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MA student receives inaugural Prue Goodwin Award
The inaugural Prue Goodwin award has been presented to MA student Alisha Gibbs for an outstanding result for her final dissertation. Alisha has been studying the Children’s Literature and Literacies MA on a full time basis, and handed in her dissertation this year. Titled: "An exploration of children's reading choices: Considerations that impact on what children choose to read and why", the thesis pulls together a range of key topics and issues in children’s literature including: commercialism, adaptation and materiality to explore the reasons why children choose certain books. Alisha said: "I learnt so much during my process, especially the most effective ways of writing a Master's dissertation. At times it felt like the work would never end, especially when I was juggling a job at the same time, but it's been an exciting journey. During the process of creating her final project, Alisha found a method that proved most productive for her. She said: "I have a fairly long commute, and I would spend the time in the car thinking of ideas. I'd have to phone someone else to write them down because I was driving. "When it came time to really focus and turn my studying into a piece of writing, I took the advice of my dissertation supervisor, Dr Amy Webster, and planned a 'writing retreat' which was a great way to stay productive. "I found out I'd won the award while I was at my teaching job. It was a lovely moment to share the news with my students and celebrate their own contribution to the award. They wanted to do it all over again!" Her award was presented at an end of year celebration for BGU's Primary Education students. Alisha had studied a BA in Primary Education with QTS before starting her Master's, so the presentation demonstrated to the third years the benefits of postgraduate study. At the event, Alisha said: "I really didn't expect to win but it's amazing to have my hard work recognised like this. I'll definitely be celebrating tonight!" Dr Prue Goodwin, who received an honorary doctorate from BGU in 2021, has been an inspiration to many colleagues and their teaching. Prue Goodwin trained as a teacher at BGU (1965-1965) and is now a world authority on Primary Education. She is a longstanding member of the UK Literacy Association (UKLA) and a prolific writer, having written and edited more than 18 books and guides. In reflection of Prue’s contribution to the fields of literacy and children’s literature as well her support of related studies at BGU, the Prue Goodwin Award is given annually to the student who achieves the highest mark in the dissertation module on the MA Children’s Literature and Literacies. Alisha's dissertation is also set to be shared with Prue, who is keen to read the work of the award's first recipient.Senior Lecturer in Education Studies and Alisha's dissertation supervisor Dr Amy Webster said: "We are really proud to present this award to Alisha. As the recipient of this award, she will receive the offer to collaborate with a member of staff from the programme to develop an academic article based on their thesis to support her development as a scholar and practitioner of children’s literature and literacies. "Alisha’s thesis was an empirical research project that creatively drew together a range of key topics and issues in children’s literature including commercialism, adaptation and materiality to provide insight into the reasons for children’s reading choices." Learn more about our MA Children’s Literature and Literacies. Alisha receiving her award from Dr Amy Webster at the celebration event -
Lecturer's first book explores the connections between music and language learning
BGU Lecturer Tracy Jeffery has published her first book - Developing Early Verbal Skills Through Music: Using rhythm, movement and song with children and young people with additional or complex needs. Tracy began working on the book three years ago, after she gave a presentation at the Down Syndrome Research forum about music and language. According to Tracy, the talk sparked a lot of interest from parents, and she was keen to share everything she had learned from working in schools and colleges as well as her PhD and later research. 'Developing Early Verbal Skills Through Music' explains the connections between music and language learning, especially in the very early stages (up to about 3-4 years). In the book, Tracy explains the science behind this, the evidence that shows how and why music-making can support speech skills; and why these same skills can develop differently in children and adults with learning or developmental differences and disabilities, including autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, hypermobility disorders. The book offers guidance about how to support learners with different diagnoses of SEND to develop musical skills in listening, rhythm, and singing so that practitioners can make adaptations. Dr Tracy Jeffery teaches on the BA in Special Educational Needs, Disability and Inclusion (SENDI) programme, MA in SEND and leads the Distance Learning Top Up in SEND. She joined Bishop Grosseteste University as a Visiting Tutor in 2010, teaching on Education