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soundLINCS Continues Hitting all the Right Notes
It has been announced by soundLINCS that they have been awarded £776,569 - following a competitive grant application process - by the National Foundation for Youth Music (Arts Council). Bishop Grosseteste University was a partner in the bid and will participate in this exciting three year project across the East Midlands. Dr Pat Beckley, Early Years’ specialist within the School of Teacher Development, and Professor Chris Atkin, Head of Educational Development & Research are the two academic leads from our university. Our participation builds on an existing project with soundLINCS focusing on early years’ music curriculum materials. -
Chance to Train as an Early Years Teacher
Teachers who want to become outstanding specialists working with the youngest children can now undertake professional training at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln. In September last year, 13 trainees were the first to begin the new PGCE Early Years with EYTS (Early Years Teacher Status) programme at BGU – and the university will recruit another cohort this autumn. The course has been tailored to suit both those working in early years settings who can be released for study and those who are studying full time. It enables trainees to gain the recommendation for Early Years Teacher Status which is equivalent to QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) through 120 days teaching young children from nought to five and 10 days looking at the progression children make into Key Stage 1. “The new Early Years Teacher Status introduced by the Government is an important development because there is clear evidence that high-quality early education and childcare can have a powerful impact on young children and can fully prepare them for school and later life,” said Amy Stancer, Academic Co-ordinator for the Early Years Programme at BGU. “The new programme is a good fit with our other courses which include QTS (working with ages three to 19 years) and teaching in the lifelong learning sector. Early Years Teacher Status broadens the scope of our training so that we’re now teaching people to teach all age ranges, from babies to pensioners.” Places are still available on the EYTS programme for this September – and two students currently on the course can thoroughly recommend it. Ryan Gilbert (30) from Halifax graduated with a degree in primary education from Leeds Metropolitan University (now Leeds Beckett University) and was working as a supply teacher in West Yorkshire when he decided to enrol on the EYTS programme at BGU. “During my time with the supply agency and in settings when I was studying for my degree I found a fondness for early years more than Key Stages 1 and 2,” said Ryan. “Add to that the comments I had from schools about how positive it is to have a male teaching in early years, and I firmly decided that I wanted to become qualified to teach within the age range. When I wanted to progress more into early years Bishop Grosseteste University was the only university which responded promptly and guided me through its application process. I have enjoyed the course immensely, from the dedicated team of lecturers at BGU to outside professionals who have come to speak to us and the passionate members of my course who really do want the very best for young children. Being surrounded by all these makes me want to continually improve my own skills, passion and knowledge relating to early years.” Ryan continued: “I have learned far more than I realised I would, and I’m still only halfway through the course! I am truly shocked at just how little I knew about early years and how the course content from my degree did not even begin to scratch the surface of what I now know.” Jenna Farrow (22) from near Sleaford volunteered at a nursery between lectures and coursework while studying for a degree in Visual Communication at Birmingham City University as she had always taken a keen interest in how young children learn. “After I’d worked there for a year the manager signposted me towards a new postgraduate opportunity that specialised in the early years,” said Jenna. The course so far has been an enormous learning curve, enabling me to build on all areas of my professional development. The opportunity to work with all ages from birth to seven in a range of placements has given me a clear insight into how the process of the early years practice supports foundations in school. “I would highly recommend this course to others interested in working with young children as it has broadened my knowledge and understanding of the wider social context around early years practice and how early learning must be understood and fostered as a vital component to support our next generations.” To find out more about the PGCE Early Years with EYTS programme at BGU contact Amy Stancer on 01522 527347 or email enquiries@bishopg.ac.uk. -
Pedal Powering Through London for BGU
