before, they had to attend an official seminar to get all the information required, which often meant waiting a long time for this to be arranged in their own region. Now it can all be done online at a time which suits them."

In order to join the scheme, agencies have to fulfil criteria including the completion of a business profile form and the online briefing, and provide five references from English UK members with whom they already do business. A fee is also payable.

In return agencies get attractive benefits including a listing on the English UK website and the use of special logos and marketing products.

Click here to view more details of the 100 agencies that have already achieved Partner Agency status.

For more information on the Partner Agency Scheme, click here.

The English UK Fair, Macau 2012 - open for bookings

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:02:13 +0000

Tuesday 13 - Friday 16 November 2012

Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16

In partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain

The English UK Fair, Macau 2012 will bring together accredited UK English Language centres and study abroad agents in an elegant hotel, set right on the waterfront, in the heart of the charming historic quarter of this former Portuguese enclave.

Participation is limited to just 70 organisations (30 educators and 40 agencies) and is only open to English UK member centres and selected top quality agents from the Asia Pacific region.

Package offered

The package includes:

Accommodation for 3 nights at the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16
Welcome dinner at the top of the Macau Tower
Workshop sessions and eSchedule Lite account
Seminar programme
Lunch on Wednesday and Thursday
Evening walking tour of Old Macau
Traditional Macanese dinner
Chinese banquet on the rooftop of Ponte 16

To register

Click here for more information and to register online.

Sun, sea and serious business at the English UK Fair, Singapore 2011

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 06:59:33 +0000

The English UK Fair, Singapore 2011 took place at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort from Tuesday 15 to Friday 18 November 2011. The workshop was organised by English UK in partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain.

The fair brought together 29 English UK member centres and 42 study abroad agents from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

The programme of social events, seminars, and one-to-one appointments in a luxurious beachfront resort overlooking the South China Sea gave educators and agents the opportunity to really get to know each other and develop long-lasting productive partnerships.

Participants were treated to a warm welcome reception and dinner held at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort's Horizon Pavilion. With its full-length glass windows, offering panoramic views of the sea and the resort's lush landscape, the vista really came alive at night, displaying twinkling lights from ships anchored far out on the horizon.

After a day of hard work, delegates had the opportunity to explore Singapore by trishaw and river cruise on the second night. The route took in many iconic landmarks, including the impressive boat-shaped 'SkyPark' perched atop the three towers that make up the world's most expensive hotel and the majestic Merlion - an icon of the city overlooking the Marina Bay.

Following a final day filled with one-to-one appointment sessions, the fair concluded with a gala dinner held in the colonial splendour of the world famous Raffles Hotel. Delegates were greeted with live traditional Chinese music set in the timeless elegance of the Palm Garden, before savouring an array of authentic dishes from all over Asia. Judith Slater, Deputy High Commissioner at the British Council, delivered a farewell address which focussed on the importance of partnerships between agents and educators, and the many attractions of the UK as a study abroad destination.

Adell Mitchell from Live Language commented 'It is obvious that the English UK Fairs are well researched, expertly planned and offer a superior service to other educational fairs. They showcase the UK as a welcoming, friendly and hospitable place to live and study. I'm sticking with English UK events - they are simply the best.'

The study abroad agents were equally impressed, commending the quality of the attending educators, the business networking opportunities available and the convivial atmosphere of the fair.

Gareth Baxter-Jones of Euro Education in Thailand remarked, 'The social programme was absolutely excellent and was very smoothly organised. Meetings were very productive. I have made at least 5 very high potential business partners and also renewed quite a few previous relationships. All in all it was a great event!'

Phuong Nguyen from Phuong Nguyen Consulting Business in Vietnam agreed, enthusing 'I don't know if there is any English word that expresses the meaning of "beyond excellent" to rate the English UK Fair 2011 in Singapore. Everything was extremely well-organised, professional and impressive and certainly will leave fresh memory in the hearts of all the attendants.'

The next English UK Fair for the Asia Pacific region will be held in Macau from Tuesday 13 to Friday 16 November 2012 at the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16. This is an elegant hotel, set right on the waterfront, in the heart of the charming historic quarter of this former Portuguese enclave. The programme will include seminar and appointment sessions, welcome reception, an evening walking tour of Old Macau and a farewell gala dinner on the rooftop of Ponte 16.

You can register online now for the English UK Fair, Macau 2012. As places are limited, we encourage you to secure your place early in order to avoid disappointment.

