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#12DaysofBGU Day 6: Matriculation
Students were formally welcomed to Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln at a Matriculation Ceremony in October at Lincoln Cathedral. The welcoming ceremony was established two years ago and has now become an annual event. The ceremony gives both undergraduate and postgraduate students the chance to meet University staff and each other. All newly enrolled students were invited. The University’s Vice Chancellor, the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, explained: “Matriculation is the term used to describe students’ formal entry into the university. We hope this ceremony serves as a friendly welcome to all those who are starting their studies and that students feel they are becoming a part of the wider university family.” The ceremony was held in Lincoln Cathedral on Monday 9 October at 3.30pm. For most students this will also be the place of their graduation, thanks to the University’s links with the Diocese of Lincoln. An academic procession took place, including members of BGU’s academic staff, University Council and officers of the University making a grand entrance. Distinguished county and civic guests were also invited to attend. The Precentor of Lincoln welcomed students to the cathedral before the Registrar endorsed the pre-signed Matricula roll. Students were then invited by the Vice Chancellor to ‘share the hand of friendship’ and shake hands with each other to admit them all formally as members of the University. See the full album of photos from Matriculation 2017 here. -
Day20520-20FA20Cup-1#12DaysofBGU Day 5: Memorable Year for Lincoln City and BGU
Bishop Grosseteste University’s (BGU) sponsorship of Lincoln City Football Club has proven beneficial to both the University and the club this year. The FA Cup trophy paid a very special visit to BGU in March ahead of Lincoln City's historic quarter-final against Arsenal. BGU staff and students queued up to get a glimpse of the famous trophy and pose for a photo. It was a surreal and memorable day for all involved! The famous trophy visited BGU as part of our ongoing sponsorship of Lincoln City Football Club. The partnership has gone from strength to strength throughout a memorable 2017. Managed by Danny and his assistant, brother Nicky Cowley, the Imps beat Ipswich, Brighton and Burnley on their way to becoming the first non-league team in 103 years to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals. There they faced Premier League giants Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium where, after a spirited first half display from City, they eventually succumbed to a 5-0 defeat. Lincoln City capped off their historic 2016/17 season by winning the National League and gaining promotion to League 2, ending a run of six years out of the Football League. Throughout the Imps’ fantastic season there was a familiar splash of purple among the famous red and white stripes as the BGU logo sits proudly on the home shirt. The BGU logo was never more visible than during the FA Cup third round replay against Ipswich. Purple advertising boards behind the two managers were noticeable during the BBC1 television coverage and Nathan Arnold even had the decency to score the winning goal while our message was displaying on the digital advertising boards around the pitch! The partnership between BGU and Lincoln City, however, is about much more than advertising, and it is something that means a lot to Danny Cowley. He said, “we are really thankful for the partnership, the University was so close that we wanted to create a true partnership. “The partnership was already formed (when we arrived at the club) so we built on that, there’s some great people coming out of the University, some young hardworking people who we can build relationships with that can help this club moving forward.” One brilliant example of the partnership in action came in December 2016, when BGU sports students had the unique opportunity to be coached by the City manager with a session led and delivered by Danny Cowley. Chelsey Grayson, a first year student, thought that “the session gave us really good insight into the daily life of a coach and also all the planning and commitment that goes into it. It was good to see a coach in action and it will help a lot with my studies and assignments.” Outside the classroom our cheerleading squad, the BGU Lions have also had fantastic opportunities thanks to the partnership with Lincoln City. They have performed in front of crowds of around 10,000 fans at Sincil Bank, not to mention live on BBC1 in the third round of the FA Cup. Louiscia Mcleod, President of the BGU Cheerleading Society, explained that performing at Sincil Bank has been “an incredible experience. The fans are so lively and supportive. The atmosphere really just makes the whole night!” Have you been inspired by Lincoln City? Find out more about studying Sport at BGU. -
BGU Vice Chancellor's Thailand visit continues
