The power of cultural appeal 1

While English-language universities on the Continent represent additional competition for British universities and private educators of international students, these offshore programmes ignore one of the key reasons why the British education system is so popular internationally ("The language of competition", 22 January).

Research has shown that students choose Britain over other destinations as they relish the opportunity to immerse themselves in the language and culture, enabling them to develop networks and foster relationships that will be of benefit to them throughout their future careers. The importance of this "culturalisation opportunity" cannot be ignored.

James Pitman

Managing director, Study Group UK.