New requirements for the care of students aged under 18 are being introduced in English UK member centres.

The changes mean that our language schools must be very explicit about their child protection policy and check that everyone working with under-18s is suitable. There are also new requirements on transfers and leisure time, particularly for younger students.

The changes are being driven by the Accreditation UK inspection framework, which has been updated to meet (and sometimes exceed) the law in this country, and best practice in looking after under-18s. The new regulations are being introduced during the next year to give centres time to adapt.

Most of the requirements apply to all students under 18, whether or not they count as adults in their home country or what type of course they are on. Sometimes slightly different arrangements can be made for 16 and 17 year olds when the booking is made.

Click here to download the full summary on what agents need to know. This information can also be accessed in the agent section of the English UK website.

This is only a summary of the new guidance for centres. The full document is available here.