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Bishop Grosseteste University announced as a partner for Imperial War Museums’ £2.5m art commissioning programme Call for Veterans
The project being led by BGU invites serving and former members of the British Armed Forces who were deployed to Afghanistan to group art therapy workshops. In these sessions, veterans will explore what ‘home’ meant to them whilst serving in operating bases in Afghanistan and what it means to them now. A professional artist will be commissioned to work alongside the project team to create artwork that draws inspiration from the veterans’ experiences. Combined with the veterans’ art, the commissioned artwork will form part of a major new contemporary art exhibition that will explore the personal stories of the conflict in Afghanistan. As part of our wider research project, the team would also like to speak to any serving or former members of the British Armed Forces who served in Afghanistan and are interested in sharing their experiences of operating bases. Photographs and testimonies will be of particular interest. If you are interested in taking part in the project, please contact Dr Derwin Gregory at derwin.gregory@bishopg.ac.uk. Building on over 100 years of contemporary art commissioning by IWM, this new initiative continues the vision and reach of 14-18 NOW, the official UK arts programme for the First World War centenary, and has been made possible thanks to the success of Peter Jackson’s critically acclaimed film They Shall Not Grow Old, co-commissioned by IWM and 14-18 NOW. A share of the film’s royalties – £2.5 million – will see investment in artists and arts experiences as IWM partners with 20 cultural organisations and 22 artists from across the UK. The fully funded commissions will each be inspired by the heritage of conflict. Dr Derwin Gregory, Programme Leader for Archaeology and Heritage of BGU, says: “I am excited to be working with serving and former members of the British Armed Forces, in partnership with IWM, to create a major contemporary art exhibition that will allow veterans the opportunity to share their stories of life within operating bases in Afghanistan”. Diane Lees, Director-General of IWM, says: “IWM is delighted to be working in close partnership with such a breadth of UK organisations on this ambitious programme of art commissioning. After a challenging couple of years for the arts sector, we hope that the unprecedented opportunities enabled by the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund will kick-start cultural dialogue as we recover from the wide-reaching impacts of COVID-19”. The IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund commissions will go on public display across the UK between 2022 and 2024. For further information about the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund, please visit the IWM website. -
Archaeological dig at The Lawn to start next week
A four-week excavation led by Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) begins Monday 20 June. -
BGU Theology students take London!
A group of first year Bishop Grosseteste University students recently explored religious sites across London, giving them a unique insight into a variety of faiths. Nine Theology students spent four days meeting with religious practitioners and learning about their respective institutions and practices. The group were introduced to their beliefs and values, and the speakers were happy to answer any questions the students had. The sites included Westminster Abbey, Nipponzan Myohoji Peace Pagoda, Swaminarayan Hindu Mission Neasden Temple, ISKCON Centre Radha-Krishna Temple and the National Gallery. Theology and Education Studies student Lillie-Mae Green said: "These types of trips are great for experience and collecting fieldwork data for assignments. You get to see a new perspective that you couldn't achieve from just studying." As well as the academic benefits, Lillie-Mae was keen to learn more about different religious practices and cultures. She said: "My highlights for the trip were Radha-Krishna Temple, the Peace Pagoda and Neasden Temple. Each of these sites were amazing visually but also culturally. The people we met at these places were so kind and knowledgeable and even offered us gifts. It was clear how greatly they care for their institutions as well as their faith." "I've never been on a trip like this before, and getting first-hand experience of different religious institutions was an unforgettable time." Learn more about studying Theology -
Local history to be unearthed at excavation
