Peer-Assisted Learning scheme

A group of students chatting in a shared study space

Peer-Assisted Learning

Connect with other students to review lecture content, develop effective study skills and support one another to succeed.
Autumn Term PAL Sessions (Word Doc)

What is Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) at Kent?

Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) is a student-led programme designed to support you as you start university.

The PAL scheme at Kent is run by PAL Leaders, students from your course who’ve successfully completed their first year. Leaders organise group study sessions for participants, creating a friendly space where you can ask questions, share ideas, and learn together.

This isn’t extra teaching or another lecture. It’s a supportive space where you can build your confidence, develop your understanding, and feel part of your academic community from the start.

A group of students smiling while looking at a notebook

Why take part in PAL?

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Build your network

Meet people from your course and build connections that help you feel at home.
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Ask questions

Check your understanding and test new ideas in a relaxed, judgement-free environment.
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Study smarter

Pick up study strategies and habits that will help you to succeed.
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Develop confidence

Feel more prepared to tackle assignments thanks to insight from PAL Leaders.

Information for PAL Students

How the PAL Scheme works

Peer-Assisted Learning is run through interactive group sessions, led by a PAL Leader (PALL). Your PAL leader will be in the stage above you in your academic school. 

PAL sessions run on a weekly basis and you will be invited to select a group that fits around your schedule. There will be a session early in the first term to bring everyone together and establish how the scheme will work for your group.

PAL is a flexible scheme, meaning you do not need to attend all sessions. However, studies show that students who attend the most sessions tend to achieve better grades, have a stronger sense of belonging, and higher subject confidence.

We recommend coming along to the first meeting to find out how PAL can support you!

Contact us

The support PAL Leaders offer:

  • Sharing tips and advice on your transition to university life
  • Helping you to develop your independent learning skills
  • Providing advice on time management and study strategies
  • Encouraging you to voice the challenges you may be facing on a course or module
  • Sign-posting to further support and resources

Remember: You don't need to prepare anything or have all the answers.  PAL is your space to connect, ask questions and grow in confidence.  

PAL Schools for 2026/27

PAL is available in selected schools and courses, including Foundation Year, Kent Business School, Kent Law School, Biosciences, Humanities, Physics & Astronomy and Actuarial Science & Maths.

Not sure if your school has a PAL group? Get in touch with saspal@kent.ac.uk

What PAL students say

I felt much more confident in dealing with new material in my modules.

PAL student, Stage 1

Who are PAL Leaders?

PAL Leaders (PALLs) support students in the year below them by running relaxed, student-led study sessions.

PALLs are not there to teach or give answers. Instead, they:

  •  guide discussions
  •  help students think through challenges
  •  share their experience of studying at Kent

PALLs create a space where students feel confident, supported, and able to succeed.

Become a PAL Leader

Being a Peer Assisted Learning Leader (PALL) is your opportunity to make a difference, while developing skills that will support your future. You’ll lead informal study sessions, help students settle into university, and play a key role in building a supportive learning community at Kent.  

As a PAL Leader, you will:

  • plan and run regular PAL sessions
  • encourage discussion and participation
  • share study strategies and experiences
  • help students find useful support and resources
  • keep a simple record of sessions
  • take part in training and PAL community meetings.

You’ll be supported throughout, with training and guidance to help you feel confident in your role.  

Express your interest
View the job description

What we're looking for

You might be a great PAL Leader if you:

  • are doing well in your course (or on track to progress)
  • understand what it’s like to start university
  • enjoy working with others and supporting your peers
  • are approachable, reliable, and organised
  • want to build confidence and develop new skills

You don’t need to have all the answers, just a willingness to help others learn.

Eligible schools

PAL Leader roles for 2026/27 are available in selected schools and courses, including Foundation Year, Kent Business School, Kent Law School, Biosciences, Humanities, Physics & Astronomy and Actuarial Science & Maths.

Not sure if you’re eligible? Get in touch with saspal@kent.ac.uk

If PAL isn’t running in your course this year, there may be opportunities to get involved in the future.  

Support and training

Before you start, you’ll complete mandatory training to help you:

  •  run effective sessions
  •  support different learners
  •  build inclusive, welcoming environments

You’ll also:

  •  join a PAL Leader community
  •  attend regular meetings
  •  receive ongoing support from the SAS PAL supervisors team

Employability for PAL Leaders

Being a PALL helps you grow personally, academically, and professionally. 

You can:

  • Build real-world skills: Develop leadership, communication, facilitation and teamwork skills.
  • Boost your confidence: Gain experience speaking in groups and supporting others.
  • Enhance your CV: Receive recognition, a certificate, and Employability Points.
  • Stand out to employers: Add your PAL experience to LinkedIn and future applications.
  • Make a difference: Support students in their first year and help them succeed.
  • Connect with staff and students: Build relationships across your school.