The Turing Scheme provides funding for UK organisations to unlock life-changing experiences across the world for their pupils, students and learners.
The UK no longer takes part in the Erasmus+ Programme due to Brexit. However, the UK Government has created a new programme, the Turing Scheme, that permits students to travel abroad (the scheme started in 2021) and replaces Erasmus+ projects. Schools, colleges and higher education providers can apply for funding for projects on behalf of their pupils, students and learners for the scheme. If you are based in one of these organisations, you may be eligible to take part. It doesn’t matter if you are a full or part-time student.
Participating in a Turing Scheme placement gives you the chance to develop new skills, gain vital international experience and boost your employability. You can also develop your professional practice, a wide range of soft skills, and language skills. You will build relationships with international peers and gain fresh ideas as well as a better understanding of other cultures.
When people gain access to international opportunities, everyone benefits. For organisations, it’s a chance to forge new relationships around the world. Institutions that host international students are simultaneously enriched by their presence, bringing different perspectives, strengthening international research, and building global networks of alumni.
Today, these international connections have never been more important. To take a statement from Alan Turing, “There is indeed plenty that needs to be done”. From the climate crisis to global recovery from Covid-19, international partnerships will be central to tackling the challenges that define modern times – partnerships often begin with these invaluable ties between people and places.
There is also great flexibility in the type and length of placements supported by Turing, allowing your school to plan trips which can be tailored to the specific needs of your pupils and curriculum.
Short-term placements range from three days to two months, with pupils travelling with their teachers and working together in the classroom with their counterparts from a school in another country or territory. These placements offer international learning experiences to develop an understanding of cultures and languages, and to help pupils acquire social and intercultural skills for their own personal development.
Additionally, pupils aged 14 or over can take part in a long-term placement of two to six months at a partner school, attending lessons, living with a host family and immersing themselves in school life in another country.
It should go without saying, that to fully realise the benefits of any placement and maximise on positive outcomes, host organisations must be chosen carefully, study abroad planned well and itineraries focused upon that include a good range of activities and experiences.
If all of the ingredients are in place, doubtless, you will agree that the huge benefits in taking part for your pupils and school certainly make it well worth taking the trouble to apply. Don’t forget to take advantage of the wealth of resources available at TravelEdventures along with a dedicated who can guide you through the process.
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