Tag: British Council

From Glasgow to Gujarat: Scottish teachers head to India to forge international links ahead of 2030 Commonwealth Games

A group of teachers from Glasgow will travel to Gujarat, India next week as part of a British Council initiative exploring education, culture and the role sport can play in learning, well-being and inclusion.

The Glasgow-Gujarat Teacher Mobility Programme is designed to extend learning beyond the classroom and strengthen international connections across the Commonwealth. The programme was inspired by this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and looks ahead to the Games taking place in Gujarat in 2030.

The teachers from Glasgow include:Ruth Cockburn from Highpark Primary School; Shaun Donnelly from Haghill Park Primary School; Nadine Fitchie from Cranhill Primary School; Carol Fawkes form Carmyle Primary School; Lewis Pollock from Pollokshields Primary School; James Prentice from St Patrick’s Primary School; alongside Samir Shah from Education Services Glasgow at Glasgow City Council.

They will take part in school visits, professional exchanges and meetings with senior government, education and sport stakeholders to explore topics such as sports education, inclusive education practices and the use of digital learning resources.

At the heart of the Programme is a commitment to reciprocal learning. Teachers and education leaders from both Glasgow and Gujarat will exchange ideas, experiences and approaches, including how the Commonwealth Games can be used as a catalyst for learning. This will ensure both communities benefit from new perspectives and innovative approaches to education, sport and global citizenship.

The trip forms part of a wider Glasgow 2026 legacy designed to help ‘pass the baton’ from Glasgow to Gujarat and ensure that the benefits of the Games extend far beyond sport.

This follows the British Council’s recent Commonwealth Games Classroom Resource Pack aimed at helping young people feel connected to the Games and its values, their communities and the wider Commonwealth through activities exploring connection, fairness and inclusion.

The enduring impact of this year’s Commonwealth Games will equip the Scottish teachers with a deeper understanding of education and culture in India, enabling them to build lasting professional relationships with their Indian counterparts. This will support future partnerships and collaboration opportunities within their own schools and across Scotland’s wider education sector.

Claire de Braekeleer, Director, British Council Scotland, said of the programme: “The Glasgow-Gujarat Teacher Mobility Programme is a unique opportunity for teachers from Glasgow to share learnings and ideas from the 2026 Commonwealth Games with teachers and educators across the state of Gujarat.

“Sport has the power to do much more than bring people together on the playing field. It can support learning, inclusion, wellbeing and leadership, helping young people develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in an increasingly inter-connected world.

“At the heart of this programme is a commitment to mutual learning, and we hope the teachers in both Glasgow and Gujarat will gain fresh perspectives and share innovative approaches to benefit their own schools and communities.

“By bringing together schools, teachers and educators from across the Commonwealth, we can help create lasting connections that extend well beyond the classroom and contribute to the wider legacy of the Games.”

One of the participating teachers, Shaun Donnelly, said of the opportunity: “I’m a Principal Teacher, leading on literacy, phonics, and writing across my school and I was absolutely delighted to be chosen by the British Council for this experience.

“I work in a wonderfully diverse community in a historic part of Glasgow and my previous teaching experiences overseas have shaped how I think about curriculum and community. This is a brilliant opportunity to learn from practitioners in Gujarat ahead of the 2030 Commonwealth Games and to bring that learning back to my pupils in Glasgow.”

Another teacher, Nadine Fitchie, was thrilled to learn of her selection: “I was absolutely delighted and incredibly honoured to be selected for the Commonwealth Games Teacher Mobility Programme.

“Working in a community experiencing high levels of poverty has strengthened my commitment to equity and ensuring every child has access to opportunities that broaden their aspirations.

“It is a unique opportunity to learn from colleagues in India, develop international partnerships and bring innovative ideas back to my school.”

The Glasgow-Gujarat Teacher Mobility Programme is part of the British Council’s wider work building connections, understanding and trust between the UK and countries worldwide through arts and culture, education and the English language.

‘We read to know we are not alone’: A global reading adventure inviting everyone to get involved

  • To mark the National Year of Reading, the National Literacy Trust and the British Council are teaming up to set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for ‘The most people reading together online over 12 hours’ on 8 October
  • The new record will highlight the wellbeing benefits of reading in the run up to World Mental Health Day
  • A host of National Year of Reading ambassadors including Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Nathanael Lessore, David Larbi, Nadia Shireen, Ben Mercer, Alice Loxton and T.J. Power to take part
  • People wanting to get involved can sign up now

Children, young people and adults around the world are being invited to pause for 10 minutes and read together to experience the wellbeing benefits of reading for a brand-new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title taking place in the lead up to World Mental Health Day (10 October).

