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Research Boosted at BGU as Five Earn Promotions
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln has appointed a professor and four readers from among its academic staff in recognition of their research work. Dr Kate Adams in the University’s Research and Innovation Centre becomes a professor, while Dr Jack Cunningham and Dr Sibylle Erle in the School of Humanities and Dr Caroline Horton and Dr Emma Pearson in the School of Social Sciences become readers. Professor Adams is an education specialist and the University’s Head of Research. Her research focuses on aspects of childhood from children’s perspectives, particularly on spirituality, and the implications of children’s understandings for the wellbeing agenda in education. Dr Cunningham is Academic Co-ordinator for Theology and has researched extensively into early modern and late medieval religious history. He is also one of the principal investigators of the Ordered Human Project based at BGU and a specialist in the life and work of Robert Grosseteste. Dr Erle is a Senior Lecturer in English and her research interests range from William Blake and Alfred, Lord Tennyson to 1790s politics and landscape gardening. She has lectured and given seminars at Tate Britain and the Wellcome Institute and most recently lectured at the Universities of Greifswald and Zürich. Dr Horton is the Academic Co-ordinator for the PhD programme. She also teaches on psychology courses and runs DrEAMSLab, the university’s Dreaming, Emotions, Associations and Memories in Sleep Laboratory. She is an active researcher in the field of sleep-dependent memory consolidation, with a particular interest in studying dreaming as a reflection of autobiographical memory consolidation processes. Dr Pearson is a Senior Lecturer in Education and Academic Co-ordinator for the Education Doctorate programme, and her research activities are centred on the study of socio-cultural contexts of learning. Her consultancy work with organisations such as UNICEF, UNESCO and the Asia Pacific Regional Network for Early Childhood (ARNEC) has supported her research and involved travel to many countries, from North Korea to Vanuatu. “These appointments recognise the exceptional leadership and excellence in research which is being demonstrated by these members of staff,” said Professor David Rae, Executive Dean for Research and Knowledge exchange at BGU. “BGU has a long-term plan to develop research excellence, and recognising the talent and achievements of our top researchers is fundamental to this. The new professorship and four readerships aim to provide the research leadership for our entry into the next Research Excellence Framework in 2021 and beyond.” -
#12DaysofBGU Day 7: Top 3 in the UK
We announced this year that BGU is ranked third among UK universities for student employability, according to figures published in July. 97.2% per cent of students who leave BGU with an undergraduate degree find work or are continuing to study six months following graduation. Only two other universities – Keele and Harper Adams – have a higher employability figure than Bishop Grosseteste University. The figures relate to full-time first degree graduates leaving in 2014/15 and the national average for all UK universities is 93.9%. The statistics appear in the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey published by HESA, the Higher Education Statistics Agency. “Once again the DLHE survey highlights how well our graduates do when they enter the job market,” said the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, Vice Chancellor of Bishop Grosseteste University. “It’s very heartening to see BGU right near the top of the national ranking as it shows that we are doing everything we can to prepare for our students for the workplace when they leave us. “We work very hard to ensure that our degree courses are career-focused and most of them incorporate a professional work placement during the period of study. “One example is our new Business (Team Entrepreneurship) degree which requires students to set up their own business while studying with us.” The latest DLHE figures can be found by clicking here. Want to study at a top 3 university for student employability? Discover our range of courses. -
Royal Geographical Society Teaching Scholarships Open To New Applicants
Are you an aspiring geography teacher looking to bring your subject to life for the next generation of students? To help them to travel and learn about the world around them, all without leaving the classroom? If so, be sure to get your application in for the prestigious Royal Geographical Society Geography Teacher Training Scholarships. In addition to £28,000 tax-free funding the scholarships offer successful candidates: Free training events on key subjects and residential fieldwork Access to the Royal Geographical Society Library and teaching resources Networking opportunities and other support to complement your teacher training course Fellowship of the Royal Geographical Society. Two current Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) PGCE students, Harriet Lee and Joel Stockton, were successfully awarded scholarships last year and said they would recommend them to anyone considering applying: “The application and interview process is intense, but the training and resources available to you once you pass make it completely worthwhile”. To be eligible you must have secured an ITT training place allocated by the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL), which leads to qualified teacher status (QTS) by September 2019 and they must have a 2:1 (or predicted) degree. Candidates with a 2:2 (or predicted) may be considered if they can demonstrate significant subject knowledge. If you are still considering your PGCE options, look no further than BGU. With over 150 years of teaching training experience and high quality courses, there are few institutions better suited to prepare you for a career in teaching. You can find out more about our PGCE courses here. Once you have your PGCE place confirmed you can submit your scholarship application through the Royal Geographical Society. The deadline for completed applications is 1 July 2018. For any questions on the scholarships or our PGCE courses contact Steve Puttick (Head of Programmes: Secondary, FE, and Research Education at BGU). -