Studies, SENI and Psychology programmes, and joined as a full time lecturer in 2016. Tracy said: "I am delighted to have published my first book through Jessica Kingsley Publishers, who are well known for providing affordable and accessible books, especially in arts, therapies and SEND. "I wrote it for parents, firstly - I really wanted to share with them the amazing benefits that making music with children and adults can have for listening, attention, wellbeing, and most of all, for speech perception, speech production and voice. "There is so much research that shows how music-making can support skills as diverse as reading, second language learning, and speech fluency; but there are certain conditions that need to be in place when learning. "I have explained why some children and learners can have difficulty with speech and language, as well as music; and explained some of the ways parents, teachers, and practitioners can support children when making music so that they are also using the language-based skills." You can order from most bookstores, including e-books from Amazon; or can buy direct from Jessica Kingsley Publishers and get a 20% discount using the code JEFFERY20. Dr Tracy Jeffery with her new book -
Bishop Grosseteste University Appoints Interim Vice-Chancellor
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) has announced the appointment of Professor Karen Stanton as the Interim Vice-Chancellor, effective from August 1st, 2023. According to the University, Professor Stanton is an accomplished Vice-Chancellor with a comprehensive background of leading transformational change within Higher Education, having previously served as Vice-Chancellor of Solent University and Vice-Chancellor at York St John University. Her professional journey also includes the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Glasgow Caledonian University, as well as significant positions at King's College London, the universities of Nottingham, Birmingham, and Sheffield Hallam. Professor Stanton said: “I am delighted to be joining the University. BGU is a remarkable institution with a rich heritage of educational excellence and inclusion. “I look forward to working together with its dedicated staff, students and the Council to lead BGU through the next phase of its proud history." A core focus for Professor Stanton throughout her career has been widening access to education and the social purpose and impact of universities. Her one-year appointment as Interim Vice-Chancellor is expected to provide a solid foundation for BGU's future development and growthProfessor Karen Stanton . -
Honorary Award recipients announced
Each year, Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) has the opportunity to award Honorary Doctorates and Honorary Fellowships at its graduation ceremonies. BGU staff and students, retired staff and alumni and current or former University Council members were invited to nominate candidates for honorary awards. Honorary Fellowship is awarded in recognition of outstanding contributions to the University; whilst Honorary Doctorate is awarded to those who have made outstanding contributions to academic achievement, social, economic or cultural life. We're pleased to announce this year's award recipients, who will be honoured at graduation celebrations in July 2023. Bishop Grosseteste University Vice-Chancellor Rev Canon Professor Peter Neil said: “We are proud to be awarding this year’s honorary recipients for their expertise and service in their respective roles. I am delighted to welcome them to our wider BGU community. “Each one of them is inspirational in their own right and all serve as excellent role models for our students in how to make a positive impact on society.” -
Local schools attend BGU charity sports day
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) recently hosted the first free BGU Sports Day Project in June. Welcoming more than 250 children from a local school to the university's sports grounds, the event offered a day filled with excitement and sporting activities. Around 250 Year 5 and 6 students from Westgate Primary Academy were welcomed onto BGU's campus. The session provided a free and exciting opportunity for local children to get active, enjoy sports, and take part in some healthy competition. The event featured a variety of sports activities including javelin, long jump, hurdles, and relay races. The volunteers who contributed to the BGU Sports Day Project included Initial Teacher Education (ITE) trainees, staff volunteers, ITE academics, and representatives BG Futures and the sports centre. By opening its doors to children from neighbouring schools, BGU demonstrated its commitment to promoting physical well-being and active lifestyles among the younger generation. The BGU Sports Day Project was created by Samuel Willis-Dixon, a Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship student at BGU. Sam said: "Having worked as a primary teacher previously, I recognised the limited space available in city schools, particularly for physical education. "As part of my apprenticeship, I had to co-ordinate a work-based project. Creating the BGU Sports Day was not only a chance to be part of an exciting new initiative, but it was also an opportunity to give back to the community and showcase our excellent sport facilities. "It's taken the collaborative efforts of lots of individuals, teams, and departments to make this happen, but seeing how much fun the children had makes it all worth it!" Samuel Willis-Dixon at the Sports Day event -
