British Euro-Atlantic Language Training Programme  

The British Euro-Atlantic Language Training (BELT) Programme aims to strengthen the English language and professional communication skills of Ukrainian civil servants, enabling them to engage more effectively with international partners, European institutions, and multilateral organisations. 

The programme is implemented by the British Council in Ukraine and funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Initially designed as a three-year programme, BELT provides comprehensive English language training and professional skills development to support Ukraine’s public sector reform and Euro-Atlantic integration. 

BELT is designed as a flexible, scalable programme that responds to the diverse needs, roles, and availability of civil servants across government institutions. Participating institutions have access to the following English language training formats: 

  • Closed group courses tailored to institutional needs and functions 
  • One-to-one courses for targeted, role-specific language development 
  • English Online programme offering flexible, self-directed learning 
  • Professional Communication Skills courses focusing on practical workplace communication for participants with a strong level of English who wish to further refine their professional and soft skills. 

These formats allow the programme to accommodate different proficiency levels, learning preferences, and operational constraints. 

Key Milestones 

  • In November 2023, Ukraine adopts legislation recognising English as the official language of international communication. 
  • In a statement in Kyiv, on 12th January 2024, former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that ‘’As part of efforts to cement the close bond between our two nations and Ukraine’s place at the heart of Europe, the UK will also provide additional funding and resources for English language training in Ukraine.’’ 
  • 15th January 2024, the Prime Minister stated in the UK Parliament that “Through the British Council, we’re going to fund English language training for the Ukrainian people.” 
  • In September 2024, the British Council commenced implementation of the BELT Programme in Ukraine.  

Programme Delivery – Year 1 Overview 

Year 1 (September 2024 – August 2025) marked the successful launch and full-scale delivery of BELT across 55 government institutions and agencies in Ukraine. 

During its first year, over 1,700 civil servants took part in BELT courses (59% female, 41% male). More than 1,000 participants successfully completed their training, with an average attendance rate of 79%. 

Importantly, 75% of course completers progressed by at least one CEFR level, demonstrating measurable improvement in English language proficiency. 

Impact and Feedback 

The programme achieved exceptionally high satisfaction levels: 

  • 98% of participants reported improved English and communication skills relevant to their work 
  • 90% of managers confirmed positive impact on workplace performance 

Feedback consistently highlighted the professionalism of British Council teachers, the interactive and practical course design, and the motivation the programme created among learners to continue developing their English skills. 

Highlights from participants’ feedbacks  

  • This English course was not only a step forward in my knowledge, but also a source of inspiration and positive emotions.  
  • I will definitely recommend this course to my colleagues, especially those who regularly work with international partners and are involved in the process of European integration. 
  • The course focused on practical skills like speaking, listening, and writing in real-life situations. The training improved my confidence in speaking English.  
  • [The course] met my expectations because the lessons were well-structured, interactive. The teacher was very supportive and explained everything clearly. I feel that I’ve made real progress, and I’m more confident using English at work and in everyday situations. Thank you for a great learning experience! 
  • The course was very useful and included valuable information regarding the public speaking and communication issues. One of the most important factors is the nice balance of theory and practice. 

Highlights from managers’ feedbacks  

  • All employees gained valuable knowledge and skills and expressed deep appreciation for the training! The British Council team are the true experts in their field. 
  • My subordinates really enjoy your course, and they would like to continue it next year. 
  • The training was very engaging and well-structured; the instructor used various methods to deliver the material and selected interesting topics.  
  • Participants of the BELT 2024–25 project are very satisfied with the instructor’s high level of professionalism. The course was interesting, effective, and original – feels like it just ended too quickly, and we hope the training will continue.  
Share this