The new record for the ‘most people reading together online over 12 hours’ will be held on 8 October where schools, families and people in workplaces, libraries and community settings will be invited to take part in online events designed for different age groups: 5-8 years, 8-12 years, 12-16 years and 16+.

Each event will feature a special author or guest, alongside ten minutes of dedicated reading time, and the event for adults (suitable for ages 16+) will be hosted by BookTok personalities Coco Omer and Zubs J Malik with contributions from National Year of Reading ambassadors. Registration is now open, so people can sign up and get involved.

This marks a collaboration between The National Literacy Trust and the British Council in the National Year of Reading 2026.

Author, screen writer and National Year of Reading Ambassador Frank Cottrell-Boyce said: “What a treat it is to be part of this record attempt. Stories belong to the whole world – all our stories are shared, and that’s a wonderful thing.

“Some of the most important reading experiences of my life have been when someone else was reading to me – my dad, a teacher and, more recently, my own children.

“I’m honoured to be able to join in taking ten minutes to slow down, share a story and remind ourselves just how brilliant reading together can be.”

The new record attempt coincides with the National Literacy Trust’s annual #Take10toRead campaign which aims to make reading an accessible part of everyday life, while highlighting the opportunities reading can provide for relaxation, reflection, creativity, connection and exploring different perspectives.

The partnership with the British Council offers the opportunity to reach up to 700 million people across 150 countries around the world through its culture and educational networks, making the record attempt truly global.

David Hayman, Director of The National Year of Reading 2026, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with the British Council on this exciting GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title attempt during the National Year of Reading to take the National Literacy Trust’s Take 10 to Read campaign global.

“Take 10 to Read highlights the wellbeing benefits of reading and encourages people of all ages to take just 10 minutes to read in the run-up to and around World Mental Health Day.

“Together, we’ll create a shared reading moment that transcends borders and demonstrate the power of reading to bring people together, support wellbeing and inspire a lifelong love of reading. In the National Year of Reading, the message is simple: whatever you’re into, take 10 to read into it.”

Fiona Iglesias, Head of Schools at the British Council, said: The British Council is proud to be partnering with the National Literacy Trust as part of the National Year of Reading on this brand-new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title.

“By bringing together young people, educators, libraries and communities in a shared reading experience, we are celebrating the power of stories to unite people across borders.

“Reading has the power to inspire imagination, spark curiosity, broaden horizons and build understanding across countries and cultures.

“As an organisation committed to supporting peace and prosperity through cultural relations and educational opportunities, we are delighted to play a part in an initiative that brings people together through a shared love of reading and celebrates its ability to connect communities around the world.”

Global delegation scouts Edinburgh festivals to take UK shows overseas

26 commissioners, producers and arts leaders from 13 countries will travel to Edinburgh to discover UK theatre and dance with the potential to reach audiences in their countries

  • 26 leading international commissioners, producers and arts leaders will explore UK work at the Edinburgh Fringe and Edinburgh International festival.
  • The visit forms part of the British Council’s Edinburgh International Performing Arts Delegation.
  • More than four in five delegates from last year’s programme said they were likely to programme a UK production. 

Organised by the British Council, the Edinburgh International Performing Arts Delegation (IPAD) will connect delegates directly with UK artists and performing companies. 

Running from 19 to 26 August, the programme will give delegates access to performances across the festivals, alongside curated showcases, industry briefing and networking events.  

Journalist Lyn Gardner, who briefed last year’s delegation, said UK companies can be disadvantaged in comparison to international counterparts who have more funding and time to develop their work.

Edinburgh IPAD helps address this imbalance by connecting UK artists and companies with international decision-makers, creating opportunities for new commissions, touring partnerships, re-stagings and other international collaborations.

Previous editions have already helped UK work reach audiences worldwide. Recent outcomes include a Japanese tour for Ramesh Meyyappan’s Love Beyond, performances of Emma Frankland’s No Apologies across the Western Balkans and in Brazil, and a Spanish-language production of Karis Kelly’s Consumed in Venezuela.

This year’s delegation includes representatives from Australia, China, Egypt, India, Ireland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, the Philippines, South Korea, Spain, Ukraine and Venezuela.

Among them are three delegates from Ukraine, including Kyrylo Beskorovainyi, co-composer and writer of multi-award-winning musical, The Tiger Hunters.

A full list of the delegates and biographies can be found here.

The programme builds on the success of Edinburgh IPAD 2025, which in just six days saw 24 delegates from 15 countries make 448 new connections with UK artists, companies and industry professionals, and generate 124 expressions of interest in programming 27 UK productions internationally. 