BGU announces honorary award recipients for 2023
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) has announced the recipients of its Honorary Awards, which will be presented at upcoming graduation ceremonies in late July 2023. Five awardees are set to receive Honorary Doctorates for their outstanding contributions to academic achievement, social, economic or cultural life. Two Distinguished Honorary Fellowships will be awarded to individuals for exceptional contributions to the University and public life locally or regionally. Among the Honorary Doctorate awardees are husband and wife, Claire and James Birch, whose fundraising efforts have supported several local projects, including the reinvigoration of Doddington Hall. Charles Cormack, another recipient of an Honorary Doctorate, is recognised as a leader in international higher education. As the founder of the Ukraine Twinning initiative, his work paired UK and other international universities with Ukrainian universities to provide support and resources. Dame Judith Mayhew-Jonas DBE will also receive an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of her exceptional contributions over the course of her career, including as Dame Commander of the British Empire, Chairman of the Royal Opera House, Commissioner of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and Chancellor of BGU. Another recipient of the Honorary Doctorate is best-selling female historian Alison Weir acclaimed for her extensive body of work, including 21 history books and 14 historical novels, which have collectively sold three million copies worldwide. Receiving a Distinguished Honorary Fellowship is Hannah Spencer, Managing Director of LAGAT College and Trustee and Vice Chair of the Lincolnshire Employment Accommodation Project (LEAP), which aims to tackle the issue of homelessness. Her work has so far helped over 1,500 individuals and families find stable housing and employment. John O'Donoghue, a member of Lincoln BIG, will also receive a Distinguished Honorary Fellowship. His dedication to providing career opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students in Lincoln through his businesses has made a significant impact in the local area. He also acts as an external trustee for Bishop Grosseteste Students’ Union. Bishop Grosseteste University Vice-Chancellor, The Rev’d Canon Professor Peter Neil said: “We are proud to be awarding this year’s honorary recipients for their expertise and service in their respective roles. I am delighted to welcome them to our wider BGU community. “Each one of them is inspirational in their own right and all serve as excellent role models for our students in how to make a positive impact on society.” The awards will be presented during graduation celebrations at Lincoln’s Cathedral. Awardees were nominated by students, retired staff, alumni, and current or former University Council members. More information about each recipient can be found here. -
BGU celebrates graduates at Lincoln Cathedral
Students, friends, family, and faculty gathered in Lincoln Cathedral to witness the graduation ceremonies of 667 students from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU). Celebrations took place on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th July over four ceremonies. Graduates from different levels of academic disciplines including undergraduate, master's, postgraduate, and PhD programmes donned their robes to cross the stage at Lincoln Cathedral. The University also presented Honorary Awards to individuals recognised for their exceptional contributions to academia and society. Among the Honorary Doctorate awardees were the owners of Doddington Hall, husband and wife Claire and James Birch; best-selling historian Alison Weir; philanthropist and leader in higher education Charles Cormack; and BGU’s previous Chancellor Dame Judith Mayhew-Jonas DBE. Receiving a Distinguished Honorary Fellowship was Managing Director of LAGAT College and Trustee and Vice Chair of LEAP Hannah Spencer; and Lincoln BIG member John O’Donoghue. The event marked the last graduation presided over by The Rev’d Canon Professor Peter Neil, following his retirement announcement in March. Professor Neil said: “Graduation is the high point for all our final year students, and we are so fortunate in Lincoln for that celebration to take place in one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. “This is a truly special occasion and I know that our students and their friends and families will have had a memorable day in the city.” -
Bishop Grosseteste University celebrates first apprenticeship graduates
