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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. -
Dr20Katrin20Paehler20Masterclass20BGU2013.11.201720crop-1Expert on Nazi intelligence delivers masterclass to BGU students
An internationally renowned specialist on Third Reich intelligence services recently delivered a masterclass to History students at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln. Dr Katrin Paehler, Associate Professor at Illinois State University, delivered a session on her recent research entitled ‘Spying while Female: Hildegard Beetz, Nazi espionage and the quest for the Ciano diaries’. Final year BGU History students studying the special subject option ‘The Secret War: Intelligence during the Second World War’ were treated to a detailed exploration of the career of Hildegard Beetz (1919-2010). Beetz was a low-level secretary with good Italian language skills who worked within Nazi Germany's political foreign intelligence service. She was instrumental in German attempts to relieve the deposed Italian foreign minister Galeazzo Ciano of his political diaries. Alleged to have fallen in love with him, Beetz helped his widow Edda Mussolini to escape with the diaries to Switzerland around the time of Ciano's execution in January 1944. There the diaries came into the possession of the Western Allies and were eventually used at the Nuremberg Trials. Dr Paehler demonstrated to students how historians should question the available evidence and remain cautious of simplistic narratives. She ended with several conclusions surrounding Beetz, presenting her as a “New Nazi Woman”, who was able to use existing Nazi gender expectations to her advantage in her life as a spy during the war. May Guest, third year History student at BGU said, “Dr Paehler’s visit was very interesting as she presented a short history into the extraordinary life of Hildegard Beetz. “We are currently learning how, in history, female spies are often overshadowed by male spies, and so it was fascinating to understand a female’s position in an already discreet subject of secret intelligence during the Second World War. I thoroughly enjoyed this session, and it has helped me grasp a deeper understanding of how secret intelligence networks work.” Dr Paehler visited BGU during the week commencing Monday 13 November and was hosted by Dr Claire Hubbard-Hall, Senior Lecturer in History at BGU, who works on the Gestapo and Third Reich intelligence more broadly. Dr Hubbard-Hall is currently preparing her monograph ‘Hitler’s Secret Agents: The Gestapo Spy Network’ for publication. Find out more about studying History at BGU. -
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. -
BGU Theology Students Provide Uniforms for School Children in India
A group of Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) Theology students have successfully raised enough money to supply over 100 school uniforms to pupils in India with special needs. Carried out in aid of the SDETLAND Project (www.lincswithindia.org.uk), who work with several Lincolnshire rotary clubs to support some the most deprived and disadvantaged children in the world, the students have been working hard over the past year to raise enough money to fund both the uniforms as well as their travel to visit the centre. Georgina Foxcroft, one of the students involved, was delighted to have the opportunity to support the project so effectively: “We asked the SDETLAND Project what they wanted and they said a uniform for the children would be amazing. They receive no government funding, everything they get is from donations and it was the one thing that the school really needed so we were more than happy to provide them. "Being able to take the uniforms out ourselves and meet some of the children was fantastic. It made that connection more personal and proved to us that our efforts were worthwhile.” Returning from the trip, BGU Theology lecturer Mark Plater highlighted why the hard work carried out by the SDETLAND Project was so important: “SDET do a wonderful job of caring for those who generally get left out of Indian society. Tribal people and the disabled are not well provided for by government agencies, so SDET (Social Democratic Education Trust) was developed as a charity to fill in the gaps. "They provide hostels and special schools for children of such communities, and occupational training to help them move on to skilled jobs. I am really impressed with the dedication and commitment of their staff.” Along with the SDETLAND Project, the team of BGU students visited primary, secondary, international and specialist SEN schools along with a selection of sites of religious significance across India to get a wide aspect of education and culture in the country. The students would also like to thank Lincoln business Eliza D Memory, whose daughter is one of their fellow students at BGU, for printing the uniforms. Find out more about studying Theology & Ethics at BGU. -
Bishop Grosseteste University Unveils a Suite of New Courses
Throughout our 150 years of teaching excellence everyone at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) has strived to be at the forefront of innovation in higher education, ensuring our courses continue to meet the needs of a constantly evolving student market. The courses are highly regarded by both students and inspectors for their quality and we are excited to add four new Master's level degree options as well as a new Post Graduate Certificate to our ever-growing portfolio. As with our existing selection of courses, these new additions are designed to support learning with a range of potential study options opening them to any budding student. Dr Graham Basten, Head of School of Social Sciences at BGU, believes the launch of the new courses will mark a step forward in the provision of continuous professional development: “Building on our highly successful undergraduate programmes, our Master's level provision within the School has expanded to incorporate top up degrees to existing students and professionals looking to gain higher level qualifications. These new