Latest News

19 February 2026 (British Council)

Come together with teachers and pupils in Ukraine to share the joy of reading and build an understanding of the stories we tell in our different cultures.

This unique programme supports UK schools to build lasting international partnerships with schools in Ukraine, and explore reading as a tool to expand horizons, build confidence and boost mental wellbeing. Schools work together on activities to encourage reading for pleasure, building an understanding of each other’s cultures through a common love for reading. We offer full support and resources, including a fully-funded partnership workshop in Poland, where partner teachers meet in person to create a strong foundation for the partnership.

The UK-Ukraine School Partnerships programme is funded by the UK Government, in support of the 100-Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine. The 100-Year Partnership is an ambitious, long-term commitment to broaden and deepen the bilateral relationship across defence, trade and other areas and enable closer community links between both countries. The UK-Ukraine School Partnerships Programme is the flagship education offer for the 100-Year Partnership, signalling the UK’s support for fostering cross-cultural understanding among pupils, teachers and wider school communities and to help bring international awareness into classrooms.

Visit the British Council website for more information about the UK-Ukraine School Partnerships programme. Applications close on 2 March.

Read more...

19 February 2026 (Open University)

The Open University and Education Scotland are delighted to offer Masters-level CPD to any teacher in Scotland on embedding Scots language as part of language and literacy in education.

This is an important time in both Scottish society and Scottish education for CPD such as this, particularly in light of the Scottish Languages Bill that was passed by the Scottish Government on 17 June 2025, giving the Scots language legal recognition for the first time in Scotland’s history.

Now in its third year, this award-winning course gives teachers the opportunity to study virtually, share reflective work on their own classroom practice with peers, and attend tutorials online alongside fellow professionals from schools across Scotland, with each teacher focussing on the language and literature of their particular part of the country. The course has been designed to suit any learning environment, and is suitable for teachers in Primary, Secondary, Early Years, FE and ASN. Delivered entirely online, the course shares examples of best practice on using the Scots language in education, with the opportunity built-in for teachers to specifically explore the language and literature most appropriate for their learners wherever they are in Scotland.

It is free to sign up, and all places have been funded by the Scottish Government.

Visit the OU website for more information and to fill in an online form by 26 February to register for a place on the course.

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19 February 2026 (University of Oxford)

The Faculty of Medieval and Modern Languages at the University of Oxford runs an annual Flash Fiction competition inviting secondary school pupils to submit a complete story of no more than 100 words, in French, Spanish, or German, for the chance to win up to £100.

The judges are primarily looking for creativity, imagination and narrative flair, as well as linguistic accuracy.

Pupils’ language skills will be considered in the context of their age and year group: in other words, we will not expect younger pupils to compete against older pupils linguistically. Each language competition is divided into three age categories:

• Years 7-9 (ages 11-14)
• Years 10-11 (ages 14-16)
• Years 12-13 (ages 16-18)

Visit the Flash Fiction competition website for more information and to submit entries by 12 noon on 31 March 2026.

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19 February 2026 (British Council)

Modern Language Assistants are speakers of French, German, Irish, Italian, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. Hiring a language assistant helps your students develop their language skills and understand other cultures. So bring languages to life in your classroom and apply to host a language assistant in 2026-27!

Applications open 25 February and close 30 April (for Chinese Language Assistants the closing date is 1 April 2026).

Visit the British Council website for more information.

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17 February 2026 (Goethe-Institut)

The Goethe-Institut offers a range of opportunities and materials to support the teaching of German language and culture. Follow the appropriate link below to find out more about upcoming initiatives:

• Wuschel - an immersive exhibition for primary schools exploring the creative world of Axel Scheffler. Along the way, pupils will pick up German words, though no prior knowledge of German is required, making the exhibition suitable for all primary schools. The exhibition can be experienced either on-site as a German Day at the Goethe-Institut London or as an exhibition kit directly at your school.
  
• German Days at the Goethe-Institut Glasgow - groups of school pupils can experience a taster day, a workshop on culture and society or a careers event (note a small charge per pupil applies)
• Gimagine Award - offers an introduction to the German language while at the same time promoting global awareness and intercultural skills and can be used as option for fulfilling the Skills Section of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (“DofE”)
• Accompanying teacher for the International German Olympiad 2026 - German teachers from UK state schools can apply to chaperone the two finalists for the IDO taking place in Mannheim this July
• German Clubs - discover club materials and support to help you start a German club.

17 February 2026 (BBC)

The BBC's most expensive Gaelic TV drama is to return for a second series, it has been confirmed.

An t-Eilean (The Island), which cost more than £1m per episode to make, was a four-part thriller from BBC Alba centred around a murder investigation.