WATCH: BGU lecturers' TEDx talks
Lecturers from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln spoke at a new TEDx event in October. Lincoln hosted its first ever TEDx event, TEDx Brayford Pool, on 28 October 2017. The theme of TEDx Brayford Pool was 'Past. Present. Future' and the event highlighted the best and most current ideas generated in Lincoln and Lincolnshire. Lyndsay Muir, Senior Lecturer in Drama Education at BGU, discussed self-identified trans people creatively orchestrating conversations with the wider population. Dr Jack Cunningham, BGU’s programme leader for Theology and Reader in Ecclesiastical History, presented a keynote talk about Robert Grosseteste. Dr Elinor Vettraino, programme leader for Business and Enterprise at BGU, explored self directed learning in a university setting. Andrew Whitehall, who delivers short courses at BGU, explored what neurodiversity can teach us about the way we learn. Lizzie Jordan, founder of BG Futures-based social enterprise Think2Speak, delivered her talk 'Let's Talk About Sex, Baby'. Lewis Smith, BGU graduate in Education Studies with Special Educational Needs & Inclusion, reflected on whether it's schooling or education that makes you who you are. Click here to read more about the event. -
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. -
Bishop Grosseteste University Celebrates New Apprentices
Earlier this year Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) launched their first cohort of apprentices on Higher Management and Higher Business courses. As part of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) BGU took the opportunity to celebrate their new apprentices as they looked back on the first month of their programme. Joining the apprentices to discuss their exciting new projects were BGU Vice Chancellor Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, Ben Kinross from the National Society of Apprentices as well as representatives from Lincoln Council. Speaking at the event Peter Neil said he was excited to see apprenticeships gaining a greater reputation: “It is fantastic that apprenticeships are now being recognised for their importance and relevance to professional progression. Continued personal and professional development is highly valued at BGU and I’m delighted to see my colleagues embracing this opportunity”. The new cohort of apprentices are all undertaking Higher Apprenticeships in either Management or Business with Professional Administration. As current BGU staff they are building the placements around their existing roles but Jayne Ellis, on the Business with Professional Administration Course, was keen that the idea of balancing the two responsibilities shouldn’t deter prospective apprentices: “This has been a great opportunity so I would encourage anyone else who is thinking about undertaking an apprenticeship at BGU to go for it as the support so far has been very good” BGU plan to run a full suite of different apprenticeships in the coming months, all designed to upskill people within the Lincolnshire area aiding them in their professional development and have begun linking up with local employers to offer a range of exciting opportunities. Apprenticeships offer a range of exciting benefits to potential participants including: No course fees A salary allowing you to earn while you learn An industry recognised qualification, along with valuable experience If you are interested in becoming an apprentice, either as the first step in a new career or to further your development in your current one, you can contact the Enquiries Team at BGU to discuss how an apprenticeship can change your life. Alternatively, if you are an employer keen to offer your team the chance to upskill, contact Emily Hughes, Partnership Developments Manager at BGU. -
BGU Students Recognised at BG Futures Employability Awards
Hardworking students were celebrated at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) on Thursday at the annual BG Futures Employability Awards. Designed to encourage students to branch out and widen their skill sets and experiences ahead of joining the work force; the Employability Award is given to those involved in extra-curricular activities while undertaking courses at BGU. Students can accrue points that decide their award level based on: Volunteering activities Attending business networking events Taking part in Employability workshops Creating a piece of written work reflecting on techniques to improve employability 12 students received the award this year; Emma Stanbridge, a final year English Literature student who passed with distinction, explained why she felt working towards the award was so important: “I felt it was really important to engage with every opportunity BGU had to offer. Working towards the Employability Award has not only helped me to articulate my employability skills, it has also given me a chance to apply them in professional contexts which is incredibly beneficial as I head to the end of my degree” Presenting the awards, Dr Rob Boast, Executive Dean Learning, Teaching & Student Engagement (blog.bishopg.ac.uk/blog/new-executive-dean), was keen to impress both his own and the University’s understanding of the hard work carried out by the students: “This award recognises a level of dedication and commitment above and beyond what is expected at degree level. It is an honour to be part of this event celebrating an inspirational group of students”. For more information on the exciting range of opportunities on offer at BGU, visit our website or contact our Enquiries Team. Bishop Grosseteste University is committed to supporting business and enterprise both within the institution and in the wider community. The BG Futures building is a 15 unit business and enterprise hub with 3 state-of-the-art conference rooms created to house emerging and start-up businesses. If being your own boss and owner of a company is something that you are seriously interested in or are looking for facilities for your existing enterprise, the Business Development Office is available to provide support. -
