Dr. Heike Luecke is Joint Programme and Student Lead for the law conversion courses across our Bloomsbury, Royal Holloway and Reading campuses. She shares what inspires her to teach and how she helps her students get career-ready.
By April Baniqued. Published 29 April 2026.
Talk us through your experience.
Before joining the University, I was a dual-qualified lawyer with a strong background in corporate and insolvency law. I was also a Deputy Course Director and Senior Lecturer. My experiences in both practice and academia have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the legal field.
What sparked the decision to go into teaching?
What sparked my interest in teaching was seeing the real impact of sharing knowledge. Throughout my legal career, I found myself drawn to mentoring junior colleagues and explaining complex legal concepts. I realised that I enjoyed helping others develop their understanding and skills. It is a privilege to share my practical experience and passion for law with the next generation.
How did you find yourself working at the University?
I was drawn to the University's commitment to providing practical, career-focused legal education. The emphasis on preparing students for the real-world, combined with the opportunity to shape innovative courses, made it an ideal fit. I initially joined in January 2023 as a Senior Lecturer. Since March 2024, I have been the Programme and Student Lead for the law conversion courses at Bloomsbury, Royal Holloway and Reading campuses.
Who has influenced you on your journey?
My dad was a teacher who really cared about his students. Losing him when I was 23 was hard but his approach to work and life has always been something I look up to. He showed me what it means to be dedicated to what you do and that is something that still guides me.
What achievements are you most proud of?
My proudest personal milestone is completing my PhD and my Master’s degree while working as a lecturer and raising two children alone. Balancing late-night research with lesson planning, class preparation and bedtime routines strengthened my stamina, time management, prioritisation and resilience. These are qualities I now model and apply in my teaching.
Professionally, the everyday wins in my role as Programme and Student Lead are what make me proudest. This includes helping students with academic questions, giving struggling students space to talk through their challenges and assisting with managing heavy workloads. I also act as a sounding board for those who worry they “don't belong” or feel overwhelmed. Being a supportive ear or practical guide, especially during tough weeks, feels like a small achievement that adds up to a very meaningful career.
What keeps you passionate about your role?
Even on the toughest days, I stay passionate because I know I’m never tackling challenges alone. I am part of an amazing nationwide PSL team. My co-PSL is only a call away for quick sanity checks and my line manager is consistently hands-on with guidance and encouragement. Together, their support turns a demanding role into a rewarding one.
What experience has made you feel the most rewarded by teaching?
Teaching is most rewarding when I see a student grasp a concept and realise their own potential. When a student realises, “I can do this.” Watching their confidence grow fuels my energy every single day.
I find it particularly special when I receive positive feedback from the students. Knowing that my teaching has resonated with them and genuinely made a difference to their journey is incredibly fulfilling.
How would you describe your teaching style?
I teach with energy and clear, practical explanations to make complex law accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. I encourage questions and use reflective tasks, so students identify their strengths and gaps and build confidence. By the time students leave my class, I want them not just to pass exams but to trust their judgment and own their professional growth. I want them to walk into the workplace already thinking like lawyers.
What can students look forward to when they walk into your classroom?
When students walk into my classroom, they can expect high-energy, practice-focused sessions. Legal theory will be unpacked through real cases, debates and problem-based tasks. They’ll find a supportive space where every voice is encouraged, questions are applauded and feedback is immediate. Each activity is geared towards two goals: performing well in assessments and building the practical judgment they will need in real practice. They will leave every class feeling clearer, more confident and genuinely excited about their future as lawyers.
What advice would you like to give to students?
Treat the University as the first step of your professional career. Approach your studies with curiosity and preparedness, actively seeking answers to your questions. Cultivate a supportive and respectful environment by showing kindness to classmates and valuing diverse perspectives. Start building your professional network from the very beginning and proactively utilise the wellbeing and career services available to you. After each class, take time to reflect on what you understood and what areas still require improvement. Stay informed about legal news and employer events, constantly connecting your coursework to real-world legal practice. By consistently following these practices, you will not only be prepared for exams but also be truly ready for professional practice.
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