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  1. BGU announces honorary award recipients for 2023
    Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) has announced the recipients of its Honorary Awards, which will be presented at upcoming graduation ceremonies in late July 2023. Five awardees are set to receive Honorary Doctorates for their outstanding contributions to academic achievement, social, economic or cultural life. Two Distinguished Honorary Fellowships will be awarded to individuals for exceptional contributions to the University and public life locally or regionally. Among the Honorary Doctorate awardees are husband and wife, Claire and James Birch, whose fundraising efforts have supported several local projects, including the reinvigoration of Doddington Hall. Charles Cormack, another recipient of an Honorary Doctorate, is recognised as a leader in international higher education. As the founder of the Ukraine Twinning initiative, his work paired UK and other international universities with Ukrainian universities to provide support and resources. Dame Judith Mayhew-Jonas DBE will also receive an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of her exceptional contributions over the course of her career, including as Dame Commander of the British Empire, Chairman of the Royal Opera House, Commissioner of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and Chancellor of BGU. Another recipient of the Honorary Doctorate is best-selling female historian Alison Weir acclaimed for her extensive body of work, including 21 history books and 14 historical novels, which have collectively sold three million copies worldwide. Receiving a Distinguished Honorary Fellowship is Hannah Spencer, Managing Director of LAGAT College and Trustee and Vice Chair of the Lincolnshire Employment Accommodation Project (LEAP), which aims to tackle the issue of homelessness. Her work has so far helped over 1,500 individuals and families find stable housing and employment. John O'Donoghue, a member of Lincoln BIG, will also receive a Distinguished Honorary Fellowship. His dedication to providing career opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students in Lincoln through his businesses has made a significant impact in the local area. He also acts as an external trustee for Bishop Grosseteste Students’ Union. Bishop Grosseteste University Vice-Chancellor, The Rev’d Canon Professor Peter Neil said: “We are proud to be awarding this year’s honorary recipients for their expertise and service in their respective roles. I am delighted to welcome them to our wider BGU community. “Each one of them is inspirational in their own right and all serve as excellent role models for our students in how to make a positive impact on society.” The awards will be presented during graduation celebrations at Lincoln’s Cathedral. Awardees were nominated by students, retired staff, alumni, and current or former University Council members. More information about each recipient can be found here.
  2. BGU celebrates graduates at Lincoln Cathedral
    Students, friends, family, and faculty gathered in Lincoln Cathedral to witness the graduation ceremonies of 667 students from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU). Celebrations took place on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th July over four ceremonies. Graduates from different levels of academic disciplines including undergraduate, master's, postgraduate, and PhD programmes donned their robes to cross the stage at Lincoln Cathedral. The University also presented Honorary Awards to individuals recognised for their exceptional contributions to academia and society. Among the Honorary Doctorate awardees were the owners of Doddington Hall, husband and wife Claire and James Birch; best-selling historian Alison Weir; philanthropist and leader in higher education Charles Cormack; and BGU’s previous Chancellor Dame Judith Mayhew-Jonas DBE. Receiving a Distinguished Honorary Fellowship was Managing Director of LAGAT College and Trustee and Vice Chair of LEAP Hannah Spencer; and Lincoln BIG member John O’Donoghue. The event marked the last graduation presided over by The Rev’d Canon Professor Peter Neil, following his retirement announcement in March. Professor Neil said: “Graduation is the high point for all our final year students, and we are so fortunate in Lincoln for that celebration to take place in one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. “This is a truly special occasion and I know that our students and their friends and families will have had a memorable day in the city.”
