- The British Council has established itself as a key facilitator of international educational improvement by supporting Action Research as a platform that has delivered tangible progress in schools worldwide.
- Innovative educator-led research projects have improved teaching and learning in countries such as Pakistan, Egypt and Colombia, delivering measurable results in schools.
- An AI-based maths project enhanced students’ understanding and performance. 80% reported that using digital platforms strengthened their problem-solving skills through active learning and critical thinking.
Amman, Jordan – 20 May 2025 - Through the Action Research programme, the British Council supports educational improvement worldwide. As the UK’s organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, it plays a key role in facilitating global progress in education.
This initiative not only provides educators with funding, mentoring and resources to implement research findings directly in their classrooms but also fosters the exchange of best practices among schools and teaching communities. Its impact cascades through local forums and Partner School events, reaching school leaders, teachers, ultimately students and has already resulted in tangible improvements in participating schools.
The British Council Partner Schools’ Action Research programme supported twelve researchers from nine countries: Pakistan, Egypt, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Ghana, Jordan, Zimbabwe, Peru, and Colombia on projects focused on leadership, continuous professional development (CPD), and technology, addressing shared global challenges in education.
The projects revealed key insights into technology, teacher development, and leadership as drivers of educational improvement. Many focused on digital learning, AI, and online platforms, reflecting a keen global interest in technology to support education. In Colombia, 80% of students reported that digital tools improved their skills, especially in problem-solving and critical thinking.
Leadership was also key: in Pakistan, one of the four projects empowered female students through academic achievement, extracurricular engagement, and leadership roles that challenge gender norms and drive community change. Across all projects, inclusive participation from students to families and school leaders proved essential to identifying needs and co-creating effective, lasting solutions.
The new publication Action Research for Schools: Global Stories of School Improvement presents these findings and practical solutions to help schools worldwide address similar challenges.
‘Receiving the Action Research grant was a transformative milestone,’ said Shireen from Al Ridwan School. ‘It enabled me to explore a real classroom challenge and connect with passionate educators globally. This sparked a culture of action research across our school, inspiring collective growth as reflective practitioners.’
Ameera Mannaa, Exams Director MENA South, British Council remarked: ‘We are proud to see Partner Schools driving real educational change. The impact is clear: students think critically, teachers grow collaboratively, and schools become hubs of continuous improvement.’
Building on its success, the British Council has launched the second year of the programme.