Posted on Monday 21st Jan 2019
Secondary schools in England will be able to apply for money to take poorer pupils overseas on school exchanges
The £2.5 million government scheme will enable pupils aged 11 and over "to experience other cultures and go to places they wouldn't normally visit".
Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: "As Britain leaves the EU, it's more important than ever to show how much we value international opportunities."
It is estimated the scheme could support trips for 2,900 pupils.
The exchange programme will be run in partnership with the British Council, the organisation for cultural relations.
The grants will be targeted at schools with above-average numbers of pupil-premium students.
Pupil premium is a form of additional funding given to state schools in England to help "close the gap" between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.
Research by the British Council found that only 39% of state secondary schools run exchange programmes, compared with 77% of independent schools.
"School exchanges are so valuable, bringing subjects such as modern languages and international history to life, as well as helping pupils develop into confident, independent and well-rounded young people," said Mr Hinds.
Can't find what you are looking for?
Don't worry, please call us anyway to discuss your ideal job.
Latest News
14/07/25AI revolution to give teachers more time with pupils
Pupils across England will benefit from more face-to-face time with teachers as the government forges ahead with plans to harness the power of AI to deliver educational excellence.
08/07/25Children with special needs will 'always' have 'legal right' to support, education secretary says
Bridget Phillipson seeks to dampen a looming row over whether the government could scrap tailored plans for children with special needs - as some Labour MPs fear a repeat of the welfare row.
07/07/25Government urged to keep education plans for children with special needs
Ministers are facing calls to not cut education plans for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (Send). Campaigners say education, health and care plans (EHCPs) are "precious legal protections", warning that thousands of children could lose access to education if the plans are abolished.
26/06/25Councils face millions in extra Send costs as overhaul delayed
Cash-strapped councils in England will be hit with hundreds of millions of pounds in extra costs after the government delayed tackling the £5bn deficits spent supporting children and young people with special needs and disabilities.
25/06/25Rachel Reeves visits Kent to discuss free school meals and building more schools in county
Chancellor Rachel Reeves discussed the policies on a visit to a Kent school
News Archive