Madina Dalabayeva

How did you hear about the School of Education and why did you choose to study here?

While considering different universities, I found that the School of Education at Leeds offered exactly what I was looking for. I received offers from several universities, but after reviewing the modules in detail, I felt that Leeds was the best match for my professional and academic interests. The flexibility of the course and the School’s strong research focus made it the right choice for me.

Tell us about your course – why did you choose it? What elements of the course inspired you to study here?

I had initially considered several programmes, but the course at Leeds stood out. I wanted to deepen my understanding of education by combining practical experience with research and theoretical knowledge. I was particularly impressed by how carefully the modules were designed to connect academic learning with real-world classroom experience, especially through the school placement. It really shows the depth and quality of the programme.

What was the best part of your studies – what did you enjoy the most?

The best part of my studies was the support I received from the academic staff. The lecturers were always approachable, and the environment was welcoming and respectful. I never felt hesitant to ask questions or share my thoughts, which helped me explore new ideas and gain confidence.

What were your career aspirations? Do you think the experience and skills you’ve gained here have helped you in your career plans? In what way?

One of my main career goals was to study the British education system and consider how some of its elements could be adapted to Kazakhstan, where the education system is still developing. Studying at the University of Leeds broadened my perspective and helped me think critically about education, understanding what is possible and what is not. The knowledge and skills I gained here will contribute to my professional development and enable me to support the advancement of education in my country. In particular, my school placement in England gave me practical insight into different approaches to teaching and learning, which I plan to share with colleagues during methodological meetings and seminars. Additionally, the various workshops in the “Creativity and Play for Learning” module contributed to developing my creative approach to teaching and broadened my understanding of lesson planning. Of course, I also intend to apply these ideas directly in my own lessons. I want to actively discuss and promote ways to improve and develop education. Furthermore, I plan to continue conducting research in the field of education in the future.

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your study at the School of Education that you can tell us about?

My main focus was on learning and developing academically. The School of Education offers a wide range of opportunities throughout the year to get involved in different projects and activities. I was able to contribute to the “Learning with GenAI” project, which was a valuable experience that helped me build confidence in engaging with new ideas and technologies. Overall, my studies have helped me grow significantly in critical thinking and research skills, preparing me well for my future career.

What was your experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the city of Leeds, and the Yorkshire region?

I had a wonderful overall experience. I'm really grateful for how well everything worked out, from the course to the people I met. I really enjoyed studying with my peers and am grateful to have shared this journey with them. The academic staff were supportive and approachable and the facilities were excellent for learning. I also enjoyed Leeds because it offers a good balance between activity and relaxation. Discovering the Yorkshire region added something special to my experience.

Are there any experiences outside of your studies that you have particularly enjoyed?

Outside of my studies, I really enjoyed daily life in Leeds. I liked how well organised and comfortable everything is here. Walking in green spaces like Roundhay Park or around the campus helped me relax and feel at home. The people were friendly, and my classmates were very supportive. I also enjoyed learning about different cultures through the students I met, which made my time here even more enjoyable.

Would you recommend the School of Education to others who are considering studying here?

Yes, absolutely. I believe the School of Education is open to new ideas and encourages experimentation. The staff are always willing to listen and welcome feedback, which helps students feel valued and supported. The programme is thoughtfully designed to provide a variety of experiences. For example, the school placement offers an excellent chance to connect theory with practice. Additionally, throughout the year, we attended Academic Literacies sessions that provided us with extra support. Studying at a highly ranked university like Leeds has also opened up valuable career opportunities for me. Overall, my time here has been rewarding and has helped me grow both professionally and personally. I would definitely recommend it to others.