More than four in five delegates said they were likely or very likely to programme a UK show following their visit, and more than half also expressed an interest in restaging productions or directing translated versions, creating long-term routes for UK work to reach international audiences without the financial and environmental costs of touring an entire company.

Every delegate surveyed said the programme had strengthened their understanding of contemporary UK performing arts, created new opportunities to connect with UK artists and made them more likely to pursue future collaborations. Delegates’ confidence in working with UK partners increased by 45%, while their understanding of the current UK theatre landscape rose by 53%.

Seung Mee Kim of South Korean performing arts company ARTIGO described the programme as “the most productive time in Edinburgh I’ve ever had”, adding that it had helped her understand the arts scenes across all four UK nations and connect with the right people.

Edinburgh IPAD coincides with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival, as well as three curated national showcases: Made in Scotland, Cymru Wales in Edinburgh and Spotlight on Theatre and Dance from Northern Ireland.

Together, these events give delegates direct access to the breadth of contemporary performance being created across the whole of the UK and enable international commissioners to discover, connect with and champion work for audiences around the world. 

Neil Webb, British Council Director of Theatre and Dance, said: “The Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival showcase some of the UK’s most exciting new performances.

“Edinburgh IPAD ensures their impact extends beyond August by connecting UK artists with international commissioners, creating lasting opportunities for their work to reach audiences around the world.” 

PICTURE: Emma Frankland’s “No Apologies” was performed in Brazil and across the Western Balkans following connections made through previous IPAD programmes. Photo: Matt Crockett

British Council goes All In to support Commonwealth Games 2026 with new classroom resources for schools

Ahead of this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the British Council has joined forces with children’s charity Youth Sport Trust to produce a new classroom resource pack for schools.

Designed to support learning and activities for young people, the pack celebrates the return of the Commonwealth Games to Glasgow this summer from 23 July – 2 August and the work of the Commonwealth to improve the lives of its citizens. 

The resource forms part of the Glasgow 2026 Schools Programme and is inspired by All In – the nationwide call to action for this year’s Games, inviting communities to celebrate the Games in their own ‘altogether brilliant’ way.

The pack was launched yesterday at St John Paul II School in Castlemilk, Glasgow, where teacher and former Glasgow 2014 ceremony cast member, Jacqueline Hart and her pupils were visited by gymnast Cameron Lynn who, following his appearance at Birmingham 2022, is aiming to represent his country again at Glasgow 2026; and Glasgow 2026’s official mascot Finnie, the sport-loving unicorn.

Featuring a series of interactive learning activities and materials, teachers can use the resource pack to raise awareness of the Commonwealth and its values and help young people feel connected to the Games, their local community, country and the wider Commonwealth.

Schools can find out more and download the pack here.

Pupils will be introduced to the Games’ values of Humanity, Destiny and Equality through sessions exploring connection, fairness and inclusion. This echoes the British Council’s work building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and other countries through arts and culture, education and English language.

Designed for pupils aged between 7 and 11, the activities in the pack are flexible and adaptable. Teachers can use them as starting points for individual lessons or to form part of a larger cross-curricular project with a partner school overseas.

The British Council is also inviting any schools wishing to participate with an overseas partner to use their PartnerFinder database free of charge, to search for like-minded schools around the world.

The classroom resource builds on the British Council’s Schools Connect programme, which supports young people in the UK and around the world to build the skills, knowledge and attitudes they need to respond to global challenges and develop international understanding.

Glasgow 2026 is set to be ‘the most inclusive, community-driven and connected Commonwealth Games yet’, with 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories set to compete in an 11-day programme of 10 sports and six Para sports across four iconic venues.

Beyond its credentials as a major historical sporting event, The Commonwealth Games is also a chance for people from around the world to come together, celebrate their cultures and learn from each other.

Claire de Braekeleer, Director, British Council Scotland, said: ‘The Commonwealth Games 2026 is not just a sporting event, it is a chance for people from around the world to come together, celebrate their cultures and learn from each other.

“This classroom resource pack will enable children and young people to connect internationally on critical themes, such as equality and fairness, and celebrate the Game’s focus on inclusion and sustainability.

“While we proudly shine a light on Glasgow and Scotland as this year’s hosts, the pack is available for all and we hope that teachers and pupils across the whole of the UK will benefit from the resources available.’  

Emily Reynolds, Director, Youth Sport Trust, added: ‘The Youth Sport Trust are delighted to be working in partnership with the British Council and Glasgow 2026 to bring this engaging resource to schools and teachers.