Click here to view all photos taken from the English UK Fair, Singapore on our Facebook page.

StudyWorld 2012 educator registration is now open

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:09:32 +0000

Organised by English UK, StudyWorld London is the UK's largest and longest running student recruitment event and next year's will take place from Monday 3 – Wednesday 5 September 2012. Held at the Hilton London Metropole, a first class hotel located in the heart of central London, this event will attract an expected 900 quality agents, accredited educators and auxiliary service providers from around the world. The main focus of StudyWorld is to provide quality education providers and study travel agents with the opportunity to meet during pre-arranged appointments and have that all important face-to-face contact.

Delegates can also enjoy excellent hospitality and informal networking opportunities during our Welcome Reception on Monday and the post-appointments reception on Tuesday - there's no better place to build business contacts.

If you attended StudyWorld London 2011 and/or 2010, you can register using our quick and easy pre-filled application forms. The main representative from your institution should have received unique login details to access the form. Contact the International team if you have not yet received them.

If you have not attended before click here for more information on how to register.

We look forward to seeing you at StudyWorld next year.

A record-breaking year for StudyWorld London

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 11:53:18 +0100

It was a record-breaking year for StudyWorld London, with almost 900 delegates from all over the world attending the international student recruitment fair.

Opening the event, Tony Millns, the chief executive of StudyWorld organiser English UK, said that students increasingly realised that in order to be world-class, they had to have studied somewhere else in the world. He continued: "Despite problems, we're optimistic that this business will continue to grow."

He was equally upbeat by the end of the event. "A lot of good business has been done here, and I've had lots of positive feedback about the quality of both schools and agents, as usual. People also seem very happy with changes we've made to the programme, including encouraging educators to arrange private viewings and hospitality for agents on the Tuesday evening."

English UK refreshed the format of StudyWorld this year, replacing the first evening's formal dinner with a short party for newcomers, followed by a glittering Welcome Reception intended to make it as easy as possible for delegates to start networking from the start.

The event opened with four hours of seminars, including a major presentation from Jeremy Oppenheim of the UK Borders Agency on visa regulations, including new guidance for Highly Trusted Sponsors. There were also sessions on English UK's Partner Agency Scheme, how language centres should comply with visa regulations, on simple rules of marketing and predicting global trends.

Siobhan Baccas, who organises StudyWorld, said it had been a record-breaking year. "Not only did we have almost 900 attendees at the event, but we had our biggest-ever number of exhibitors, which tells a lot about the quality of the business we do here.

"And we were delighted with the way the Welcome Reception went. It was a fantastic surprise for delegates going into the room and finding gold drapes, intimate seating and a fantastic centrepiece bar -- it really had the wow factor. It will be a challenge to top that next year -- but we'll try!"

Sue Edwards, Chair of English UK, was also pleased with the way StudyWorld had gone, reporting many positive comments about the organisation. "Each year the team continues to surprise," she said, adding: "We're moving forward into a new year, whilst also being aware of the challenges ahead. I think everybody is rushing to do business for the new year."

Carsten Sallman, Marketing Manager of Sprachcaffe Languages Plus, said: "StudyWorld is always really good fun which is why we come back. The party last night was really nice. I enjoyed the fact that it was a standing up reception, with people being active in their approach, speaking to each other rather than sitting down. We weren't limited to people on the same table. I really liked the entertainment and the magician doing card tricks.

"StudyWorld is always very fruitful for us. People here are very serious about business and this is important to us."

StudyWorld sponsor PPI was also very happy with the event. Director Danny Silvester said: "Last night's Welcome Reception was a massive improvement on previous years and I'm proud to be part of it. People are coming over to see us because the logo is on everything. Just from the logo and the StudyWorld T shirts we've had so much exposure, and that's fantastic. It's been a massive rise in our credibility, it says we're a company which is education based, support based, shows we're embedded in the industry. 80 per cent of our clients are in the industry. The industry is massively important to us. We see ourselves are being part of the language travel industry."

Agents and educators were also delighted with the event. Ben Logan of BLS in Bury St Edmunds, said; "This is our sixth year. Lots of the agents here send us students and the ones we have appointments with are saying what we do is really good. And the party -- that was a 100 per cent improvement on last year."

Jos Van Kerkhof of Study Travel had been to StudyWorld 12 times, and said: "I come every year to meet friends and to do business and enjoy myself."