  3. Bishop Grosseteste University celebrates first apprenticeship graduates
    Lincoln Cathedral has hosted the formal graduation of Bishop Grosseteste University's (BGU) first cohort of apprentices. 14 students completed the three-year Senior Leader Master’s Degree Apprenticeship (SLMDA), which includes a Masters' qualification, equipping them with strategic leadership skills to use in their respective organisations. According to the University, the programme aims to bridge the skills gap in Lincolnshire, enhance staff retention, and improve productivity and profitability for local businesses. The SLMDA attracted students from diverse industries, from commercial signage to geoscience consultancy and the NHS. Graduates of the SLMDA can apply for professional recognition with Chartered Manager or Chartered Fellow Member grade. Among the graduates are three of BGU’s own members of staff. Faculty Business Manager Nicola Thompson, Placement Services Manager Vicki Walker, and Reprographics Manager Alan Stacey all attended the celebrations to receive their certificates. Nicola said: “The apprenticeship has been an empowering experience, giving me the opportunity to develop my skills and grow as a senior leader alongside an amazing cohort of people. “It's been hard work to get here, but it's all been worth it, as graduating fills me with excitement and confidence to move forward in my career at BGU and beyond.” Alongside their work in various industries, the in-person teaching and learning sessions offered networking opportunities and facilitated knowledge exchange across businesses. After witnessing the value of apprenticeships in the workplace, one graduate was inspired to hire additional apprentices at his own organisation. BGU’s Programme Leader for Business & Enterprise Becky Goodman said: “I was extremely proud to witness our first cohort of degree apprentices graduate at this years’ ceremony. This is the culmination of several years’ work, and is a testament to our apprentices, BGU delivery teams, professional support teams, and to the apprentices’ supportive employers and mentors. “I am passionate about helping individuals benefit from work-based learning to progress in their careers and am delighted that we have been able to develop such a fantastic offer at BGU that benefits individuals, organisations and the wider economy.” Bishop Grosseteste University offers three apprenticeship programmes: Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, Careers Development Professional Apprenticeship, and the Senior Leader Apprenticeship. With a current enrolment of 64 active students, the Senior Leader Apprenticeship is attracting growing interest. By providing career-focused education, the university says it strives to empower professionals and strengthen Lincolnshire's workforce.
  4. Local mother of four graduates university with First Class Honours
    A local mother of four has graduated at Lincoln Cathedral with a First Class Honours Degree in Health and Social Care. After enrolling at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in 2018, Katie Downes started her educational journey as a mature student with a passion for making a positive difference in the field of health and social care. Despite facing disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, her own health issues, and the additional responsibilities of homeschooling her children, Katie completed her degree in five years instead of the usual three. During her studies, Katie gained practical experience through a placement at Carers First in April 2022. This opportunity led to a part-time role with the organisation, which she managed alongside her studies and family commitments. She has since transitioned into a permanent position as a Carer Support Adviser, providing support to unpaid carers. In her final year, Katie collaborated with Night Light Cafés (Acts Trust) and facilitated a meeting between the charity and BGU. As a result, BGU will be introducing a Night Light Café in the Students' Union building later this year. This initiative aims to provide out-of-hours emotional support, with trained volunteers offering a safe space and one-to-one conversations to anyone who might need it. Katie said: "Graduating with first class honours is a dream come true. I faced many challenges and moments of doubt, but I persevered. “I hope my story can inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter the circumstances. Personal growth can be achieved at any stage of life." BGU’s Programme Lead in Health and Social Care Nicki Walsh said: “Life presents us with many challenges at home, at work and in our studies. But despite the challenges Katie faced, she graduated with first class honours - a testament to her hard work. “Katie’s intention to use her knowledge and skills to support those that most need it is inspiring.” Looking ahead, Katie plans to further develop her counselling skills. She hopes to qualify as an Occupational Therapist and is keen to explore Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). BGU’s graduation celebrations took place at Lincoln Cathedral on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th July and saw 667 students graduate over multiple ceremonies.
