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Comenius - Bilateral school partnerships

School Partnerships

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comenius_partnerships_faqs.doc   Comenius Partnerships FAQs

Bilateral partnerships

Bilateral partnerships are open to all secondary and special schools, as well as sixth form and further education colleges. The partnerships last two years and include a reciprocal exchange, each lasting a minimum of ten days, between the UK institution and another European partner school. Students need to be over twelve years of age at the time of travel.

What are the benefits?
The partnership benefits include increased motivation for, and skill in, language learning coupled with valuable exposure to other European cultures and education systems. Working towards the creation of an end product provides a great opportunity for team-building and results in real friendships between staff and students.

What funding is available?
Funding is awarded as a fixed lump sum amount based on the number of mobilities (staff and pupils travelling abroad). Click here to find out more about funding for school partnerships.

Special conditions for bilateral partnerships

• if you are applying for a minimum of 12 mobilities for a bilateral “small exchange” partnership (i.e. if you are applying for an initial grant value of €20,000) at least 12 people must participate in the exchange mobility, of whom at least 10 must be students, and which must be carried out in one visit.
• If you are applying for a minimum of 24 mobilities for a bilateral “large exchange” partnership (i.e. if you are applying for an initial grant value of €25,000) at least 24 people must participate in the exchange mobility, of whom at least 20 must be students, and which must be carried out in one visit.

How do I apply?
You will need to find a partner school to work with (we can help you with this). You may then wish to set up a preparatory meeting with your partner school before making your application.

To apply for a bilateral partnership go to the How to Apply page

If you would like to discuss your project idea or application, we may be holding a surgery session near you. Alternatively, you can contact us for advice.

Click here to view Comenius case studies