Accreditation UK: what accreditation means and how we can help you achieve it
Accreditation UK is the principal quality assurance scheme for the English language teaching industry in the UK and is managed by the British Council in association with English UK. Accreditation under the scheme demonstrates that a provider has achieved professional standards in its internal management, teaching, resources, environment, student welfare and safeguarding of under 18s. The scheme's requirements are among the most rigorous in the world.
It is one of the Home Office approved inspection schemes for providers that only wish to teach students under the short-term student visa route for English language courses lasting up to 11 months.
English language providers must be accredited under this scheme before applying to join English UK.
Note: The Accreditation UK scheme is not valid for centres wishing to sponsor students under Tier 4. In order to apply for a Tier 4 licence, providers will need to be inspected by an educational oversight body such as the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). If you need assistance with an inspection for educational oversight please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Achieving accreditation: how we can help
English UK offers an independent consultancy service to advise English language providers on how to manage the accreditation process successfully and achieve the best possible outcome. The Accreditation Consultancy Service (ACS) is aimed at new and established providers teaching English as a foreign language.
The expert team of English UK consultants is managed by Huan Japes, the membership director. Our consultants have a wealth of knowledge and experience of all types of ELT provision and will help you prioritise when preparing for inspection.
There are three types of consultancy service to choose from:
1. A thorough review of the inspection documentation including policies, publicity materials and staff qualifications together with a follow-up report
2. A one-day consultancy visit with follow-up report
3. A two day consultancy with follow up report combining the document review and one-day visit.
In addition, English UK can provide a bespoke service to meet the specific needs of your centre – e.g. the consultant works with you to produce and edit the required documentation. Please contact us for further information and costs.
All subscribers will get:
- A pre-consultancy appraisal, usually by telephone
- Continuing access to advice up to the date of inspection
- The opportunity to attend English UK conferences and training events at member prices.
Applying for the Accreditation Consultancy Service
Any questions?
Contact Naadiya Rawat for more information.
