The British Council is the UK’s international culture and education organisation. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide.
By connecting the UK’s expertise in arts and culture, education and the English language to our global presence and unparalleled networks, we unlock potential and transform lives. We help artists to share their distinctive voices. We provide educators with the tools to shape generations. We give young people the confidence to shine.
We work with governments and our partners in the education, English language and cultural sectors to make a bigger difference, creating benefit for millions of people all over the world. At the heart of these relationships is trust which is built over time and nurtured through shared experiences.
We work with people in over 200 countries and territories. In 2024–25 we reached 600 million people.
Founded in 1934, we are a UK charity governed by Royal Charter and a UK public body, operating at arm’s length from government.
Most of our income comes from partnership agreements, contracts, teaching and exams, and philanthropy. We also receive grant-in-aid funding from the UK government.
For almost a century, it’s been our mission to build a world where people connect across borders, and where trust is the foundation for lasting change. A world where opportunities are limitless.