Chapters of Lincolnshire’s history may soon be uncovered at a ground-breaking archaeological excavation in Swanpool. Bishop Grosseteste University’s (BGU) annual Archaeology Field School will mark the beginning of a significant years-long archaeological research project. Launching in June, the project aims to explore a complex, multi-phased site at Haw Hill in the Swanpool area of Lincoln, which has never previously been subjected to archaeological excavation. Located on the edge of the historic city of Lincoln, the site is believed to contain buried evidence of significant historical interest. A geophysical survey has already revealed indications of buried archaeology, and fieldwalking has uncovered prehistoric flint, Roman tile, butchered animal bones, worked limestone blocks, and inscribed post-Medieval tiles. According to documentary evidence, Haw Hill was the site of a variety of buildings and structures, including: a small religious house, St Mary Magdalene Hartsholme Hospital, a Middle Saxon church, and more. Jo Walker, Assistant Director for Western Growth Corridor at City of Lincoln Council said: “We are currently working with BGU to provide access to the land at Swanpool for this project. “The site is within the wider boundary of the Western Growth Corridor area but is separate to the development proposals set out as part of the masterplan. “We hope the project will bring many benefits in terms of skills, learning and a greater understanding of the historic value of the area.” History and archaeology enthusiasts are invited to join the BGU Archaeology Field School over the course of four-weeks. Participants will receive training in field archaeology and excavation skills, post-excavation finds processing, and data recording. All training and teaching will be delivered by expert archaeologists and qualified site supervisors, overseen by a Director of Training and Welfare. Dr Derwin Gregory, Archaeology and Heritage Programme Leader at BGU, said: "We are thrilled to launch this field school, which will not only give participants the chance to gain practical experience in field archaeology and excavation, but also provide valuable insights into the historical significance of Haw Hill. “We hope that the Archaeological Research Project will uncover new information about the site's past, and we look forward to seeing the excavation grow and evolve for years to come.” Two bursaries are available to military families, supported by Wings to the Past. This project uses archaeology and heritage projects to support personal resilience amongst Royal Air Force personnel and their families. The bursaries will provide a unique opportunity for two military families to spend time together, learn new skills, and explore the heritage of their area. The field school will run from Monday 12th June 2023 to Friday 7th July 2023. To register or learn more about the field school, email Derwin.Gregory@bishopg.ac.uk. With limited places available, early booking is recommended. -
Writing the Air War and Lincolnshire Conference
11th & 12th May 2024 -
Unique art exhibition comes to BGU
If you visit the Robert Hardy Building on campus, you will discover a selection of artworks each created by prisoners at HMP Morton Hall as part of their 12-week art programme. Last week the exhibition launched and had an auction for specific pieces during opening night. The University collaborated with PeoplePlus UK to make this happen and from a social purpose and perspective, working closely with HMP Morton Hall helps support individuals to realise their ambitions and create positive change in their communities and beyond. While open to all, the art studio supports prisoners with mental health issues and those struggling to participate in the prison’s mainstream education and training programmes. As part of rehabilitation, offenders undertake art sessions providing space to be creative and work with others in a safe environment. This exhibition provided the opportunity to showcase their innovative creations and reinforces the message that something positive can come out of prison life. "When I draw or paint, it takes away the negative thoughts. I feel like I’ve found a new talent within myself that’s helping me grow out of my issues and keeps me away from insecurities I had before the course." Allison Webb, Director of Business & Community Engagement, said "it is a special exhibition that gives the prisoners a voice" and Gillian Johnston (Programme Lead for Sociology and Criminology) stated at the opening night: "Criminology is a new and exciting discipline for us at BGU, so when this initiative was first mooted a few months ago I jumped at the chance for us, as an institution and at a programme level, to be involved. It cannot be underestimated just how important these initiatives are in fostering relationships between organisations. Being able to collaborate with HMP Morton Hall on this important project is a delight for me and I hope this is the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship between us." Samantha Boothman the Head of Education, Skills and Work at HMP Morton Hall said "we are delighted to be working with BGU on this unique event and very much looking forward to further collaboration." Overall the auction raised £560 and these funds will go to Victim Support, Ambers Army (The PeoplePlus recognised charity for 2024), the prisoner who created the artwork, and for a new art studio kiln. The majority of the remaining artwork is for sale and the viewing public can buy item(s) through the silent auction process. Information on how to do this can be found in the foyer of the Robert Hardy Building. "The art course is purposefully unaccredited; this enables men to learn not just about art and new techniques, but also to develop wider skills without being pressured to pass an exam. Everyone is able to work at their own pace and is guided to follow their own creative pathway. The art room is a space where the men can spend time out of their cell and share thoughts, worries and ideas whilst also developing their creativity. For many it is the first time they have experienced a classroom and using a pencil or paint brush. They are encouraged to help each other to be their best selves. I witness time and again how creativity and kindness to one another can totally change people for the better and improve their mental wellbeing." Karen Sharples – Art Lecturer at HMP Morton Hall. PeoplePlus UK deliver the educational provision at the prison and you can watch their short video Bringing the Inside, Out which explains their purpose further. The exhibition runs from the 30th of May until 13th of June 2024 in the Robert Hardy Building, BGU. -
