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PGCE (Secondary) Social Science
Announcing a new PGCE in Social Science (14-19 curriculum) starting in September 2016 The School of Teacher Development at Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln has a longstanding national reputation for providing high-calibre initial teacher training in Secondary specialist subjects. Drawing on expertise within the team of PGCE Secondary partnership programme we are planning to introduce a new PGCE in Social Science for graduates in Sociology, Psychology, Politics and Law. We work with a wide range of schools, colleges and educational organisations across county of Lincolnshire and beyond. Our PGCE Social Science is aimed at trainees wishing to mainly teach the 14-19 curriculum in one or more of the social sciences (sociology, psychology, politics and law) in secondary schools and/or post-16 colleges. Trainees will be given the opportunity to study and teach areas of the Social Sciences (Psychology, Sociology, Politics, Law, Health and Social Care, Citizenship and PSHE) at Key Stages, 4 and 5. Trainees may gain some experience of teaching the humanities (RE, Geography and History) subjects at Key Stage 3 and 4. Social Science subjects are exceptionally popular choices at GCSE, 'A' level, IB and BTEC levels. For further information please contact Dr Yvonne Hill: 01522 583 730 yvonne.hill@bishopg.ac.uk -
New Lease of Life for Former Connie’s Restaurant at BGU
A former canteen and dining room at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln is being turned into much needed teaching accommodation as the institution gears up for an increase in students. BGU is spending £850,000 on converting the former Connie’s dining room and kitchen into an academic facility. The refurbishment project will create seven multi-functional, flexible teaching spaces on the ground floor of the building which will be ready for use in September 2015. The university’s strategic plan envisages a growth in student numbers and BGU is also broadening the range of courses it offers, introducing Business (Team Entrepreneurship), Health and Social Care, Sociology, Psychology, Counselling and History and Archaeology from September. Part of the new teaching facility will be used by staff and students on the university’s new Business (Team Entrepreneurship) degree course. “In the past Connie’s was the place where our students who lived on campus had their meals, but now we’ve moved to self-catering accommodation and opened the Refectory to cater for the changing demand,” said Fred Robson, Head of Estates at BGU. “We no longer need this catering space so we’re converting the building to give us additional teaching space as we grow our student numbers.” The work, which entails some minor demolition and re-roofing of the former kitchen, is being undertaken by the main contractor, Robert Woodhead Ltd from Mansfield. -
Real Game of Thrones Left Scars on Landscape, Says Expert
England’s first civil war in the 12th century raged for 20 years and changed the physical landscape for decades. The conflict, in which royal cousins Matilda and Stephen fought for the throne of England following the death of Matilda’s father King Henry I, outdid TV’s Game of Thrones series for savagery and treachery. Those are the conclusions of two new books about the period which are the result of archaeological research by a group of academics including Dr Duncan Wright, Senior Lecturer in Archaeology and Heritage at Bishop Grosseteste University. During the war known as the Anarchy, churches were fortified, a network of castles was constructed to hold back rebels, and many areas of the country were laid to waste. Rival mints made coins in different territories and landowners buried hoards of treasure to save their wealth from looters. The Isle of Ely in Cambridgeshire was transformed into a desert, according to contemporary chroniclers, while Wallingford on the Thames became one of the most besieged places in the nation. War broke out after the death of King Henry I in 1135. His daughter Matilda claimed the throne but her cousin, Stephen of Blois, had himself crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey. Matilda launched a campaign to win back power, and soon the English countryside was militarised as the two sides and their allies fought battles that raged across England. The struggle has parallels with the fictional Game of Thrones series in which Yara Greyjoy claims the throne of the Iron Islands when her father dies. However, the throne is seized by her uncle and Yara builds alliances with other key characters in order to regain power. Another parallel can be seen during a key episode of Game of Thrones in which young King Joffrey dies after being poisoned at a feast. The incident echoes the demise of King Stephen’s only son Eustace, who is said to have died at a feast, possibly from choking or poisoning. An agreement was reached with Stephen that he could remain as King, but that Matilda’s son Henry would inherit the throne when he died. “The Anarchy was a gruelling conflict which left its mark on the modern landscape,” said Dr Duncan Wright of BGU. “The most significant thing we can still see today is siegeworks, because