The British Council is partnering with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office China Capability Programme on a new China Capability programme for the UK culture sector, delivered by the Great Britain-China Centre (GBCC).
About China Capability Programme for the UK Culture Sector
GBCC has been running capability courses for UK businesses and civil society organisations over the past eight years, responding to the increasing need for UK policy and decision-makers to understand how to engage with China.
This executive-level course is designed for Directors, Chief Executives, International Directors, senior leaders and other decision-makers from UK cultural institutions and companies. It is intended for colleagues who shape organisational strategy, international partnerships and long-term engagement with China.
Through expert-led sessions and practical discussion, participants will develop a deeper understanding of China's cultural landscape, policy environment and institutional context, enabling them to make informed decisions about future engagement.
This new course will be designed and delivered in collaboration with top experts on a range of topics. Participants can also expect to build connections across the sector and join a growing network of China-capable decision-makers in the UK.
What is China Capability?
China capability is the knowledge, skills, experience and networks that enable organisations and individuals to engage with China confidently, effectively and with a clear understanding of both opportunities and risks.
For the UK culture sector, this includes understanding China's cultural institutions, policy landscape, funding and operating environment, audience trends, and the broader context shaping UK-China relations. It is about having the insight and confidence to make informed strategic decisions about when, where and how to engage.
Strengthening UK China capability has become increasingly important as China continues to play a significant role in the global cultural, economic and geopolitical landscape.
For organisations and leaders who are new to working with China, or who have not engaged with China for some time, the programme provides the knowledge and context needed to engage with confidence. For those with existing experience, it offers an opportunity to refresh understanding, test assumptions and gain assurance that their approach remains current.
Participants will also become part of a cohort of senior leaders from across the UK cultural sector, building connections and strengthening the sector's collective capability to engage with China.
Dates
The one-day programme will be offered on five dates in the UK:
- 11 November, Manchester
- 16 November, London
- 19 November, London
- 6 January, London
- 24 March, London
There is no fee to attend, but places are limited. Participants will be selected to ensure a broad mix of organisations and perspectives from across the cultural sector.
Funding is available towards travel costs for participants based outside Manchester and London.
Apply to take part
If you would like to take part, please register your interest using the link below.
Other sources of information
If you are interested in learning more about the cultural landscape in China or hearing about ongoing collaborations visit China Now, our resource for UK arts organisations and artists with an interest in working in mainland China.
Please also sign up for our newsletter where we will share other training opportunities and research on cultural exchange between the UK and China.