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Foundation Year Showcase 2025
Last week, our Foundation Year students presented their specialist subject research to a live audience as part of their annual Showcase. -
Foundation Year Programme Hailed a Triumph
By Linette Wallace - CELT Coordinator September 2019 saw the inception of the new Foundation Year at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU). Although the benefits of the programme were widely recognised, no-one could have anticipated the demand of this flexible, bridging route. A cohort of approx. 50 students are just successfully finalising this highly accessible Level 4 course. The majority of these have decided to continue on with further study and have now selected their preferred degree programme equipped with a new raft of skills to enable success. Others have used this year to improve on their transferable competences to become more employable in an ever-competitive labour market. The Foundation Year consists of 8 modules which are assessed by a portfolio of work rather than through examinations. The beauty of the course, is that it gradually introduces academic ways of learning and working to those that may be nervous about attending university, or those who may not have achieved the necessary requirements to study at degree level straight away. Students have been carefully guided throughout the course and have received a wealth of support not only through the CELT team who predominantly deliver its teaching, but with other BG tutors who also are involved and committed to its delivery. With the passing of its inception year, the demand for this course has risen by over 100% cementing it as a key component of the curriculum offer. Currently, BG has in excess of 100 people already applying for the Foundation Year, this is testament not only to its success but its necessity to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to access higher education learning and teaching through a variety of means. By having a Foundation Year, it offers the opportunity for students to utilise building blocks to acquire knowledge and skills as an alternative route to progress onto undergraduate study. It prepares learners by getting them accustomed to university life, studying at an undergrad level, honing their referencing, analytical, reflective, digital and academic writing skills, for example. It also provides taster materials and sessions of the subject the individual is interested in proceeding onto at degree level, thereby proffering a varied, interesting and robust preliminary exploration into the world of academia. For further information about Foundation Year, please E: CELT@bishopg.ac.uk -
BGU's First Foundation Year Cohort Graduate
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) recently commemorated a significant academic milestone as it celebrated the graduation of its first Foundation Year (FdY) cohort this year. Beginning their studies in 2019, these students undertook the program that provides an academic pathway for individuals typically excluded from undergraduate programs, expanding educational access. Despite challenges posed by a shift to online learning due to COVID-19, foundation year students from a wide range of subject areas including Early Childhood Studies, Psychology, Counselling, Education Studies, English, Theology, Health & Social Care, and TESOL received their award, with many securing a first-class honours. BA(Hons) Health and Social Care graduate Pollie Simpson shared her perspective: "As a mature student in my fifties, I decided to return to education after a gap of over thirty years. My children had all left home and settled into satisfying and rewarding careers after all graduating from university and I felt it was a good time for me to change direction. "I'm incredibly proud to be graduating with a first-class honours degree and I'm excited about continuing my journey by undertaking an MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-reg) course in January. My own journey has inspired my brother to return to education, and he will be joining BGU on his foundation year this summer."Pollie on her graduation day Kerry Houghton, another graduate with a BA (Hons) in Health and Social Care echoed Pollie's sentiments: "During the Foundation Year, I was taught how to write academically, how to reference, how to think critically, and always check the source. My confidence flourished and I made wonderful friends for life. I also love the community of mature students BGU has. I graduated not just with a degree, but a first-class one! "Without the foundation year, I don't think I would have ever achieved that. CELT [BGU’s Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching] was amazing and nothing was ever too much trouble. I'm 38 now and the Foundation Year and BGU have really changed my life - I've just had an interview for a Master's degree in occupational therapy! The University helped me recognise my potential to chase the dreams I had all those years ago."Kerry celebrates graduation at the cathedral Senior Lecturer for Foundation Year Dr Adam Foxon said: "This accomplishment aligns with BGU's educational mission, reflecting the belief that every student deserves an opportunity to showcase their aptitude. These students have not only progressed professionally and academically but will continue to do so in the future. As the University's motto suggests, the spirit of sharing knowledge and accomplishments is paramount." For further insights into the exceptional journeys of BGU's Foundation Year high-achievers, read Sophie’s graduation story. For those seeking to enhance self-confidence, secure a spot in an undergraduate course, or explore the Foundation Year program, find detailed information on our website. For enquiries, kindly email admissions@bishopg.ac.uk or 01522 583658, or directly reach the Foundation Year team at Foundationyear@bishopg.ac.uk. -
Trailblazing Foundation Year Students Complete Their First Term