this conflict was characterised by devastation of the landscape and protracted sieges rather than by set-piece battles. “Besieging armies would build a smaller castle outside an enemy castle to prevent the movement of men and supplies. Law and order had broken down in England and everyone was looking out for themselves: barons would build their own castles and mint their own coins, all of which was illegal. “The chronicles at the time even talk about churches being fortified, which was seen as an abhorrent thing to do – the house of god turned into a house of blood. “An unusual aspect of the Anarchy was the fact that in two decades there were only two big pitched battles, and one of these was at Lincoln in 1141. King Stephen besieged Lincoln Castle and was in turn attacked by Matilda’s half-brother. Stephen was captured and imprisoned for a year in Bristol, and then Matilda’s brother was captured and so there was a prisoner exchange. “It was all very ruthless and familial – in many ways just like Game of Thrones.” The team of researchers, led by Professor Oliver Creighton of the University of Exeter, spent two years examining the impact of the war on the landscape of England. They studied remains at 12 sites, including castles and settlements, and re-analysed existing archaeological finds, such as coins, armour and weaponry. They were the first experts to assess the physical impact of the Anarchy on England’s landscape. Until now historians have mainly relied on chronicles and charters written at the time. The research, which took place from 2013 to 2015, was funded with a grant from the Leverhulme Trust. “What we discovered was that this was a time of violent upheaval, and the conflict has left its scars on the physical landscape even 800 years later,” said Dr Wright. “Until this time royal power had always been very centralised, but now the aristocracy was far more mobile and better able to craft their own familial images and develop their own power. “Royal power was weakened, the law had broken down, and powerful people were able to take advantage of that and carve out their own niche, setting in train the development of the English aristocracy.” To find out more about studying for the BA (Hons) degree in Archaeology and History or the MA in Community Archaeology at BGU, call 01522 527347 or email enquiries@bishopg.ac.uk. -
BGU Looking Eastward to Forge Links in China
Bishop Grosseteste University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor has attended an Educational Exchange in Hunan Province in China as part of Lincolnshire County Council’s endeavours to strengthen relationships and socio-economic prosperity of the two regions. Professor Jayne Mitchell attended the event following the signing of an economic friendship agreement with Hunan Province by the county council. The educational exchange programme focused on developing relationships between universities and strategic bodies such as the education and economic development departments in provincial and county governments. It was co-ordinated by the Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Hunan Provincial People’s Government of China and the Hunan Provincial Education Department. The week-long programme involved visits to three cities in Hunan Province (Changsha, Changde and Zhangjiajie), introductions to senior officials in the Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office and Hunan Provincial Department of Education, and meetings to discuss collaboration and partnership working with 12 of the region’s top universities. During the visit Professor Mitchell signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Hunan First Normal University. The two universities are now planning staff and student exchanges, joint academic programmes, collaborative research projects and cultural exchanges in teacher education. Discussion is also ongoing with several more universities in Hunan about developing similar arrangements in other subject areas and priority sectors for the county. “There are many similarities in the history, expertise and future goals of BGU and universities in Hunan,” said Professor Mitchell. “By working together to share experience, knowledge and resources we can further develop the education and skills of local people and help contribute to the economic prosperity of businesses right across the county. “I would like to thank our hosts for their warm welcome and openness in seeking ways to work together. We have made many new friends and look forward to strengthening these relationships further by extending BGU’s partnership working with both Lincolnshire County Council and universities and businesses in China.” Cllr Colin Davie, Executive Member for Economic Development at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “I’m delighted that Bishop Grosseteste University had a successful visit. This is not just an important step for the university, but it will also help further cement our friendship with the province. “I’m confident that this growing relationship will bring opportunities for other businesses too, with agriculture, engineering, adult social care and culture already earmarked as areas for future collaboration. We have a lot in common and, working together, we can ensure greater prosperity for both regions.” -