Lincoln Cathedral has hosted the formal graduation of Bishop Grosseteste University's (BGU) first cohort of apprentices. 14 students completed the three-year Senior Leader Master’s Degree Apprenticeship (SLMDA), which includes a Masters' qualification, equipping them with strategic leadership skills to use in their respective organisations. According to the University, the programme aims to bridge the skills gap in Lincolnshire, enhance staff retention, and improve productivity and profitability for local businesses. The SLMDA attracted students from diverse industries, from commercial signage to geoscience consultancy and the NHS. Graduates of the SLMDA can apply for professional recognition with Chartered Manager or Chartered Fellow Member grade. Among the graduates are three of BGU’s own members of staff. Faculty Business Manager Nicola Thompson, Placement Services Manager Vicki Walker, and Reprographics Manager Alan Stacey all attended the celebrations to receive their certificates. Nicola said: “The apprenticeship has been an empowering experience, giving me the opportunity to develop my skills and grow as a senior leader alongside an amazing cohort of people. “It's been hard work to get here, but it's all been worth it, as graduating fills me with excitement and confidence to move forward in my career at BGU and beyond.” Alongside their work in various industries, the in-person teaching and learning sessions offered networking opportunities and facilitated knowledge exchange across businesses. After witnessing the value of apprenticeships in the workplace, one graduate was inspired to hire additional apprentices at his own organisation. BGU’s Programme Leader for Business & Enterprise Becky Goodman said: “I was extremely proud to witness our first cohort of degree apprentices graduate at this years’ ceremony. This is the culmination of several years’ work, and is a testament to our apprentices, BGU delivery teams, professional support teams, and to the apprentices’ supportive employers and mentors. “I am passionate about helping individuals benefit from work-based learning to progress in their careers and am delighted that we have been able to develop such a fantastic offer at BGU that benefits individuals, organisations and the wider economy.” Bishop Grosseteste University offers three apprenticeship programmes: Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, Careers Development Professional Apprenticeship, and the Senior Leader Apprenticeship. With a current enrolment of 64 active students, the Senior Leader Apprenticeship is attracting growing interest. By providing career-focused education, the university says it strives to empower professionals and strengthen Lincolnshire's workforce. -
Local mother of four graduates university with First Class Honours
A local mother of four has graduated at Lincoln Cathedral with a First Class Honours Degree in Health and Social Care. After enrolling at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in 2018, Katie Downes started her educational journey as a mature student with a passion for making a positive difference in the field of health and social care. Despite facing disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, her own health issues, and the additional responsibilities of homeschooling her children, Katie completed her degree in five years instead of the usual three. During her studies, Katie gained practical experience through a placement at Carers First in April 2022. This opportunity led to a part-time role with the organisation, which she managed alongside her studies and family commitments. She has since transitioned into a permanent position as a Carer Support Adviser, providing support to unpaid carers. In her final year, Katie collaborated with Night Light Cafés (Acts Trust) and facilitated a meeting between the charity and BGU. As a result, BGU will be introducing a Night Light Café in the Students' Union building later this year. This initiative aims to provide out-of-hours emotional support, with trained volunteers offering a safe space and one-to-one conversations to anyone who might need it. Katie said: "Graduating with first class honours is a dream come true. I faced many challenges and moments of doubt, but I persevered. “I hope my story can inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter the circumstances. Personal growth can be achieved at any stage of life." BGU’s Programme Lead in Health and Social Care Nicki Walsh said: “Life presents us with many challenges at home, at work and in our studies. But despite the challenges Katie faced, she graduated with first class honours - a testament to her hard work. “Katie’s intention to use her knowledge and skills to support those that most need it is inspiring.” Looking ahead, Katie plans to further develop her counselling skills. She hopes to qualify as an Occupational Therapist and is keen to explore Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). BGU’s graduation celebrations took place at Lincoln Cathedral on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th July and saw 667 students graduate over multiple ceremonies. -
English Literature and TESOL with Foundation Year
The BA (Hons) in English Literature and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) with Foundation Year is the perfect programme if you are fascinated by language and literature and wish to work in the numerous fields that these subjects can inspire, from education to marketing, advertising, librarianship, and more.
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