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51.
Monster Storytelling Competition Winner Announced
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) welcomed pupils from the Sir Donald Bailey Academy to announce the winner of BGU’s Monster Storytelling Competition. Part of BGU’s Monster Conference, the competition challenged BGU students to write monster stories for children across three age groups: 0-5, 5-7 and 7-11. As well as writing the monster stories, students taking part also had to submit a video performance of them. Winners in each category, along with an overall winner, were then picked out by the pupils from Sir Donald Bailey Academy (one of BGU’s partner schools). Chloe Pearce, a 3rd Year Primary Education undergraduate student, was crowned the overall winner. Her utilisation of props in her video to act out her story made her the clear favourite with the children who really felt the story had been brought to life. Looking back on the competition, Chloe explained why she wanted to take part: “I really enjoy writing stories for children. It is so important that they have opportunities to read growing up.” In addition to attending the prize giving, held in the Cornerstone Library at BGU, the Sir Donald Bailey pupils were also provided with a selection of books to read across the afternoon. Ruth Pearson, Senior Lecturer in Primary Education, highlighted the importance of this experience and why she and her colleagues felt it needed to be included: “At BGU we believe it is incredibly important when fostering a love of reading in children to give them experience of being in a library and show them the wonders that libraries can offer them” The storytelling competition forms part of BGU’s Monster Conference; an interdisciplinary conference exploring the work of Mary Shelley. The conference continues on the 31st of October with a live reading of Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’. You can keep up to date with the Monster Conference and all the exciting events taking place at BGU on our website. -
52.
BGU Academic Leads on ‘Outstanding Early Years Provision’
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is delighted to announce the launch of a new book by Dr Pat Beckley, Senior Lecturer in the School of Teacher Development at BGU, that is set to lead the way on the provision of Early Years education. ‘The Philosophy and Practice of Outstanding Early Years Provision’ examines the philosophical and theoretical foundations of early years practice supporting practitioners as they reflect on the collective and personal rationales which motivate and inform their work with young children. Chapters on subjects including ‘Wellbeing for Life in Early Years’ and ‘The Multicultural Classroom’ explore the theoretical underpinnings from a variety of perspectives, before translating them into effective strategies for application in a range of early years settings. Written and edited by Dr Beckley, the new book features contributions from leading Early Years professionals including chapters by other members of the BGU Teacher Development team – Ami Montgomery, Senior Lecturer and TESOL Course Leader and Aimee Quickfall, Head of Programmes for Primary and Early Years – along with a chapter written by Emma Revill; one of BGU’s school based mentors. Drawing on sound expertise the book is divided into four easily navigated sections which explore key issues including the creation of enabling environments, leadership in the early years, the opportunities and challenges presented by diversity, and the value of creative approaches. Its ultimate aim is to deepen the reader’s understanding of the concepts and ideas behind everyday practice. ‘The Philosophy and Practice of Outstanding Early Years Provision’ is essential reading for students and practitioners who wish to improve current and future practice by gaining insight into the philosophical foundations which underpin outstanding provision. BGU will be hosting a launch event for the book on campus on Monday the 9th of July at 4.30pm. If you would like to attend please contact Jonny Richardson, BGU PR Assistant. If you’re interested in a future in Early Years provision or Teaching there are few institutions that can provide a better experience than BGU. You can find information on our range of education based courses on our website, or by contacting our Enquiries Team. -
53.