BGU Launches New PhD Opportunities
In line with its mission to excel at teaching, learning and research, Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln has launched a second round of PhD studentships as part of its ‘Future Research Leaders’ programme. Following on from the University’s success in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014), in which it was judged to be undertaking world-leading research, BGU is offering up to six full-time PhD studentships in History and Education. Successful candidates will receive a bursary of £14,000 per year plus tuition fees for up to four years to study at BGU. The University’s Vice-Chancellor, the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, said the new posts represent a significant investment by BGU in its research strategy. “We are keen to build on our success in the REF 2014 as we are convinced that the best teaching is always informed and improved by high-quality research,” he said. “We are committed to enhancing the quality and quantity of our research, and increasing the proportion of postgraduate research students is key to this objective. “We also want our research to be applied and to be of benefit to society. I am delighted that we are in a position to offer opportunities to students who wish to take the next step in their academic journey.” Among the studentships available is a project looking at the works of the University’s namesake Robert Grosseteste and the contribution he made to the history of educational thought. Dr Jack Cunningham, Academic Co-ordinator for Theology at BGU, explained: “Robert Grosseteste was an English statesman, scholastic philosopher, theologian, scientist and Bishop of Lincoln during the 13th Century which was a crucial period in the religious history of this country. “He was also interested in many aspects of education and had a good deal to say on what we should learn, how we acquire knowledge and how it benefits us. However, this area of Grosseteste’s thought remains largely undiscussed so this is a unique opportunity for someone who is passionate about education to study the life and works of a truly fascinating man.” Vytautas Nastajus was awarded a PhD studentship in Psychology at BGU in June 2016. He recommends the university to anyone thinking of doing a doctorate. “The support you get in here is fantastic, especially from the doctoral group which is made up of PhD and EdD students and meets on a regular basis to talk about projects, achievements and any issues you may be having,” he explained. “My own experience has been great so far: excellent supervisors, teaching opportunities, funding for attending conferences and so on. I am really glad I chose Bishop Grosseteste University.” To find out more about the opportunities or projects available please visit our Doctoral Study page or email Dr Caroline Horton, Academic Co-ordinator for the PhD programme, at caroline.horton@bishopg.ac.uk The studentships will commence in summer 2017 and the closing date for applications is 17th February. -
TV Presenter to be Honoured at BGU Graduation Ceremony
TV Presenter Nicholas Crane will receive an honorary degree from Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln at a graduation ceremony next week.Mr Crane, best known for his work on BBC Television as the presenter of BAFTA-winning TV series Coast, will receive an honorary degree in recognition of his work as a geographer, explorer, writer and broadcaster.He will be honoured at a ceremony at Lincoln Cathedral at 2.30pm on Wednesday 19th July.That same day at 10.15am Dr Giles Gasper will receive an honorary degree in recognition of his work in the field of medieval history. His outstanding leadership and endeavours with the Ordered Universe Project have contributed significantly to the scholarly understanding of Robert Grosseteste, after whom the university is named.A total of 867 students will receive their degrees at the ceremonies, which will take place at 10.15am and 2.30pm on Wednesday 19th July and Thursday 20th July 2017.“Graduation day is a special day in the university calendar and we are very much looking forward to celebrating the success of our graduates with their friends and families,” said the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, Vice Chancellor of BGU.Following the ceremonies, guests will be able to enjoy strawberries and prosecco, a vintage bus bar and a vintage ice cream van at the BGU campus while being entertained by the University’s steel band and jazz trio. -
Films by Lincolnshire pupils hit the big screen at The Venue
