For partners 
The International House Belfast language school, a member of English UK, IALC, and the IHWO Network, closed on August 31, 2026, after 20 years of operation. In 2006, it became the first year-round English language school in Belfast. The school held Green Standard Schools accreditation for meeting environmental standards and served as a certified Cambridge Teacher Preparation centre.
Reasons and consequences of the closure
The school welcomed students from around the world, giving them the opportunity to experience the culture and hospitality of Northern Ireland. However, as owner Jonathan Dykes noted, over the past 3 years the economic situation has become significantly more difficult — in short, revenues were falling while costs were rising.
International House World Organisation (IHWO) clarified that no transfers were necessary — all students who had chosen and paid for courses at IH Belfast had managed to complete their studies. The school fulfilled all its obligations to students, agents, staff, and host families, and there is no need to transition pupils to other schools in the network.
It is always sad when such a reliable and steadfast partner leaves the market; however, we hope that this consolidation will benefit the entire International House network, allowing it to focus its efforts on improving the remaining schools and programs.