It’s been a busy but rewarding first term for students on the new Foundation Year programme at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) with all three of the new cohorts well on their way to completing the first year of their university journeys. Already students have completed two of the required eight modules needed to complete the year, ‘Self as Learner’ and ‘Resourcing Learning’ with a further two modules due to be finished in February 2020. The completed modules have focused on underpinning key academic skills that the students may need to hone if they continue with their studies such as: - using library resources effectively, referencing, reading for a purpose and understanding how individuals learn. Foundation Year courses offer the chance to study almost any undergraduate degree at BGU over four years, rather than the traditional three, providing an extended and intensive induction to Higher Education (HE) that can open the doors to those that may have previously thought university wasn’t an option. The first year is focused on equipping learners with the necessary tools to excel in Higher Education such as critical thinking and digital skills along with boosting confidence and employability. As the year progresses learners are able to engage with their chosen subject through special sessions and projects and once the first year has been completed they will then move straight onto the rest of the course without having to reapply. The Foundation Year programme really gives people a taste of university life, raising aspirations in addition to offering different study choices and career opportunities that may not otherwise be considered. The beauty of the course is how adaptable it is and the amount of support students receive with their learning. There are no set exams and assessments are all project/assignment based and students have both a personal tutor as well as a subject liaison tutor, ensuring they have the best preparation possible to succeed in their chosen path. While some people might find the idea of an extra year at university daunting, many of the students taking part in the new programme have found it beneficial to their success as current student Pollie Simpson explains: “I’m really pleased that I decided to enrol on the Foundation Year for my degree course. It has helped me feel confident in returning to education after a gap of more than thirty years. The tutors are so supportive and have helped me to develop my academic skills.” And Brendan Brown, one of Pollie’s fellow Foundation Year students, shared his views: “Being a mature student, I was nervous about coming to university but I was well supported by the application office at BGU to go through clearing. After being given a place, I have thrown myself into university life, every single person I have meet so far on my journey has been helpful.” If you’d like to find out more about the new Foundation Year course options, visit our Foundation Year web page, speak to a member of our Enquiries Team or join us on one of Open Days. -
Find everything you need to succeed with new Foundation Year courses at BGU
Find everything you need to succeed with new Foundation Year courses at BGU From September Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) will offer a new suite of Foundation Year courses designed to help people succeed in Higher Education. The new Foundation Year courses offer the chance to study almost any undergraduate degree at BGU over four years, rather than the traditional three. The first year is focused on equipping learners with the necessary tools to excel in Higher Education such as critical thinking and digital skills along with boosting confidence and employability. Throughout the year learners will be able to engage with their chosen subject through special sessions and projects. Once the first year has been completed they will then move straight onto the rest of the course without having to reapply. The courses are open to all ages and experiences and Dr Claire Thomson, Head of BGU’s Centre for Enhancement in Learning and Teaching, whose team will be leading the new Foundation Year praised the benefits the new degrees could offer: “The new Foundation Year options are uniquely adaptable courses that speak to the diversity of the students taking part and can be tailored based on their experience. Students will be able, on certain modules, to choose their topics and projects to match their interests and will have opportunities to experience leading learning sessions. Our ultimate goal is to give people a chance to see that they belong in Higher Education and are an integral part of BGU community.” In addition to the adaptable nature of the courses, the first year of all options will have no set exams and be based around supported learning. Students will have both a personal tutor, as well as a subject liaison tutor, ensuring they have the best preparation possible to succeed in their chosen path. Aimed at traditionally low participation learners, those who potentially lack the confidence or qualifications to consider themselves capable of succeeding in Higher Education, these courses build on the continuing work being carried out by BGU to widen participation in Higher Education. If you’d like to find out more about the new Foundation Year course options, visit our Foundation Year web page, speak to a member of our Enquiries Team or join us on one of Open Days. -
BGU lecturer explores The Ruskin Speech in new research article
A publication written by James Silverwood, Senior Lecturer in Business at BGU, and his co-author, Peter Wolstencroft of Liverpool John Moores University is now free to read on the website of the British Educational Research Journal. The journal article ‘The Ruskin Speech and Great Debate in English Education, 1976-1979: A study of motivation’ reignites debate about the intentions behind the intervention into educational by James Callaghan and his Labour government starting with the Prime Minister’s speech at Ruskin College, Oxford in October 1976. There is good reason why Callaghan’s speech remains lodged within the popular consciousness amongst educationalists, it been possible to trace forward integral aspects of the speech into controversial elements of education in England in the present day. Foremost among them been the concentration of regulatory power within a national body, Ofsted, the centrality of a national curriculum within educational provision, and the firmly link education with the delivery of employability. Consequently, the Ruskin speech is often conceptualized as a ‘turning point’ within English education leading inexorably towards the modern English educational system. As we approach the fiftieth anniversary of Callaghan’s Ruskin speech in 2026, it was time to engage in retrospective, something James and Peter’s paper achieves by critically inspecting the speech in the context in which it was delivered, rather than with the benefit of hindsight of knowing the subsequent trajectory of the English educational system. Conducting documentary analysis of archival material held in the National Archives, Kew Gardens, the authors conclude that the motivation for Callaghan’s speech at Ruskin College was to support the ideals of the comprehensive educational system, rather than institute widespread educational reform. This is in contrast to the common understanding of the Ruskin speech within English educational history as delineated above. Dr James Silverwood Speaking about his research, James Silverwood, said: “There is no doubt that the Ruskin speech is a seismic event in the history of education in England, but perhaps not for the reasons currently considered. “We found no evidence in the archives to suggest that the motivation of Callaghan and his Labour government was to implement widespread educational reform. Much the opposite, evidence suggested they were motivated to support and defend the comprehensive educational system from attack by political opponents who would seek to reform it. Where subsequent governments have referred back to the Ruskin speech as justification for educational transformation away from comprehensive ideals it to imbue the Ruskin speech with motivations that were not shared by Callaghan and his Labour government.” You can read the journal article here. -
