Learn English in London with Bildungsurlaub: Essential Information for German Professionals on Educational Leave
Categories: Important Updates, Kentish Town, London Living, Programmes
BILDUNGSFREISTELLUNG RECOGNITION GRANTED TO SCL
At SCL International College, we understand the importance of English language proficiency for everyone pursuing academic and professional goals. Whether you're planning to travel to London on a summer break, about to start your university journey, or you’re already working in a professional environment, everyone deserves the opportunity to learn.
That’s why we are proud to have received Bildungsurlaub (educational leave) approval, which means more German professionals can study abroad at our language schools in London.
What Is Bildungsurlaub and How Does It Work for German Employees?
The German government provides a form of financial support for its citizens to take educational leave, also known as Bildungsurlaub, Bildungszeit or Bildungsfreistellung. It enables German professionals to study abroad for educational purposes.
- Employees are entitled to 5 days of educational paid leave per year
- In some cases, it is possible to combine your entitlement from 2 years, giving you a period of 10 consecutive days for educational leave
- You won’t need to use your regular vacation or holiday allowance - the Bildungsurlaub is separate time off
- You must choose an institution and course that is recognised and has “Bildungsurlaub approval status” in the federal state where you work
- The rules vary by German state and at the time of writing, all states grant educational leave except Bavaria and Saxony, although the latter will enable employees to use up to 3 days a year starting January 1, 2027
- German employees are responsible for the cost of their training program, but importantly, they still receive their salary while they are away from work focusing on their personal and professional development as part of Bildungsurlaub
The importance of Educational Leave in Germany
Educational leave is a type of paid leave from work that allows employees to take part in further training measures, without having to take normal vacation days. In Germany, employees, civil servants and similar groups are entitled to educational leave. This means that during this time, your employer will release you from work, and you can participate in a recognised training course of your choice.
To learn more about the rules, you can review the FAQs on the Bildungsurlaub approval website.
Fun fact: Of the 14+ million eligible employees in Germany, over 1 million of them use Bildungsurlaub each year (Bildungsurlauber.de, 2025).
How do I use my Bildungsurlaub to study English in London?
Designed to be flexible, employees in Germany can use their Bildungsurlaub for a wide variety of subject areas. Given the importance of English fluency today, many working professionals choose to use their paid leave to improve their language skills.
English serves as the lingua franca of international communication, enabling individuals to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, collaborate on global projects, and access a wealth of knowledge and resources.
If you’re ready to elevate your career, strengthening your English is one of the most powerful steps you can take.
But studying online isn’t enough. To truly master English, you must be fully immersed in the language 24/7. That’s why studying abroad in the UK is so effective.
Classes run all year round
Since SCL International College is on the Bildungsurlaub Approval list, you can enrol on our specialised Super Intensive English course any time of the year. Email info@bildungsurlaub-approval.de or info@sclinternationalcollege.com to learn which form you need to complete for employer approval.
London’s International Community of Students and Working Professionals
Learning goes beyond the classroom.
German professionals coming to the UK on Bildungsurlaub will have the opportunity to not only explore, but fully immerse themselves in the rich and exciting culture that only London can offer. No matter what industry you are working in - from business to tech, hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing or retail - you can find thousands of companies across the city in every size and structure. This makes London an ideal place for inspiration as well as live case studies to support your current role or even potential partnerships to help your firm grow.
Outside of professional interests, London is a hotbed of culture. After classes, you can take full advantage of living in the city by attending art galleries or museums (many are open late on selected evenings), seeing a show in the West End, or listening to live music. Or, simply soak up the atmosphere at a pub, restaurant or cocktail bar where you can practice your English in a natural setting with chatty locals.
Tip: Dive into our blog to discover tons of things to see and do in London!
On-Site Accommodation in our London Language School
Students coming to the UK on Bildungsurlaub will study and stay in our Kentish Town campus, based in the heart of London. Unique for a language school, our accommodation is located in the same building as our classrooms, which makes your London learning experience as easy and convenient as possible. You don’t need to search for housing or waste time commuting.
Live and learn - all under one roof
- Having your living space and study environment in the same building will make your day-to-day life simple and seamless
- You’ll also benefit from our on-site fully-equipped gym, cafe, cinema, social areas, and 24/7 reception
- Hosting students from over 60 nationalities, you’ll rely on English to communicate with everyone at SCL
- Our high-tech classrooms make learning interactive and engaging
- Key-card entry, CCTV and high speed WiFi ensures your accommodation is modern as well as safe
Based in Zone 2, SCL’s Kentish Town campus has excellent transport links for exploring the whole of London. With iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Camden Market, Arsenal Football Stadium and more at your doorstep, you’ll never be far from culture, history and excitement.
Supportive Academic Environment
With over 25 years of experience, the vast majority of our English language tutors have experience teaching overseas and all our staff understand the specific needs that international students may have when coming to London, especially if it's their first time travelling to the city. German professionals will receive individual attention from our dedicated tutors and trained staff every step of the way.
“Many professionals tell us they want to use English more confidently at work, not just understand it. Our academic team provides consistent guidance, feedback, and support so students can actively develop their language skills in a way that is immediately applicable to their professional lives," explains Gary Speirs, SCL's Academic Director. "For professionals taking Bildungsurlaub, every day counts. We ensure that learning is clearly structured and closely aligned with real‑world language use, enabling students to return to work with measurable progress and renewed confidence.”
Enquire Now
Join us at SCL International College and gain the language skills that open doors to new opportunities, global connections and professional success. Use your Bildungsurlaub to live and learn in one of the world’s greatest cities with an all-inclusive campus experience!
Explore our course page to learn more, contact us to schedule a call or email us at info@sclinternationalcollege.com and take the next step toward your future.
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