Hazel Chan

I am currently working as an Additional Learning Support Officer at Oldham College, where I provide targeted support to students with disabilities, learning difficulties, and Special Educational Needs. In my role, I work closely with the Dyslexia Support, Welfare, and Assistive Technology teams to reduce barriers and ensure that all learners can access and engage with their education.

I have always been passionate about the field of education. I completed my Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and Special Education at the University of Hong Kong, which gave me a strong foundation in child development and inclusive practice. I later pursued a BA in Education at the University of Leeds, where I deepened my understanding of inclusive pedagogy and safeguarding policies. I am especially grateful for the guidance and encouragement I received from my tutors throughout my academic journey. 

What motivated you to apply to study your chosen course and why did you choose Leeds?

I chose this course because it has a really good mix of academic learning and hands-on experience. The work placement was a big highlight for me. It’s a great chance to take what we learn in class and actually use it in a real educational setting. I also like that our placement is based in the educational setting of our own choice, which means I can gain experience that really fits my interests and future goals in inclusive education.

I picked Leeds mainly because of its strong reputation. It’s one of the top universities in the UK for Education and is regularly ranked in the QS global top 100 for Education and Training. That gave me a lot of confidence in the quality of the course.

But beyond rankings, I chose Leeds because it feels supportive and welcoming. The staff are experienced and genuinely care about students, and the community encourages you to grow both personally and professionally. It’s a place where you can really thrive.

What do you think of your course, were there any particular highlights for you?

I really enjoyed my course, and I’m grateful for how well it was structured. The workload was manageable, and having two days off each week gave me time to catch up, reflect, and maintain a healthy balance.

One of the biggest highlights for me was the placement I completed at a Special School. I had the opportunity to support students with Complex and Multiple Learning Needs, Autism, and Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. Working closely with them taught me so much about patience, communication, and the importance of truly understanding each learner as an individual.

During my placement, I also started learning British Sign Language (BSL), which quickly became something I’m passionate about. It opened up a new way of connecting with students, and it’s a skill I’m excited to continue developing in the future.

Overall, the course strengthened my commitment to creating inclusive, equitable learning environments. It was both challenging and rewarding, and it confirmed that this is the career path I want to pursue.

How would you describe the facilities at the University of Leeds?

I’d describe the facilities at the University of Leeds as really student-friendly and easy to access. There are several libraries, and having some of them open 24 hours was a lifesaver during busy periods. My favourite place, though, was definitely the Leeds University Union. It has everything – from quiet study spots to areas where you can take a break, play table tennis, or just chat with friends.

The gaming room with the Switch and PS5 was such a fun space, and my friends and I often went there to unwind after classes. And of course, Fruity became one of our weekly traditions! It added a lot of joy and memories to my time at Leeds. Overall, the facilities made campus life feel comfortable, vibrant, and full of opportunities to connect with people.

Did you engage with enrichment activities, such as societies, summer placements etc? If so, how did these enhance your experience at the university?

During my time at university, I took part in several enrichment activities that really shaped my experience. I served as a School Representative and Student Ambassador for the School of Education, as well as the Internal Vice President for the Hong Kong Public Affairs and Social Services Society. These roles helped me develop confidence, leadership, and communication skills, and gave me the chance to represent and support my peers.

Being involved in these communities also broadened my perspectives. I was able to meet people from different backgrounds, take on meaningful responsibilities, and contribute to projects I cared about. Most importantly, these experiences helped me build lasting friendships that made my university journey even more memorable. I’m genuinely grateful for the opportunities and connections I gained through these activities.

Any other comments that you would like to share?

I would 100% recommend studying at the University of Leeds. My time there was genuinely one of the best periods of my life. The staff were always supportive, approachable, and willing to help whenever I needed guidance, which made a huge difference to my confidence and overall experience.

What I appreciate most is how welcoming and comfortable the university felt. From the campus environment to the people I met along the way. I learned so much, grew both personally and academically, and made memories that I’ll always cherish. Leeds is a place where you can truly feel at home while still being encouraged to challenge yourself and try new things.