Fostering Growth through Exchange, Charting the Future Together: SVHC’s Faculty and Student Delegation Visits Leeds Beckett University in the UK for Exchange and Learning

To further promote cooperation and exchange between the two schools, at the sincere invitation of Leeds Beckett University (LBU) in the United Kingdom, a delegation of 17 faculty and students from Suzhou Vocational Health College, led by Lu Hui, Secretary of the Party Branch of the School of Clinical Medicine, visited the UK from November 17th to November 30th for a 14-day exchange and learning program.

Following the mutually agreed training plan, the delegation carried out categorized and grouped learning activities and field visits, gaining an in-depth understanding of Leeds Beckett University’s educational philosophy, talent cultivation system for nursing and rehabilitation programs, the construction of on-campus and off-campus training bases, and the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Faculty and students from the nursing and rehabilitation programs participated in professional teaching observations and seminars, deeply experiencing the emphasis on job demand orientation and the cultivation of students’ independent learning, inquiry, and teamwork abilities in the UK’s higher vocational education.

In addition, the delegation engaged in extensive discussions with graduates from our college’s rehabilitation therapy program who are currently studying in the 3+1 overseas undergraduate program at Leeds Beckett University. These students generously shared their study-abroad experiences, emphasizing the importance of English speaking and listening training. They also provided suggestions on improving independent learning, research, and professional English skills, while expressing heartfelt gratitude for the education they received at their alma mater. During the visit, the two sides also held in-depth discussions on talent cultivation, the appointment of overseas visiting professors, and faculty and student exchanges.

The 14-day exchange program proved to be highly rewarding for both faculty and students. The teachers expressed their intention to use this exchange as an opportunity to innovate teaching methods based on the college’s actual conditions and their professional strengths, contributing to the high-quality development of the college. The students also stated that they would strengthen their English and professional knowledge learning upon returning, improve their self-management skills, and prepare thoroughly for future advanced studies. Through this visit, the delegation members expanded their international perspectives, enhanced their professional understanding and practical abilities, and played a positive role in elevating the internationalization level of our college.