BGU offers a ‘flavour of teaching’ to aspiring educators
Over 70 aspiring educators from across the country came to Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) earlier this month for a taste of life as a teacher. Run by the Primary Team (part of the School of Teacher Development at the BGU); the Pre-Teaching course focused on providing attendees with opportunities to gain hands on experience as well as advice from existing professionals. Each morning session was filled with practical activities allowing participants to test out their skills. Having prepared an exercise (including sourcing necessary and appropriate materials) they had to teach a small group of fellow attendees with exercises on offer including play dough making, Second World War history and ocean exploration. The afternoon sessions were focused on guiding the attendees through the application and training process. Aimee Quickfall, TD Head of Programmes for Primary and Early Years at BGU, praised the positive impact the course could offer: “The Pre-Teaching course is an opportunity for aspiring teachers to get a flavour of teaching with sessions designed to cover all aspects of life in education, not just what it feels like to run a lesson but also what a collaborative profession teaching is. Through this we can ensure that even when they hit difficulties they will know they’re not on their own”. The course was certainly a hit with the participants; Emily McCloud, a second year Early Childhood Studies student at BGU, felt that it provided a great opportunity for preparation ahead of beginning her journey into teaching: “I was quite nervous going into the course, becoming a teacher is a big task, but I feel so much more prepared now. It’s been amazing to get a taste of what is to come”. You can find out more about our PGCE programmes, including further Pre-Teaching courses on our website or by contacting our Enquiries Team. -
54.
SENI course offers students the chance to present their research at international education conference
Richard D' Amelio, Psychology and Special Educational Needs & Inclusion (SENI) student at BGU, recently had the opportunity to present his research alongside fellow SENI student Sara Gorman at the International Conference in Education. Titled ‘Emotional and Behavioural problems in primary students: The importance of early diagnosis and assessment’, the research was well received and, following their presentation, they were able to build research connections and craft interesting ideas on future projects with colleagues at universities from Japan, the UAE and Egypt. For Richard, this was an unforgettable experience and he explained how his time at BGU had prepared him for both it, and the next steps he plans to take after graduating: “Three years ago, as I sat contemplating what university life may be like, expectations and aspirations always returned to the same theme; ‘I want my degree to be the gateway to special educational needs and inclusion research in the international arena.’ I believed, and still do, that obstacles and concerns facing special education are a global issue, and equally, a global response is required to address these issues through the exploration of the diverse cultural responses to SEN and dissemination of best practice. I am both pleased and proud to report that the opportunity to engage with a BG research internship culminating in an international conference involving this very theme, surpassed many of my dreams and I need to thank my SENI tutor for this. Most memorable was the opportunity to connect with international colleagues from Germany, the UAE and China, and the exciting experience of working alongside other presenters making last-minute improvements to their work in the hotel lobby with twenty minutes to go. The presentation itself? Yes, all those hours of preparation and practice in front of the mirror, and occasionally the dog, poor thing, appeared to pay off, and despite the natural anxiety involved in a debut presentation to international academics, our research was so well received, that the smile of accomplishment lasted for days. Ultimately, it was a privilege to represent BGU within the international research community. Throughout this experience, I often reflected upon the six BGU graduate attributes and was keen to demonstrate these attributes through my conduct and contributions. However, one attribute was especially relevant, one which is dear to my heart, through engaging with the project and conference, I became a fully-fledged Bishop Grosseteste University Global Citizen.” If you are interested in finding out what adventures BGU can offer you, visit our website or contact our Enquiries Team to see our full portfolio of courses. -
55.