To view images from the event please click here to visit the image gallery on the StudyWorld London website.

English UK voted best school association for the 2nd year running

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 13:53:59 +0100

English UK is delighted to have been voted the best school association for the third time, and the second year running.

The announcement was made at the Language Travel Magazine Star Awards ceremony on Saturday September 3 at the London Hilton Park Lane Hotel.

Jodie Gray, senior international manager, who accepted the award on behalf of English UK, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have won this award again and would like to thank everyone who voted for us. We've been working very hard for our members during what has been a difficult year for our industry, including taking the Government to court. We've also created a new role for the very best agents within our extended community. It's a real accolade that so many people have voted for us again."

The other shortlisted nominees were English Australia, Ialc, Languages Canada, International House World Organisation and Quality English.

A full report of the LTM Star Awards will be published in the November issue of Study Travel magazine. Click here to view photos from the night.

StudyWorld 2011 the biggest ever, says English UK

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 13:51:36 +0100

Almost 900 people from all over the world attended StudyWorld London 2011, making it the biggest-ever event in its 42 year history.

And delegates gave overwhelmingly positive feedback about some radical changes to the event's format, including a special party for newcomers and a glittering Welcome Reception in place of the traditional opening dinner.

Tony Millns, chief executive of English UK, said: 'There's been a lot of good business done here, and there has been a lot of positive reaction to the quality of both the agents and the educators. Not only have we got record attendance but more exhibitors than ever before, which shows that it is worthwhile for them to attend.'

Siobhan Baccas, English UK's international manager who organises the event each year, said: 'I'm absolutely delighted with the way it's gone. I've had so many people coming to tell me how much they enjoyed the Welcome Reception and how much networking and catching up with friends they were able to do during the evening. We've had excellent overall feedback about the whole event.'

The English UK Fair, Athens 2012 - open for bookings

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:53:37 +0100

Tuesday 6 - Friday 9 March 2012

Arion Resort & Spa, Astir Palace

In partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain

The English UK Fair, Athens 2012 will bring together accredited UK English language centres and study abroad agents in an elegant resort, with spectacular views of the Saronic Gulf, in the heart of the Athenian Riviera.

Participation is limited to just 70 organisations (30 educators and 40 agencies) and is only open to English UK member centres and selected top quality agents from the regions of Central, Eastern and Southeast Europe.

Package offered

The package includes:

Accommodation for 3 nights at Arion, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
Welcome reception and dinner
Workshop sessions and eSchedule Lite account
Seminar programme
Lunch on Wednesday and Thursday
Evening tour of the historic sites of Athens
Dinner at Dionysos by the Acropolis
Farewell gala dinner at the residence of HM British Ambassador to Greece

To register

Click here for more information and to register online.

English UK shortlisted for the Star School Association Award

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:28:43 +0100

Thank you to all our partners for nominating us as LTM Stars. Once again English UK has reached the shortlist for the Star School Association Award.

All nominees for all the categories of the LTM Star Awards will be listed in the August 2011 issue of Study Travel Magazine, which you can access here from 1 August. Winners will be announced just prior to StudyWorld London at the LTM Star Awards Gala night on Saturday 3 September at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

High praise for the English UK Fair, Buenos Aires 2011

Fri, 13 May 2011 12:01:57 +0100

The English UK Fair, Buenos Aires 2011 took place at the InterContinental Buenos Aires from Tuesday 3 to Friday 6 May 2011. The workshop was organised by English UK in partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain.

The fair brought together 23 English UK member centres and 41 study abroad agents from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.

The programme of social events, seminars, and one-to-one appointments in the historic Argentine capital gave educators and agents the opportunity to really get to know each other and develop long-lasting productive partnerships.

Participants experienced a 'real taste of Argentina' at the welcome reception and dinner held at the Terraza del Virrey in the InterContinental Buenos Aires. Sat in a winter garden restaurant decorated with orange gerberas and candle lanterns, entertained by the upbeat melodies of live traditional tango music, the delegates enjoyed a 'parillada porteña' - a mix of grilled local favourite meat cuts - served family style for each table to share.

The 3-course dinner and tango show at 'Esquina Carlos Gardel' on the middle night of the fair was another memorable evening. This tango club and restaurant, decorated in an Art Nouveau style recreating the sophistication and luxury of the salons of old times, featured first class artistic performances and excellent cuisine. Graham Perry from Aberystwyth University commented, 'The personal highlight for me was tango night. Exhilarating, dignified, unforgettable'.

