ColegauCymru's commitment to international collaboration and learner opportunity was highlighted this week when Kelly Edwards, Director of Partnerships and Strategic Development, joined a high-profile panel discussion at the European Association for International Education (EAIE) Conference in Glasgow alongside Deputy Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Cefin Campbell MS and sector partners.
The panel provided an opportunity to showcase Wales' growing international education partnerships and demonstrate how global collaboration is creating opportunities for learners and staff across the further education sector. The panel discussed the impact of international engagement, including recent partnerships and overseas visits that have strengthened educational and cultural links between Wales and countries around the world.
A key theme was Wales’ distinctive strength as a small, connected nation. Close working between colleges, universities, employers, communities and government enables international partnerships to move quickly from agreements into practical collaboration, while giving partners access to expertise across the wider Welsh sector.
A global outlook delivering local benefits
“International partnerships are about much more than travel,” said Kelly Edwards. “They help learners develop the skills, confidence and global outlook that employers increasingly value, while enabling staff to share expertise and bring new ideas back into our colleges and communities.
“Wales has a strong story to tell. Through programmes such as Taith and Turing, colleges across Wales are creating life-changing opportunities for learners and staff, strengthening international relationships and ensuring our further education sector remains connected to global developments.”
Why it matters
International activity is already delivering significant benefits for learners and staff across Wales. During 2024-25, 770 further education learners and 91 staff participated in overseas visits, with participants travelling to 26 countries. More than a third of learners taking part had additional learning needs, while 21% were from disadvantaged backgrounds, demonstrating the sector's commitment to widening access to international opportunities.
The sector is also well placed to build on the UK’s reassociation with Erasmus+. In the previous programme’s final year, a ColegauCymru-led consortium involved 10 colleges and 747 learners across 22 curriculum areas, supported by €1.6 million in European funding for activity in eight countries. Renewed participation offers opportunities to reconnect with European partners and expand professional learning for staff alongside life-changing experiences for learners.
By sharing Wales' experience on an international platform, the EAIE Conference offered an opportunity to raise the profile of the Welsh further education sector, strengthen international partnerships and support future opportunities for learners, staff and colleges.
Further Information
EAIE Glasgow 2026 - International Education Conference
The European Association for International Education (EAIE) Conference is one of Europe's leading events for professionals working in international education. Kelly Edwards will join a panel discussion featuring representatives from Wales' education sector and government to explore international collaboration and the value of global partnerships in education.
Taith
Wales’ International Learning Exchange Programme.
Erasmus+
EU programme for education, training, youth and sport.
Turing Scheme
The Turing Scheme provides funding for UK education providers to support students and apprentices undertaking international study and work placements, helping them develop skills, confidence and global experience.
Sian Holleran, International Project Manager
Sian.Holleran@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
