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BGU signs memorandum of understanding with Thai university
The Vice Chancellor of Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln, the Revd. Canon Professor Peter Neil, signed an agreement with a university in Bangkok today. Professor Neil signed and exchanged a memorandum of understanding with Dr Preang Kitratporn of Phranakhon Rajabhat University in Bangkok. Both leaders talked about the growing relationship between the two institutions and the opportunities ahead for cooperation. The initial focus will be on teacher education and teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). Professor Neil said, “We are extremely pleased to be able to formally strengthen our relationship with Phranakhon Rajabhat University. “Bishop Grosseteste University is committed to developing its staff and students as global citizens. This partnership will benefit our staff and students and we look forward to building on the partnership in the future.” Phranakhon Rajabhat University was founded in the 19th century as a teaching training institute and now offers programmes across a range of academic and professional programmes. Professor Neil will also be meeting representatives from the Thai Teaching Council, the President of the Rajabhat Universities Council, representatives of the British Embassy in Bangkok and a number of Rajabhat University Presidents as part of a one week visit to Thailand. Find out more about TESOL at BGU. -
Healthy competition for BGU and American students
Health & Social Care students from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln visited American students to take part in a Dragon’s Den style task this week. Students in the final year of BA (Hons) Health & Social Care at BGU paid a visit to Harlaxton Manor, the UK campus of the University of Evansville (UE), where American students are spending the semester. This followed a visit by UE students to BGU at the beginning of their Fall semester. The students took part in a Dragon’s Den style elevator pitch based on scenarios within health and social contexts. They were asked to develop a business plan that addressed the key strategic priority within their scenario. The task saw students given a fictional payment of £20,000 and asked to use this as their set up budget. They were asked to think about long term sustainable funding options as well as rationalise the plan against national and international priorities. The results showed creativity and engagement in the process. One project looked at the development of a range of activities to promote cultural well-being. Another focused on how to influence the parents of obese children, while the final group looked at social mobility using education as a model with targets being set to identify and support the most disadvantaged. The projects were put to a vote with the social mobility team being voted the project most likely to succeed. The afternoon also enabled groups of students to explore their subject specific areas and offered an opportunity for discussion around studentships in both countries. All students also took a tour of the 19th century manor house at Harlaxton Manor. Feedback from the day was positive with one BGU student commenting that it was “great to meet other students and to learn from both their learning experiences but about health and social care in the US”. Find out more about studying Health & Social Care at BGU. -
BGU welcomes Dr Rob Boast as its new Executive Dean
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln has appointed Dr Rob Boast as Executive Dean Learning, Teaching and Student Engagement. Dr Boast joins the senior management team at BGU from Staffordshire University, where he was most recently Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching. Rob takes up his new role from Monday 13th November and will immediately be focussing on supporting academic staff to deliver inspirational teaching, an excellent student learning experience and meaningful student engagement. A highly experienced academic who has been leading teaching and learning development at Staffordshire University for a number of years, Dr Boast is recognised as an innovator in higher education practice. He has a particular specialism in problem-based learning and practical scholarship, personalised learner support and innovative course development across a range of disciplines. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, he has also championed the introduction of technology-enhanced learning and creation of new employer engagement and student employability opportunities. Professor Jayne Mitchell, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at BGU, said: “We are delighted to welcome Rob to BGU. He brings a wealth of experience and an outstanding academic background as a researcher, educator and innovator. “Perhaps most importantly, he also shares our ambition to sustain and further develop excellent teaching and student outcomes for all.” Dr Boast said: “I am delighted to be joining Bishop Grosseteste University with its strong personalised and community approach to learning. “I am excited about working with colleagues and students to enhance learning and teaching and the student experience.” -
Wannabe teacher? Worried about your Skills Tests? We’ve got some good news for you!