The show was the BBC's first Gaelic language crime drama and starred Sorcha Groundsell - who grew up in Lewis and Glasgow - and Harrow-born Sagar Radia.

Scenes were filmed in Lewis, Harris and Glasgow and the first series was aired early last year.

Related articles:

Scotland's first big-budget Gaelic drama greenlit for return (The Herald, 17 February 2026) - Note, subscription required to access full article.

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17 February 2026 (Institut français)

The Institut français d’Ecosse receives numerous requests from French junior and high schools asking to put them in touch with Scottish schools that might be interested in exchanges whether physical or virtual.

As you know, exchanges give concrete meaning to foreign language learning, as learners communicate with their peers, which boosts motivation. In addition, regular interactions (virtual or physical) improve fluency and confidence in speaking. Finally, as part of the Curriculum for Excellence, which aims to develop responsible citizens and confident individuals, school partnerships promote student autonomy, empathy and collaboration, and are a wonderful opportunity for cultural enrichment.

Do you teach French? Do you want to give opportunities to your learners to encourage them with their learning of the language and culture? Why not envisage a partnership with a French school?

For further information, please contact Charlotte HYVERNAUD, Education Attaché at the Institut français d’Ecosse : charlotte.hyvernaud@institu-francais.org.uk

17 February 2026 (DfE)

The DfE has released a recording of a live Q&A webinar on YouTube for any schools considering applying for funding from the Turing Scheme for potential international visits.

• Schools Q&A webinar

The application window portal and supporting guidance is available on the Turing Scheme website. The deadline for all applications is 16:00 on Monday 16 March 2026.

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17 February 2026 (CISS)

A huge thank you and well done to everyone who submitted a poster! We loved seeing everyone’s brilliant designs, and we received so many fantastic entries that the judges had a hard time picking just a few in each age category! We’ve therefore also selected some highly commended entries to recognise the talent and creativity we saw.

View the winning entries on the Confucius Institute for Scotland's Schools (CISS) website.

Read more...

17 February 2026 (SCILT)

Virtual Exchange Teachers is an award-winning innovative and international partnership project linking Scottish pupils with postgraduate student teachers from partner universities in China. Scottish schools can now register interest in the next block of the Mandarin Virtual Exchange Teacher programme, beginning w/c Monday 27 April until w/c Monday 15 June. Over eight weeks, classes will be allocated a pair of student teachers who will work with their class to delivery weekly live streamed Mandarin lessons. The project provides classes for beginner level 1, 2, & 3. The courses are suitable as L3 provision for BGE pupils in P5-7, as well as being suitable for Secondary BGE learners.

There will be an online information meeting (with a choice of two dates in February/March), to give an overview of the course and what is required of Scottish class teachers. Attendance at an information meeting is a requirement to participate in the programme, with the exception of teachers who have previously attended an information session and/or taken part in the VET programme within the last year. Teachers who are new to the programme are required to attend the meeting, even if the school has taken part previously.

Interested teachers should fill out the registration form. More information about the programme can be found on the SCILT website, and any questions can be directed to scilt-chinese@strath.ac.uk

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12 February 2026 (The Tab)

Another language has disappeared from a UK university timetable. This time it was beginner’s Czech at Bristol, cut due to “low uptake”. But this isn’t just about one module, it’s about the steady decline of modern languages nationwide, and what that means for the future of a supposedly “global” Britain.

Last summer, first year Russian students at the University of Bristol who had chosen to study beginner’s Czech as an optional unit received an email announcing the discontinuation of the module. The email referred to a “lack of student interest” as the motive behind this decision (the modern languages faculty requires that optional language units must receive a minimum cohort of 15 students in order for them to run), a seemingly permanent cut to the Slavonic studies programme.

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12 February 2026 (Qualifications Scotland)

Recruitment for the 2026 National Qualification exams is underway, with opportunities available across all subjects and levels including modern languages.

Approximately 11,000 markers are required. Markers play a key role in supporting the exam diet, ensuring the consistent application of national standards. Marking also provides the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge and gather evidence for continuing professional development. Full training and support is provided.

To find out more about the marker role or to apply, please visit the Qualifications Scotland website.

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12 February 2026 (SCILT)

Sustainable Designs for Living and Learning (SDLL) is an interdisciplinary research project led by the University of Glasgow and SCILT at the University of Strathclyde. The project promotes creative and multilingual approaches to Learning for Sustainability, underpinned by ethics of Permaculture: Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share.

We are now moving into Year 2 and are looking for a diverse range of 10 primary schools to work with us. Participating schools will:

• take part in professional learning for teachers
• trial arts-based activities with learners to support languages taught and represented in their classrooms
• collaborate to co-create learning framework
• support learners in developing their language skills and global citizenship

Each school involved will receive £5,000 to support their participation in the project. You can follow SDLL’s progress on our blog and website.

