Following the University's announcement of a proposed name change, a number of questions relating to the news were submitted by members of our alumni.
We are happy to answer these questions below.
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Our decision to propose a name change has been a carefully considered process, aimed at better representing our institution's location and identity within the community.
Throughout our history, our University has undergone multiple name changes. When the institution was first founded in 1862, it was originally named Lincoln Diocesan Training School for Mistresses, which was later changed to Lincoln Diocesan Training College. It wasn't until 100 years after its inception that the institution first used the Bishop's name. It was renamed Bishop Grosseteste College in 1962. The institution's name underwent two more changes in recent history in 2006 and 2012.
For the first 100 years, the word 'Lincoln' stood at the forefront of our name and we're now proposing we re-establish this part of our history. We believe that incorporating ‘Lincoln’ into our name will not only help raise awareness of our institution beyond Lincolnshire but also celebrate the city we call home. The name ‘Grosseteste’ has historically presented challenges, in being difficult to spell, pronounce, and understand for many.
Despite our established reputation in Lincolnshire and specifically in the teaching sector, we have faced the challenge of making our presence known on a wider scale across the country. We know that for location is a critical factor in prospective students’ decision making. Without ‘Lincoln’ in our title, we miss an opportunity for more students to be aware of us and join our University. Our aim is to attract a diverse range of students while remaining firmly rooted in our local community.
The consultation process involved us collecting and understanding the perspectives of various stakeholders including our staff, students, alumni, University Council, local schools and colleges, and members of our community including representatives from the Diocese. These conversations have been instrumental in shaping our decision and ensuring that it reflects the best interests of our community.
This was actioned using a number of methods, including surveys sent to all our current students, all members of staff, and a mailing list of over 400 members of our alumni. The estimated number of individuals invited to take part totals over 3000.
The surveys included a shortlist of possible new names for the University, and participants were asked to rank their preference of these names. One of the options on the shortlist was retaining the University’s current name. Workshops were also held with current staff members, alumni, and representatives from local schools and colleges to gain more qualitative insights.
A proposed name change was just one of the options considered when reviewing the institution’s operations, organisational structure, brand identity, and social purpose. The decision was made as a result of extensive consultation with various stakeholders.
No, we are not planning to merge our University with any other institution. Conversations were had with the University of Lincoln and Lincoln College to provide some context around the decision and maintain our close working relationship with the institutions. The conversations were productive and positive, and we are assured that both institutions are keen to work in collaboration to continue to enhance the provision of Higher Education in Lincoln.
We’re proud of our long history and heritage, which is one of the reasons we’ve retained the word ‘Bishop’ in our proposed new name, honouring our longstanding ties to our Anglican Christian heritage. Moving forward, we will continue to deliver against the strong values that the University has always operated with. Furthermore, the brand consultation has provided us the opportunity to refine and strengthen these values that our University is fondly known for. Further statements on the University’s purpose, mission and values can be found here.
Please understand that this information is of commercial sensitivity, and as such, we are unable to share specific details. However, please be assured that we have approached this process in accordance with our obligations under the Office for Students, ensuring our financial decisions are responsible, made with due diligence, and always for the benefit of our staff, students, and wider university community.
We sought qualitative and quantitative feedback from alumni using a combination of a focus group and a survey. More than 400 alumni were invited to take part in the survey.
Consultations must remain anonymous to ensure greater disclosure and the most accurate responses, so unfortunately we can’t provide names or minutes, as some participants may be identifiable by their responses.
Moving forward, we’re reviewing our ability to communicate with alumni. We are welcoming all alumni to register their details with us to consent to emails from the University including updates and regular news. You can do so by completing the form below.
If you're a member of our alumni and would like to receive updates and news relating to the University, please register your details by completing the form below.