Aims

The Aims of the HMC Projects Scholarship and Teacher Programmes

HMC Projects (which is part of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference) is proud to have given to students and teachers from Central and Eastern Europe an unparalleled opportunity to study for a year in a British school. The Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC) is recognised internationally as an association of independent schools of the highest quality. HMC Projects is affiliated to HMC and most of the Heads of participant schools are members of HMC, although some participant schools enjoy membership of other organisations, including the Girls' Schools Association. British independent schools are internationally recognised as educational establishments of the highest quality. All schools involved in the work of HMC Projects have to pass rigorous inspections to ensure they remain of high quality.

Since the first scholars were selected in 1993, well over 1,100 students have spent a valuable year in top British independent schools. In 1996, a programme for teachers was added and over 300 young teachers have been able to develop their teaching experience in our schools.

The aim of both Student and Teacher programmes is to foster bonds of understanding and friendship between young people across Europe and to give young people from the former communist countries in Central and Eastern Europe an enriching and rewarding experience in some of the best schools in the world.

Students and Teachers from Central and Eastern Europe are able to develop their English skills, to make new friends from different cultures, and to experience and appreciate the culture and traditions of the UK. Teachers also have the opportunity to develop their professional skills in highly successful and forward-looking schools.

In return, British children meet and learn to appreciate friends from countries they may not know well. Over the years, the programme has nurtured excellent contacts between young people as they advance in their careers and have a much deeper understanding of other countries' traditions and culture.