To register your interest, please complete this short form by close of business Friday 27 March 2026.

12 February 2026 (University of Edinburgh)

During February/March the following events relating to Japan are taking place in Edinburgh. Follow the appropriate link for more details/registration:

• Remembered: Hiroshima and Nagasaki Exhibition (16 February - 31 March) - as part of the exhibition there is an Opening Talk and Origami Workshop on 16 February, 4-6pm. Free but registration is required.
• "The Great Wave" Spin Off: The Profound Sound of the Shakuhachi (20 February, 5.30-6.30pm) - this special musical event, a spin-off from the new opera "The Great Wave", will feature a shakuhachi lecture and performance by shakuhachi player Shozan Hasegawa. The lecture will be mainly presented in Japanese with English translations.
  

12 February 2026 (SCILT)

Do you have a story to share with the languages community?

We are currently taking submissions for our spring 2026 newsletter. This is a great opportunity to promote what has been happening in your school or local authority with regard to languages. This is a chance to showcase innovative projects, language learning celebrations or initiatives which have taken place since our last submission date in October. We would love to hear from, or your pupils!

We are looking for articles of a maximum of 300 words, with a couple of colourful photos. The deadline for contributions is Friday 13 March 2026.

Visit our website to read the full submission guidelines, and to view previous editions of the newsletter. Submissions can be sent to scilt@strath.ac.uk. 

Read more...

10 February 2026 (The Guardian)

Now, Gary, repeat after me: Quiero una margarita, por favor,” my Spanish tutor instructs. I cringe at the butchered Spanglish my estuary accent produces. Like Del Boy Trotter ordering a cocktail: “Key – yeah – row oon margari’a, pour far four.”

It’s 2023, I’m 41, living in Argentina and battling the frustration and disempowerment of learning a new language at this age, longing for my elastic 11-year-old brain over this husked-out mush. I’m also wishing, for the umpteenth time, that I was taught Spanish instead of French at school.

Not to throw shade on French: it’s a beautiful language, and I studied it until my first year at university. I even worked in Nice for three summers. But Spanish would have really set me up for life – and that is even more true for today’s students.

Related articles:

Español o français? Learn a language because you love it, not because it’s useful (The Guardian, 16 February 2026) - response from readers

Read more...

6 February 2026 (The Herald)

Researchers at a Scottish university are to lead a new, multi-million pound research project into language learning in schools, The Herald can exclusively reveal.

The ground-breaking study from the University of Stirling will examine the educational, economic, social and cultural factors that impact on language learning, analysing the different approaches and outcomes in Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

(Note - registration required to access full article)

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10 February 2026 (University of Edinburgh)

Babble, the University of Edinburgh language student magazine, will be delighted to showcase collective essays written by S6 learners from any Scottish schools in its annual supplement from this year onward.

This year's themes will be "friendship" and "nature", so any essays written in Chinese, German, French, Italian or Spanish and related to these are welcomed.

If you want to see what it looks like, take a look at the last Babble supplement.

Deadline: 28 February 2026.

If want to submit an article, please contact Sylvain Blanche at sblanche@ed.ac.uk

10 February 2026 (The Conversation)

If you’re bilingual, moral choices can often feel more urgent and emotionally charged in one language yet distant and rational in another. This raises an intriguing question: does language merely shape how we express our thoughts, or can it also influence what we judge to be right or wrong?

Our research team has explored this question, looking not just at how moral decision-making is influenced by the language a person uses, but also by their underlying cognitive and emotional abilities.

By examining factors such as working memory and emotional intelligence along with language background, our research moves beyond the idea of a simplistic “foreign language effect” and offers a more nuanced picture of how bilingual minds navigate the balance between emotion and cognition when facing moral dilemmas.

Read more...

9 February 2026 (The Herald)

Dynamic Earth is taking a bold step towards inclusion.

From March 1, 2026, the Edinburgh science centre will offer daily British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted shows in its planetarium, becoming one of the first in the UK to do so.

The BSL-interpreted experiences will include live astronomy shows developed by Dynamic Earth’s in-house team.

The initiative is supported by the Birkdale Trust and aims to make science accessible to more people.

Read more...

8 February 2026 (The Herald)

Academics and business leaders have called for an “urgent review of languages provision” in an effort to protect its “sustainability” in schools, The Herald can exclusively reveal.

In an open letter to Scotland’s political parties, the group argues that Scotland “leads the way in the UK” in terms of its “vision and ambition” for language learning, but warns that outcomes have not always matched the rhetoric.

Related articles:

In depth: language learning in Scotland's schools (The Herald, 8 February 2026)

(Note - Registration required to access full articles).