BGU Counselling student recognised in award
This year will see the first cohort of students graduate from the Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) BA (Hons) Counselling degree programme. All of these students have undoubtedly done extremely well, but one student out of this group has shone through - not just in her academic work, but with her level of resilience. Naomi Dimberline has, throughout her four years at BGU, faced some personal challenges that would be incomprehensible to most of us. Those who have worked with Naomi during her time here, know that her determination and strength of character has been unshakable. As a department, they decided to create an award in recognition of this achievement making Naomi the first recipient of the ‘Frankl Award.’ The award is named after Viktor Frankl, who was an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor. His book ‘Man's Search for Meaning’ details his experiences in a Nazi concentration camp and describes his belief that finding purpose is essential for psychological health. His ideas have influenced psychotherapy and existential philosophy; focusing on the emphasis of resilience, hope and the human capacity to find meaning in life's most challenging moments. Naomi has been dedicated to her newfound purpose and the resilience to see it through. -
Reading buddies share stories at local nursery
Students from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) recently shared stories at St Giles Nursery as part of a Reading Buddies scheme. Developed in partnership with the nursery and Ermine Library, the scheme provides an opportunity for university students to witness the importance of sharing stories with young children and help them develop their literacy skills. Seven Early Childhood Studies students explored a range of books with small groups of early years children. From 'Gorilla Loves Vanilla' to the classic 'Funnybones', the children's imaginations were captivated by the books shared during the thirty-minute sessions. Under the scheme, students can gain certification for their CVs based on how many sessions they attend. The initiative runs once a month and has been well received by both the students and the children. BGU Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies Samantha Hoyes said: "The Reading Buddies scheme is a wonderful initiative that not only benefits the children but also provides our students with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience. "By participating in this programme, our students are able to develop their skills and knowledge while supporting the local community. We are delighted to see the positive impact that this scheme is having and look forward to continuing our partnership with the Ermine Library and St Giles Nursery School." -
My Roman Adventure
Student Voices - Blog Post -
BGU inaugural Health and Social Care Fair Success
BGU recently hosted the inaugural Health and Social Care Careers Fair. Health and Social Care students, staff and the team at BG Futures worked together to organise and run the event. Students from across all H&SC programmes were invited to attend and learn more about the possible next steps in their careers in Health and Social Care. A variety of health and social care organisations from across Lincolnshire attended the event, including: NHS Neighbourhood Working Team, Market Rasen General Practice, Lincolnshire County Council Adult and Children’s services, With You, One You Lincolnshire and KIDS Lincolnshire. The event provided an opportunity for students to network with sector providers; with a focus on individual experiences of working in the sector and an interactive seminar exploring “A day in the life…..”. Further opportunities during the event included: a marketplace and discussions around both current vacancies and career development opportunities. Feedback from students reported an overwhelming success and more of the same: “My experience was really enjoyable; everyone was very chatty and helpful” “Really good: I thought it was brilliant being able to sit down and chat, in more depth about services” “Made me really think about where my BSc (Hons) will take me in the future”. Service providers reported that the students were “so enthusiastic and interested in what we do”, where they might fit within service and future career opportunities. Following the day's success, organisers hope to run the event again next year with a view to expanding and inviting even more service providers.
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