British Council celebrates 30 years in Vietnam

Education has long been a cornerstone of the UK–Vietnam diplomatic relations, with the British Council playing an important role in strengthening the ties. Over the three decades of operation in Vietnam, the British Council has collaborated closely with the Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training, as well as other governmental departments and educational institutions, to implement impactful initiatives in the area of education. These cumulative efforts have significantly contributed to enhancing the quality of teaching and learning, as well as elevating English language proficiency standards among Vietnamese learners.

The opening of these centres at 20 Cong Hoa, Ward 12, Tan Binh District and 71 Hoang Van Thai, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, underlines the British Council's commitment to strengthening cultural and educational ties between the UK and Vietnam.

In June 2023, the British Council unveiled the six-month UK/Vietnam Season 2023 programme, commemorating the 50th anniversary of UK–Vietnam diplomatic relations and the 30th anniversary of the British Council's operations in Vietnam. The launching of these two new English teaching centres in Ho Chi Minh City is an important part of these celebrations, following the successful launch of the English Teaching Centre in Ha Dong, Hanoi earlier in June 2023. The opening of the two new Teaching Centres brings the total count across the country to nine.

Michael Little, General Director LLC and Director English Vietnam British Council, for the British Council said, ‘The establishment of these new English teaching centres signifies the British Council's commitment to meeting the increasing demand of Vietnamese English learners and strengthening the educational connections between the two countries. Our goal is to offer high-quality UK education to a diverse cross-section of learners in Vietnam. We firmly believe that the educational foundation laid by the British Council will adeptly prepare them for successful international cultural integration, there by ensuring their development as capable global citizens’.

Operating alongside the three existing centres strategically located in District 1, District 10, and Binh Thanh District, the two new teaching centres are set to meet the growing demand for English learning in Ho Chi Minh City. Situated at bustling traffic intersections, both new centres offer a variety of flexible scheduled classes, providing enhanced learning opportunities for students and added convenience for parents.

The two centres are equipped with a total of eight classrooms each with modern facilities and equipment that adhere to the international standards synonym with the British Council’s teaching centres across over 40 countries.

The British Council places high importance on the quality of education offered to learners. The curriculum, developed by the British Council and curated by industry experts, underpins the offerings of these two centres. Tailored to various age groups, the curriculum includes the Primary Plus programme (aged 6–10), Secondary Plus programme (aged 11–14), Secondary Plus IELTS and Academic English (aged 15–17). Delivered by a seasoned team of highly proficient English educators, the curriculum integrates innovative pedagogical methodologies, diverse subjects, and robust student interaction. Beyond proficiency for international examinations and educational settings, students will develop essential soft skills for success, including leadership, teamwork, coordination, and critical thinking. Furthermore, they will cultivate a broader understanding of global affairs, positioning them to become informed global citizens in the future.