Read more...

6 February 2026 (Ayr Advertiser / Glasgow Times)

Discover how some primary learners in Scotland celebrated LWS:

• St Patrick's Primary celebrates diversity and language (Ayr Advertiser, 6 February)
• Children in Hamilton take part in French postcard contest (Glasgow Times, 5 Feb)

6 February 2026 (SCILT)

With Languages Week Scotland 2026 championing diverse voices, common ground, the SCILT/Education Scotland team that brings you Scotland’s Languages Leadership Programme (SLLP) is excited to announce that the very first SLLP Reunion Year will run in academic session 2026-27.

We are keen to support ongoing leadership development with language champions who have been through any iteration of the programme since 2014, whether in person or online, with or without GTCS Professional Recognition. All alums welcome.

From summer 2026 onwards, plans we currently have in the pipeline include:

• Connect and reconnect with the ever-expanding SLLP family
• Continue occasional online twilights in conversation with inspiring speakers
• Publish monthly newsletters, disseminate information and opportunities
• Host in person SLLP Alum get-togethers around the country
• Explore our own language leadership stories through a collaborative enquiry

If you took part in the SLLP (aka 1+2 LLP or TTT) at any time between 2014 and 2024/25 and you wish to join or rejoin the SLLP Alums Network, please email your Glow address to scilt@strath.ac.uk and we will join you to the network’s Team.

Any suggestions you have for other activities, big or small, that you would like to see feature in SLLP Reunion Year 2026-27, please get in touch with the SCILT inbox at the above email.

6 February 2026 (SCILT)

SCILT would love to hear from schools and other organisations about how they celebrated Languages Week Scotland!

Please complete this form with details of your activities, or you can email SCILT (scilt@strath.ac.uk). We will feature all submissions on the Languages Week Scotland website and selected articles in the next SCILT newsletter. It’s a great opportunity to promote the great work you are doing to promote languages!

Visit the Languages Week Scotland website and discover how the Week was celebrated across the country!

6 February 2026 (SCILT)

SCILT is delighted to offer all primary and secondary state schools the opportunity to have a Chinese language assistant teacher in their school/cluster free of charge in 2026-27!

Your teacher could help deliver L3 Mandarin to primary and secondary BGE classes, lead IDL projects such as Eco Learning Partners (ELP) organise live-link ups with Chinese schools, team teach with Virtual Exchange Teachers (VETs), team teach with your own staff, work with small groups for speaking activities, support senior phase learners with preparation for NQs alongside the Discovering China programme. This exciting opportunity could complement or supplement any existing Mandarin provision you have. Having a Mandarin language assistant teacher could revolutionise your L3 provision next year.

For more information contact scilt-chinese@strath.ac.uk for more details.

5 February 2026 (Civil Service Languages Network)

British Council, GCHQ and the Civil Service Languages Network are working together to promote language learning among pupils in UK schools.

Your S2/S3 pupils, who will be choosing their N5s, and S4/S5 students, prior to choosing their Highers/AH, are invited to our open, online events – see dates below. There, they will hear from speakers with different roles across government who have used languages in their career, and how either studying a language in school, or speaking a heritage language, has enriched their life and career. Pupils will have the chance to ask the speakers questions (via their teacher) through a Q&A session.

You can see some example videos here:

Rosemary Pennells (British Embassy Tokyo) S2/S3

Nerys Jones (British Embassy Berlin) S4/S5 Government Languages Outreach talk

The online events are free of charge, and if you are unable to attend the events, there are recordings which you can use instead.

To express interest, and help us keep in touch, please complete the form

We look forward to welcoming your pupils to our events!

Spring term 2026:

S2/S3 - Tuesday 10 February, 09:15-10:15

Summer term 2026:

S2/S3 - Monday 29 June, 09:00-10:00

S4/S5 - Wednesday 1 July, 09:00-10:00

Future events are also planned for both age categories during the Autumn term and into 2027. These can also be seen/selected via the expression of interest form.

Read more...

5 February 2026 (Alliance Française)

The Alliance Française in Glasgow offers a wide range of French courses for adults, children and teens. Registration is now open for courses taking place February-March. Follow the appropriate ink to find out more and to sign up:

• Adult conversation and revision courses
• Exam preparation courses (for National 5 and Higher students of French)
• DELF/DALF exams and preparation courses

Visit the Alliance Française Glasgow website for more information about all the activities they provide.

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5 February 2026 (Consejería de Educación)

The Spanish Education Office reminds teachers of its wide range of resources and opportunities for teachers and learners of Spanish, available during Languages Week and throughout the year.

You can find out more in the attached documents.