  5. International scholars address challenges facing religious values in a world of pandemics
    The 23rd International Seminar on Religious Education and Values (ISREV) conference was held at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln. The biennial event, which took place from Sunday 30th July to Friday 4th August, brought together over 80 religious education scholars and specialists from 17 countries to explore the intersection of religion, values, and education amidst the challenges posed by plagues and pandemics. The conference theme, "Plagues and Pandemics of our Time: Challenges for Religious, Values, and Worldview Education," saw 84 scholars present their papers during the week-long gathering. Attendees participated in plenary meetings and smaller collegial groups, with some members joining online. The event marked only the third time since its inception that ISREV has convened in England. The choice of Bishop Grosseteste University as the venue for this year's conference was significant, given the university's strong focus on religious education research. Under the leadership of Professor Leslie J Francis and Professor Julian Stern, both key figures within ISREV and the World Religions and Education Research Unit (WRERU) based at BGU, the institution has become a hub for scholars working in the field of religious education. Professor Francis, Vice-President of ISREV and Professor of Religions, Education, and Psychology at BGU was one of the 35 scholars present at the first meeting of ISREV in 1978. He said: “With a combined faculty of 47 scholars working in the fields of religious education, WRERU at BGU now has the strongest group of active researchers in religious education within the UK.” At this year’s conference, Professor Francis delivered a memorial lecture for John Hull, one of ISREV's founding members. He said: “My lecture drew attention to John’s challenge to the churches to step up to the task of providing quality and credible Christian nurture within local congregations. “After the pandemic, John’s vision for the role of local churches may no longer be sustainable, and the shift of emphasis must now move to the role of family within the home. “I believe that to sustain a future for the transmission of faith to the next generation, churches now need to concentrate resources on equipping churchgoing parents to step up to the task, collaborating with local churches and church schools." ISREV is not a faith-based or an inter-faith association. With a diverse membership representing various religious traditions and secular specialists, the organisation seeks to promote high-quality research. The meetings provide an opportunity for scholars from all backgrounds to come together and engage in critical discussions on religious values and education research. Professor Julian Stern, General Secretary of ISREV and Professor of Education and Religion at BGU said: "Religion, other worldviews, and education cross paths every day, whether in schools or universities, churches, temples, synagogues, or mosques, or homes and local communities. “There is a body of scholars, now brought together here at BGU, who explore the relationship between a whole range of religious and non-religious worldviews and education. It is only the third time since 1978 that ISREV has met in England, and we are proud to host it BGU.”
  6. Petition to reinstate Kate Greenaway's name on award gathers pace
    A petition to reinstate Kate Greenaway's name in the literary award which bore her name for decades is gathering pace. Created by BGU Librarian and History Lecturer Rose Roberto and illustrator and bookseller Tamsin Rosewell, it has received backing from a range of illustrators and writers including Patrick Ness, Candy Gourlay, Philip Pullman, and Frank Cottrell-Boyce. According to the organisers: "The Kate Greenaway Medal is the oldest British literary award focused on illustration. It remains one of very few that highlights the contribution of illustrators and actively promotes the importance of their work. Kate Greenaway’s own work is a hugely important part of the heritage of the British Book Industry; she remains an influence on illustrators today and should also be recognised as one of Britain’s great female artists. In an age when illustrators' names are still very often left off promotion and reviews for books, we feel it is vital to retain her name in association with this award." In 2023, the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) which runs the awards renamed The Greenaway Medal as The Yoto Carnegie Medal for Illustration. The organisers describe this as "branding expediency" and argue that "The name of an accomplished woman, whose work is directly relevant to the award, has been removed and replaced with that of a male industrialist and a sponsoring corporation. This feels hugely insensitive, and ironically inappropriate when it awards a profession that still battles to be recognised." The petition calls on CILIP to reinstate Kate Greenaway’s name on the award before the 2024 nominations are made. The petition has now garnered more than 2700 signatures. Click here to add your signature to this cause. Below, Rose Roberto shares more about the petition... 