The Department for Education has announced that thousands of would-be teachers are now eligible for three attempts at the professional skills tests they must pass to begin Initial Teacher Training (ITT) before they incur any cost, rather than one. On top of this change – worth up to £77 per candidate – the government has removed the lock-out period that previously prevented candidates from re-taking tests for two years if they had been unsuccessful in two re-sits. The announcement builds on a number of measures to recruit and retain high-calibre teachers, including a £75million investment in teachers’ professional development and follows the recruitment of 32,000 new trainees in 2017. In full today’s changes are: The removal of a lock-out period that previously prevented aspiring teachers from re-taking tests for two years; No limit on the number of tests, and the first three tests are free of charge to all candidates; and Refunds for anyone who has already paid for tests in this year’s recruitment cycle – on or since 24 October 2017. Today’s news adds to a growing number of initiatives to attract the brightest and best into the teaching profession, including: Increasing bursaries to £26,000 for all trainees with a 2:2 or higher in the highest priority subjects; physics, languages, chemistry, biology, computing, geography and classics. Offering a £20,000 bursary for maths trainees followed by two additional early-career payments of £5k each (£7,500 if teaching in local authority areas where teachers are most needed) in their third and fifth year of teaching, if they have taught in a state school in England since completing their teacher training course. Offering scholarship schemes in six subjects for 2018/19; physics, maths, languages, chemistry, computing, and geography. Successful scholars will receive £28,000 tax-free in all subjects except maths, where scholars will receive £22,000 tax-free. Offering bursaries for English trainees have been increased to £15,000 for all trainees with a 2:2 or higher, and bursaries in all other subjects are unchanged for 2018 to 2019. If you haven’t already, apply to BGU today and start training in September 2018. -
Historian Tracy Borman Joins BGU for an Evening of Elizabethan Exploration
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) are delighted to welcome Tracy Borman (www.tracyborman.co.uk), renowned historian, Chief Executive of the Heritage Education Trust and Joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces, back to Lincoln on Thursday 31 May 2018 for an evening delving deep into the riveting politics of Elizabeth I and her court. ‘Elizabeth’s Women: The hidden story of the Virgin Queen’ will explore the fascinating relationships that Elizabeth I had with the women who influenced her most. From her scandalous mother, Anne Boleyn, to her greatest rival, Mary Queen of Scots, and the ‘flouting wenches’ who served her at court, they all show Elizabeth in a surprising new light. Born and raised just outside of Lincoln, Tracey Borman is widely recognised as an expert on Tudor history with a collection of best-selling books and celebrated TV series. Her knowledge of Elizabethan England will undoubtedly ensure a compelling discussion on one of England’s most captivating monarchs. The event will start at 7.30pm and tickets for this unmissable evening are £7.50, for further details please contact the University Events Office on 01522 585635 or email events@bishopg.ac.uk. All funds raised at this event will go to the BGU Foundation Fund – enhancing the student experience and making a difference to other people’s lives. -
Why becoming a teacher could be the best decision you ever make
Teaching is one of the most rewarding careers available. For many people following the path of teaching can seem a daunting prospect, but few who take it ever regret it. 1. Every day brings a new challenge When it comes to teaching, there is no such thing as an ordinary day; every student you meet, every lesson you teach, none are ever the same. Everytime you walk through the door you'll be dealing with new and interesting challenges. If you’re the type of person who loves variety and pushing themselves, teaching is definitely the option for you. 2. Your students won't be the only ones learning Being a teacher means that, more often than not, you'll learn alongside your students. You'll get to build on your existing knowledge as well as getting the opportunity to explore whole new worlds you've never experienced before. While you teach your students, you'll find they're also teaching you. Their perspectives and discussion will offer you the chance to see topics in a completely new way, and together you'll spark innovative thoughts that will help both of you to reach your goals. 3. Teachers have the chance to change lives Ask any teacher and they'll tell you that the moment a student suddenly understands something you've taught them is one of their greatest memories. Perhaps that's because that moment doesn't just change the student's life, it will change yours as well. Once you've had that experience you'll be completely hooked and will want nothing more than to help every student you teach have that same moment of success. 4. As a teacher you can work anywhere in the world via GIPHY There are few careers better placed than teaching to help you explore the world. Teaching is a highly transferable skill and with international schools all over the world there aren't many places you won't be able to work. Better still is that many international schools look favourably upon teachers who have trained and qualified in the UK. 5. Teaching offers plenty of perks As well as boasting a competitive salary (beginning at £22,917) and flexible working patterns, teaching also offers financial support while you train. This includes a number of grants and bursary options and, if you focus on a particular subject, you may even be eligible for a fully funded scholarship! And let's not forget the holidays... 6. Speaking of holidays... Do you remember that feeling as a child; the knowledge that no matter how tough school had become, a blissful six week break was just around the corner? Not only does teaching offer you that feeling again, your six week break is just one of a series of regular holidays you get throughout the year. While this may not be the number one reason to become a teacher, it's definitely an added bonus. 7. You’ll be in high demand While the demand for some careers comes and goes, teachers will always be essential and there is an incredibly high demand for qualified teachers across the UK (and the wider world). Teaching also offers a high degree of mobility both in and outside of schools, meaning you'll always have opportunities to develop and improve. 8. You'll never work alone via GIPHY When times are good you'll have people to share in the success, and when exam season is looming you'll have colleagues by your side that you can rely on. In addition to your fellow teachers, you'll also enjoy support and interaction from teaching assistants, students and parents every day. 9. Your lessons, your way You are in charge of your own classroom. You plan out your lessons, you deliver them and you make the decisions regarding what is best for your students. Obviously you’ll need to follow certain standards in your curriculum but even then you have the opportunity to inject your own personality into the job. 10. Teaching is much more than "just a job" Teaching is an immensely satisfying career, where you truly know that you’ve made a difference. Best of all, that satisfaction won't end when the school day does. Getting to see students who you've taught ‘make it’ after they leave school is a sensational feeling. The knowledge that you played even a small part in someone achieving their dreams is the ultimate in job satisfaction. Which is the best route into teaching? Hopefully you're now convinced that teaching is your calling in life. So why not apply to a leading University for Initial Teaching Training? We offer multiple routes into teaching, including our BA (Hons) in Primary Education with QTS, PGCE Primary Education, PGCE Secondary Education and School Direct. When it comes to preparing teachers for education we're hard to beat so make sure when you have the chance you learn from the best. -
Accelerated Degrees: Head Start or False Start?