5 January 2026 (SCILT)

TOIIS is a professional network for teachers of Italian working in schools across Scotland. Join to receive updates on online network meetings, our first in-person event in February, and other opportunities, resources and news to support Italian teaching.

3 February 2026 (Scottish Book Trust)

Each month the Scottish Book Trust invites writers of all ages to submit a story of no more than 50 words on a particular theme.

This month entrants must write a story about a fox. There is a category for entries in Gaelic. Submission deadline: 24 February.

Visit the Scottish Book Trust website for full details.

Read more...

3 February 2026 (UK-German Connection)

UK-German Connection offers a range of activities and funding to support partnerships between schools in the UK and Germany. Follow the appropriate link below to find out more about their current initiatives:

• School partnerships bursaries - UK schools and colleges can apply for up to £1000 in funding to support direct contact and collaborative engagement between the young people from both countries. Apply by 16 February 2026.
• Funding - Grants are available on a rolling deadline for schools and youth groups with a partner in Germany for planning visits and joint thematic projects.
• German Pupil Courses 2026 - Year 10 and Year 12 pupils (and equivalent in Scotland and Northern Ireland) can spend two immersive weeks experiencing life in Germany whilst enhancing their cultural knowledge and language skills. Apply by 4 March 2026.
• German Pupil Course Group Leaders - Secondary teachers of German can also experience the immersion and excitement by acting as Group Leader. This paid role involves accompanying a group of motivated young people to Germany whilst engaging in international professional development and enhancing your leadership skills.

Visit the UK-German Connection website to find out about all the activities they provide.

Read more...

3 February 2026 (Japan Foundation)

The latest JFF Theater line-up is here. Watch a fantastic new selection of Japanese films online for free!

Visit the JFF Theater website for full details.

Knowing me, Knowing you, the Japan Foundation's Touring Film Programme 2026 is also kicking off this week. Running from 6 February to 31 March visit the Touring Film Programme website for details of what's screening near you!

3 February 2026 (Japan Foundation)

Applications for JaLaChamp 2026 are still open! JaLaChamp, or Japanese Language Championship for Young Learners UK, is a contest for primary and secondary school students studying Japanese.

There are two categories with two different application deadlines:

• The Speech Category for secondary school students studying Japanese: Deadline: Tuesday 3 March, 3pm
• The Video Category for primary and secondary school students, including those studying Japanese at all levels and heritage language speakers: Deadline: Tuesday 10 March, 3pm

Visit the Japan Foundation website to find out more about this year's contest and to apply.

Read more...

30 January 2026 (SCILT)

Discover the World of Arabic with your P5-P7 class!

Imagine your pupils confidently greeting each other in Arabic, exploring ancient souks through virtual tours, or discovering the fascinating science and stories of the Arab world. This immersive experience is within easy reach for your classroom.

SCILT, in partnership with QFI, have now opened registrations to local authority primary schools for our Discovering the World of Arabic programme in 2026-27. Designed specifically for P5-P7 learners in Scotland, this programme makes introducing a critical world language engaging, effective, and simple for teachers.

Why Choose This Programme for Your Class?

• Engage with a Global Language: Give your learners a solid foundation in the world’s 5th most spoken language, opening doors to future opportunities.
• Truly Interdisciplinary Learning: Our 10-week blocks are more than vocabulary. Pupils explore Arab cultures, geography, history, and arts, enriching your classroom’s global perspective.
• Built for Teachers, by Teachers: All courses are developed and delivered by experienced, fluent Arabic-speaking teachers. We provide the expertise so you can enjoy the learning journey alongside your class.
• Flexible & Supported: Choose a beginner or post-beginner course, and select a term that suits you (Term 1: Sep-Dec or Term 2: Jan-Mar). Live lessons are scheduled on Thursdays or Fridays.

Participating primary schools will receive:

• Weekly live, interactive online lessons via Glow Teams.
• A loan box of authentic artefacts to bring culture to life in your classroom.
• Asynchronous materials on Glow Teams for consolidation and flexibility.
• Dedicated funding: New schools receive a start-up grant of £1000, and returning schools get continuation funding of £500. Schools can bid for further funding to provide resources and experiences that enhance the language learning and promote a positive experience of Arab cultures.
• Ongoing support from the SCILT Arabic team.

Don’t just take our word for it:

“The materials... were great, the workbooks were very useful. The mix of live and recorded sessions was a good idea.” – Participating Teacher

“We really like the box of resources. We liked learning about the different colours and clothes!” – Pupil Feedback

To secure this unique opportunity for your pupils, please complete our short Registration of Interest Form by Friday, 24 April 2026. Please email us at SCILT-Arabic@strath.ac.uk  if you have any questions. 

Open the door to curiosity, connection, and global skills for your class. We can’t wait to learn with you!