The Vice Chancellor of Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln met with members of the Teachers’ Council of Thailand and the Association of Rajabhat Universities today. As part of his week-long visit to Thailand, BGU’s Vice Chancellor, the Revd. Canon Professor Peter Neil, met the Deputy Secretary-General and representatives from the Teachers' Council of Thailand and the newly elected President and representatives of the Association of Rajabhat Universities. During the meeting, Professor Neil emphasised the importance of international dialogue in developing initial and continuing teacher development. Similar to BGU, Thailand's 38 Rajabhat universities have their origins in teacher education. Representatives from the British Embassy's Trade and Industry delegation accompanied the Vice Chancellor during the meeting. Through the UK government's Prosperity Fund there will also be a workshop on teacher education reforms in the New Year at which BGU staff will play a key role. Earlier in the week Professor Neil signed a memorandum of understanding with Phranakhon Rajabhat University in Bangkok. Speaking about the signing 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." -
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. -
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.” -
Winter Comes to BGU as Celebration of Women’s Voting Rights Continues with a Week of Unique Events
Throughout the 2017/18 academic year students and staff at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) have been hosting events as part of Vote100, celebrating 100 years of women’s voting rights. With Tuesday 6 February marking the centenary of the Representation of the People Act (the first step towards all women getting the right to vote) BGU’s activities step up a gear with three special events to honour the occasion. Delving deep into history The week begins on Monday 5 February with an open lecture helmed by the renowned British historian Martin Pugh. Titled ‘Parliamentary Reform in 1918: Continuity, Reform or Revolution?’ Martin will be a exploring a number of important and relevant questions surrounding the Representation of the People Act 1918 and its impact on British history. What effect did the war have on the campaign for the vote? Why was the Act so comprehensive? What was the significance of the terms of the Act for women? We’ll be examining all these questions and more. Winging our way to Westeros On Friday 9 February our amazing Student Union team have put together two events for an evening of ‘Women Leading Change’. Transporting the BGU campus to the land of Westeros; the evening will include a debate on ‘Who Should Sit on the Iron Throne’. Participants will be able join a house, declare for their female leader, and argue her case with other Game of Thrones fans (cosplay not essential but always welcome). Alongside this there will be another debate, but this time focused on the recent US election. Delving into the complicated world of American politics the speakers will be discussing whether, if she were a man, Hilary Clinton would have defeated Donald Trump. Joining BGU amongst the dragons and political intrigue will be guest speakers Lincoln MP Karen Lee, former BGSU President Becca Smith and BGSU Manager Abigail Rogers. Both events promise a fiery atmosphere and are not to be missed. Be a part of Vote100 All the Vote100 events throughout the week, and indeed the rest of 2018, are open to the public and will offer the opportunity to gain a fascinating insight into the history of women’s suffrage and learn how the movement affected and changed BGU. You can read more about the events we have already hosted, as well as what is still to come, on our website. -
BGU welcomes Professor Scott Fleming as its new Executive Dean
Professor Scott Fleming will join the senior management team at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) from Cardiff Metropolitan University, where he is currently Director of Research and Graduate Studies. Scott takes up his new role as Executive Dean Research, Knowledge Exchange and External Engagement from 1 April 2018. He will immediately be focussing on growing BGU’s research capability and capacity, and steering the development of BGU’s Lincolnshire Open Research and Innovation Centre (LORIC) Professor Fleming is a highly experienced academic who is recognised for his development and leadership of research governance and knowledge exchange at Cardiff Met over a number of years. His personal research interest is primarily in the sociology of sport and leisure, and in addition to his own track record of publication, he brings a wealth of experience in cross-University researcher training, staff development and support for Graduate Studies. Professor Jayne Mitchell, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln, said: “We are delighted to welcome Scott 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 research, knowledge exchange and external engagement at BGU.” Professor Fleming said: “I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to take forward BGU’s ambitious plans for development of this portfolio. I’m looking forward to the challenge and can’t wait to get started.” -
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. -
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. -
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.
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