6 May, 10am BST
The British Council updated (2026) position outlines their commitment to promoting inclusive, high-quality education which is contextually grounded and responsive to learners’ linguistic realities.
This online event will be an opportunity to consider approaches to languages and, more specifically, the role of English within education systems. During the session, the British Council will share the core messages of their updated position and there will be an expert panel discussion featuring a range of global speakers and perspectives, as well as opportunity for discussion and Q&A.
Panellists:
- Dr Mir Abdullah Miri, Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Exeter
- Justine Sass, Chief, Section of Education for Inclusion and Gender Equality, UNESCO
- Professor Ernest Kofi Favis, Director-General, Ghana Education Service
- Melina Rellán Barreiro, Advisor, Department of Education, Castilla y León, Spain
Across the world, students learn in very different linguistic contexts, so there is no single model that fits every country. Rather than advising on whether or when education systems should switch to English in a specific country, the British Council emphasises that these decisions need to be made locally, based on each context. They understand that these decisions are not purely based on language, but shaped by economics, politics, culture and history. What matters most is how well education systems support learning. Where English is a language of teaching and learning, learners need strong foundations in both English and a familiar language, teachers need the right training, and schools need appropriate materials and assessments. Language is a fundamental consideration for policy, curriculum, assessment, teaching and teacher education. The British Council believes that when education systems are more responsive to learners’ language realities, education becomes more inclusive and equitable, and promotes more positive outcomes for all learners.
Download the full position paper here.
You are encouraged to pre-read it ahead of joining the launch event.