'The Kate Greenaway Medal rebrand is misguided, and thousands are calling for her name to be restored. After signing our petition, award-winning author Patrick Ness, tweeted: "I know the librarians who run the medals do their absolute damnedest to make them the best awards in the world (which they are), but I too would love to see the Kate Greenaway name return. It’s such a specific honour on its own and honours a foundational female illustrator." A Monster Calls, written by Ness, was illustrated by Jim Kay. Jim Kay won the 2011 Kate Greenaway medal for illustrating A Monster Calls. Named awards have meaning. Individuals who have awards named after them should embody the values of the organisation they represent and/or the spirit for which an award was given. Many illustrators not only relate to Kate Greenaway's work and feel inspired by it — she, as a person, represents real struggles with whom illustrators today can relate. As a woman living a century ago, she lacked many opportunities, especially educational ones, that men were given more readily. This petition reflects the fact that writers and illustrators of all genders want this award to be named after a woman. It also shows that they want it to be named after a fellow illustrator. The Kate Greenaway Medal has always been a privilege for librarians to give to illustrators, recognising their talent and their specific work in a particular year. CILIP’s argument that librarians now somehow need to make literature awards about libraries is self-aggrandising and utterly bizarre. Greenaway’s name has been a constant and consistent example for many aspiring illustrators and writers in the English speaking world. Canadian Duncan Weller writes: "I have heard of the Kate Greenaway Medal, probably as early as my teenage years when I first thought of becoming a writer and illustrator of children’s picture[s]. It is a great mistake to change this name. Female illustrators need more recognition and especially those as qualified as Kate Greenaway." Oxford-based Helen Cooper posts: "I write and illustrate. They are entirely different. And for some reason one is often seen as more important than the other. I wonder if giving both the awards the same name was a misguided attempt to adjust that? I think it will have the opposite effect so am signing the petition. The Kate Greenaway award is so important for illustrators as a standalone award. We don’t want it to be the lesser of the Carnegie’s — which it almost certainly will become." London-based Phil Bradley wrote: "This is an absolute disgrace and very disappointing the CILIP has made this decision. It is wholly inappropriate and completely out of step with how members and wider society feel." It is troubling is that the CILIP’s rebranding campaign was launched in September 2022, with little fanfare, and little consultation. There were many surprised librarians who contacted both Rosewell and I personally complaining of a lack of transparency in this decision. Had any sort of proper research been conducted before the name change (ironically, the kind of research that librarians excel at), launching a campaign to remove the Greenaway name would not have occurred. This year, I ran a CILIP Shadowing Awards scheme at the Bishop Grosseteste University Library (BGU). BGU houses one of the largest children’s literature collections in a UK university and has been collecting two copies of Greenaway and Carnegie Medal winning books since the 1950s. During the shadowing scheme process, I first became aware that Kate Greenaway’s name had been removed from the medal. When I sent CILIP an email querying this decision, requesting that the decision be reversed back to the 2022 award name which was "Yoto Kate Greenaway", I heard nothing back from CILIP for weeks. While waiting for a response, Rosewell and I decided to launch our petition. We were honoured that the first signatory was Jackie Morris, who won the Kate Greenaway Medal in 2019. James Mayhew eloquently explains why we undertook this campaign and why so many have signed the petition. "Kate Greenaway was a pioneering woman," he said. "It is right and proper that she is remembered, celebrated, and has her name attached to this important prize. Losing this link with an actual illustrator greatly lessens the significance of such an award." If you sign, you’ll be joining others such as Philip Pullman, Frank Cottrell Boyce, Jackie Morris, Dapo Adeola, Rob Biddulph, Lydia Monks, Thomas Taylor, Candy Gorlay and Patrick Ness.' This story was first published by The Bookseller. Hear Rose and Tamsin speak on The Illustration Department podcast here.
  7. 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.