Learning Conference Offers ‘Opportunities for Excellence’ at BGU
Earlier this month Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) welcomed delegates from across the country to its annual Learning and Teaching Conference. Spearheaded by the University’s Centre for Enhancement in Learning and Teaching (CELT) Team, the conference delves into the biggest issues and questions surrounding the provision of Higher Education, with this year’s theme being ‘Opportunities for Excellence’ It aims to provide those involved in the provision of Higher Education an opportunity to refresh and develop their skills to help them stay ahead in a constantly evolving sector. Key themes and strands are identified for the conference to ensure sector relevance and enable dissemination of best practice. This year’s event focused on three key strands: Times of Change, Digital Capabilities and Student Journey. A number of engaging key-note speakers joined the conference including Professor Wyn Morgan, Vice-President for Education at the University of Sheffield, who discussed ways to navigate the constantly shifting Higher Education landscapes, and Dr Rachel Maxwell, Head of Learning and Teaching Development: Policy and Practice, Institute of Learning and Teaching in Higher Education at the University of Northampton, who examined the potential and opportunities for large-scale pedagogic transformation to active blended learning at universities. Part of a packed programme including breakout sessions run by BGU staff, the speakers helped the conference cover a diverse range of topics including leadership; global; digital capability and technology-enhanced learning; transformative learning, teaching and assessment; student engagement and experience; student wellbeing (one of BGU’s key institutional goals); and quality assurance and enhancement. Over one and half days the conference was met with high praise from an incredibly engaged set of attendees, with the “excellent” and “fascinating” key-notes being picked by Elizabeth Farrar, Senior Lecturer in Primary Education at BGU, as her highlights whilst Caroline Meredith, who is studying for a Professional Doctorate (EdD) at Nottingham University, praised the “amazing” work of the CELT team in putting the event together. The CELT team are dedicated to promoting enhancement in learning and teaching and regularly run events and conferences to encourage this. Many of these are open to the public and if you would like to be part of them you can find more information on the exciting plans ahead on our events page. -
56.
BGU Lecturer Shares Strategies for Global Inclusion in China
Dr Maria Efstratopoulou from Bishop Grossteste University (BGU) was recently invited to the Sport University of Beijing (BSU) to deliver a series of seminars and practical workshops. -
57.
PhD Student Celebrates Double Success in Budapest
Phil Nicholson, PhD student at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), is enjoying a double celebration having presented his newly published work at the European Early Childhood Education Research Association (EECERA) conference. Phil Nicholson graduated from his undergraduate degree in Education Studies and Sport last July, won a studentship for his PhD studies at BGU (supervised by Dr Emma Pearson and Dr Caroline Horton), and has already published his academic work. The article, Play-based pedagogy under threat? A small-scale study of teachers’ and pupils’ perceptions of pedagogical discontinuity in the transition to primary school has been published in the academic journal, "Education 3-13", which is an International Journal of Primary, Elementary and Early Years Education. Following its publication Phil also had the opportunity to present it at the 2018 EECERA, which took place at the end of August in Budapest. Despite being nervous about presenting to such a well-informed early years international audience he thoroughly enjoyed the experience: “I am delighted with how the presentation went and found the questions and discussion that followed it extremely informative.” Dr Caroline Horton, PhD Programme Leader at BGU, was full of praise for Phil for and explained why it was no surprise that his work was proving such a success: “We are delighted that Phil has been able to continue his studies at BGU. He demonstrates a critical and detailed approach to his research, coupled with a highly conscientious approach to his studies, which makes him an ideal doctoral candidate. “Phil conducted an insightful investigation as part of his undergraduate dissertation research, which has been shaped into his recent publication.” Dr Pat Beckley, Senior Lecturer in the School of Teacher Development at BGU, also presented a paper at the EECERA. Her focus was Comparative strategies and family approaches in supporting children’s literacy learning in selected settings in England, Norway and Uganda, and she chaired a symposium based on early years literacy, including papers from Swedish and American colleagues. Phil Nicholson’s paper can be accessed here and if you would like more information on the research opportunities available at BGU you can find it on our website, or by contacting our Enquiries Team. -
58.
Students Cover BGU in Natural Artwork
Visitors to Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) may have seen some interesting stone circles and leaf collages around campus this week. -
59.
