We’re turning 90 this year. Some people might call that old, but we prefer the word wise.  

And what do you do when you have a birthday? You celebrate!

As part of the festivities, we launched a competition amongst English Online students, asking them to tell us about how the British Council has impacted them. We received some very heartwarming messages, and here are the winning entries! 

Winners – birthday bash competition

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Learning English Online: It’s worth it!’  A thank-you note

From Md Jewel Ahammed:

Dear British Council,
On the occasion of the 90th year of your wonderful life and the fourth anniversary of English Online, I would like to thank you. The experience of learning English through your platform has been more than a revelation for me.
Thanks to the British Council, education has become interesting and informative due to the unique approach and numerous materials. Not only have my courses enhanced my language proficiency, but you have also instilled in me key life success competencies such as critical thinking and interpersonal communication. English Online has enabled me recover my time by creating a flexible form of learning that can be practiced from anywhere due to the easy access.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn in such an excellent setting. Your passion for academics has touched my life and opened up many opportunities for me, for which I am grateful.

Warm regards,

From Ismail Muhammad:

To the British Council, I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for the role the British Council played in enhancing my educational career. The experience with you was more than just learning the English language, it was an opportunity to gain valuable life skills. I learned how to be more confident in communicating with others, and how to work effectively within a culturally diverse team. Through the training courses and workshops provided by the Council, I gained a better ability to solve problems and analyze situations from a global perspective, skills that have become essential in my professional and personal life. Thank you for providing a distinctive learning environment that always pushes me towards growth and development.

 Best regards, 

From Susana González Garretas:

I am an on-line student of A2 level. Last February, I started with the on-line learning in The British Council.

First of all, I want to thank the British Council, because the service to the students is really fantastic, I mean, at any time, we can send any questions, and in a few time, we receive the reply. It is absolutely efficient.

Secondly, my English skills are improving little by little. Every week, I book a couple of classes, and then, at the weekend  I do them. This method is so helpful and suits me because the schedules are quite convenient.

Mostly, the teachers are so professional and friendly. Personally, I believe that the learning is easier with them. Besides, the classes are very complete.

Finally, I want to say that last time, my speaking and pronunciation skills have improved so much and I hope to continue learning more.

Best Regards,

Learning English Online: It’s worth it!’ A short personal story 

From Noor Hazwani:

My story starts when I’m thinking about my journey when learning English since this subject is compulsory for all students. Initially, I struggled a lot and even hated this subject. However, my perception changed when I saw news about Online Class by the British Council.

The British Council has truly been a game changer in my educational journey. I still remember the first time I joined this online class, I felt nervous. Fortunately, the teacher guided me with writing and speaking, and at the same time they answered my questions nicely. It made me happy to interact with friends and teachers around the world. This not only improved my language skills but exposed me to their diverse cultures.

Previously, I used to struggle with finding time to attend physical classes and faced challenges with transportation when going out. Nevertheless, when I joined the British Council, I could learn English anytime and anywhere based on my free time. Not to forget about the personalized feedback by teachers after each class. It helped me improve the mistakes that I made during the classes.

Moreover, the biggest change in myself was confidence. I used to avoid speaking up during English class at school because I was scared people would laugh at my mistakes. However, during online classes, the teachers always encouraged me to build my confidence. As time went on, I felt confident when learning English. Thus, I can say learning English online was one of the best decisions for my educational journey.

From Md. Abir Ul Islam:

The British Council’s online platform has significantly improved my English skills. I can now speak better English with my colleagues and students, and I can write more professional emails to HR and other institutes.

Additionally, the British Council’s vast library of resources, including e-books and practice tests, prepared me for my IELTS exam, which I passed with a high score. This success has opened doors to study abroad opportunities that I had previously only dreamed of.

However, I still face some challenges with speaking and writing. The British Council’s online platform allows me to revisit previous classes, and they also offer different short live classes. This flexibility helps me to continue my learning alongside my job. The British Council has truly been a game changer in my learning journey.

The British Council has not only improved my English proficiency but also empowered me to pursue my academic and career goals with confidence. I am grateful for their impact on my life, and I look forward to continuing my learning journey with them.

From Derya Adlan Buz:

She sent in a video entry! You can watch it here. 

An anniversary speech

From Geraldo Frazão de Aquino Júnior

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

It’s an honour to be present today, celebrating the remarkable journey and achievements of the British Council. For decades, the British Council has been a beacon of excellence in education, forging connections worldwide and equipping learners with essential life skills.

A standout achievement for the British Council is its unwavering dedication to language education. By providing high level English language programs, the British Council has helped millions of students around the globe excel. These programs have not only enhanced communication skills but have also opened doors to new opportunities, aiding individuals in navigating a world that’s more interconnected than ever.

