Bildungsurlaub English Courses

Use your study leave to improve your English skills and discover British culture. Our accredited courses are designed to enhance your English skills for work, including presentation skills and communication for international collaboration. In addition to your peer-to-peer classes, you'll experience British culture through educational and practical activities.

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What is Bildungsurlaub?

Bildungsurlaub, in some German states called "Bildungszeit" or "Bildungsfreistellung", is paid leave to attend an approved educational course. Five days leave are provided each year and leave in one year may be carried forward to the next year so that 10 days leave can be taken for a course.

Whilst the company continues to pay the employee during Bildungsurlaub leave, the course and other expenses are paid by the employee.

Which German states offer Bildungsurlaub educational leave?

There are 14 states in Germany that offer Bildungsurlaub, Bildungszeit or Bildungsfreistellung:

• Baden-Württemberg
• Berlin
• Brandenburg
• Bremen
• Hamburg
• Hessen
• Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
• Niedersachsen
• Nordrhein-Westfalen
• Rheinland-Pfalz
• Saarland
• Sachsen-Anhalt
• Schleswig-Holstein
• Thüringen

Bildungsurlaub English course outline

Week 1

Theme: Communication & Cultural Identity

Week 2

Theme: Innovation, Society & Future Thinking

Project work

The programme includes collaborative projects focused on cultural themes, local experiences, communication skills and critical thinking.

Cultural and social programme

Each week there are two cultural visits included in the Bildungsurlaub course programme. These activities will vary from week to week and so will depend on the dates of your course. Typical visits are: Roman Baths, Victoria Art Gallery, No 1 Royal Crescent, Museum of Bath at Work, Herschel Museum of Astronomy.

As well as the cultural visits in the programme, optional cultural activities may also be available, including day excursions to Stonehenge, The Cotswolds, Bristol, Oxford and evening activities such as a Pub visit with live music.

Why study at Languages United?

• Accredited, immersive programme
  • A 30-hour-per-week course that fully meets Bildungsurlaub requirements, combining General English, cultural immersion and project-based learning that focuses on the skills required for international business communication.
• Personalised learning approach
  • Small class sizes with differentiated support from experienced teachers, ensuring learners develop confidence and fluency at their own pace.
• You will be studying in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath
  • A unique opportunity to study in a beautiful, safe, and inspiring location with rich historical and cultural significance.
• More than just grammar
  • Our students improve their English through meaningful, real-life communication – not just test-based tasks.
• Confidence in professional and social settings
  • Learners practise language for work, travel, and everyday life, building confidence across a range of contexts.
• Tangible outcomes through project-based learning
  • Students develop and improve fast by completing real tasks, presentations, and collaborative projects they can take pride in – enhancing skills valued in the workplace.
• Self-reflection and learner autonomy
  • Guided self-study helps learners develop independent study habits and personal learning strategies.
• A cultural and personal experience in Bath
  • Studying in Bath is not only academically enriching but also emotionally rewarding – students explore British culture, heritage, and daily life in a UNESCO city that’s both vibrant and welcoming.

Accommodation options for Bildungsurlaub English courses

Homestay accommodation

Staying in a homestay is a great way to practise and improve your English as well as learn about British culture and make new friends. You will be treated as a member of the household, eating together and sharing common living areas.

Accommodation is provided in single rooms with half board, so your hosts will provide breakfast and an evening meal daily. Private bathrooms and special diets are available on request at an additional cost.

All our homestay accommodation is organised by our own Accommodation Team, and regularly inspected to ensure their accommodation meets our standards.

Hostel accommodation

Our hostel accommodation is provided by YMCA Bath. Situated in the city centre, it is just a couple of minutes' walk from our school on Walcot Street.

Types of rooms available include single, twin and double ensuite rooms - please ask us for prices and availability at the time of booking.

Facilities include self-catering kitchen, communal relaxation area with games, free WiFi and a gym on-site.

Hotel accommodation

We can arrange accommodation in the luxury Z Hotel in the centre of Bath, just 10 minutes walk from our school. The hotel has double, queen and accessible rooms available, with optional breakfast.

We can suggest other accommdation to suit your requirements, including family accommodation, Bed & Breakfast, and serviced private apartments. If you would like some advice, please contact us with your requirements.