“The Commonwealth Games offer a powerful opportunity to connect young people to Glasgow, the values that unite the Commonwealth, and the wide range of sports that make the Games so special.

“Multi-sport events like the Commonwealth Games can inspire children and young people of all backgrounds, helping them to discover new sports, develop curiosity, and build a lifelong relationship with physical activity.

“This resource is designed to support teachers to bring that inspiration into the classroom and empower young people to learn through sport.’

Phil Batty OBE, Chief Executive, Glasgow 2026, said: “‘The Glasgow 2026 Schools Programme is helping to bring the Games to life in classrooms across Glasgow and Scotland, ensuring that young people feel genuinely connected to what these Games represent. It’s vital that young people across the country see themselves reflected in Glasgow 2026, and this programme plays a key role in making that happen.

“Developed with the support of partners including the British Council and the Youth Sport Trust, the programme gives pupils the opportunity to explore the cultures that make up the Commonwealth, increase participation in sport and develop positive, healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

“The resources have been carefully designed to be inclusive and adaptable for all learners and educational settings, while reflecting the vision and values at the heart of these Games.

“With Glasgow 2026 set to deliver the largest-ever Para sport medal programme in Commonwealth Games history, it’s especially powerful to see that same ambition and commitment to inclusion championed through the Schools Programme.’

PICTURES: Craig Watson

Commonwealth-Games_2026_Classroom-ResourceDownload

British Council set to become national agency for Erasmus+ in Scotland

The Department for Education has announced that the British Council is set to take on the role of the National Agency for Erasmus+.

In December the UK and EU arrived at a political agreement that the UK would join the Erasmus+ scheme in 2027. That agreement has now been legally formalised under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

Claire de Braekeleer, Director, British Council Scotland, said: “Erasmus+ offers a major funding boost to support Scotland’s place at the heart of cross-European cooperation on youth and learning opportunities. 

“As the National Agency for Erasmus+, we will work closely with the Department for Education, the Scottish Government and the European Commission to make the most of the opportunities of the programme for Scotland.

“Erasmus+ has a proven track record in changing lives, opening up learning experiences, providing insight into cultures, and nurturing global citizenship.

“We know from stakeholders across higher education, schools, technical and vocational education and training, and sport how valuable the programme will be in Scotland. It offers enormous benefit to people from a wide range of backgrounds, helping to build skills, confidence, an international outlook and lifelong connections to European peers.”

The British Council has a longstanding commitment to supporting international exchange. It was a lead partner in the Erasmus+ UK National Agency from 2014–20, where Erasmus+ made a significant contribution to the UK’s cultural relations activities.

During that period, the programme enabled over 37,635 young people, students and staff from Scotland to study, train or volunteer overseas, including 10,831 in higher education, 8,285 in schools, 8,865 in vocational education and training, and 3,867 in youth programmes. Scottish organisations also led 503 Erasmus+ projects.

In total, Erasmus+ funding in Scotland amounted to approximately €142 million, supporting higher education (€84.51 million), vocational education and training (€29.79 million), schools (€13.82 million), adult education (€8.54 million) and youth (€5.17 million).

Scottish organisations and institutions can find out more and register for updates on Erasmus+ opportunities at www.britishcouncil.org/erasmusplus

Scotland and Ukraine connect through schools reading partnership

As the conflict in Ukraine enters its fifth year, pupils across Scotland are forming friendships with Ukrainian classmates through the UK-Ukraine School Partnerships programme.

Pupils at Elgin Academy in Moray and Papa Westray primary school in Orkney are among 130 schools from across the UK and Ukraine taking part in the British Council initiative, funded by the UK Government, which connects schools through shared reading, creative projects and regular online exchanges designed to build empathy, resilience and global awareness.

At Elgin Academy, the S2 class of 29 pupils, aged 13–14, is now collaborating with a school in the Poltava region. The partnership has special significance at Elgin, located near RAF Lossiemouth, Scotland’s largest RAF base where many pupils come from military families.

The classes have exchanged letters, researched Remembrance Day traditions in both countries, created giant sunflowers with messages, and in January, introduced their Ukrainian friends to Robert Burns.

The class voted to share the novel “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds, only later realising the main character loves sunflower seeds, Ukraine’s national symbol. The partnership has been particularly meaningful for two Ukrainian pupils in the class, who have enjoyed speaking their own language with the Ukrainian students during video calls.

School librarian Shelagh Toonen applied for the programme following a conversation at the Edinburgh Book Festival, when a Ukrainian pupil spoke about family losses during the war.

She said: “From that experience, I thought we could probably do an awful lot more. When I saw the opportunity through the British Council, I thought it would be a great way to develop a working relationship with Ukraine and share our love of reading.”

