CILT works to convince people of all ages, at all stages of learning and in all walks of life, of the benefits of learning and using more than one language. We do this by using our expertise as the National Centre for Languages to influence policy, spread best practice and to support the development of language professionals.

CILT is now operating as part of CfBT Education Trust

Following productive discussions with the coalition Government about the future of support for language teaching and learning, CILT, the National Centre for Languages is to merge with the education charity CfBT Education Trust with effect from 7 April 2011. Its branch in Cardiff, CILT Cymru, which is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, will continue to provide services to teachers in Wales by merging with the WJEC. The brands and core objectives of both CILT, the National Centre for Languages, and CILT Cymru will remain unaffected.

Kathryn Board, Chief Executive of CILT, said:

"We are delighted that the DfE and the Welsh Assembly Government have supported us in achieving these new partnerships which will strengthen our ability to meet the needs of schools and further develop the support for languages which is so desperately needed. CfBT and WJEC are both excellent organisations which will add enormous value to our work. By combining our operations in this way we will be able to make the most efficient use of public funds and provide teachers and schools with the help, advice and support they need to expand and improve languages teaching."

Neil McIntosh, Chief Executive of CfBT said:

"CILT‘s expertise and track record in the field of language teaching are internationally recognised. We are delighted that this essential work will continue - and be developed further - within the framework of the CfBT. Together we can offer an even wider range of support for languages which will enhance education in schools and enable young people increasingly to use languages in their future careers in business and the public services." 

From 7 April the majority of CILT services including: the Graduate Teacher Programme, CILT Plus, the online membership community offering expert support and guidance on language learning, CPD and resources; and programmes currently funded by the DfE, will transfer as a unit to CfBT along with staff working on these activities and the CILT brand.

Further enquiries:

To contact CILT please call: 0118 902 1000

For all press enquiries please contact:

Eva Oliver, Communications Officer (Languages Education Team), CfBT Education Trust
Tel: +44 (0) 118 902 1676
Email: eoliver@cfbt.com

CILT, the National Centre for Languages is now operating as part of the CfBT Education Trust. CfBT Education Trust is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.  Registered in England and Wales.  Company number: 867944; Charity Number: 270901.  Registered office: 60 Queens Road, Reading RG1 4BS, United Kingdom.