BGU Lecturer Leading Innovation in Health & Social Care
During the Summer Nicki Walsh, Programme Leader for Health & Social Care at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), presented at a number of international conferences showcasing the work being undertaken in Lincolnshire to support improvements in General Practice. Changing health and social needs, due in part to longer lifespans and rapidly ageing populations around the world, mean that many causes of ill health are chronic and more complex due to comorbidities (e.g. Diabetes, respiratory disease). This therefore requires the providers of Health and Social care to respond in a dynamic, flexible and sustainable way to these pressures and challenges. While adapting, the focus of practitioners must be on the delivery of safe, effective and appropriate care. General Practice (in the UK) is well placed to respond to these pressures (NHS England 2013 and NHS England 2015). At the heart of this response is the General Practice Nurse (GPN) however workforce demographics and years of underinvestment in the workforce will see the number of skilled nurses needed reduce considerably in the next 10 years (QNI, 2015), causing what can be termed a “knowledge haemorrhage”, where practice experience and intuitive practice are lost. Therefore, investment in pre-registration and post registration professional education along with creative solutions which respond to this knowledge loss are needed (Walsh, 2017). This is particularly true of recruitment and retention both of which are key to ensuring that provision is fit for purpose. In August, Nicki presented at the 2nd International Conference on Nursing Science & Practice (United Scientific Group) in London. Her paper looked at a number of interventions and activities which are occurring locally to support the GPN agenda. This included the work with Lincs West CCG, which sees a monthly GPN Educational Forum held at BGU. It also looked at the data from the evaluation of a project with the University of Lincoln, which explored getting newly qualified nurses into General Practice. In addition Nicki presented her preliminary findings from her PhD, which is using a diabetes lens to look at the value and effectiveness of continuing professional development (CPD) for GPNs. At the beginning of September Nicki was in Cambridge presenting at the 29th International Networking for Education in Healthcare Conference (Advance HE). Delivering her preliminary findings of her PhD to an audience of peers she was well received and was able to establish some important networking opportunities. Finally, at the end of September a Nicki’s collaborative work with Rachel Mason (from the University of Lincoln) was presented at the Queen’s Nursing Institute Conference at the Royal College of GPs. This showcased work which saw undergraduate student nurses undertake their final management placement within General Practice. This was again well received and work is currently being carried out to prepare a case study for the Atlas of Shared Learning at the request of NHS England, which is designed to showcase examples of good practice designed to lead change across the NHS. All of this work leads to the new BGU Master's Programme for Primary and Community Care which will see BGU enter the evolving field of Practitioner education with a focus on Advance Practice. You can find out more information on this course along with all the Health & Social Care opportunities at BGU by visiting our website or contacting our Enquiries Team. -
60.
BGU Officially Welcome New Students at Annual Matriculation Ceremony
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) formally welcomed nearly 600 students at the annual Matriculation Ceremony on Tuesday 9 October. Now in its fourth year the welcoming ceremony has become an established and popular part of the academic calendar. All newly enrolled students are invited to the ceremony, held in the grand surroundings of Lincoln Cathedral, which gives both undergraduate and postgraduate students the chance to meet University staff and each other. This year’s ceremony began at 3pm with a procession of over 100 BGU members of staff before the new students were officially welcomed to the University by the University’s Chancellor, Dame Judith Jonas-Mayhew, the Vice-Chancellor, the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, the President of the Students’ Union, Craig Ferguson and the The Dean of Lincoln, The Very Revd Christine Wilson. As a symbol of their belonging in BGU, all students were given a specially designed gold badge. The Vice-Chancellor explained why the event has become such an important part of the student journey at BGU: “The Matriculation Ceremony marks our students’ formal entry into the University. In addition to offering a friendly welcome to all those who are starting their studies here this year, it ensures they know they are now part of the BGU and academic community, of which every student is an integral member. It is emphasised that we are all there to guide and support the students throughout their time with us.” The ceremony closed with a performance from the BGU choir followed by speeches from Samuel Wernham, second year Drama student, and Emma Stanbridge, BGU graduate and MA English Literature student. New undergraduate students Amelia Revill, Education Studies and English, Charlotte Jezard, Education Studies, and Francesca Baugh, Primary Education with QTS, described after the ceremony how, thanks to the event, BGU was already feeling like home: “This afternoon has been really welcoming and enjoyable. It’s really nice to see all the students and academics coming together to meet each other, we’ve enjoyed our time at BGU so far but this has definitely made us all feel even more at home here” If you would like to become a part of the BGU community visit our website to find out about all the exciting courses available to you or contact our Enquiries Team today. You can watch this year’s ceremony and find a photo album on our Facebook page.
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