  8. British Psychological Society awards BGU student
    Recent Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) graduate Sophie Wilson has received the honour of the British Psychology Society’s (BPS) Award for achieving the best overall grade. Sophie graduated along with the University's inaugural Foundation Year (FdY) cohort with first-class honours from the Psychology & Early Childhood Studies programme. The BPS prize is awarded to those students who were nominated by their institutions after achieving the highest overall score in a BPS accredited degree programme. Sophie not only receives the award, but also a gift voucher, a years' free Graduate Membership of the BPS, and a letter of congratulations from the Society's CEO. Sophie began her post-school education on an apprenticeship when she was 16 years old, quickly progressing into the world of work. From there, she decided to pursue a career in children’s social work. So in 2019, Sophie began her BGU journey, joining the University's FdY programme. This programme offers an opportunity for individuals who don't typically possess the entry requirements for undergraduate study the chance to develop their academic skills and progress on to a specialised undergraduate course here at BGU. Sophie said: "The foundation year was so important for my studies, as it provided a baseline and an understanding of how to complete a university-level degree, and how to read and reference at an academic level. "It equipped me with all the skills and tools I needed to succeed, especially after I'd had a big gap from formal education." Sophie has big plans for the future and intends to pursues a career in children’s safeguarding. If you’d like to learn more about some of BGU’s FdY success stories, click here. 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.
  9. BGSU celebrates Lincoln Pride
    Bishop Grosseteste University Students' Union made their presence known at Lincoln Pride with a colourful stand of freebies and useful information. This year's Pride took place across Lincoln City Centre, with the main event held at Tentercroft Street car park and BGSU's stall pitched at the marketplace. Representing the Union and the University were BGSU President Connor Short, Vice President: Education Emily Allden, Accessability Officer Tristan Campbell-Owen and BGU Governance Officer Craig Ferguson. Connor said:" We had a brilliant day, meeting new people, giving out freebies, and enjoying the buzzing atmosphere. "Many of us found ourselves talking with young people who are currently looking at going to university and we were able to use this opportunity to talk about all the fantastic work done by both BG and BGSU to support the community. Lots of students commented on how friendly and approachable we were, which is always welcome feedback! "The importance of this annual event can not be understated, it provides the people of Lincoln not only a safe space to express themselves but also an opportunity for local institutions and organisations to show their support as allies of the LGBTQ+ community."
  10. BGU scores high in National Student Survey
    Students have voted Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) as a leader in three categories* of the National Student Survey (NSS). The University took first place in learning opportunities, assessment and feedback, and learning resources. BGU also performed well in other areas, ranking top ten for student voice and teaching – for which the University received a nearly 91% positive response. For academic subjects, the university achieved multiple top ten spots in all categories. The history department celebrated a 100% positive score for both academic support and course organisation. Sports was awarded first for assessment and feedback and came second for learning opportunities. The English department was voted second for teaching, with a positive score of 98.2%. Nearly half a million students from more than 150 Higher Education Institutions across the UK are invited to take part in the NSS every year. The survey provides final-year students an opportunity to give feedback about their student experience at colleges and universities. It is an influential source of information and serves as a key component of the quality assurance and wider regulatory landscape in UK higher education. Rob Boast, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Students) at BGU, said: “Student voices are incredibly important to the University, and we’re pleased that so many of our final year undergraduates took part in the NSS and shared such positive feedback about their time with us. “We pride ourselves on our personal and friendly approach to higher education, ensuring that every student's voice is not only heard, but valued. The outstanding feedback we’ve received is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the BGU community – an environment where students and staff work together to achieve excellence. “Looking ahead, we will continue striving to exceed expectations. The feedback we've collected will drive further improvements, allow us to expand on our outstanding record and help us deliver an educational experience that stands apart.” BGU’s recent news comes after it secured additional award victories earlier this year. The University achieved first place for Halls and Accommodation and Student Support, and third place for Career Prospects at the 2023 Whatuni Student Choice Awards. *The NSS data presented above excludes FECs & alternative providers. Results are measured by per cent positive responses. 323 BGU students responded to the 2023 NSS (a response rate of 81%). As a small institution BGU is not typically included in the Guardian Good University Guide league table, although several subjects do have sufficient numbers to be included in the subject league tables.

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