We just came back from educational fairs in Japan and Korea — here’s what we learned!

By Deivid Flores, Sales & Marketing at International House Newcastle

Earlier this month in Tokyo and Seoul, one thing stood out clearly: English is not just a skill, it’s a strategy. From teenagers preparing for international exams to professionals in the creative and tech industries, students are viewing English as the key to mobility, opportunity and global collaboration. We asked our local partners about new market trends and this is how we, as schools, can respond to such changes!

1.     English as a Career Catalyst

Across Japan and South Korea, young professionals are studying English not only for grades but to advance their careers. ICEF research shows that nearly half (47%) of Japanese professionals with beginner-level English are unsatisfied in their current jobs — a clear link between fluency and job satisfaction.

At IH Newcastle, we’ve seen this shift reflected in the growing demand for Business English, Academic English for IELTS, and Personal Study Programmes (PSP) — courses designed to help students communicate with confidence in international workplaces.

2. Rise of Hybrid Pathways

Flexibility has become essential. Many learners start online with native teachers before committing to an overseas programme, allowing them to build confidence and manage costs.

Our school offers both face-to-face and online classes, so students can begin their journey from home and continue in the UK once they’re ready — combining the best of both worlds.

3. Regional Players: The Philippines and Beyond

During recent visits, many education leaders pointed to the Philippines as a growing hub for English learning, offering competitive pricing and qualified teachers. While these emerging destinations appeal to beginners, many still aspire to study in traditional English-speaking countries to experience authentic immersion and cultural exchange.

As one of the major IH schools in the UK, we trust our centres can leverage their strong academic standards, qualified teaching teams, and cultural programmes to remain attractive to students seeking genuine, high-quality English experiences abroad.

4. Cultural Purpose in Learning (an additional insight!!)

Modern learners want more than lessons — they seek connection and cultural integration. They want to live the language, not just learn it. Destinations that blend academic excellence with cultural experiences are thriving.

A simple solution to make sure students are learning inside and outside the classroom is to offer a well-organised social programme, with a set of activities that mirror the age group, cultural background of your students. This improves the engagement across all channels and, from our own experience, we have seen students returning to our school, sharing more of their experience on social media and becoming ambassadors of these events for new students.

As a final takeaway for language schools, these trends signal opportunity. The future belongs to institutions that combine academic excellence, flexibility, and cultural relevance.

As part of the International House World Organisation, IH Newcastle continues to design programmes that reflect these new learning journeys — helping students around the world use English not only to study, but to connect, create and succeed.

Want to learn more? Get in touch with us today! deivid@ihnewcastle.com