Leeds students benefit from Hangzhou link with China Summer School

Leeds Beckett University students attending a summer school in Hangzhou and Shanghai

This summer, Leeds Beckett University’s Business School ran a two-week international summer school in China, offering a group of students ranging from Business, Production Management, Accounting & Finance, and Journalism a rich blend of academic learning and cultural immersion.

The programme took place in Shanghai and Hangzhou, in collaboration with our partner Zhejiang University of Technology (ZJUT) in Hangzhou, and was headed by Dr Lisa O’Keefe, Carmen Bruegmann, two of our Senior Lecturers, and Jo Welsh, Content & Social Media Creator.

After a long-haul flight to Shanghai, students were immediately immersed in an intensive schedule of lectures, business site visits, and cultural exploration. The academic content covered areas such as international trade, digital innovation, and the structure of Chinese business models. These sessions offered fresh insights into how China engages with the global economy and helped students build a more international mindset.

Company visits were a particular highlight, providing valuable context for students’ studies. At one visit to a furniture manufacturer, students met senior leaders and discussed business development in the Chinese market.

Imran, an Accounting and Finance student said "My favourite part was the furniture company visit. Asking for a business card, and the chance to visit again as an intern really gave me a great opportunity.” 

Cultural experiences added depth to the trip. Shanghai impressed with its towering skyline, ultra-modern infrastructure and fast pace, while Hangzhou offered a more relaxed, traditional atmosphere famous for its temples, tea culture and scenic West Lake. “I loved visiting Shanghai at night, it was an experience that’s hard to forget. The views were beautiful and this was the moment where it hit that I was really in China” said  Ruqqaya, a Business Management with Law graduate

Food was another highlight, with students encouraged to try a wide variety of regional dishes. There were also moments of cultural curiosity, many students found themselves being approached for photos or filmed by locals. “Being asked for photos by the local people or occasionally filmed without asking was a surreal experience. It definitely gave me a small glimpse into what life might be like for someone famous” observed Toby, a Journalism student.

The trip proved transformational for many. It expanded students’ confidence, global awareness, and career ambitions. “Learning directly from experts and seeing how China, as a global economic powerhouse, navigates trade policy has really sharpened my commercial awareness. It’s also helped me think more strategically and globally, which I know will be so valuable when advising future clients in a consulting role” said Sue Jean, Masters in Public Relations and Strategic Communications.

“Since my first year at Leeds Beckett I vowed to make the most of every opportunity given to me, and so far I’ve successfully managed to experience many international study opportunities through the Uni. I think employers will really appreciate my cultural awareness and drive to put myself out of my comfort zone”  added Zulekha, an International Business student.

The programme strengthened Leeds Beckett’s international links and showcased Leeds as a globally connected, forward-looking city. Opportunities like this empower students to think beyond borders, equipping them with the international mindset needed in today’s global workforce.

Leeds Beckett University has had a partnership with ZJUT since 2003, and Leeds and Hangzhou have been partner cities since 1989.