The Venue at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln is set to host a special screening of films made by local school children next week.The invitation-only event on 10 July will showcase the filmmaking process and final short films of Lincolnshire schools who have participated in the Cinema cent Ans de Jeunesse (CCAJ) programme. Films made by participants at Legsby Primary School, Fosse Way Academy, Withern St. Margarets Primary School, Allington Primary School and Nettleham Junior School will be shown at The Venue.The CCAJ is Cinémathèque Française’s young people’s filmmaking programme. Established in 1995 to celebrate the centenary of cinema, the programme has a specific structure that is still in use over 20 years later. The programme invites the young people to make films that respond to an aspect of film language. The structure of the programme features exploratory exercises and the production of a final ‘film essai’. There is also a comprehensive ‘viewing curriculum’ of clips taken from the history of cinema. The programme takes place across a whole school year and in Lincolnshire runs as an extra-curricular activity for year five children. All participating schools attend a showcase event at the BFI London. However, as parents and family of the pupils involved are unable to attend, The Venue has stepped in to put on the special screening event. “The Venue is excited to be supporting local schools, giving them the opportunity to showcase their work to family. [We are] treating them to an evening of film on the big screen, working in conjunction with Lincoln Film Society and BFI”, said Laura-Jane Lunt, Commercial Support Assistant at The Venue. Find out more about The Venue and all upcoming screenings and events. (www.lincolnfilmsociety.com) -
Revealed: The Private Lives of the Tudors
Historian Tracy Borman will follow up her book and TV series The Private Lives of the Tudors with a colourful talk on the same subject at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln next month. Tracy is a best-selling author and historian who specialises in the Tudor period. Her books include Elizabeth’s Women, which was Book of the Week on BBC Radio 4, and Thomas Cromwell: The Untold Story of Henry VIII’s Most Faithful Servant, which was a Sunday Times best seller. Her most recent book, The Private Lives of the Tudors, includes such gems as Henry VIII’s visit to Lincoln in 1541 with his fifth wife Catherine Howard, who proceeded to cheat on him while they were staying in the city. “Tracy is a well known TV personality but she is also a familiar face on campus at BGU,” said Hannah Clipsham, Events Manager at BGU. “We are really looking forward to hearing her informative and entertaining talk about this fascinating period of English history and this most influential of royal dynasties.” An Audience with Tracy Borman presenting The Private Lives of the Tudors takes place at The Venue, Bishop Grosseteste University at 7.30pm on Thursday 1st June 2017. Tickets cost £6.50 and are available online from The Venue. For further details please contact the University Events Office on 01522 585635 or email events@bishopg.ac.uk. -
Annual Lecture Will Shed Light on Battle of Lincoln
Eight hundred years ago this week one of the most important battles of mediaeval times was fought in Lincoln. To mark the anniversary, author and historian Dr Sean McGlynn will give the Annual History Lecture at Bishop Grosseteste University tomorrow (Wednesday 17th May) and shed light on the dramatic events of the Battle of Lincoln in 1217. The battle fought on 20th May 1217 is deemed by historians to be one of the most important military engagements fought in medieval England. This lecture will explain the remarkable circumstances that led to the battle and offer a detailed description of the dramatic events that occurred on the day. Dr Sean McGlynn is the author of three critically acclaimed books on mediaeval warfare and of a forthcoming biography of King John. His book Blood Cries Afar: the Magna Carta War and the Invasion of England, 1215-17 was the first to investigate the major French invasion of England that resulted in the Battle of Lincoln. The Annual History Lecture was originally established to mark the work of Dr Jim Johnston, a historian and teacher at BGU who pioneered the use of probate inventories and who died in 2007. It also celebrates the contribution of another former history lecturer, Dulcie Duke, and recognises the work of current BGU students with the award of prizes. Attendance at the lecture is free of charge and refreshments are available at the Refectory and Curiositea nearby. Please note parking on campus is limited. The lecture begins at 2pm. To book a ticket contact Daisy Wedge by emailing daisy.wedge@bishopg.ac.uk or by calling 01522 585635. -
Andrew Jackson on Bernard Samuel Gilbert
BGU's Dr Andrew Jackson has been out and about through April, discussing his research on little-known Lincolnshire author and dialect poet, Bernard Samuel Gilbert (1882-1927). Following a recent conference paper for the Social History Society in London, Andrew has given talks on the writer to the Torksey History Group and to the Lincoln Branch of the Geographical Society. He also visited Gilbert's birthplace, Billinghay, to give a talk to the village's history society, and to discuss with members the surrounding Lincolnshire landscape that had inspired much of his writing. Andrew said "Bernard Gilbert’s work fell largely into obscurity following his death 90 years ago. I am on something of a mission to bring his writing to the attention of the people of his home county in the present, and to audiences well beyond Lincolnshire as well." Dr Andrew Jackson is Head of Research at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln.
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