During the summer months of 2025, students from Birmingham Newman University took part in a range of international placements through the Turing Scheme, visiting partner universities and institutions in countries including Spain, Denmark, Germany and Japan. These opportunities allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures, develop new skills, and gain the confidence that comes from living and learning abroad.

One of the students who took part this year was Zayn Khan, from the Primary Initial Teacher Training programme, who spent four weeks in Valencia, Spain:

 “My four-week placement in Spain was an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience. During my time at the summer school, I focused on improving my Spanish language skills through structured lessons and daily immersion in the local culture. I mainly learned essential Spanish language skills, including greetings, introductions, forming questions, basic sentence structure and everyday conversation exchanges used in real-life/practical situations. This helped me build confidence in communicating in a different language and gave me a deeper appreciation for Spanish expressions. In the second week, I had the opportunity to work with children, supporting them during educational and leisure activities. This experience was both fun and eye-opening, allowing me to develop my interpersonal and organisational skills while building meaningful connections. Accompanying the children during their activities and free time gave me insight into their school schedule and allowed me to practice Spanish in a natural, engaging way. Overall, the placement has broadened my understanding of Spanish culture, improved my language abilities and helped me grow as a more adaptable and open-minded individual. Living and learning in a different country challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and I have returned with new skills and a genuine appreciation for cultural exchange.”

A lecturer from the School of Education, Andrew Edgar, visited Zayn during his time in Valencia and was equally impressed by what the city, and the experience, offered:

‘As a lecturer in the School of Education, I had the opportunity to visit Zayn in Valencia and I was very impressed with the city. It is a very beautiful place with exotic palm trees and winding streets leading to vibrant public squares. With its warm mediterranean climate and proximity to miles of coastline, Valencia is the perfect destination to learn Spanish, eat some delicious tapas and immerse yourself in another culture.’

Another member of staff, Dr. Duncan Frankis, visited Leipzig University in Germany, one of Birmingham Newman’s growing network of international partners. The visit provided a chance to meet staff, discuss ideas for future collaboration, and check in with a Newman student conducting dissertation research there:

‘Leipzig is an amazing city; vibrant, historic, and full of creative energy. From the grand architecture of Augustusplatz to its peaceful parks and canals, it’s a city that balances tradition and modernity beautifully. At Leipzig University, I met with colleagues to discuss future student exchanges and was deeply impressed by the facilities — particularly the stunning modern library and study spaces. I also met one of our students conducting dissertation research, who spoke enthusiastically about how much she was learning both academically and personally. Leipzig is an exceptional destination for students looking to broaden their horizons and experience a new academic culture.’

The Turing Scheme continues to open doors for Birmingham Newman students, offering life-changing experiences across the world. Whether studying, teaching, or researching abroad, participants return with enhanced language skills, broader cultural awareness, and renewed motivation for their academic and professional journeys. Taking part in the Turing Scheme is a wonderful opportunity to practise speaking another language, to experience the culture of another country, and to broaden horizons.

Back to all news