Two colleagues from Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln will be using pedal power to raise money for the university’s Foundation Fund this weekend. Accommodation Officer Rachel Crane and Leanne Chancellor, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Vice Chancellor, will take part in the London Nightrider – a 100km moonlit overnight cycle ride through the centre of London on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June 2015. Around 4,500 cyclists will raise more than £2 million for charity in one night and take in over 50 famous landmarks, including Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, the Royal Opera House and the London Eye. Rachel and Leanne will be raising money for the BG Foundation Fund, which provides funds for projects which the university would not normally be able to support through its core funding. “I had the original idea as I’m a runner and wanted to challenge my fitness further,” said Rachel. “I asked my friend and colleague, Leanne, if she wanted to join me, and as she was looking for her first challenge she agreed – although she actually thought I meant the London Moonwalk!” Rachel and Leanne can be found in the university gym most lunchtimes and they began training for the event in September last year. The ride will begin at 10.35pm at the Lee Valley Velodrome, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in East London and after following a circular route in and out of the city will finish back at the Lee Valley Velodrome. If you would like to sponsor the pair please visit their JustGiving page. -
Graduate Success as Outstanding Student Achieves Dream
A career in teaching awaits a graduate from Bishop Grosseteste University who enrolled at university on a foundation degree and is now leaving with a postgraduate qualification. Ashlea Reid (24) from Grimsby was working in a nursery when she realised that her ambition was to become a teacher. But with a job to hold down she didn’t have the time to access a full-time course to help her fulfil her dreams. Fortunately for Ashlea, Bishop Grosseteste University delivers a Foundation Degree in Applied Studies (Early Childhood); a work-based course for people who are already working or volunteering with children and want to study for a degree. “I wanted to study at BGU because of its reputation for teacher training, and a career in teaching was my long-term goal,” said Ashlea. “I found out that they offered the Applied Studies foundation degree course, which I could access once a week to fit in with working at the nursery.” Following the two-year course Ashlea graduated in 2013 with a merit and then went on to study a BA (Hons) in Applied Studies (Early Childhood), which she completed in 2014, gaining a 2:1. Thanks to her training and experience Ashlea was able to develop professionally and in 2014 began working as a teaching assistant at New Waltham Academy in Grimsby alongside her studies. Last year Ashlea began the final phase of her training by undertaking a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). She will celebrate completing the course on Wednesday 15th July at 2pm during a ceremony at Lincoln Cathedral. “I would urge others, thinking about a career in teaching but working full-time, to consider the Applied Studies route,” said Ashlea. “Being able to train at the same time as gaining valuable real-life experience has definitely made a difference to my professional development. “I’m really looking forward to beginning my career as a Year 1 teacher at Signhills Academy in Cleethorpes this September.” BGU’s Foundation Degree in Applied Studies is a work-related programme that enables working practitioners (or experienced volunteers) to study alongside their work and family responsibilities. Students choose from three pathways: Learning Support, Early Childhood or Children & Youth Work, according to their work role. -
Foundation Degree Sets Dad of Three on Road to Learning
A father of three from Boston set off on the road to postgraduate study by enrolling on a Bishop Grosseteste University foundation degree course at Boston College. This week Dave Callow (37) will graduate with an honours degree from BGU at Lincoln Cathedral – and he is now set to embark on a master's course at the University of Lincoln. Dave left school at 16 with a good set of GCSEs, and after studying Art and Design at Boston College he tried factory work, landscape gardening and office roles, but he didn’t settle into a permanent career. After becoming a full-time dad he realised he needed a rewarding occupation. “I wanted to be an example to my kids,” he said. “I didn’t want to be coming home to them feeling miserable from a job that left me unfulfilled.” He approached Boston College for careers advice, began volunteering at his local school and re-took his Maths GCSE. In 2012 he enrolled on the BGU Foundation Degree in Applied Studies (Learning Support) at Boston College and soon found himself being challenged to think about his work in school in fresh and interesting ways. “It awakened a thirst for knowledge,” said Dave. “I wanted a deeper understanding of social issues and injustices. At my work setting I found I was suddenly more aware of the complexities of children’s lives outside of school. “The connection between what we were learning in the modules and the day-to-day work was so strong; I felt drawn to working with families and to