After all the hard work was over, delegates and other invited high profile guests from Argentina's education sector networked and celebrated in style at a farewell gala dinner hosted at the Residence of the Her Majesty's Ambassador to the Argentine Republic.

The magnificent British Residence is a landmark building in the heart of Buenos Aires. It is among the finest ambassadorial residences the UK has anywhere and was designated a National Historic Monument in 2001.

Mr Simon Thomas, Chargé d'Affaires at the British Embassy Buenos Aires, spoke of the importance of English as an international language, the quality of a British education and the many attractions of the UK as a study abroad destination.

Delegates praised the overall organisation and programme, convivial atmosphere and business networking opportunities of the fair.

Richard Day from English in Chester remarked, 'This is a brilliant formula that really works. Congratulations!'

Stephen A'Barrow from Harrow House International College commented, 'A phenomenal fair, the best yet. My South America business increased significantly after the last event. I expect the same result after this one.'

The study abroad agents in attendance were equally impressed. Mauricio Chagas de Oliveira of High Connections Intercambio in Brazil wrote, 'Organisation - excellent! Attention by the team - plus excellent. Professionalism - excellent. Any other comments - excellent!'

Also attending the fair were representatives from the British Council Colombia and United Kingdom, the UK Border Agency and the British Embassies in Buenos Aires, Bogotá and Caracas. These delegates were able to exchange valuable market information and new ideas with the participating educators, agents and exhibitors.

The next English UK Fair for the Latin American region will be held in Panama from Tuesday 24 to Friday 27 April 2012 at the InterContinental Playa Bonita Resort & Spa. The programme will include seminar and appointment sessions, welcome dinner by the beach, private evening tour of the Panama Canal's Miraflores Locks' Visitor Centre and a farewell gala dinner in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Panamá Viejo.

You can register online now for the English UK Fair, Dead Sea Jordan 2012. As places are limited, we encourage you to secure your place early in order to avoid disappointment.

Click here for more information.

The English UK Fair, Panama 2012 - open for bookings

Thu, 12 May 2011 19:25:26 +0100

Tuesday 24 - Friday 27 April 2012

InterContinental Playa Bonita Resort & Spa

In partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain

The English UK Fair, Panama 2012 will bring together accredited UK English language centres and study abroad agents in a luxurious, tropical, secluded resort on the Pacific Ocean.

Package offered

The package includes:

Accommodation for 3 nights at the InterContinental Playa Bonita Resort & Spa
Welcome reception and dinner by the beach
Workshop sessions and eSchedule Lite account
Seminar programme
Lunch on Wednesday and Thursday
Private tour and dinner at the Panama Canal's Miraflores Locks' Visitor Centre
Farewell gala dinner at the Convento de las Monjas in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Panama Viejo, the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas.

To register

Click here for more information and to register online.

Fun in the sun at the English UK Fair, Muscat 2011

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 08:38:51 +0100

The English UK Fair, Muscat 2011 took place at Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa from Monday 28 to Thursday 31 March 2011. The workshop was organised by English UK in partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain.

The fair brought together 30 English UK member centres and 40 study abroad agents from Algeria, Bahrain, Georgia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Uzbekistan. Exhibitors included the British Council, UK Border Agency, UK Trade & Investment London, Study UK and TVET UK.

Also attending the fair were representatives from the British Council Algeria, Georgia, Kuwait, Oman, and United Arab Emirates, and from UK Trade & Investment in Syria.

The programme of social events, seminars, and one-to-one appointments in a luxurious resort alongside the sparkling bay of Al Jissah in the Sultanate of Oman gave delegates the opportunity to really get to know each other and develop long-lasting productive partnerships.

Dr Noel Guckin, HM British Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, gave the opening address at the welcome reception and dinner, which was held in a sublime setting on a grassy peninsula with the sound of the waves breaking on the beach below.

Participants had the opportunity to try out their bargaining skills on an evening excursion to the famed Muttrah Souk. Several of our more fashion-forward male delegates invested in their own traditional white gowns (dishdashas), embroidered hats (kumahs) and headscarves (muzzars), which they proudly showed off at the Omani themed farewell gala dinner.