Shelagh travelled to Poland last September to meet partner teacher Katia.

She explained: “When I met Katia, I realised they don’t have a library the way that we do.She was nearly in tears when she saw that I was gifting her some books, they have to rely on sponsors to buy books for them at the moment.”

Image: (Pupils from Elgin Academy S2 class working with their chosen book ‘Ghost’ for their Ukraine school partnership)

The video sessions have been tempered with difficulties including air raid sirens and power cuts, moments that have brought the reality of war into the Elgin classroom. Shelagh explained that their partner school is on the front line, operating under a “three bells warning” system – when sirens sound, pupils must move to shelter for online learning.

“Our pupils have definitely developed a lot of empathy throughout the project,” Shelagh said. “They’ve had a kind of gradual awakening and have come to realise what a privilege coming into school every day is.”

Neil Johnson, Head Teacher at Elgin Academy added: “In Scotland, young people’s exposure to current affairs now is very limited, and the conflict has been going on for so long that for many of them, it’s just background noise.

“This partnership makes it real and gives it a focus for our pupils.”

On Papa Westray, one of Orkney’s most remote islands and Scotland’s smallest school in the programme, Head Teacher Tim Ross leads weekly Friday morning video calls between his six pupils, aged 6–8, and eight children at Voinivskyi Lyceum in Ukraine.

The programme comes at a meaningful time for the Papay school, which after welcoming another family late last year, currently has two Ukrainian families within the school community. For them, learning about the partnership was a welcome surprise.

Tim said: “It’s been lovely to tell them about the close link we now have with the Ukrainian school. You could see their faces light up when I mentioned the project, and it demonstrates our support and interest in their experience and background.

“The children in the school have already developed a strong, supportive kindness toward Ukraine because of their friends at the school.” He said, “Even at this young age, they recognise that we’ve got friends here who’ve had to leave their home because of the war.”

Tim Ross (R), Head teacher at Papa Westray Primary School, meeting with Ukrainian counterpart Svitlana from their Ukrainian partner school during their meeting in Poland, in 2025

As part of the partnership, Tim has invited one of the Ukrainian parents to teach the whole class some basic Ukrainian phrases, using an approach that links to their daily phonics learning. He said: “It’s a great exercise for the children in experiencing another culture, listening, and sharing language, it’s also been a great way to connect the programme to our wider community.”

“The calls work best when we’re sharing fun visual learning and finding out about our shared experiences and interests,” Tim said.

“We’re proud of our friendship with Ukraine. This whole programme is about being supportive, none of these children are at fault for what’s happening, and we want to give them something positive to look forward to each week.”

Power cuts on Papa Westray can knock out electricity for six hours at a time, giving the island community an unexpected understanding of the disruptions faced by their Ukrainian partners.

Tim said: “We’ve had to miss some planned activities because of the difficulties they’re facing in Ukraine with power cuts, and the air raids. It really brings home the challenges they’re dealing with.

“But what’s been amazing is how energised both classes are about the Friday sessions. I think this regular connection has become as important for the class in Ukraine as it has for ours.”

The school has matching sets of picture books from Scotland’s Read Write Count with the First Minister scheme, which Tim gifted to the Ukrainian school during his training trip to Poland. Each week, both classes pick a book, read it in their own classrooms, and share creative activities on their video call.

Since January 2025, the UK-Ukraine School Partnerships programme has involved 130 schools across the UK and Ukraine, supporting approximately 23,400 young people. It is now expanding to reach a further 300 schools, with an estimated 54,000 pupils expected to benefit.

Speaking about the programme, Claire de Braekeleer, Director, British Council Scotland said: “With the conflict in Ukraine now entering its fifth year, this programme has helped build something very important, lasting connections between young people in Scotland and Ukraine, grounded in shared stories and friendship.

“These partnerships are a wonderful example of what the programme is all about, and the children are discovering that despite the distance and the challenges, they have far more in common than they might have imagined.

“Applications for the next round of the programme are now open, and I’d encourage schools across Scotland to get involved; it’s a meaningful opportunity to build international connections that will stay with young people for the rest of their lives.”

Schools and teachers interested in joining the programme can apply before the deadline on 2 March. To find out more, please visit: 

https://www.britishcouncil.org/school-resources/uk-ukraine-partnerships

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Scottish Government launches research into Cultural Export Service for Scotland’s arts sectors

The Scottish Government will partner with the British Council to undertake a scoping exercise exploring the establishment of a dedicated Export Service for Scotland’s arts and culture sectors.