Reflecting on the evolution of language learning in the 21st century, it’s evident that the British Council has played a pivotal role in this advancement. The conventional classroom setting has evolved, embracing new teaching techniques and technologies. The British Council has been at the forefront of this evolution, integrating digital tools and resources to foster an engaging and interactive learning atmosphere. This transformation has made language learning more accessible, flexible, and customized to cater to the diverse needs of learners.

A significant change in language education has been the rise of online learning. The British Council has harnessed the power of the internet to connect students globally, overcoming geographical barriers and increasing access to education for everyone. Online language learning platforms have transformed the sector, offering interactive lessons, immediate feedback, and an extensive collection of resources for students to utilize. This approach has made language learning more convenient and effective, allowing students to learn at their own pace and align their studies with their personal goals.

On a personal note, online language learning has been instrumental in my development. The ease and accessibility of these courses have allowed me to balance my studies with other commitments, helping me achieve my language learning goals. The interactive aspect of these courses has kept me engaged and motivated, while the support from experienced instructors has been invaluable. The British Council’s online programs have truly revolutionized my educational experience, providing me with the necessary skills and confidence to communicate effectively in English.

In conclusion, as we acknowledge the British Council’s achievements, let’s also recognize its fundamental role in shaping the future of language education. Through its innovative strategies and commitment to excellence, the British Council continues to empower students, building a worldwide community of confident and skilled communicators. So, I would like to end by wishing the British Council continued success for years to come!

Thank you.

From Joanna Bakowska:

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great honour to stand before you today as we celebrate the remarkable journey of the British Council. For decades, the British Council has played an indispensable role in shaping the future of learners across the globe, equipping them with essential life skills and fostering a deeper understanding of the world.

From its inception, the British Council has been more than just an institution for language learning. It has been a beacon of cultural exchange, bringing people together and breaking down barriers through the power of language. The British Council’s unwavering commitment to excellence has enabled millions of learners to not only master the English language but also to build the confidence and skills necessary to thrive in a globalised world.

As we reflect on the evolution of language learning in the 21st century, it’s clear that the British Council has been at the forefront of these changes. In a world where technology has transformed the way we communicate, the British Council has embraced innovation, ensuring that learners have access to the best resources and methodologies. From traditional classroom settings to cutting-edge online platforms, the British Council has adapted and evolved, meeting the needs of learners in an ever-changing world.

Online language learning, in particular, has been a game changer. The flexibility and accessibility of online courses have opened up opportunities for millions who might not have had the chance to pursue language education otherwise. For me personally, the British Council’s platform, English Online, has been instrumental in my development. Through its meticulously designed courses, I have not only improved my language skills but also gained a broader perspective on global issues, thanks to its diverse and inclusive content.

The impact of the British Council extends far beyond language proficiency. It’s about empowering individuals to connect, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully to society. Whether it’s a young student in a remote village or a professional seeking to advance their career, the British Council has been there, lighting the way.

As we celebrate this milestone, let us not only look back at the achievements but also look forward to the continued journey of the British Council. With its steadfast dedication to education, innovation, and cultural exchange, the future looks bright for learners everywhere.

Thank you, and here’s to many more years of success and inspiration!

From Sebastián Sánchez 

Ladies and gentlemen,

It’s an absolute pleasure to stand before you today as we celebrate two remarkable milestones: 90 years of the British Council and four years of English Online. These anniversaries mark decades of dedication to fostering global connections through language and culture.

Since its inception, the British Council has empowered millions of learners worldwide, not only by teaching English but by equipping them with essential life skills—communication, critical thinking, and cultural awareness—that transcend borders. Whether through face-to-face interactions or, more recently, online platforms, the Council has consistently been a beacon of educational excellence and cultural exchange.

As we navigate the 21st century, the landscape of language learning has undergone a profound transformation. Gone are the days when learning a language was confined to dusty textbooks and static classrooms. Today, language learning is dynamic, interactive, and, most importantly, accessible. The British Council has been at the forefront of this evolution, embracing technology to break down barriers and bring high-quality education to learners wherever they may be.

In this digital age, online language learning has been a true game changer. It has not only expanded access to education but also redefined how we learn. Through platforms like English Online, learners can now tailor their study experience to fit their individual needs, learning at their own pace and connecting with teachers and peers from around the world. For me personally, this approach has been transformative. English Online has sharpened my language skills, improved my confidence, and opened doors to new opportunities I once thought were out of reach.

As we celebrate these milestones, we must also look to the future. The British Council and English Online will undoubtedly continue to lead the way in education, harnessing the power of technology to connect, inspire, and empower the next generation of learners.

So, here’s to 90 years of the British Council, four years of English Online, and many more years of innovation, growth, and global impact. Thank you.

Needless today, we’re touched and honoured and look forward to teaching many more of you English in the years to come. 

A big congratulations to all our winners!

With love, 

British Council