QUT’s Speakeasy program

Exciting things have been happening this semester at QUT’s Speakeasy communication workshops. Designed to support and refine students’ spoken communication skills in university, social, and professional contexts, the sessions have attracted over six hundred bookings so far. The presentation, pronunciation and conversation focussed workshops have been supported for the first time by fifteen Peer Learning Facilitators, and this addition has been popular with the attending students. After coming together for a great day of core competency and role readiness training at QUT’s LeaderCon event, the peers have been working hard to help students develop their speaking skills. Session attendees have responded enthusiastically to the peers, making the most of the opportunity to learn from their experience and advice.

Here are some of the positive comments received so far from volunteers:

• It has been an opportunity to empower students, share knowledge and learn from the experience.
• It has helped me to work on my capabilities and self-confidence.
• Working as a peer has made me feel proud.

The students have also communicated their enjoyment of the program:

• The workshops are a fun way to practice English speaking and make new friends!
• It is a chance to improve your language skills as well as work in a group.
• Make friends and have fun while you study
• That’s a perfect workshop.

We are excited by what has been achieved so far and are looking forward to our continuing peers stepping up into senior roles next year, training the next set of new peer facilitators. In 2020, we’ll continue to build on our success by running some special events with guest speakers as well as strengthening links with the wider community, clubs and organisations in Brisbane.

The Peer Learning Facilitators getting to know each other at LeaderCon 2019