The English PAL Twinning Programme has just finished its first successful semester and has further solidified the positive relationship between the University of Bath and Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University (LTSNU)
The SU is proud to host a thriving Language PAL (Peer-Assisted learning) programme that offers students the opportunity to practice their language skills in a supportive, peer- led environment. This semester, building on the successful of the Language PAL programme and to stand in solidarity with our colleagues in Ukraine, a new, online branch of the programme was created. The English PAL Twinning Programme is a collaboration between The SU and the Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University; a relationship made possible by the
UK- Ukraine Twinning initiative. Postgraduate Officer Jura Neverauskaite, Community Officer Blake Walker, Skills and Development Coordinator Leah McCue and the rest of the SU’s Peer Support Team were proud to launch this exciting new endeavor for students at both universities.
Skills and Development Coordinator Leah McCue praised her colleagues, commenting “the project team worked very hard to get the programme started and we are proud of its initial offering this semester. We are very grateful to all staff and students at the University of Bath and Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University who have engaged with and supported the programme. It would not have been possible without the enthusiasm of staff, Student Leaders, and attendees.”
Supported by the SU’s Peer Support Team, a small team of University of Bath Student Leaders led six online English sessions for students at LTSNU which were very positively received. From the English PAL Leaders to the attendees, the students involved in this pilot programme shared how much they enjoyed the experience. One of the students who attended the Advanced session stated that, 'The lesson was very interesting and useful. The representatives were polite and explained everything. Extremely useful language practice for everyone'.
Postgraduate Officer, Jura Neverauskaite, who championed the project and lead sessions shared that, “it was a fantastic experience all around. As an SU we were looking for a way to support our colleagues in Ukraine, and I am so pleased to see how successfully the programme was received by both the University of Bath and LTSNU. We look forward to future collaborations!” Community Officer Blake Walker also shared that, “This has been a fantastic peer-learning opportunity for all of those involved and our Student Leaders did an outstanding job planning and leading the sessions. A massive congratulations to all involved for their hard work.”
The project team is hopeful to build on the success of the inaugural semester and is working with LTSNU to determine their next steps. The SU Bath looks forward to seeing how the programme develops and its continued positive impact on students at both of our institutions.