Taking in Prague, Milan, Barcelona and San Sebastian (the latter location pictured), the trip enabled up to 18 QE members to meet with local education agencies who, in the words of Carolyn Blackmore, Chief Executive of the association, “mean business” because they take the time to attend the focused events.

” Turnout by schools was excellent (we had to turn schools away in San Sebastian) reflecting the support for European missions at this time,” said Blackmore. The members represented a global mix of English language teaching operations, from New Zealand to the UK.

Agent invitee, Laura Iglesias from Kilometrosymillas in Barcelona, praised the event. “It was big enough for a one-day mission and small enough to meet everybody in a family environment,” she said.

Meanwhile, Vera Olano of Winter Language Services, also in Barcelona, commented, “One moment which I think is particularly nice is lunch. I like the chance we get to sit together with agents and educators and talk about trends in the market, sharing experiences from either sides is very interesting and enriching.”

Blaise Barham of Southern Lakes English College en route to Prague

Next year, QE will organise inbound agent visits to members – the Quality Visit scheme – as well as outbound missions. It is also promoting a new sister organisation, Quality Education, for career colleges and vocational schools offering training in English.