The UK government’s Turing Scheme is set to provide over 40,000 people across the country with the opportunity to study or work abroad in more than 160 destinations worldwide. Starting in September, disadvantaged students will take up two-thirds of the international study and work opportunities available through the scheme.
The Turing Scheme aims to widen access to international opportunities in education and training. In the next academic year, it will offer more than 22,800 Higher Education placements, over 6,700 school placements, and more than 10,500 Further Education and Vocational Education and Training placements. Universities, colleges, and schools across the UK will receive a share of almost £105 million to provide placements for their students.
The number of placements for people from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds has increased from 51% last year to nearly two-thirds this year, helping to drive social mobility in parts of the UK where there have been fewer opportunities to work and study abroad. In Further Education, the allocation for disadvantaged students is even higher, making up 71% of placements in the sector.
Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships, and Higher Education Robert Halfon stated that the Turing Scheme is extending the ladder of opportunity for more young people to experience other cultures and learn vital skills for life and work, regardless of their background. With a nearly 50% increase in the number of successful applications and around 1,800 additional learners from disadvantaged backgrounds in the Further Education sector compared to last year, the scheme is driving social mobility.
Participants in the Turing Scheme will benefit from inspirational placements around the world, building the confidence they need for their future while supporting the government’s ambition for a Global Britain. The scheme is open to education providers and other eligible organizations across the UK to provide international opportunities for their students, forming part of the government’s ambition to create a truly Global Britain.