Read more...

30 January 2026 (SCILT)

For Secondary Schools: Discover the World of Arabic in 2026/27!

SCILT, in partnership with QFI, has now opened registrations to local authority secondary schools for our Discovering the World of Arabic programme 2026-27. With courses designed specifically for BGE and Senior Phase learners, this programme offers a chance to engage in a truly unique and valuable L3 experience.

Why Arabic? Why Now?

Arabic is the world’s fifth most spoken language, a key to a region of immense cultural, economic, and geopolitical significance. Our programme moves beyond textbooks to develop practical, conversational skills that enhance global awareness and, for Senior Phase learners, boost employability and university portfolios.

Choose what best fits your timetable:

• BGE or Senior Phase Course (Sept-Mar): A deeper, skill-building journey co-created with language specialists.
• Shorter Introductory Course (8 weeks, by arrangement): A perfect taster to ignite interest in Arabic language and cultures.

Participating schools will receive:

• Live Lessons: A dedicated, weekly online lesson with highly experienced and qualified Arabic teachers via Glow Teams, scheduled at a mutually agreed time.
• Engaging Asynchronous Materials: Flexible resources to consolidate learning and encourage independent exploration.
• Dedicated funding: New schools receive a start-up grant of £1000, and returning schools get continuation funding of £500. Schools can bid for further funding to provide resources and experiences that enhance the language learning and promote a positive experience of Arab cultures.
• Future-Ready Skills: Focus on conversational ability and cultural insight, preparing learners for a globalised world.

Our courses are designed for non-heritage, beginner learners seeking to stand out. Whether starting with our Beginner course or advancing with the Post-Beginner level, learners build a solid linguistic foundation while exploring the vibrant diversity of Arab cultures.

To apply, please complete our Registration of Interest Form by Friday, 24 April 2026. Please email us at SCILT-Arabic@strath.ac.uk  if you have any questions. 

Expand your learners’ language skills and build their intercultural competence. Start their Arabic journey with us!

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29 January 2026 (British Council)

This unique programme from the British Council supports UK schools to build lasting international partnerships with schools in Ukraine, and explore reading as a tool to expand horizons, build confidence and boost mental wellbeing.

Schools work together on activities to encourage reading for pleasure, building an understanding of each other’s cultures through a common love for reading.

The programme offers full support and resources, including specialist resources on the theme of reading for pleasure and Ukrainian language and culture, created by the British Council and the National Literacy Trust.  

Visit the British Council website for more information and to apply by 2 March 2026.

Read more...

29 January 2026 (British Council)

Each February, as part of British Council's Festival of Languages, we invite pupils to Celebrate Speaking.

Encourage your pupils to showcase their language skills by posting a short video of them singing, talking or reciting in a language they are learning at school or one they speak in their community on social media.

Remember to use #CelebrateSpeaking so we can see your contribution!

Find out more on the British Council website.

Read more...

29 January 2026 (SCILT)

Scottish schools can now register interest in the next block of the Mandarin Virtual Exchange Teacher programme, beginning w/c Monday 27 April until w/c Monday 15 June. Over eight weeks, classes will be allocated a pair of student teachers who will work with their class to delivery weekly live streamed Mandarin lessons. The project provides classes for beginner level 1, 2, & 3. The courses are suitable as L3 provision for BGE pupils in P5-7, as well as being suitable for Secondary BGE learners.

There will be an online information meeting (with a choice of two dates in February/March), to give an overview of the course and what is required of Scottish class teachers. Attendance at an information meeting is a requirement to participate in the programme, with the exception of teachers who have previously attended an information session and/or taken part in the VET programme within the last year. Teachers who are new to the programme are required to attend the meeting, even if the school has taken part previously.

Interested teachers should fill out the registration form. More information about the programme can be found on the SCILT website, or via the attached flyer, and any questions can be directed to scilt-chinese@strath.ac.uk.

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29 January 2026 (ISPS)

International School Partnerships Scotland (ISPS) are delighted to be working with Challenges Abroad to introduce exciting overseas opportunities for senior phase learners across Scotland. Programmes with Challenges Abroad cover a range of skills development in line with national SDE, Global Citizenship and Language Learning priorities. Placements can include studying with partner schools, working on community action projects, sustainability challenges, teaching and more.

Challenges Abroad offer full support to schools who want to apply for UK Government funding to enable learners with fewer opportunities to benefit from these life changing international experiences. There’s a helpful guide to Turing Scheme funding for 2026/27, covering everything from eligibility to full project management support. Get in touch to discuss how Challenges Abroad can help get your bid in shape before the March deadline! See the Challenges Abroad Turing Scheme website for details.

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29 January 2026 (SCILT)

We have not one but two exciting events coming up for you!

