# UK to Rejoin Erasmus+ Scheme in January to Strengthen EU Ties Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy confirms return to student exchange program after six-year absence. - **Source:** [The Independent – UK](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk) - **Published:** 2026-11-07 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8533354e-7913-4508-8693-554898185002 ## Official Return to Erasmus+ Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy confirmed the United Kingdom will officially rejoin the Erasmus+ scheme this January. The initiative, which facilitates international study, training, and work experience, returns after a six-year absence. This move marks a significant shift in post-Brexit policy, aiming to rebuild closer diplomatic and educational ties with European neighbors. ## Replacing the Turing Scheme The Erasmus+ program replaces the Turing Scheme, which was implemented following the UK's departure from the European Union in 2020. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson had previously argued that Erasmus+ failed to deliver sufficient value for money. The new agreement signifies a strategic reset in the government's approach to international educational cooperation. ## Financial Scope and Savings The government has allocated up to £400 million through the British Council to support schools, youth groups, and sports teams. Officials successfully negotiated a 30% reduction in participation fees for 2027, projecting a total saving of approximately £240 million for taxpayers. These funds are intended to broaden access for diverse participants. ## Targeting Social Mobility Over £30 million is specifically designated for youth initiatives in regions with historically lower participation levels, including the North East, East Midlands, and Yorkshire. The program aims to support over 100,000 individuals, offering opportunities for apprentices and further education students to undertake work placements at various European firms across the continent. ## Travel and Exchange Benefits Participants can engage in short-term exchanges lasting several weeks, while 18-year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds may qualify for free rail travel across EU nations. Beyond university students, the scheme includes provisions for adult learners, school groups, and sports coaches. Education staff will also gain access to overseas job shadowing and professional training opportunities. ## Political Context and Timing The announcement coincided with Remembrance Sunday commemorations, leading to sharp criticism from the opposition. Conservative Party Chairman Kevin Hollinrake condemned the timing, labeling the government's pitch as tone-deaf. He argued that using the day of national remembrance to discuss EU membership and financial payments to Brussels was inappropriate and disrespectful to veterans. ## Strategic Diplomatic Objectives The re-entry into Erasmus+ is a key component of Sir Keir Starmer’s broader post-Brexit reset agreement with Brussels. By fostering collaboration, the government intends to provide life-altering experiences for young people from all backgrounds. This initiative serves as a symbolic and practical step toward deepening the UK's integration with European educational frameworks. ## Future Implementation Outlook Applications for the program are scheduled to open later this month as the government prepares for the January launch. The success of this initiative will depend on the effective distribution of the £400 million budget and the ability to engage diverse youth populations. Observers will monitor participation rates to evaluate the program's impact. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/erasmus-scheme-uk-return-nandy-european-union-b3081055.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._