The project, running from December 2025 to May 2026, will examine the challenges and opportunities facing Scottish cultural organisations and artists in accessing international markets, identify gaps in current support, and develop recommendations for a new service to boost cultural exports.

This exercise is part of the Scottish Government’s International Culture Strategy action plan and follows increased calls from across Scotland’s cultural sectors for enhanced support in navigating post-Covid-19 and post-Brexit challenges.

The music sector has been active with the STUC, Scottish Parliament’s Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Committee, and the Scottish Music Industry Association all calling for dedicated export support.

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “As part of our International Culture Strategy, we continue to explore how best to support cultural export and exchange and help our culture and creative sectors to realise their potential on the international stage.

“British Council Scotland works across all art forms but doesn’t represent any specific sector, ensuring they give us the independent, evidence-based recommendations we need. They’ll also bring valuable international perspective by examining how other countries support cultural export, helping us learn from best practice models around the world.”

Norah Campbell, Head of Arts at British Council Scotland, added: “Supporting the international ambitions of the Scottish arts sector is at the heart of the British Council’s work.

“Cultural export is complex, sophisticated, and different art forms have very different needs. Some sectors for example require access to international galleries and major markets for showcasing opportunities that springboard international work, while others involve design and product export.

“This scoping exercise will engage with the Scottish cultural sector to understand these varied challenges and needs. We’re keen to hear from artists, organisations and practitioners across all disciplines. This input will be crucial in shaping recommendations that truly reflect what the sector needs to succeed internationally.”

The research will actively engage with Scotland’s cultural sectors through surveys, consultation groups, and in-depth interviews beginning in early 2026 and artists, agents, promoters, managers, and organisations across all art forms will have opportunities to share their experiences and expertise to help inform the recommendations.

Key art sector development organisations and international initiatives including Craft Scotland, Publishing Scotland, Made in Scotland, Showcase Scotland, the Scottish Music Industry Association will be consulted, alongside interviews with established cultural export services in other countries.

The study will deliver:

  • Analysis of export support needs across Scotland’s culture and creative sectors, mapping existing initiatives and identifying which sub-sectors could benefit most
  • Comparative analysis of cultural export support models from other countries
  • Recommendations on service functions and how they would relate to existing Scottish and UK organisations
  • Delivery model options appraisal
  • Cost estimates for establishing a pilot and/or full service

The British Council will work with specialist researchers to roll out surveys, analyse data, and draw international comparisons. The findings from the research and report will help inform the Scottish Government’s decisions on future support for cultural export and exchange.

A final report will be shared in the summer of 2026.

From the Highlands to Hornbill, Scottish folk takes centre stage in India

Supported by the British Council, Scottish musician RuMac is in India this week bringing the accordion to thousands of people at Hornbill festival, one of India’s largest cultural festivals

Originally from Ullapool, Ruairidh Maclean, a singer-songwriter who performs as RuMac, took to the main stage at the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland this week (Tuesday 02 December), where the United Kingdom is this year’s Country Partner for the festival.

RuMac’s performance at Hornbill marks his first visit to India. Following his festival appearance, he performed at the historic Tollygunge Club in Kolkata (Thursday, 4 December).

Nicknamed the “Festival of Festivals”, the 10-day Hornbill Festival is celebrating its 26th year and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. It is India’s largest celebration of tribal heritage, with audiences given the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions, music, and folklore of the Naga people.

RuMac began his solo set in front of a large projection of the Scottish flag, bringing a blend of traditional Scottish folk, Gaelic song, and a mix of genres to the Hornbill stage. Known for high-energy performances that move from traditional accordion playing to heavy rock, he has built a reputation as a unique live act that went down well with the large crowd.

RuMac said he felt proud to showcase Scottish culture internationally and saw parallels between Highland and Naga folk traditions, saying: ““I’m thrilled to be performing in India for the first time, in a part of theworld I’ve never had the chance to visit before.

“I didn’t know how the performance would go as the accordion is quite a weird instrument!  but the crowd have made me feel at home and it was brilliant.

“I’m especially looking forward to my show in Kolkata and to bring a little bit of The Highlands of Scotland along with me; hopefully they’ll like what I do! Slàinte!”

Claire de Braekeleer, Director, British Council Scotland, said: “It’s been brilliant to follow RuMac’s journey to Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival, which is such a significant moment in the Indian cultural calendar.

“His performance shows how music can bridge cultures and continents and we’re proud to create platforms for Scottish musicians to find new global audiences.”

The British Council has brought UK artists to Hornbill in previous editions, with the festival creating opportunities for musicians to connect with audiences and experience the rich musical traditions of Nagaland, a region whose folk heritage resonates strongly with Scotland’s own.