The practice of ‘Accelerated’ or ‘Fast Track’ two year-long degree courses has been in the news again this month, as former universities minister Jo Johnson sought to further increase their frequency across the higher education sector. However, despite having been available at certain universities for nearly 10 years, they continue to prove divisive. For some they provide a cheaper option with a potentially fast transition into employment, whilst for others they create an unnecessary burden on resources without allowing enough time for students to develop. How does an accelerated degree programme work? Typically they offer the opportunity for learners to reduce the time taken to complete a BA/BSc course (360 credits) full-time from 3 years to 2 years or part-time from 6 years to 4 years. This is done by utilising the traditional student summer vacation as a third ‘semester’ to cover an additional 60 credits (for full-time students) or 30 credits (for part-time students). So the intensity of study within a semester is not increased, instead students study continuously through the calendar year. In theory this should allow some full-time students to reduce their costs whilst at university by only needing to incur 2 years of rent and living costs and, potentially begin earning a year earlier. Should you choose an accelerated degree course? For those who like to get things done quickly accelerated degrees probably sound ideal, however, Dr Robert Boast - Executive Dean: Learning, Teaching and Student Engagement at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) – advises prospective students take caution before diving in: “Accelerated degrees are not for all students as has been shown by the limited take-up of these programmes where they have been offered. Most students see their time at university as a 3 year experience giving themselves time to develop, acquire skills and reflect on what careers they are best suited to move in to.” Lecturers and indeed the courses themselves also face potentially adverse consequences from an increase in accelerated degrees. The summer period is a time for academics to conduct research, undertake staff development and plan and develop existing and new courses which then informs and enhances the student experience for the next academic year, maintaining and improving the quality of the degree programmes. Do BGU offer two year degrees? Although accelerated degrees are not currently part of the portfolio of programmes at BGU Dr Boast adds this is always under review: “With all programme developments we always ensure that we understand what the learners require so that we can give them the best learning and teaching experience as possible. We are also looking to develop work-based learning/apprenticeship programmes with businesses, which might be more attractive to people in work who want access to degree level qualifications whilst earning.” Make sure you are up to speed Far from the finished article, the concept of accelerated degrees will continue to be honed and evolved over the next few years. Wherever your opinion on them falls, when it comes to choosing your degree, understanding the facts is of the upmost importance. Our Enquiries Team are always happy to answer any of your questions to ensure you have all the information you could need. You can find more about our current portfolio of degrees and begin your university adventure here. -
#12DaysofBGU Day 12: Students on Tour
Glorious sunshine showed Rome at its best during BGU Theology department’s week-long visit in March/April this year. Seventeen second and third year students joined three MA students for six days of visits to churches, museums, catacombs and other ancient sites. Savouring Italian food and ice cream, and exploring piazzas and fountains scattered throughout the city, they walked and talked and made new friends from within the family of BGU. Working with members of All Saints Church (Anglican) and the Church of Ognissanti (Catholic), students helped to feed homeless men and women, while others offered their support for the Roma football team, and a select few visited the local Russian Orthodox Church for a Sunday morning service. The group also managed to secure front seats for a papal audience. One student described the visit as, “One of the most interesting experiences of my life”, while another commented, “Seeing the Pope was a once in a lifetime experience”. Theology students weren’t the only ones getting out and about this year. Eleven students studying Special Educational Needs and Inclusion (SENI) at BGU spent ten days in India learning how trainee teachers are educated in Tamil Nadu and visiting special education schools. Find out more about Theology at BGU. -
#12DaysofBGU Day 8: Darcey Bussell
