English conversation cafes at Reading win national award

A scheme designed to help international students at the University of Reading practice English and feel more connected to their University peers has won a national award.

The University of Reading’s English Conversation Cafes scheme won the Outstanding Student Support Award (Academic Experience) at the #WeAreInternational Awards 2025 at a ceremony in London on 19 November.

The Awards, run by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA), celebrate international students and those who support them.

Reading was selected as a finalist from more than 420 nominations from 120 institutions across the UK. Out of 63 finalists, just 13 winners were chosen on the night.

A safe space

The English Conversation Cafes, hosted in the University’s Global Study Lounge, were developed in 2023 in response to needs identified by both students and staff at Reading. The weekly sessions, held alternately online and in person, offer a safe space for international students to practise spoken English, build confidence, and adapt to UK academic culture through peer-led discussions. 

Discussion themes are aligned with the academic calendar, to help students navigate and feel more included in campus life. Recent topics have included adjusting to new cultures; Black History Month; and disability awareness and lived experiences. These informal, small-group sessions are facilitated by student/staff volunteers, using pedagogically designed discussion prompts.

The programme involves more than 30 collaborators across academic departments, support services, the Students' Union, and external partners, including Citizens UK.

Daniel Devane, Director of the Global Study Lounge, said: “The English Conversation Cafes have always been a truly collaborative effort, nurturing cross-cultural academic communication and intercultural understanding. The cafes offer a low-barrier, high-impact route to integration within the academic community.

“This recognition in the sector affirms our shared commitment at Reading to ensuring every student feels supported, included, and able to thrive during their time with us."

Exceeding expectations

Feedback on the conversation cafes demonstrates strong impact, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 and 78% reporting the cafes exceeded expectations. This was further demonstrated by a sharp rise in engagement, with an increase of 197% in 2023/24, and a further 62% rise in 2024/25.

The dual delivery modes connect students at Reading’s UK campuses with those at Reading's global campuses, such as University of Reading Malaysia, and other partner institutions around the world.

Anne Marie Graham, Chief Executive of UKCISA, said: “The #WeAreInternational Award winners showcase the people and partnerships that make the UK a leader in international education. At a time when policy changes continue to challenge the sector, it’s heartening to see so many creative and empathetic approaches to deliver the best possible experience for international students in the UK.”

Reading was also a finalist in the Outstanding Student Support Award (Physical and mental wellbeing) category.

Full details of the #WeAreInternational Awards can be found online.