The visit forms part of the British Council’s ongoing work to foster cultural connections between the UK and India, creating opportunities for artists from both regions to share their work and develop new collaborations.

It continues the British Council’s work, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts and education.

Scottish pupils lead climate crisis talks in Edinburgh COP30 negotiation

More than 100 pupils from 13 schools transformed into world leaders at the University of Edinburgh last week, engaging in high-stakes climate crisis negotiations to mirror the upcoming UN COP30 conference in Belém, Brazil.

In a United Nations debate simulation organised by the British Council in partnership with the University of Edinburgh and Learning for Sustainability Scotland, students experienced firsthand the complex challenges of international climate diplomacy.

Using cutting-edge simulation software developed by MIT, the pupils took on roles as delegates from major nations, corporate lobbyists, and international media representatives, all working to tackle the critical goal of keeping global warming below 1.5°C.

During the negotiations, the pupils had to collectively agree on how much to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, how they would help struggling nations, and agree on ways to adapt to climate change to protect their cities and people. 

Leading the negotiations were pupils Siri Isaksson-Galbraith and Alyssa Haston, from West Calder High School who shared the role of the United Nations Secretariat (top).

Speaking in their role as UN Secretary Generals, they had a message for world leaders ahead of COP30 in Brazil: “Today in Edinburgh, we’ve experienced firsthand how difficult climate negotiations can be, but also how essential they are. We’ve learned that every country has different challenges, but we all share the same planet and the same future.

“The decisions being made at COP30 will shape our lives, our communities, and our world. We urge world leaders to listen to youth voices, to act with urgency, and to remember that compromise doesn’t mean giving up on ambition.

“The climate crisis affects us all, but it doesn’t affect us equally. We must ensure that those most vulnerable are heard and supported. From Scotland to Brazil, young people are ready to lead, but we need action now.”

Did they reach a consensus?

The challenge was to negotiate between countries to keep warming under 2°C by the end of the century, and to aim for under 1.5°C. By the end of the debate, pupils collectively agreed to keep global warming at 1.6°C, just over the mark of the Paris Agreement target. This means they were over the target, but made headway with strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support nations, and develop adaptation measures to protect cities and people.

The debate simulation was led by climate expert Professor Pete Higgins, Chair in Outdoor, Environmental and Sustainability Education at the University of Edinburgh.

Speaking at the event, Professor Pete Higgins said: “Today’s debate couldn’t be more timely. We’re living through a period of significant political uncertainty, which makes climate diplomacy more complex than ever.

“What impressed me most was how quickly these young people grasped the competing priorities and difficult trade-offs involved, whilst maintaining their determination to find common ground.

“Young people often feel powerless when it comes to climate change, but events like this show that they have both the understanding and the diplomatic skills to navigate these challenges. My hope is that the negotiators at COP30 will show the same wisdom and commitment to meaningful action that these young citizens have demonstrated today.”

Claire de Braekeleer, Director British Council Scotland added: “This UN debate simulation puts young people in Scotland at the heart of the global climate debate.

“As COP30 starts in Belém next week, these pupils are gaining crucial insights into how these climate negotiations work. They are also building the diplomatic skills and understanding that will be vital for the international cooperation we desperately need.

“We believe that young people are the key to driving positive climate action, and today demonstrates how collaborating globally with empathy and understanding is the way forward.”

The simulation was part of the British Council’s Schools Connect programme, which aims to bring international perspectives into the curriculum. Students engaged in realistic debates, negotiated complex agreements, and balanced competing interests of nations.

Through the Climate Connection programme, the British Council is also supporting people globally to find creative solutions to climate change in support of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil.

The British Council is supporting the summit by engaging with networks of education professionals, students, academics, researchers, artists, civil society leaders and policymakers to participate in meaningful dialogue and bring about real change for our planet.

This initiative continues the work of the British Council’s Schools Connect programme for schools in the UK and around the world, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and English language teaching.

For more information about the British Council’s work in Scotland, visit:

https://www.britishcouncil.org/ or follow on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

British Council launches international artistic residency programme for those affected by war and conflict

Initiative will provide vital support and creative sanctuary for artists from conflict-affected regions

The British Council, in partnership with Arts Council England, Creative Scotland and Arts Council of Wales/Wales Arts International, today announces the launch of a major new residency programme designed to support artists and cultural professionals whose work has been impacted by war and conflict.