Ballerina and Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell visited Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln in October to speak to trainee teachers about DDMIX for Schools. Darcey and her DDMIX team worked with over a hundred trainee teachers from Primary and Secondary programmes from the School of Teacher Development at BGU. DDMIX is a full-body aerobic workout for children created by Darcey Bussell and based on 26 different dance genres, from Arabic and Japanese to the Charleston and the Flamenco. The day opened with a special lecture for all year groups where Darcey introduced the programme. Students then split off into smaller groups to participate in sessions with the DDMIX team. Speaking about DDMIX Darcey said, “Movement to music makes children come alive and changes the way they feel. With the DDMIX programme, children get an exciting and diverse learning experience that is physical, aerobic and high time on task. These benefits should be enjoyed by every child. “Dance fitness can stimulate the child’s interest in sport, in the arts and give them the confidence to explore their own creativity in other fields." DDMIX came to BGU through the work of Helen Thornalley, Subject Leader for PE and Dance for the PGCE Secondary course at BGU, who arrived at the University in January. Helen has worked with Darcey and DDMIX for the past three years on training teachers and reflecting on how this work is implemented within schools. Feedback from the trainee teachers is vital for DDMIX to find out what works for children in schools. Helen said, "The opportunity for trainee teachers to work with these professionals who are at the top of their game, and the sharing of their materials with prospective teachers for schools is amazing. “(It was) unique, rich and cathartic for all involved, a very exciting project that I have seen teachers embrace and make it their own." Members of the DDMIX team introduced BGU students to a range of different dances and activities that can be utilised when students go into schools on placements. Jessica Castro, first year BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS student, said, “The session was really good. I thought it was great how they split everything up into sections, which will help us with how to teach the children. “They haven’t just thrown us into the deep end, they’ve shown us how to work with the children and taught us the dances as well so I thought that was really clever. “I’d love to use (DDMIX) in schools. When we go into placements and we have to use PE I’d definitely use something like this rather than what you’d expect PE to be.” Find out more about Training to Teach at BGU. -
Winner Announced for BGU Care Award for Outstanding Learner
Representatives from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) attended the Lincolnshire Care Awards to present the BGU Outstanding Learner Award on Thursday 22 February 2018. The provision of care in the Health and Social Care sector is becoming increasingly demanding due to the constantly changing needs of individuals and the communities served. The Lincolnshire Care Awards (Developed by Lincolnshire Care Association) recognise and applaud the daily achievements of individuals and businesses throughout the Health and Social Care sector within Lincolnshire. They celebrate the tireless work of outstanding care workers, teams and organisations in a challenging sector. Now in their second year, the awards continue to grow, seeing a significant increase in nominations from across the sector, as well as a brand-new award recognising the contribution of support staff, for example domestic staff, transport staff and gardeners. The Awards were presented at a gala evening in Lincoln Assembly Rooms by BBC Radio Lincolnshire's Melvyn Prior. They consisted of several categories such as Community Care Awards, Residential Care Award, social care award, Leadership award as well as recognizing special achievements, rising stars and BGU’s very own Outstanding Learner Award. Education and learning is one of the key elements that ensures care is delivered in the right way, to the right people, in a timely manner. The Outstanding Learner Award recognises individuals who have made the most of their learning opportunities either in a residential or community care setting, enthusiastically embracing their learning and going above and beyond to improve their knowledge and skills. Nicki Walsh, Programme Leader for Health & Social Care at BGU, judged and presented the award and stated that she was both honoured and humbled by all the individuals nominated. She was proud to present Stacey Mason with the award, having been impressed with her commitment to continued development and training. BGU Outstanding Learner Award Finalists and Winner in full: Finalists – Linda Morris, Kimberley Care Home Renee Persinger, The Royal Mencap Society Susie Neupane, Cedar Falls Care Home Isobel Morrison, Thera East Midlands Stacey Mason, Walnut Care Winner – Stacey Mason, Walnut Care (pictured receiving her award from BGU's Nicki Walsh) Photo credit: Shaun Smith, Kamara Photography. Find out more about Health & Social Care at BGU.
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