1. Monday 23 February @ 4.15 – 5.15: Join us for the online launch of our new French teachers' association for primary, secondary and tertiary education in Scotland! Come along to meet one another and discuss plans for the Teachers of French in Scotland association, otherwise known as TOFIS! Sign up on Eventbrite.

2. Monday 22 June @ University of Aberdeen: save the date and venue for the third edition of The Future of French en Écosse forum! More information and registration link to follow soon.

22 January 2026 (UK Government)

Applications for this year of the Turing Scheme will open at 12pm noon on Monday 26 January. The deadline for applications will be 4pm on Monday 16 March.

Supporting new and returning applicants for funding

YouTube videos and Q&A webinars are now available for viewing and signing up to. These will be available on the DfE Sector Comms YouTube channel: DfE Sector Comms - YouTube.

An introduction to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27

The introduction to the Turing Scheme videos are aimed at providers and staff within providers who have not previously applied for Turing Scheme funding for Higher Education. There is one for each sector. Potential applicants should watch those relevant to the sector(s) they are considering applying for funding under:

An introduction to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27 for Schools

An introduction to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27 for further education

An introduction to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27 for Higher Education

Changes to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27

This video provides an overview of changes to the policy and assessment of applications for the Turing Scheme in the 2026-27 academic year. It is intended for those familiar with the operation of the Scheme and covers all sectors:

Changes to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27

Turing Scheme 2026-27 Applying and Assessment

This video covers the application journey and key dates, what to include in your application, how assessment works and what strong responses look like.

Providers should watch this video after viewing the relevant Introduction to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27 (if they are new to the Scheme) or Changes to the Turing Scheme for 2026-27 (if they are already familiar with the Scheme).

Turing Scheme 2026-27 Applying and Assessment

There will also be a live Q&A webinar for each sector. Providers can sign up to the Q&A webinar for your sector(s) on Eventbrite.

Recordings of these live webinars will be made available on YouTube following these events.

Further guidance on the Turing Scheme is available on the UK government website.

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20 January 2026 (NE Festival of Languages)

The annual North East Festival of Languages is well underway!

Taking place 6 January to 31 March there's a wide range of FREE events and activities available for children and young people aged 3-18. Whilst some of the initiatives are only open to schools based in the North East of England, there are many online activities, competitions and celebrations available to schools across the UK. Design a German Karneval mask, help Ursa Lingua the polar bear escape from a castle, explore multilingualism and migration, open a culture box of Asian and Chinese arts and culture, dive into African languages and cultures, engage with food on film and digital stories from around the world, immerse yourselves in Afro-Ecuadorian fairytales, access World Cup French lessons or Spanish Cinema in the classroom or have fun with Japanese and French Puppet Shows...there's something for everyone! 

Visit the Festival website for full programme details. You can also explore the Festival offerings by age, category or language.

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20 January 2026 (Languagenut)

Languagenut is proud to host the Euroquiz vocab again on our platform, designed specifically to help Scottish primary schools prepare for the annual Euroquiz competition.

Last year, we had the opportunity to attend the quiz and hear firsthand from teachers and pupils about how invaluable it was to have the key vocabulary on our platform. The interactive, multisensory tools on Languagenut make it easy for learners to practice and master the vocabulary they need for the quiz rounds. With personalised learning pathways, they can progress at their own pace and feel fully prepared for the challenge.

For more information or for a full demo, please contact: ana@languagenut.com

15 January 2026 (SCILT)

SCILT’s 2025-26 menu of professional learning workshops is available to book throughout the year.

Free to book for groups of primary or secondary teachers working in local authority schools. Sessions are designed and facilitated by our friendly and experienced Professional Development Officers.  

Select a workshop from the menu below, or request a bespoke input tailored to your audience – the choice is yours. Choose your workshop theme(s), pick your dates and submit your workshop request. We’ll confirm arrangements with you promptly.  

These workshops offer a chance for groups of colleagues to dive into professional learning that explores engaging language pedagogies and examples of current practice.  

Requests from professional learning leads in schools, clusters, local authorities and SCIS welcomed all year round.

Primary 

• Developing a multilingual ethos in your primary school
• First steps in teaching primary languages
• Next steps in teaching primary languages
• Assessment as learning in primary languages
• Getting outdoors with primary languages

Secondary

• Teaching Sprints – Small change, big impact
• Developing a multilingual and multicultural ethos
• BYOW: Build Your Own Workshop!
• The Big Question

For workshop descriptors, and to book one or more session for the group of teachers that you support, find the link to the professional learning request form below.

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13 January 2026 (Seachdain na Gàidhlig)

Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week) is set to grow for the fifth consecutive year as it launches its funded programme of events.

