The British Council is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 ELTons Awards for innovation in English language teaching (ELT) and learning, revealed at the ELTons Festival of Innovation, celebrating pioneering achievements in English language education from around the world.
This year the British Council received a record number of over 200 ELTons Innovation Awards entries from 60 countries around the world, underscoring the global interest in innovation within English language education.
These awards recognise pioneering contributions to English language teaching, learning, and assessment across five categories, showcasing outstanding products and services that empower educators and learners worldwide.
This year, Destination OET and Beyond from Klik2Learn (United Kingdom) claimed the award for Innovation in Learner Resources. This immersive course invites learners into the daily routines of hospital life, supporting preparation for the Occupational English Test (OET) with interactive 3D simulations and real-time feedback on communication skills.
In the Innovation in Teacher Resources category, ICEPELL - Open Access Resources received the award for its collaborative work between Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Associação Portuguesa de Professores de Inglês (APPI), Nord University, Technische Universität Braunschweig, and USR Piemonte. The ICEPELL resources empower primary ELT teachers to combine English language education with intercultural learning and citizenship, using picture books to explore complex themes in the classroom.
The award for Innovation in the Use of Technology went to Noticing, by Reflex Consulting (North Macedonia). Noticing is an AI-powered tool that redefines the role of AI in education, offering a personalised journey for teachers focused on practice, reflection, and exploration, rather than generating one-size-fits-all content.
For Excellence in Course Innovation, The Globals by Macenta Publishing & Digital Solutions (Turkey) stood out as a transformative platform that educates learners about the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and inspires them to engage in global activism for a more sustainable world.
In the Local Innovation category, Virtual Remote Live (VRL) by Sirhajwan Idek (Malaysia) was recognised for its groundbreaking internationalisation programme. VRL facilitates virtual connections between students and teachers worldwide through masterclasses, presentations, exchange classes, roundtables, and chat series.
The British Council is also celebrating seven recipients of the Outstanding Achievement Award, representing diverse regions and highlighting the global reach of excellence in English language teaching.
The ELTons award for Outstanding Achievement winners includes:
• Scott Thornbury - for his exceptional contributions to English language teaching as an educator, author, and mentor. The judges highlighted his ability to bridge research and practice, inspire innovation, and his lasting impact through works like the "How to Teach…" series, Dogme ELT, and his support for educators worldwide.
• Rama Mathew - in recognition of her 40+ years of experience as a teacher, educator, and researcher across India, Bangladesh, and Sierra Leone. The judges praised her empowering approach to teacher development and assessment, helping educators conduct research, understand their classrooms, and foster ongoing professional growth.
• Rod Bolitho - in recognition of his 55+ years in language education as a teacher, trainer, and consultant in over 30 countries. The judges highlighted his lasting impact across multiple roles, from teacher to speaker, and his dedication to training and influencing countless educators, with one nominator describing him as the "hallmark standard for reliability, wisdom, and commitment”.
• Okon Effiong – for his outstanding contributions to the development of language teachers' associations across Africa, notably as the founder of Africa ELTA, which now has 24 affiliates and over 3000 members in 94 countries. The judges highlighted his influential work in applied linguistics, leadership in language education, and professional development for teachers.
• Africa ELTA - for its impactful support of English teachers across Africa, promoting innovative pedagogy, research, and inclusivity through mentoring and conferences. Judges highlighted the “Transforming Minds, Transforming Lives in ELT” conference in Cairo, uniting participants from 50+ countries and supporting underserved communities, including refugee teachers.
• Equal Voices in ELT - for its outstanding efforts to promote equity in English language teaching. The judges praised EVE’s impactful work in addressing gender imbalances, amplifying underrepresented voices, and providing resources for inclusive events, setting a benchmark for diversity and leadership in the field.
• Gail Ellis - for her pioneering 40-year contribution to young learner English language teaching. The judges highlighted her advocacy for learner agency, inclusive practices, and picturebook pedagogy, which have profoundly influenced early language education, leaving a lasting impact on educators and learners worldwide.
For more information on the ELTons Judges’ Commendations please refer to notes to editor.
Mark Walker, English & Exams Director at the British Council said: “The 2024 ELTons Awards highlight the incredible ingenuity and dedication within the global English language teaching community. We are proud to recognise the exceptional individuals and projects that are shaping the future of language education, making it more accessible, innovative, and inclusive for learners worldwide. Celebrating these achievements is crucial for inspiring the next generation of innovators.
“This year’s ELTons Festival has expanded its reach to engage not only educational innovators but also teachers and learners themselves. This broader focus reflects the British Council's ongoing commitment to supporting the entire English language teaching community, fostering innovations that resonate directly with classrooms and learners worldwide.”
The reception for the winners and finalists of the 2024 ELTons will be held on the evening of 20th November at the British Council’s Stratford office in London. Scott McDonald, Chief Executive of the British Council, will officially open the event.
A worldwide call for applications for the ELTons 2025 will be made in the coming months.