Guests arriving at the gala dinner, also held by the beach, were greeted by Omani dancers and drummers. Silversmiths, weavers, henna artists and a traditional breadmaker showcased their crafts, while two friendly camels provided the perfect photo opportunity! Mr. Paul Doubleday, Director of the British Council Oman, gave the closing speech, focussing on the importance of the partnerships between agents and educators.

The British Council and UK Trade & Investment generously sponsored the English UK Fair, Muscat 2011.

The next English UK Fair for the regions of the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia will be held at the Dead Sea Jordan from Monday 1 to Thursday 4 October 2012 in the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea. The programme will include seminar and appointment sessions, a welcome reception by the beach, evening tour of Amman, a reception at the Residence of HM Ambassador to Jordan and a 1001 Nights themed farewell gala dinner held in the Sunset Arena.

Educators, agents and exhibitors will also be invited to take part in an optional overnight Desert Highway tour to Wadi Rum and Petra. This will include visits to Mount Nebo and Madaba, a sunset Bedouin jeep drive in Wadi Rum, overnight at a luxury tented desert camp and a guided walking tour of the ancient city of Petra.

Click here to see photos from the English UK Fair, Muscat 2011.

The English UK Fair, Dead Sea Jordan 2012 - open for bookings

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 08:30:49 +0100

Monday 1 - Thursday 4 October 2012
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

In partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain

The English UK Fair, Dead Sea Jordan will bring together accredited UK English language centres and study abroad agents in a tranquil village inspired resort, set alongside the world’s largest natural spa at the lowest point on Earth.

Participation is limited to just 70 organisations (30 educators and 40 agencies) and is only open to English UK member centres and selected top quality agents from the regions of Western Asia (including the Arabian Peninsula, the Caucasus, the Levant, Iran and Turkey), Central Asia and North Africa.

Package offered

The package includes:

Accommodation for 3 nights at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea
Welcome reception and dinner
Workshop sessions and eSchedule Lite account
Seminar programme
Lunch on Wednesday and Thursday
Evening panoramic tour of the city of Amman
Reception and buffet dinner at the residence of HM British Ambassador to Jordan
1001 Nights themed farewell gala dinner at the Sunset Arena

Educators, agents and exhibitors are also invited to take part in an optional overnight Desert Highway tour to Wadi Rum and Petra. This will include visits to Mount Nebo and Madaba, a sunset Bedouin jeep drive in Wadi Rum, overnight at a luxury tented desert camp and a guided walking tour of the ancient city of Petra.

To register

Click here for more information and to register online.

Voting has started for the 2011 LTM Star Awards

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 02:02:26 +0000

Voting for the sixth Language Travel Magazine Star Awards is now officially open. Please nominate English UK as your LTM Star School Association.

Vote for us at: http://www.hothousemedia.com/ltm/star.htm

The last day for voting will be 20 May 2011. A shortlist of the nominees for each category will be published in the August issue of Language Travel Magazine.

The English UK Fair, Singapore 2011 - open for bookings

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:33:53 +0000

Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 November 2011
Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort

In partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain

The English UK Fair, Singapore 2011 will bring together accredited UK English language centres and study abroad agents in a luxurious beachfront resort overlooking the South China Sea.

Participation is limited to just 70 organisations (30 educators and 40 agencies) and is only open to English UK member centres and selected top quality agents from the Asia Pacific region.

Package offered

The package includes accommodation for 3 nights at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort, welcome reception, workshop sessions and eSchedule Lite account, seminar programme, lunch on Wednesday and Thursday, an evening tour of Singapore and a farewell gala dinner at the Raffles Hotel.

To register

Click here for more information and to register online.

The English UK Fair, Hanoi 2010 - a resounding success

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:27:15 +0000

The English UK Fair, Hanoi 2010 took place at the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake between Tuesday 16 and Friday 19 November 2010. The workshop was organised by English UK in partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain.

The fair brought together 33 English UK member centres and 52 study abroad agents from China, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

The programme of social events, seminars, and one-to-one appointments in a sublime waterfront resort on the banks of Hanoi's West Lake gave educators and agents the opportunity to really get to know each other and develop long-lasting productive partnerships.

Participants experienced a 'real taste of Vietnam' during the exhilarating tour of Hanoi's Old Quarter on vintage scooters. This was followed by a cultural evening in the historic surroundings of the Ly Club.

Ms Kate Harrisson, Chargé d'Affaires at the British Embassy Hanoi, spoke of the importance of English as an international language at the welcome reception, which was held in the Saigon Restaurant in the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake.