Taking place from 23 February – 1 March 2026, the annual initiative is this year supporting 63 projects and events, with hundreds more expected to be staged across the week with everything from film screening and bingo to dance and walking events, all with the Gaelic language at their heart.

The 2026 theme, Use It or Lose It (Cleachd i no caill i), emphasises the importance of actively using Gaelic to keep it thriving. So visit the Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week) website to find out what's happening and how to get involved!

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12 December 2025 (King's College London)

The 2026 writing competitions run by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures at King’s College London have now launched!

There are four competitions relating to the following subject areas:

• French
• German
• Spanish & Portuguese
• Comparative Literature

Entries are welcomed from students in Year 12 or 13 (or equivalent). Students may be studying for their A-levels, International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers or an equivalent qualification.

The deadline for submission of entries is 23 February 2026.

Visit the website for full details and entry forms.

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9 December 2025 (NE Festival of Languages)

Taking place 6 January to 31 March the annual North East Festival of Languages is now open for advance registrations with FREE events and activities for children and young people aged 3-18.

Whilst some of the initiatives are only open to schools based in the North East of England, there are many online activities available to schools across the UK.

Visit the Festival website for full programme details. You can also explore the Festival offerings by age, category or language.

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5 December 2025 (SCILT)

Bookings are now open for four in person workshops for in- and pre-service primary teachers. Taking place at, or close to SCILT HQ in central Glasgow, each workshop focuses on a different aspect of pedagogy. Our experienced Professional Development Officers and enthusiastic invited speakers support you to develop practice related to the home and taught languages in your context. 

Informed by the latest guidance and examples of current practice.

• 24 February - Developing a multilingual ethos in your primary school
• 18 March - First steps in teaching primary languages
• 23 April - Next steps in teaching primary languages
• 19 May - Getting outdoors with primary languages

Registrations for all workshops are open now via the links above. Please also see attached flyer which can be shared with your networks. 

25 September 2025 (Seachdain na Gàidhlig | World Gaelic Week)

Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week), will take place Monday 23 February to Sunday 1 March 2026.

This year’s theme is 'Cleachd i no caill i' (Use it or lose it), and we’d be delighted if you would join us in celebrating Gaelic across Scotland and around the world.

Information sessions

If you’re curious about how to get involved, we are hosting free online sessions for anyone wishing to find out more about the week. Whether you’re planning an event, applying to the Small Grants Fund, or just want to learn what’s happening, these sessions are the best place to start.

Register here → Seisean fiosrachaidh • Information Session

Small Grants Fund

Thanks to continued support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, our Small Grants Fund is open once again. Awards of up to £500 are available to support projects and events taking place during Seachdain na Gàidhlig 2026. Applications should show how they reflect this year’s theme.

• Deadline: Friday 31 October 2025
• Read the guidance
• Apply online

Schools programme

We’ll once again be offering a series of free, interactive online sessions for schools. These have proved hugely popular, with thousands of pupils taking part each year. Teachers can find details and book via our website. 

Stay connected

Our posts will be over on Facebook, TikTok, Twitter and Instagram (@sngaidhlig) - we’d really appreciate if you could give them a share/like and use #SeachdainNaGàidhlig2026. 

Our website is now fully updated with resources, ideas, and this year’s theme. We’d encourage you to take a look, download materials, and share them with your networks.

• Visit the website
• Subscribe to our newsletter 

We very much hope you’ll be part of Seachdain na Gàidhlig 2026 - whether by hosting an event, taking part in our schools programme, or spreading the word in your community.

5 September 2025 (SCILT)

SCILT’s ECT Primary Languages Signpost Sessions are online, free of charge and open to newly or recently qualified primary teachers working in Scottish schools and to student primary teachers studying at Scottish universities.

Our Signpost Sessions are for you if are looking for:

• advice on how to support multilingual pupils and their families
• strategies for teaching additional languages
• the chance to network informally with others at a similar career stage from across the country

Each Signpost Session is themed, informal and will point you in the right direction for free resources, up-to-date guidance and practical teaching ideas. Sign up for as many sessions as you like:

• Wednesday 24 September, 16:00–17:00 - Developing a multilingual ethos in your primary class
• Wednesday 26 November, 16:00–16:45 - First steps in teaching primary languages
• Wednesday 28 January, 16:00 -16:45 - Digital tools for primary languages
• Wednesday 25 March, 16:00–16:45 - Getting outdoors with primary languages
• Wednesday 27 May, 16:00–16:45 - Next steps in teaching primary languages

Registration closes two days before each session, and the online link to join via MS Teams will be sent out one day in advance. These sessions will not be recorded.

Register via the link below. Please also find attached flyer which can be shared with colleagues. 

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