Update from the Office for Students on Student Finance Eligibility
At Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) we strive to always be at the forefront of development and innovation within the Higher Education community, be that leading the way on widening participation or by ensuring our courses continue to surpass the highest industry standards. As such we would like to make our students aware of updates to the eligibility criteria for funding from Student Finance England announced by the Office for Students (OfS). For students to be eligible for funding from Student Finance England, they must be studying on an eligible course at a provider registered with the OfS. The OfS is the new independent regulator for higher education in England and all higher education providers need to register with the OfS for their students to be eligible for student support in the 2019-20 academic year. The OfS will start publishing approved providers on its register from July 2018. No provider will be able to confirm whether student support is available until it has a decision from the OfS. We have already submitted our application to register and expect a decision by September 2018 and we will keep all our current and prospective students fully informed on the process. Visit www.officeforstudents.org.uk for more information. -
BGU Academics return to Thailand
Academics from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) returned to Thailand earlier this year to continue their overseas consultancy with the Thai government on improving teacher development. Professor Chris Atkin and Dr Nick Gee, Head of School of Teacher Development, participated in a workshop hosted by the British Embassy in Bangkok to build on recommendations for initial teacher training first presented to Thai government in August 2016. Other participants included representatives from the University of Ulster, the University of Leicester and the University of Aberdeen. Supported by the Thai Minister for Education (who championed BGU’s original recommendations) and the UK Foreign Office the event covered a number of training ideas to aid teachers in understanding the impact of their work on students and communities. It also marked the launch of a new competency framework for teachers in South East Asia. In addition to launching the framework the workshop offered an updated review of initial teacher training in Thailand and looked to encourage further opportunities for collaboration between BGU and the Thai Education Sector. The event in Bangkok was incredibly well received and as a result BGU have been asked by two Rajabhat universities to send out representatives to provide teacher training courses. Having led the original review in 2016 Professor Atkin was delighted to see the project have such a positive impact: “The success of the initial review has placed BGU at the heart of educational policy reform in Thailand. It is a distinct honour to have our experience and expertise as providers of teacher training so emphatically recognised by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and Thai government. “It is a responsibility we do not take lightly. At the heart of successful education are highly trained teachers. We look forward to continuing our part in supporting trainee and experience teachers across Thailand.” Supporting educational reform in Thailand is just one part of BGU’s activities in South East Asia. Following the initial review in 2016 BGU Vice Chancellor, Revd. Canon Professor Peter Neil, visited Thailand last December. During the visit he exchanged a memorandum of understanding with Phranakhon Rajabhat University in Bangkok and met with members of the Teachers’ Council of Thailand as well as colleagues from the country’s 38 Rajabhat universities. You can keep up to date with all of BGU’s projects in Thailand and across the world on our news page. Find out more about Teacher Training at BGU. -
BGU Sports Students Run Tag Rugby ‘Megafest’ Alongside the RFU
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) students worked alongside the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and a number of Lincolnshire schools to put on a Tag Rugby ‘Megafest’ for 200 primary school pupils from across the county. Run by BGU Sport, Coaching & Physical Education students with organisational support from Jenny Elsom (Priory City of Lincoln Academy & BGU graduate) and Michelle Mamby (Pembroke Priory - School Games Organiser with the Youth Sport Trust) the all-day event offered skills workshops in the morning followed by competitive games in the afternoon. Both sessions were designed to not only get children active and engaged in sport, but also to build wider skills in including team work and communication. Seb Adams, a 2nd year Sport, Coaching & Physical Education student currently on a Sport Promotion & Leadership placement with the RFU, explained why offering such events for children was an important aspect of their course: “Children can lose opportunities to experience new sports as they reach secondary school. To be able to offer them a chance to take part and have fun with rugby surrounded by expert coaches is fantastic for both their mental and physical development.” BGU works alongside a number of sporting organisations as a part of the Sport, Coaching and Physical Education course including the RFU who are directly involved in the practical delivery of the rugby coaching modules. David Cotton-Betteridge, Community Rugby Coach for England Rugby, has been working with the BGU sports students as part of the Young Ambassador Programme which targets potential coaches. He was pleased to see the students bringing the sport to a new generation of players: “It’s been great to work on this event with the student coaches here at BGU. The Megafest is a fantastic opportunity for children to experience and most importantly enjoy rugby, the day was a great success and we’re already looking forward to next year”. If you are interested in pursuing a future in sports education and coaching you can find more information about Sport courses at BGU on our website or by contacting our Enquiries Team.
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