After all the hard work was over, delegates relaxed at a farewell gala dinner in the French colonial surroundings of the Press Club, during which Mr Robin Rickard, Country Director of the British Council Vietnam, praised the high quality of British education providers, as evidenced by the English UK members in attendance.

Around 30 fortunate participants chose to stay on in Vietnam, taking part in the optional overnight Halong Bay Cruise. Aboard two 5-star luxurious 'junk' boats, delegates enjoyed visits to a floating village, swimming and water sports in the Bay, evening drinks on the deck, a 5 course dinner menu and, for those early-risers, dawn Tai-Chi!

Delegates praised the overall organisation, convivial atmosphere and business networking opportunities of the fair.

Richard Day from English in Chester remarked, 'An interesting and exceptionally well organised event with some good agents from several countries - well worth attending'.

Duncan and Jane Hume from White House Education commented, 'The fair was brilliantly organised. We enjoyed taking part and look forward to the next event. The Halong Bay Cruise was amazing'.

English UK members particularly relished the opportunity to experience a developing market such as Vietnam. Hannah Cox from the University of the Arts London said, 'A brilliant fair and great introduction to a new market for us.'

100% of the agents attending the fair rated the English UK members that they met as 'excellent' or 'good'. Johannes Kembauan from Deha Education/Idea Institut in Indonesia commented, 'A very good event to expand our network of contacts and maintain existing relationships.'

Also attending the fair were representatives from the British Council China, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam, and from UK Trade & Investment offices in Vietnam and Singapore. Delegates were able to exchange valuable market with educators, agents and exhibitors. Cathy He from the British Council China remarked, 'This is the first that I have attended an English UK Fair. It was well-organised and impressive. It has been really useful for us in our promotion of the UK ELT sector in China.'

The next English UK Fair for the Asia Pacific region will be held in Singapore from Tuesday 15 to Friday 18 November 2011 at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort. The programme will include seminar and appointment sessions, welcome reception, tour of Singapore by trishaw and bumboat and a farewell gala dinner at the world famous Raffles Hotel.

StudyWorld London 2010

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 03:14:27 +0100

The 41st StudyWorld was one of the biggest ever, with 400 agents from 62 different countries attending the event, meeting over 300 educators. Record numbers of appointments were pre-booked, with 84 per cent of available slots taken before meetings began on Tuesday morning.

"There's been a really good buzz about the event this year, and agents and educators have been telling us that there's lots of good meetings happening - and they're very positive about the business they are doing," said Siobhan Baccas, English UK's International Events Manager and StudyWorld London organiser.

Sue Edwards, Chair of English UK, which organises the event, was also very positive.

She said: "People here are very buoyant about the future. I know there are challenges, but the message I am getting from agents and educators alike is that people are trying to deal with them. Schools understand how to ensure the visa system works, and agents are looking to find new ways of developing their businesses. This is anything but a depressed market."

The event guide and information pack got a radical makeover this year. In place of the bulky ring-binder full of event information and participant details was a glossy A4 brochure and a memory stick, sized to slip into hand-luggage.

Annie Wright, Deputy Chief Executive of English UK, said she was delighted with the fresh new look of the information pack. "We know agents have wanted something which was easier for them to get home, because they've asked us to ship the old-style binders to them after the event in the past. We're getting very positive feedback about the new format," she said.

In a busy week for English UK, StudyWorld London also saw the official launch of its new partner agency scheme, which was attended by almost 100 agents interested in joining, as well as a new dedicated website for the English UK Fairs: www.englishukfairs.com.

And attendees also got a first look at Light Up Your Potential: Discover English in the UK, the new promotional film produced by English UK and the British Council.

Educators and agents alike reported a productive two days' business. Andreas Schweitzer of the College Internacional de Cannes was at the event for the first time. He said: "I think the agents here are more serious than at some other events. It's early to say, but I think it's gone well and I'm happy."

Anastasia Satarina of Foundation Initiative in Russia was on a return visit. "It's very good - well organised, with good services. I've done lots of business, met some old partners and had discussions with new ones about new initiatives."

English UK has won School Association of the Year, 2010!

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 02:38:29 +0100

Thank you to all our partners for voting for us!

English UK is very pleased to have won the Star School Association of the Year award for 2010, which was announced at the Language Travel Magazine Star Awards ceremony on Saturday 4 September 2010.

