The UK will return to the Erasmus+ programme from 2027.
Erasmus+ offers funding not only for pupils, teachers, school leaders and other staff to learn, train and gain experience abroad, but also for schools to build international partnerships and collaborate on projects that improve teaching and learning.
Mobility projects help young people and staff develop skills, broaden their horizons and build international networks, while partnership projects enable schools to share expertise, develop innovative approaches to common challenges and strengthen teaching and learning.
Erasmus+ aligns strongly with the Government's ambition to widen opportunity for children and young people. International experiences can help pupils build confidence, resilience, cultural awareness and language skills, while providing teachers and school leaders with valuable opportunities for professional development, collaboration and the sharing of best practice.
The British Council will be the UK's Erasmus+ National Agency and will be responsible for delivering the programme in the UK. This means British Council will provide guidance and support for applicants, manage the funding application process, award grants to successful organisations and help participants make the most of the opportunities available through Erasmus+.
Given the significant funding available for schools in 2027 (c.£70m), we encourage schools to think ambitiously about how Erasmus+ can support their pupils, staff and wider strategic objectives. This could include:
- Expanding mobilities (ie trips overseas) beyond the subjects that have traditionally participated in international activity, ensuring a broader range of pupils can benefit.
- Offering staff mobilities to support professional development, leadership development and the sharing of best practice, supporting recruitment and retention.
- Offering blended mobilities (combining a short physical mobility with a virtual component) to widen participation and make international opportunities accessible to more pupils and staff.
- Targeting under-represented groups and disadvantaged pupils through inclusion support and proactive outreach.
- Using Erasmus+ partnerships to support school improvement priorities, curriculum development and innovation in teaching and learning.
The first funding call for the 2027 programme year is expected to open in November 2026, with application deadlines expected in February/March 2027. For schools, there will also be a further funding call later in 2027.
Further information about the programme, including case studies from previous participants, can be found in the attached slide pack and schools leaflet. You can also visit the Erasmus+ website to register for newsletter updates and to attend Q&A webinars.