The programme will see nine artists and cultural professionals from Lebanon, Yemen, Palestine, and Ukraine undertake residencies at leading cultural institutions across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The initiative builds upon a successful pilot project held in Scotland in 2023 during the UK/Ukraine Season of Culture, which was delivered by the British Council in partnership with Creative Scotland and Ukrainian Institute.

Starting this month and running until July 2026, the residencies will take place at prominent institutions renowned for their expertise in supporting artists across diverse art forms, from contemporary art to literature and film.

Each residency will last between four and twelve weeks, tailored to meet the specific requirements of both the host organisation and the visiting creative professional.

The programme aims to provide creative practitioners from countries affected by war and conflict with essential quiet time, care, and connections within the UK cultural sector.

This support is designed not only to nurture their individual practice and build their networks, but also to strengthen the communities they work with in their home countries.

Host organisations participating in the programme include Ulster University/Belfast Film Festival (Northern Ireland); Llenyddiaeth Cymru | Literature Wales (Wales); Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop (Scotland); Cove Park (Scotland); Moniack Mhor (Scotland); Pier Arts Centre (Orkney Island, Scotland); Delfina Foundation (England); ACME Studios (England); and Baltic Centre for Contemporary ArtEngland).

The programme also offers host organisations a valuable opportunity to expand their understanding of new cultural contexts, demonstrate solidarity with fellow artists, and develop expertise in supporting colleagues working under extremely challenging conditions.

It also helps connect participants to the wider arts sector, offering fresh insights that can spark new collaborations – benefiting not only the individuals involved but also enriching the host institutions and the sector more broadly.

This initiative reflects the British Council’s commitment to supporting international cultural exchange and providing support for artists whose creative work continues despite the pressures of conflict and displacement.

Artist Yasmine Rifaii, who will be hosted at Cove Park, said: “I have been craving distance from the noise of cities for a while now, so that I may sit with myself and let my thoughts brew into formation.

“The Cove Park residency came at the right time. I look forward to immersing myself with both the silence of nature, and the presence of fellow artists seeking the same experience.”

Anastasiya Gruba, who will be hosted by Ulster University, said: “This residency gives me the opportunity to complete a new version of the script for my tragicomic feature film Women Suicide Season, which I hope will be my feature directorial debut.

“I’m especially excited that the Belfast Film Festival will take place during my stay – it’s a wonderful chance to connect with the Northern Irish film community and international industry professionals.

“And I must admit, I’ve always dreamed of seeing the stunning landscapes of the Emerald Isle firsthand! There’s so much to do, and I can’t wait to dive in.

“I’m truly grateful to the British Council, Belfast Film Festival, and Ulster University for making this possible.”

Tania Rodionova, who will be hosted by Literature Wales, said: “Being a cultural manager doesn’t always allow for having time and space for my personal creative work. And life in Ukraine during the war time makes it even harder.

“So, my expectations for the residency in Ty Newydd is mainly to have this special space however my professional interest in local literature organisations and future cooperation opportunities cannot be ignored!”

Ruth Mackenzie, Director of Arts at the British Council said: “This residency programme recognises that supporting these artists and creatives is about building bridges across our global arts community and contributing to peace and prosperity.

“Just as the British Council was established in 1934 to support artists and creatives in countries across the world in the face of political danger, we continue this mission today. This programme provides space for artistic practice while strengthening the communities these artists support and nourish in their home countries.”

Laura Mackenzie-Stuart, Head of International at Creative Scotland said: “We are delighted to continue this residency programme through our on-going partnership with the British Council.

“The pilot programme in 2023 provided vital access to creative opportunity for artists in Ukraine at a time when accessing facilities in their home country was a huge challenge.

“The five selected artists made Scotland their home for a few weeks but left having made friends and colleagues for life. We wish the next (expanded) round of artists the same creative joy and success in their residencies across the UK.”

Dafydd Rhys, Chief Executive of Arts Council of Wales, said: “This programme embodies the spirit of collaboration that sits at the heart of Arts Council of Wales’s work, and in terms of international connections, the work of our international arm Wales Arts International.

“Through our partnership with Literature Wales, we’re delighted to take part in this initiative to create a space of care and creative exchange, linking Wales with artists whose stories speak to our shared humanity across borders.

“The residency will give Tania time to develop her practice and share her experiences, while enriching Wales’s own literary community with fresh perspectives on resilience, language and the role of art in uncertain times.”

Simon Mellor, Deputy CEO Arts Council England, said: “Arts Council England is proud to be a partner in this important residency scheme, offering artists coming from places of conflict the opportunity to make new connections and to build new networks of support.

“We are particularly glad to join with our sister agencies in extending this initiative across the whole UK, building a body of relationships between creatives and communities both here and in Ukraine.”