Community of Practice (CoP) leader support scheme

Find out how to apply for the fully funded Community of Practice (CoP) leader support scheme by the British Council.

A Muslim woman at a CoP leaders meeting in Jakarta

Apply now

TeachingEnglish Southeast Asia continues its fully funded Community of Practice (CoP) leader support scheme for its second year. The scheme, funded by the British Council, is tailored to the needs of English language teachers and educators. Our vision is to further strengthen the Southeast Asian education community, fostering continuous learning and growth among both teachers and learners. 

What is the CoP leader support scheme? 

The Community of Practice (CoP) leader support scheme offers a unique opportunity for English language teacher educators across Southeast Asia to develop essential leadership skills. This scheme empowers educators to lead vibrant Communities of Practice, fostering collaboration and growth across the region.  

Who should apply? 

We are seeking passionate, dedicated and forward-thinking educators who are part of an English language teaching association, bureau, organisation or teacher network, ready to take their teaching career to the next level. If you're someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, embraces professional growth and is eager to make a meaningful impact, this is the perfect opportunity for you! 

Ideal candidates are representatives of an English language teacher association, organisation or network, with access to an existing community of educators enthusiastic about creating and leading online professional communities. 

Essential criteria

  • English language proficiency (minimum B2/IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) 

  • A qualification in English language teaching  

  • Active involvement in English language teaching or teacher development 

  • Strong interest in online professional community building 

  • Commitment to 4–5 hours per week for 8–10 weeks 

  • Basic digital skills and reliable internet access 

  • Must be based in one of the eligible countries

If you are an educator from Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam this scheme could be your chance to make a real impact.  

Desired experience

  • Previous experience in teacher training or professional development 

  • Familiarity with online learning platforms 

  • Proven ability to collaborate with educators 

  • Demonstrated leadership in education

About the Community of Practice (CoP) leader support scheme

Duration

Overall, 40 hours of leadership training spread over the course of 8–10 weeks. 

Weekly commitment

We expect the selected candidate to spend 4–5 hours a week on the course.

Format

The programme will take place in the form of hybrid learning. It offers a dynamic blend of self-paced learning and live online sessions on content.

Expert support through the scheme

Fellow teacher educators and mentors who will provide feedback and guidance.

Teaching opportunities

There will be ample opportunities for interactions. You will have the chance to work with fellow candidates for practical application and collaborative learning.

Topics

The scheme covers teaching topics such as: 

  • Building and leading communities of practice 

  • Mastering online facilitation techniques 

  • Motivating and engaging your community 

  • Measuring the impact of your community 

  • Harnessing digital tools for professional growth. 

Benefits of applying for the CoP leader support scheme

By joining this scheme, you will gain invaluable English language teaching skills, connect with a vibrant community of educators and access resources that will transform your teaching and leadership capabilities. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of something truly transformative! 

  • Get fully funded access to the 40-hour CoP leader course and earn a certificate of completion to boost your credentials.
  • Receive expert feedback and personalised guidance, connect with educators from across the region, join regional online conferences and become part of a growing network of teacher educators.
  • Get exclusive access to the British Council's TeachingEnglish resources, an invitation to join the ASEAN online conference platform and access to ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Opportunity to bid for seed funding of £2,000 to launch your own online Community of Practice (CoP)

How to apply for the CoP leader support scheme

Submit your application

  • Complete the online application form and submit all required documents by 10 May 2026 to teachingenglishasia@britishcouncil.org

  • Documents required:

    • Completed application form (via MS forms; click on the Apply now button at the beginning of the page)
    • Current CV
    • A short video (1–2 minutes) in which you introduce yourself and reflect on your experience of working with other educators or being part of a teaching community
    • Proof of English proficiency and English language teaching qualification (optional)
    • A motivation letter outlining your experience and why you want to participate 

Please note: Applications that are incomplete or submitted without the required supporting documents will NOT be considered. 

Selection process

  • Applications will be assessed based on the selection criteria, and final results will be announced on 25 May 2026. Key dates: 

    • Application deadline: 10 May 2026  

    • Selection announcement: 25 May 2026  

    • Course start: 08 June 2026  

    • Course completion: 31 August 2026  

 

Data protection 

By applying for this scheme, you agree to the British Council's use of your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy

Need help? 

Contact us at teachingenglishasia@britishcouncil.org for any queries. 


Apply now

Comments

Submitted by maryokwudibaa@… on Fri, 05/01/2026 - 05:38

A teacher from my country is not eligible to apply for this. Thank you for other career development opportunities.

Research and insight

Browse fascinating case studies, research papers, publications and books by researchers and ELT experts from around the world.

See our publications, research and insight