Laying a layer of leaves

How quickly the leaves will break down depends on the type of leaves and the way they are stored. For example Oak leaves on their own piled up will take over 12 months to break down. I would recommend creating a compost heap mixing the leaves with other green and brown waste and then introduce an activator like some form of un-rotted or semi rotted manure. This will accelerate the composting process especially if you turn the heap over every now and again. If you manage to create a hot compost heap the leaves will rot down pretty quickly (3 or 4 months). Another tip is to cover the heap to stop it getting too wet and help retain the heat.

An alternative to the above would be to create a bean trench where you bury garden waste below the area where you are going to grow Runner Beans next year. This helps retain moisture for the plants, not that we needed that this year.

Ive made a leaf bin out of some stiff mesh, so far ive got 6 bags of leaves collected in it, there all chopped up via the garden vac, ive watered them and covered with a compst bag black side up.
Im looking forward to the results

I'd rot them too, in a wire bin. They slump down very quickly so you can keep adding to your stash  they do take awhile to rot down completely so you have to be patient. Have two bays or bags on the go, one full and one being filled. If you get my drift