making a positive contribution to society.” One of the benefits of BGU’s collaborative partnership with Boston College is the opportunity it offers to people to study locally, said Dave. “At that time, as a full-time Dad in Boston, I just couldn’t have gone anywhere else. It gave me such an important step on the way.” At the end of his foundation degree in Boston Dave stepped up to the BA (Hons) degree in Applied Studies in Education at BGU in Lincoln. “I’ve loved the experience of being in a university,” he said. “The BGU campus is lovely, the library is amazing and the tutors are nice and helpful. I like the structure of the progression year - the way the modules had been planned allowed us to become more independent as the year passed.” As he neared the end of his degree Dave knew he wanted to continue studying, so he spoke to careers staff at BG Futures and undertook an in-depth psychometric test. He applied for the MSc in Social Work at the University of Lincoln and within a few weeks he had been offered a place. Dave recognises that he has come a long way since he started. “When I think now about the first presentation I had to do on my foundation degree, it was one of the scariest days of my life! But now, at the end of the honours degree, I feel much more confident in my ability, my knowledge and myself. Even though I’ve finished my degree, I’m still reading about the things I’ve studied – it’s definitely unleashed something within me that wants to go on learning.” BGU’s Foundation Degree in Applied Studies is a work-related programme that enables working practitioners (or experienced volunteers) to study alongside their work and family responsibilities. Students choose from three pathways: Learning Support, Early Childhood or Children & Youth Work, according to their work role. The course is validated by the university and delivered at three colleges in Lincolnshire – Boston College, New College Stamford and North Lindsey College in Scunthorpe – as well as at BGU in Lincoln. It usually runs over two years. -
Mother and Daughter Celebrate Graduation Success
A mother and daughter will graduate together next week after completing their respective courses at Bishop Grosseteste University. During the ceremonies in Lincoln Cathedral, Judith Coe (46) will receive a merit for her Foundation Degree in Applied Studies (Early Childhood) and Hannah Coe (23) will collect her Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Two years ago Judith, a qualified nursery nurse, was running a series of childcare groups in Spilsby, East Lincolnshire, when she decided she wanted to invest in her career and develop her professional skills. She has been studying for her foundation degree while continuing with her full-time job and raising a family. The course is a work-related programme that enables practitioners (or experienced volunteers) to study alongside their work and family responsibilities. Students choose from three pathways: Learning Support, Early Childhood or Children & Youth Work, according to their work role. “For two years I have managed to juggle family commitments, my job and my course,” said Judith. “And now coming out the other side with my foundation degree, I feel much more confident in myself and am looking forward to developing my career further.” Meanwhile Hannah, who has a passion for sport, is about to begin her first year as a qualified teacher following the completion of her PGCE in Primary Education. “I’m planning on spending my next year working as a supply teacher,” said Hannah. “I believe this route will help me put what I have learnt into practice and give me an opportunity to gain experience in a variety of settings. “I am so proud of Mum and all that she has achieved. How many people can say that they’re graduating at the same time as one of their parents?” -
Enjoy Bhajis and Bhangra Beats at BGU Bollywood Evening
Tickets are still available to join in the one-night-only Bollywood bash at Bishop Grosseteste University. This year’s Bollywood-themed evening will take place on Sunday 13th September 2015 to raise money for the Bishop Grosseteste University Foundation Fund. For just £25 guests will be treated to a screening of Bollywood movie Queen, followed by an authentic Indian meal in the Refectory. The evening will begin at The Venue at BGU from 5pm, with the bar open from 4pm. Queen is a 2014 comedy-drama directed by Vikas Bahl and produced by Anurang Kashyap. The film tells the story of a young Delhi girl who decides to travel alone on her planned honeymoon after her fiancé ends their relationship. Hannah Clipsham, Events Manager for BGU, said: “Bollywood is one of the largest centres of film production in the world, so this is a real treat for everyone, whether you are already an avid fan of Indian film and culture or not. “This will be our fourth annual Bollywood evening, which has always been very popular in the past. And as if there were another excuse needed to get involved, we will direct all proceeds from the evening to the BGU Foundation Fund. “This event is co-organised with the dedicated support and generosity of Jasmit Phull, a member of the Bishop Grosseteste University Council, who works hard to make it a