Criminology course welcomes guest speakers to enhance student experience
Students studying on our undergraduate criminology degree benefited from sessions hosted by guest lecturers. -
BGU Students visit the National Civil War Centre
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) Archaeology, History, and Military History students recently embarked on a trip to the National Civil War Centre. Located in the heart of Newark, the centre features interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and a vast collection of historical artefacts. Visitors can learn about the causes of the conflict, the key events and battles, and the impact the war had on society and culture. During the trip, the ten students had the opportunity to handle various artefacts and objects from the British Civil War, which provided them with a hands-on learning experience outside of the classroom. The fully-funded trip is part of the subject provision that Foundation Year students receive, and it serves as a highlight for them to celebrate completing Semester one. Dr Erik Grigg led the excursion and - having spent a decade working in heritage - recognises the value of the hands-on learning that museums can provide. He said: "Trips like these are incredibly valuable for students as they provide an opportunity to get out of the classroom and engage with history in a more immersive and tangible way. "The National Civil War Centre is a fantastic resource, and being able to handle artefacts and learn from knowledgeable guides brings the subject to life in a way that traditional study might not." -
New exhibition explores British troops' deployment experience
‘Behind the Bastion’, an art exhibition exploring the personal stories of British troops deployed to Afghanistan, will open to the public on Friday 9th June. The exhibition features new artwork by Ed Kluz and pieces created by veterans. Led by Bishop Grosseteste University's Archaeology and History Programme Leader, Dr Derwin Gregory ‘Behind the Bastion’ is part of a wider project on vernacular ‘placemaking’ within the British military, exploring how British troops make operational bases feel like home while deployed overseas. Dr Derwin Gregory said: “This project aims to bring together art, history, and military experience to uncover the often-overlooked stories of British troops deployed overseas. “I hope 'Behind the Bastion' will generate new conversations about the personal experiences of troops and the impact of their built environment on mental health, and I look forward to sharing our findings with the public." The project has been made possible by the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund, a national partnership programme of over 20 artist commissions inspired by the heritage of conflict. Led by Imperial War Museums, the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund was created following the success of 14-18 NOW, the official UK arts programme for the First World War centenary. Rebecca Newell, Head of Art at Imperial War Museums said: “Working with artists has been a core part of IWM’s practice since the First World War. Part of the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund, Behind the Bastion continues this important tradition, telling stories of conflict through new and thought-provoking ways.” Artist Ed Kluz, who has been commissioned by the project for the temporary exhibition, said: “It has been such an honour to work with the veterans in carefully exploring the profoundly complex experiences of serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. I knew from the start of the process that the pace and lines of enquiry had to be led by them - by the exploration and respectful acknowledgement of their trauma and testimonies in collaboration with our art therapist. “The form of this piece references the watchtowers which are often found in war zones surrounding military bases. Here, though, rather than it being a structure from which a view is achieved by looking out, here perspectives and insights are gained by peering in.” The exhibition is free to visit and will run from Friday 9th June to Sunday 20th August 2023 at The Stable Yard Gallery at Doddington Hall. For more information, click here or contact derwin.gregory@bishopg.ac.uk. -
“Is this some kind of joke?” – BGU Present an Evening of Stand-Up Comedy with Tribute Artist Lee Lard
Join us at 7.30pm on Thursday 17 May for an evening of comedy as the one and only Peter Kay Tribute Act – Lee Lard (peterkaytribute.co.uk) – performs in The Venue at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU). Now in his 10th year and with over 2500 performances under his belt, Lee Lard is still being voted the most popular comedy tribute act in the UK. His outstanding tribute to Bolton's funny man Peter Kay has been enjoyed by thousands of fans throughout the UK and abroad and is as popular now as ever continuing to sell out wherever he goes! With a show packed full of Kay highlights from ‘Phoenix Nights’ to ‘Max and Paddy’ and beyond, Lee appeals to an audience of all ages, delivering his own hilarious ‘Peter Kay’ style of stand-up comedy. Lee started as a comic back in 1993, going pro in 2000, making his name in the early days as a part of comedy duo ‘Lean & Lard’. After being invited to work alongside Peter Kay on the biggest comic relief video ever in March 2005 this new career was born! Tickets are £14 each with a student rate of just £10. For further details please contact Daisy Wedge on 01522 585635 or email daisy.wedge@bishopg.ac.uk. You can find more information on the all the exciting events coming up at the Venue throughout the year here.
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