Nandy confirms Erasmus+ scheme return as UK eyes closer ties with EU

The UK will officially rejoin the Erasmus+ scheme in January, enabling students and young people to study, train or gain work experience across the European Union, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has stated.

Ms Nandy said the initiative’s return after a six-year absence would help rebuild closer ties with European neighbours.

Britain departed the programme in 2020 under Boris Johnson’s Brexit agreement, after the then-prime minister claimed it failed to deliver value for money.

The scheme was replaced by the Turing Scheme, which has now ended following the Government’s announcement of a new agreement on Erasmus+.

Preparations for the UK to re-enter the Erasmus programme were originally outlined as part of former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer’s post-Brexit reset agreement with Brussels in 2025.

Ms Nandy said: “After six years away, the UK rejoining the Erasmus+ programme is a clear symbol of our ambition and intent.

“This time round, we want Erasmus+ to provide every young person, from all backgrounds and all regions, the opportunity to take part and have the enriching, life-altering experience of international exchange.”

Up to £400 million will be made available via the British Council to support schools, youth groups and sports teams.

The Government reported securing a 30% reduction on participation fees for 2027, which it says will save taxpayers roughly £240 million.

More than £30 million has been designated for youth initiatives, specifically targeting areas with historically lower participation levels, such as the North East, East Midlands and Yorkshire.

Under the arrangements, young people can participate in short exchanges lasting several weeks, while 18-year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds could be eligible for free rail travel across EU nations.

Applications are due to open later this month, with the Government anticipating that over 100,000 individuals will ultimately benefit from the arrangement.

In addition to university study programmes, Erasmus+ will allow further education students and apprentices to undertake work placements at European firms.

The programme also features exchange schemes for adult learners, school groups and sports coaches, while education staff will have access to overseas job shadowing and training opportunities.

Speaking ahead of Remembrance Sunday commemorations at the Cenotaph, Ms Nandy said: “As we remember the immense courage of those who served our country, we honour them by building the best opportunities for the next generation through closeness and collaboration with our allies.”

Responding to Ms Nandy’s statements, Conservative Party Chairman Kevin Hollinrake said: “Remembrance Sunday is a day for the nation to stand together in silence and honour those who gave everything for our country. It is not a day for a Labour minister to try to make an EU membership pitch.

“Our veterans did not fight for a student exchange scheme. Using their sacrifice to clear a £570 million cheque to Brussels is tone deaf and frankly shameful. Lisa Nandy should withdraw this release and apologise.”