success.” The BGU Foundation Fund exists to encourage and enable students and alumni to take part in voluntary or community engagement activities, both here in the UK and overseas. The initiative supports charitable projects that clearly demonstrate enrichment to the students, but cannot be otherwise resourced through the university’s main funds. It also helps staff to develop innovative activities which enhance the student experience and supports the Students’ Union clubs and societies. Over the last year grants have been provided to support many diverse activities, including a visit by one student to Japan to take part in the world Scout Jamboree. Another is travelling to Bangalore, India as part of a visual arts project. Although it is not compulsory, guests are welcome to fully embrace the evening of Bollywood glamour and arrive in traditional Indian or international dress. For tickets or more information please contact Jessica Lyons in the BG Venues Conference and Events Office 01522 583702 or email jessica.lyons@bishopg.ac.uk -
New Partnership Brings Imps and BGU Closer Together
Bishop Grosseteste University and Lincoln City FC have welcomed a deal which strengthens the partnership between the two organisations. Today BGU and Lincoln City announce a new three-year deal which will see BGU continue as the club’s main sponsor and home shirt sponsor. But the strategic partnership between the university and the football club goes much deeper than that: the two organisations will be working ever more closely together on student engagement, teaching and matchday activities. BGU has an outstanding reputation for teacher training and the Imps’ new management team of brothers Danny and Nicky Cowley were both PE teachers in Essex before joining Lincoln full-time this summer. The Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, Vice Chancellor of BGU, says the partnership will work on a number of levels. “Three years ago we were pleased to support the club and raise our profile by signing our first sponsorship agreement,” he said. “But now the relationship is more meaningful and, we hope, more beneficial to both sides. “We have already had discussions with Danny and Nicky about how our academic sport department can work together with the club. This year we will launch our new single honours BSc degree in Sport, Coaching and Physical Education and we are in the process of validating a new foundation degree in Football Coaching with Lincoln College. “Clearly there are synergies here that we can explore, and we are delighted that Lincoln City has appointed a dynamic and successful management team to move the team forward on the pitch.” BGU has already donated two laptops to Danny and Nicky to assist them in their day-to-day player performance analysis, and the university is looking forward to more student engagement from Lincoln City too. Lincoln City players will be contributing to sports courses at BGU from next semester and helping to coach the BGSU football team, while the BGU Lions cheerleading team will have an enhanced role at the club on matchdays. The increased engagement follows the first ever Cathedral Cup match between BGU and the University of Lincoln which was played at Sincil Bank, Lincoln City’s home ground, in February. Lincoln City manager Danny Cowley commented: “We are thoroughly looking forward to working in partnership with BGU going forward. Nicky and I both wholeheartedly believe in education. “BGU have fantastic facilities but more importantly young, intelligent and vibrant people whom we as a club must utilise either as supporters or working with the club. We can provide these young people with exposure to a professional football environment where they can practise and apply their knowledge and skills. “This can be a great opportunity for them to begin their career in a forward-thinking and people-centred environment. We as a club will certainly gain from their expertise. “All successful partnerships have an element of give and take. We really feel this is a relationship where both organisations can benefit from each other. Together we both will be stronger.” -
Roger Mosey to Step Down as Chair of BGU Council
The broadcaster and former BBC Editorial Director Roger Mosey is to step down from his role as Chair of Bishop Grosseteste University‘s Council this summer. Mr Mosey, who is also Master of Selwyn College, Cambridge, has come to the end of his three-year term and the university has begun the search for his successor. He will leave his post in July 2016. When he was appointed as Chair in June 2013 he was renewing old associations with the city of Lincoln: his BBC career began in 1980 when he joined BBC Radio Lincolnshire as a reporter. He went on to be Editor of the BBC’s flagship Radio 4 Today programme, Controller of BBC Radio 5 Live, Head of BBC Television News and the BBC’s Director of London 2012 responsible for the corporation’s coverage of the 2012 Games. “I have hugely enjoyed my time at BGU, and it has been a privilege to work with the university during a key period of its development,” said Mr Mosey. “We have successfully negotiated a number of major reviews, and the Vice Chancellor and his team have done a great job