Discover a love for language with LEAP

05 Jul 2024

Applications are now open for LEAP (Language Experience for All Programme).

LEAP offers our colleagues the opportunity to learn a language for personal, professional and academic purposes. With 14 languages to choose from, all courses are available from absolute beginner levels with some courses reaching advanced levels.

Yan Xin Ng, Teaching, Learning and Student Experience Graduate Intern, spoke with us about what it’s like to learn a language with LEAP, whilst working at the university:

What inspired you to do a LEAP course?

I couldn't resist taking a LEAP course, as the program is structured in such a way that I can arrange my full-time work schedule around it and learn a new language on campus within walking distance. I chose to learn Korean due to my interest in the culture and to increase my employability skills. Additionally, the LEAP course fee is very affordable!

What was your experience of balancing your work commitments alongside your study?

Initially, it took some time to adjust to the new commitment on top of my work. However, since I didn’t need to spend extra time traveling to lessons or learning to use Blackboard, I could easily focus on learning the language itself. I also attended lectures and expanded my network, getting to know students from different degree backgrounds who share a passion for the language I’m learning. As someone who works closely with students, this experience has helped me understand student trends in different semesters.

What did you enjoy most about the course?

The class environment is encouraging and positive. The satisfaction I get from seeing my improvement and gradually being able to read, speak, and understand the language more efficiently and structurally is significant compared to learning through the Duolingo app. I also enjoy joining group discussions during lecture time and feel more confident in leading students when necessary.

For more information about our courses, click here. Applications can be made via this link. Please note that all colleagues will be required to complete a Right to Study check before study commences – full details of the admissions process can be found on this page.