Memorable experiences exchanged between Leeds City College and Dortmund students

During a recent international exchange project between Dortmund and Leeds City College, nine German students embarked on an educational journey filled with new experiences and discoveries.

Their visit to Leeds City College has left them with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the college’s welcoming culture.

Accompanied by their tutor from Robert Bosch Berufskolleg College in Dortmund, the students concluded their immersive five-day international placement.

Their visit included a diverse range of classes and sessions at both the Quarry Hill and Printworks campuses, including Digital Arts & Media, Digital & IT, Engineering, Motor Vehicle and English.

Embracing student life

Students also had the opportunity to experience enrichment activities organised by the Student Life team.
They tried their hand at a fun-filled game of bowling and explored local attractions, such as the renowned Royal Armouries.

The enriching experiences provided by the college were highly praised by the German exchange students, who expressed their desire for similar holistic experiences beyond the classroom.

The time of the placement coincided with the coronation of King Charles III. Eager to explore more of England, they seized the opportunity to visit the vibrant cities of Manchester and York.

Before their arrival in Leeds, the German students had the pleasure of hosting three Leeds City College Engineering students in Dortmund. The exchange project fostered a sense of familiarity and camaraderie, especially as they were accompanied on their Leeds adventures by their newfound friends.

Expressing deep gratitude for the international placement, one of the students said:
“I admire how teachers work with their students, I can tell it makes students want to work better. I think the college is interesting – the school is active and alive and I like how hobbies are incorporated in day-to-day life.”

The international collaboration between Dortmund and Leeds City College proved to be an exceptional opportunity for all students to expand their horizons, embrace new cultures and forge lasting connections.

Here’s what some of the students had to say about the exchange project.

Which lessons were your favourite and why?

“The VR welding lesson provided a great way to learn real-world skills.” – Alexios Webber

“The Electric installation lesson because of the teacher Chris.” – Bent Schlegal

“E-Sports because I have never seen this in a college before.” – Jonas Kaiser

What will you remember most from this experience?

“I will remember the electrical workshop with Chris Lang.” – Max Beughold

“I will remember the friendly people here and the opportunities the college gives its students.” – Jonas Kaiser

Would you visit Leeds City College again?

“Yes, because the relationship between the student and teacher feels really positive.” – Mahmood Fadakar

“I would visit again because of the people I have met and become friends with.” – Lina Gronwald