courses are fantastic opportunities created directly with student learning in mind”. Interest can now be registered for: MA in Professional Studies (now MA in Professional Practice with Children, Young People and Families): A specialised two year, part-time Master's Course designed to support and challenge professionals from a range of formal and informal educational settings and contexts. It aims to produce high-calibre postgraduates who are autonomous, reflexive, possessing of inquiring and analytical minds as part of their continued professional formation. MA in Mathematics Education: Designed for individuals teaching mathematics across all phases including Primary, Secondary and Further Education. The course will give students the tools to refine their own professional practice, to study the latest innovations in mathematics teaching, and to compare international systems of Mathematics Education. MSc in Wellbeing and Learning in Teaching: Suitable for a range of professionals within a variety of educational settings. It is ideal for those engaged in support of mental health and wellbeing in education, such as head teachers, teachers, social workers, school nurses, educational psychologists, police and youth justice workers. MSc in Primary/Community Care: Designed to influence and enhance the nature and quality of provision of care within the Primary/Community care setting. It will facilitate wider understanding for professionals currently in the sector but also for those considering a career within Primary/Community provision of care provision along with management and influences on clinical practice within settings. Post Graduate Certificate in Primary Mathematics: This course is an opportunity to develop mathematical subject and pedagogical knowledge, and is designed for people who are currently teaching mathematics in a primary setting. It is ideal for people who are passionate about the learning and teaching of mathematics and want to be able to influence their colleagues. If you are considering taking your education to a new level and these new courses sound like the path for you, you can sign up for more information on the course pages or contact BGU’s Enquiries Team and start your journey today. -
Vice-Chancellor opens Conference on Lifelong Learning at the University of Cambridge
The Vice-Chancellor of Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), the Rev’d Canon Professor Peter Neil, in his capacity as Chair of the Universities Association for Lifelong Learning (UALL), hosted its Annual Conference at Downing College, University of Cambridge from 21-23rd March 2018. The theme of the Conference was ‘Opportunities for Lifelong Learning in a Changing World’ and was attended by international delegates from Canada, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Poland, Turkey, and the USA as well as many participants from the four jurisdictions in the UK. In his introductory talk, Professor Neil highlighted the significance of this time for Higher Education in England in general and part-time and mature learners in particular. He suggested that it was a time of opportunity for the sector even if it appeared that at the moment it was ‘gardening in a gale’ rather than gently tending a landscape, as alluded to by the chair of the new Office for Students, Sir Michael Barber. It was a particular pleasure to welcome the Chief Executive of the Office for Students, Nicola Dandridge CBE as the main key-note speaker. In her lecture Ms Dandridge focused on the centrality of the students within the new regulatory landscape, although she acknowledged the complexities associated with the transition to the new system. Many of the aspects highlighted in her talk resonated with the delegates such as the importance of social mobility, the need to continue to provide not only access arrangements but to ensure that students from all backgrounds received a quality experience of Higher Education and the focus on student outcomes. Many of the areas raised in Ms Dandridge’s talk stimulated debate and prepared the way for the many presentations and seminars which formed the rest of the conference. In commenting on his four-year term of office as Chair of UALL, Professor Neil said: ‘UALL is an organisation with which I have been engaged for many years since my time at Aberystwyth as Director of Education and Lifelong Learning. Its focus is on non-traditional students and part-time and mature learners sits very neatly with the work we do at BGU. It is a privilege to share in this work and to see the many connections we have internationally’. In recognition of the increasing international links which UALL has, memoranda of understanding were signed with the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AACE), Canadian Association for University Continuing Education (CAUCE), Higher Education Lifelong Learning Ireland Network (HELLIN) and Turkish Universities Continuing Education Network (TUSEM). The Vice-Chancellor regards this role as enhancing the reputation and the reach of BGU nationally and internationally. -
BGU shares research and forges new connections in the Czech Republic
Dr Maria Efstratopouliou, Senior Lecturer in Special Education & Inclusion (SENI) at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), was invited to deliver a two day workshop seminar in Research Methodology to International Doctoral Students at Masaryk University. Part of an International visit at Brno, Czech Republic the Seminar provided the Doctoral students and Academic Staff from the University with the opportunity to discuss the future of international research cooperation between the two Universities. Further meetings also took place with Masaryk University’s Faculty of Education, allowing staff from both institutions to share good practice on systems of teaching practice and professional competencies of student teachers. In addition the trip provided Clare Davey, International Administrator, the opportunity to meet with Masaryk University’s International Office, sharing ideas on their functions within the University, as well as collating information for BGU students who wish to undertake an Erasmus Study Programme. You can find more information on our SENDI courses and growing international links on our website or by contact our Enquiries Team. -
BGU Student Nominated for Place on UK Literacy Association Panel
Education Studies students at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) are getting ready to vote for their favourite new children’s book this Friday after taking part in the United Kingdom Literacy Association (UKLA) Book Awards Student Shadowing Award Programme. The national scheme takes place each year and offers students around the UK the chance to vote for their favourite new children’s book in a range of age group categories. The students involved have been meeting in their free time to read and discuss the shortlisted books in the 3-6 age category, with Helen Hendry, Education Studies tutor and Janice Morris, children’s librarian, One student in particular has been so involved that they have been nominated for a sponsored place at the forthcoming UKLA International conference in Cardiff. To be awarded the conference place, students must demonstrate an outstanding contribution to the shadowing process. Hayley Booth, a second year Education Studies student at BGU, used one of the shortlisted texts ‘The Night Gardener’ by the Fan brothers as a creative stimulus for teaching in a recent school placement. She also involved her Year 1/2 class in sharing all the shortlisted books. This then led to an in school book display as well as many repeated readings of ‘Oi Dog!’ by Kes and Claire Gray, which was picked out by the pupils as their favourite. Speaking on taking part in the award and building the UKLA nominated books into her teaching Hayley said: “I really enjoyed reading the nominated books and being able to use them when I was on placement to see what the children thought of them. It gave me an insight into popular picture-book authors and what I can use in future lessons when I become a teacher” We hope that Hayley will be selected by the panel to attend the three day UKLA conference and get to meet the authors and illustrators in person in July. You can find more information on all our course, including Education Studies, on our website or by contacting our Enquiries Team. -
BGU supports Mansions of the Future arts programme
A new cultural programme supported by Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is bringing celebrated national and international artists to Lincoln. Launching this week, Mansions of the Future is a new cultural platform bringing a variety of art forms to Lincoln. The theme will explore culture, power and democracy in Lincoln. A new cultural centre will open in Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter on Friday 11 May, a space which will offer opportunities for the public to collaborate directly with artists. Local artists and creative people can apply to occupy the studio space for free. Information on how to apply can be found on the Mansions of the Future website. Dr Andrew Jackson, Head of Research at BGU, spoke of his excitement over what the programme could offer the city: “Bishop Grosseteste University is very excited to be supporting ‘Mansions of the Future’. This programme will see world-class artists and events coming to Lincoln through 2018 and 2019. “It will be one of the most radical and impressive set of arts activities that the city has seen. We look forward to the involvement of BGU and its staff and students, and it is a great opportunity for local venues, groups and practitioners over the months ahead.” The programme commences this week when artist Kathrin Böhlm occupies the new cultural centre and asks the people of Lincoln ‘What culture do we want?’ There will be a series of free maker-workshops where the public are invited to work together. Visual artist Bridget Smith will present her work ‘Now It Is Permitted’ on hoardings and billboards across the city. The installations will include statements from invited artists, writers, musicians, playwrights and filmmakers. Later in May Bonnie Wright, famous for playing Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter films, brings her short-film ‘Medusa’s Ankles’ to the city. The premiere will be uniquely displayed as a free public installation in a hair salon on Sincil Street. The film explores the shifts in power and visibility of middle aged women. 2019 highlights include actor, playwright and director Steven Berkoff staging his Lincoln-inspired play ‘Ritual in Blood’ with local amateur actors. Mansions of the Future is supported by Arts Council England’s Ambitions for Excellence fund, Bishop Grosseteste University, the University of Lincoln, Lincoln City Council, Lincolnshire County Council, Lincoln BIG and Lincoln Cathedral, along with other members of the Lincoln Cultural and Arts Partnership including Visit Lincoln, The Lincoln College Group, Open Plan and Lincolnshire Co-op. -
BGU travels to the Czech Republic
Three members of staff from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) are in the Czech Republic this week for a series of meetings and visits. Clare Davey, International Administrator, Dr Smaragda Kampouri, Programme Leader in TESOL & Linguistics and Dr Maria Efstratopoulou, Senior Lecturer in Special Educational Needs & Inclusion, are visiting partner institution Mazaryk University during their visit to the Czech Republic. Meetings will be taking place with Mazaryk University’s Faculty of Education, sharing good practice on systems of teaching practice and professional competencies of student teachers. Clare will be meeting with the University’s International Office, sharing ideas and their functions within the University, as well as collating information for BGU students who wish to undertake an Erasmus Study Programme. School visits will include a mainstream primary school and an inclusive primary school with a high percentage of Roma children. Maria will also be teaching two workshops to PhD students on Research methods in Education. Find out more about studying at BGU.
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