Education students gain experience and insight through placements in Thailand

For the past eight years students from the LJMU BA Education and BA Early Childhood Studies programmes have had the opportunity to undertake international placements thanks to a partnership with Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Dean of Education from the university and nine others visited LJMU this week in celebration of the successful collaboration that is enhancing the learning experience of students from both institutions.

Dr Emma Roberts, Associate Dean for Global Engagement within the Faculty of Arts Professional and Social Studies (APSS) said: “The staff and students in the School of Education were delighted to have the occasion to welcome the visitors from Thailand.  Since the placements have begun, over 130 LJMU students have experienced these life-changing opportunities in Thailand, due to the kind assistance of the staff at Srinakharinwirot University. Dr Mark Meadows in the LJMU School of Education has overseen the project and worked tirelessly with the team in Thailand over the eight years to build links.”

Dr Mark Meadows said: “This is a really successful project that offers students a real and meaningful international experience. Feedback from students is that they really enjoy the both the challenges and the opportunities the visit offers them”.

Sam Burrows, a Level 5 BA Education Studies student who made the trip this year, said: “I’ve learned so much. Not just about myself, but also how things can be done differently and how culture has real impact on practice. Best of all, I’m going back to Thailand in the summer for paid work in the school I was placed at.”

During the two-day visit, the visitors from Thailand met APSS Faculty and Place and Partnership Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Joe Yates and the Director of the School of Education Dr Ceri Daniels along with Dr Emma Roberts and many members of staff from the School of Education and from Professional Services.

The delegation was shown around the APSS Faculty, reconnected with students who had undertaken the placement in Thailand, and also had the opportunity to view key sights in the city of Liverpool during their stay.