in laying the foundations for future success. I’m now going to focus more on my role in Cambridge, but I leave BGU with many fond memories.” The Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, Vice Chancellor of BGU, commented: “The University Council has benefited hugely from the leadership provided by Roger. He brought a wealth of experience and insight to the role which proved invaluable during the last three years, which have involved considerable change in the institution and in the sector. He leaves us in a very positive position.” Recently the university has passed a rigorous review of teaching and learning by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), received glowing reports from the British Psychological Society when it approved BGU’s psychology courses and received a positive report from Ofsted following an inspection of its teacher training provision. The recruitment process to fill the vacant position of Chair of the Council has now begun and BGU expects to announce its new Chair in the summer. -
City Universities to Clash in Historic Football Match
Lincoln’s two universities will do battle on the football pitch in a new challenge cup competition this month. The inaugural Cathedral Cup match between BGU and the University of Lincoln will take place on Wednesday 10th February under lights at Sincil Bank, home of Lincoln City FC. Organisers hope the game will become an annual fixture. “The footballing gap between the two universities has significantly reduced over recent years, and the University of Lincoln's first team were impressed by our standard this year, so we decided to stage the first competitive fixture between the two universities,” said Callum Ward, President of the BGU Football Society and a former youth team player at Lincoln City. “This game will hopefully develop into an annual fixture and be the students' sporting spectacle that the city craves so much! We aspire to get as many people in attendance as possible because it will be an unforgettable event for all involved,” Callum added. Dr Graham Basten, Head of the School of Social Sciences at BGU, commented: “We’re looking forward to the match next month, which will be a coming of age for our rapidly improving football team. “The fixture will also be an opportunity to showcase our partnership with Lincoln City, which goes far beyond shirt sponsorship and provides opportunities for engagement between the club and our students at many different levels. We work closely with Lincoln City on a number of initiatives, including Football in the Community work, placement opportunities for BGU students and partnerships between the football club and BGU's sports courses. We also work with the Lincoln City Sport and Education Trust to support its work with children and young people in the local area.” University of Lincoln’s Men’s Football President Will Fry added: “It’s taken a lot of hard work by me, Callum Ward and Lincoln City. We are looking forward to a huge event that will hopefully become an annual fixture and draw the students and the city closer together. “It’s huge for the football club to run what has the potential to be the biggest student event in the city.” The match will kick off at 7.45pm on Wednesday 10th February at Sincil Bank. Tickets cost £3 and are available at the Students’ Union at both universities. Bishop Grosseteste University Bishop Grosseteste University was established in January 1862 and celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2012 It is an independent higher education institution based in Lincoln which awards its own degrees at foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate level It changed its name from Bishop Grosseteste University College to Bishop Grosseteste University in November 2012 BGU has over 2,300 students, including undergraduate, postgraduate and research, with over 280 students at collaborative partners across Lincolnshire In 2015 BGU was the second highest ranked university in the UK for employability with almost 99% of our leavers in work or study six months after graduating (2013/14 DLHE) BGU is a main club sponsor and the home shirt sponsor of Lincoln City FC and has has its own sports and leisure facilities as well as a cinema (The Venue) on campus, all open to the public University of Lincoln The University of Lincoln was named among the UK's best modern universities in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2016. It has some of the most satisfied students in the UK, rating in the top 25% nationally in a number of subject areas of the National Student Survey 2015 with Psychology ranked number one It is recognised for its pioneering approach to working with employers, winning a Lord Stafford Award and a Times Higher Education Award. Graduate prospects are strong with nine out of ten of Lincoln’s most recent graduates in work or further study six months after finishing their course In the Research Excellence Framework 2014, more than half of our submitted research was judged to be internationally excellent or world leading, with Lincoln ranked in the UK’s top 10 for quality of research outputs in two major subject areas
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