Annie Wright, Deputy Chief Executive (Business Services) of English UK, who collected the award, said: "We're very pleased to have won this award again, and would like to thank everyone who voted for us.

"It's been a very challenging year for the industry as a result of the economic situation and particularly because of the changing visa situation in the UK. Our member schools, our staff and our Chief Executive Tony Millns have worked tirelessly to maintain the UK's reputation as the leading provider of world-class and competitive English language education, and winning this Star Award is a recognition of that."

Mark Rendell, Deputy Chief Executive (Professional Services), and Jodie Gray, International Marketing Manager, also attended the awards ceremony, held at the London Hilton on Park Lane hotel.

An article featuring the winners of each category will be published in the November issue of Language Travel Magazine, which you will be able to access here.

You can also click here to view photos of all the winners.

Coming soon - the English UK Fair, Singapore 2011

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:17:01 +0100

Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 November 2011
Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort

In partnership with and supported by the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain

The English UK Fair, Singapore 2011 will bring together accredited UK English language centres and study abroad agents in a luxurious beachfront resort overlooking the South China Sea.

Participation is limited to just 70 organisations (30 educators and 40 agencies) and is only open to English UK member centres and selected top quality agents from the Asia Pacific region.

Package offered

To register

More information about this fair will be available on the English UK Fairs website from December 2010.

Please visit the site after this date for all the latest information on this fair and to book your place online.

Welcome to the new English UK Fairs website

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:14:28 +0100

English UK has today launched a new website for the English UK Fairs, which are organised by English UK, the world's leading language teaching association, in partnership with the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBrtain.

The new site centralises all information about the English UK Fairs, and also allows educators and agents to book online via a secure booking form.

The launch of the site has been timed to coincide with StudyWorld London, which is being held at the Hilton London Metropole from 6-8 September 2010. If you're attending StudyWorld, please drop by the English UK stand located in the foyer area outside Hall 1 for more information and to pick up promotional leaflets for all the fairs being held in 2010-2011.

The English UK Fairs began in 2007 when English UK, the British Council, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain decided to put their vision for 'joined up promotion' to the test by jointly organising a fair in Cancun in March 2007 aimed at agents in the Latin American region. Following on from the success of this model, a fair in Hong Kong was held in February 2008 and then two further fairs were held in 2009 - in the UAE in April and in Brazil in October.

Now known as the 'English UK Fairs', these events have become a regular and much anticipated highlight of our marketing calendar.

Their success and popularity is based on their unique small size and friendly atmosphere. The programme of social events and one-to-one appointments, all in a relaxed, luxury setting, give educators and agents the opportunity to get to know each other and develop long-lasting productive partnerships.

For more information about our 2010-2011 fairs, please use the links above.

In the past these fairs have been booked up well in advance, so we encourage you to register early to avoid disappointment. You'll also be able to take advantage of the discounted early bird rates.

English UK Fairs

Voting has started for the 2012 STM Star Awards

English UK's 2012 Fairs get off to a fantastic start

English UK gets "Banned colleges" story corrected

StudyWorld registration opens for agents and service providers

Forming new partnerships: English UK Fair participants highlight the most important factors

English UK approves 100th partner agency

The English UK Fair, Macau 2012 - open for bookings

Package offered

To register

Sun, sea and serious business at the English UK Fair, Singapore 2011

StudyWorld 2012 educator registration is now open

A record-breaking year for StudyWorld London

English UK voted best school association for the 2nd year running

StudyWorld 2011 the biggest ever, says English UK

The English UK Fair, Athens 2012 - open for bookings

Package offered

To register

English UK shortlisted for the Star School Association Award

High praise for the English UK Fair, Buenos Aires 2011

The English UK Fair, Panama 2012 - open for bookings

Package offered

To register

Fun in the sun at the English UK Fair, Muscat 2011

The English UK Fair, Dead Sea Jordan 2012 - open for bookings

Monday 1 - Thursday 4 October 2012Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

Package offered

To register

Voting has started for the 2011 LTM Star Awards

The English UK Fair, Singapore 2011 - open for bookings

Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 November 2011Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort

The English UK Fair, Hanoi 2010 - a resounding success

StudyWorld London 2010

English UK has won School Association of the Year, 2010!

Coming soon - the English UK Fair, Singapore 2011

Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 November 2011Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort

Welcome to the new English UK Fairs website

Monday 1 - Thursday 4 October 2012
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 November 2011
Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort

Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 November 2011
Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort