John Baron MP welcomes Turing Scheme

MP says British students will benefit from more ambitious international scheme

Following the announcement that the UK’s participation in the EU’s Erasmus+ programme will cease, the Government is launching the Turing Scheme to find international mobility for British students. Whilst the UK tried to negotiate a fair involvement with the EU’s Erasmus scheme, given the UK contributes significantly more than it gets out, an agreement was not possible. However, recognising the benefits of international student exchanges, starting in September 2021 the new Turing Scheme will fund 35,000 student places each year in universities, colleges and schools abroad, both inside and outside the EU. This will be greater than the average number of British students that took part in the Erasmus programme each year. As part of the Government’s levelling-up agenda, the Turing Scheme will particularly target students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Universities, colleges and schools will be invited to bid for funding under this scheme, and more information will be made available shortly.

John said,

“Student exchanges are an excellent way of broadening your education, and can build lasting international links through education, language-learning, friendships and other informal links. Whilst it has been a positive experience for many, the Erasmus scheme is narrowly EU-focussed, and it is right that the Government supports and encourages students to broaden their horizons and benefit from seizing global opportunities – including openings in the USA, Canada, India, Australia, China and Japan.”