Cairo, Egypt – 22 September 2025: The British Council and Macmillan Education have officially launched Advancing Achievement in Egypt, a pioneering partnership that combines world-class English language programmes with trusted assessment solutions.
The initiative, unveiled during a high-profile event at the British Embassy in Cairo marks the first Middle East and North Africa launch of the global collaboration and highlights Egypt’s role as a strategic partner for the UK in education and cultural exchange. The launch was attended by senior leadership from both organisations, education stakeholders from across Egypt and His Excellency the British Ambassador to Egypt, Mark Bryson-Richardson.
His Excellency Mark Bryson-Richardson, British Ambassador to Egypt, said: ‘Education is a cornerstone of the UK-Egypt relationship. The Advancing Achievement programme from Macmillan Education and the British Council will empower learners to thrive in a globalised world, providing high-quality English language education, and developing the confidence, creativity and critical thinking skills needed to shape their futures. Delighted to see it launch here in Egypt.’
First announced globally in December 2023, Advancing Achievement brings together two of the most respected names in English language education, with a combined 270 years of experience and reach into hundreds of countries worldwide. The partnership is designed to redefine educational success, going beyond language proficiency to build confidence, motivation and the full range of 21st century skills learners need to thrive.
Under this collaboration, Macmillan Education provides innovative and engaging English learning programmes, while the British Council contributes internationally benchmarked assessments such as the Primary English Test, Secondary English Test and Aptis. Together, they create an end-to-end model that offers learners credible proof of progress, supports teachers with actionable insights, and provides parents with confidence in their children’s educational journey.
Mark Howard, British Council Director Egypt, commented: ‘Through this partnership, we are combining the best in English language content with internationally recognised assessment. For Egypt, this is not only about equipping learners with English, but also empowering them with the skills and confidence to become true global citizens. Launching Advancing Achievement here reflects our long-standing commitment to supporting the education sector and creating opportunities for young people to shape a brighter future.’
Melanie Everett, Regional Director, Macmillan Education, added: ‘At Macmillan Education, we are proud to partner with the British Council to deliver a complete and inspiring approach to learning and achievement. Advancing Achievement represents the next step in our mission to empower learners by combining innovative teaching resources with internationally benchmarked assessments. Egypt, as the first launch country in the MENA region, holds a pivotal role in this journey, and we are excited to support its students and teachers with solutions that build skills, confidence, and opportunity for the future.’
With its unique combination of learning, teaching, and assessment, Advancing Achievement is set to open new pathways for Egyptian learners while reinforcing the UK’s role as a trusted partner in education. Both the British Council and Macmillan Education reaffirm their commitment to expanding opportunities, fostering partnerships, and advancing achievement across Egypt and beyond.
Visit www.macmillanenglish.com/advancing-achievement for more details about the Advancing Achievement programmes.
About Macmillan Education
Macmillan Education is a global publisher for educational content, technology and teacher professional development. We help educational institutions empower students to shape their futures through English language and essential life skills. With 180 years of commitment to reading, learning and innovation, we lead the way in introducing themes of sustainability, diversity, inclusion and global citizenship into English language programmes. Our solutions for language learning reach over 10 million teachers and learners around the world.
About the British Council
The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. We do this through our work in arts and culture, education and the English language. We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2024–25 we reached 599 million people. https://www.britishcouncil.org.eg/en
For media enquiries please contact:
Macmillan Education: Nathan Waller
Marketing and Academic Services Manager, Middle East and North Africa
Email: [email protected]
British Council: Stella Wekesa
Regional Senior Communications Manager, Middle East and North Africa
Email: [email protected]
