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Local Heritage Sites in Line for Sandford Award
Lincolnshire’s International Bomber Command Centre and Belton House are among 49 heritage sites across the British Isles set to receive the prestigious Sandford Award. -
Bishop Grosseteste University Appoint New Deputy Vice-Chancellor
Professor Scott Fleming has been appointed to the post of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU). He will co-ordinate all aspects of academic life and lead a programme to deliver change and create impact. Currently the Executive Dean: Research, Knowledge Exchange and External Engagement, Professor Fleming has been at BGU since April 2018. Having worked at the Universities of Brighton and Gloucestershire as well as, most recently, Cardiff Metropolitan University, he is an experienced academic and has held the roles of Programme Director, Head of School, Academic Dean, Director of Research at school level, and University Director of Research and Graduate Studies. Announcing the appointment the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, Vice-Chancellor of BGU, praised the impact Professor Fleming’s expertise could have on the University’s community: “I am delighted that Scott emerged as the successful candidate from an international pool of applicants. He brings with him substantial experience of the sector but has also gained a knowledge of the internal environment in the short time he has been working here. "His expertise and approach will take us to the next stage in our strategic development and I look forward to working with him in this new capacity.” For Professor Fleming, the opportunity to help lead BGU’s future progression is a thrilling prospect: “This is an exciting time for the University as we prepare for the launch of a new corporate strategy. We have ambitious plans and I’m delighted to have been given this fantastic opportunity to help shape a bright and prosperous future for BGU.” Scott is Professor of Sport and Leisure Studies and has published over 100 outputs. He has been Chair of the Leisure Studies Association (2004-2009) and a Managing Editor of Leisure Studies (2010-2016). He is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. For more information on the exciting projects being carried out at BGU visit our website, or contact our Enquiries Team to find out how you can start your own. -
University Building Named ‘Outstanding Project’ in Double Award Win
It was a double night of success for Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) and architecture and sports & leisure firm LK2 at the Lincoln Good Design Awards, as the newly renovated Constance Stewart Hall took home the coveted ‘Outstanding Project’ and ‘Best Commercial Project’ awards. Designed by LK2, the impressive £2.2m redevelopment was chosen by the Planning Department of Lincoln City Council as the overall ‘Outstanding Project’ of 2019, whilst a public vote placed it top in the commercial category. In naming it the ‘Outstanding Project’ the panel praised the design’s ability to maintain the heart and character of the existing art deco building whilst adding a modern aesthetic: “This modern extension to an academic building has real dynamism with bold modern materials and strong geometry which creates great contrast, whilst referencing the art deco design of the host building. The result is a prominent and sculptural focal point onto this busy junction announcing BGU’s presence.” As the Vice-Chancellor of BGU, the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, noted, this union of history and innovation was vital to the University: “When it came to creating a new flexible teaching space we needed a building that would support our ambitions, and we wanted a team of architects who could make this a reality. The design by LK2 for Constance Stewart Hall perfectly captured this balance and our finished building provides students with cutting edge facilities to help them progress. We are incredibly proud to have been an integral part of the Lincoln community for over 150 years and it is immensely rewarding to see that the people of this city hold our campus in such a high regard.” Dale Lui, chief executive of LK2 Group, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded two fantastic awards for this iconic scheme which has transformed the cityscape. The extra special thing about this award is that the project was voted for by the general public, showing that people from the city of Lincoln appreciate the building’s design. “This project showcases the impact of good design in so many different ways. Acting as a ‘shop window’, the new building gives BGU’s campus greater prominence and promotes the university to the wider community. The design of the building has enabled us to create an ‘outward-looking’ part of the campus, inviting local people to see the university as part of their community.” -
Collaborative learning community drives student satisfaction in latest NSS results
Following the release of this year’s National Student Survey (NSS) results Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is pleased to have again received high satisfaction levels from its graduating students. Seeing the overwhelming majority of our student body engaging with the NSS this year has been immensely satisfying and we’d like to thank our students for providing valuable feedback to us on the issues that are important to them. Creating an environment where students feel that they can not only make their voices heard but be an active part of developing their university experience is a key element of our drive for excellence. Dr Rob Boast, Executive Dean Learning, Teaching & Student Engagement, is leading this collaborative partnership between staff and students and is excited to see where it can take BGU in the future: “At BGU we are dedicated to placing the student voice at the heart of what we do so it is fantastic to see our efforts reflected in the increasing satisfaction scores. For areas such as ‘Student Voice’ and ‘Learning Community’ BGU has outperformed the average for the sector. The NSS provides an excellent opportunity for us to evolve and improve as an institution and we look forward to further engaging with our students on their experiences so that together we can continue creating a positive and rewarding learning environment.” BGU also saw increased scores in a number of other areas including ‘Academic Support’ and ‘Assessment & Feedback’, which was also above the average for the sector. For BGU Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Scott Fleming, these areas of increased satisfaction also demonstrate the value of the challenge laid down by the NSS to universities: “Following previous surveys we introduced a number of new initiatives to increase satisfaction in our academic support and feedback so it is incredibly rewarding to see that work receiving a positive response from our students. However it is important that we, along with all our fellow universities, see the NSS as a challenge to keep striving for consistently high satisfaction across the entire student experience and continuously improve as an institution rather than an opportunity to rest on the success of specific areas. We are committed to ensuring our students enjoy a level of quality throughout their time with us and I look forward to seeing what we, working in partnership with our students, can continue to accomplish over the next five years of our new University Strategy”. To find out how you can become a part of BGU’s collaborative learning community you can visit our website, speak to a member of our Enquiries Team or join us on one of our Open Days. -
Heritage sites and museums across the East Midlands recognised for their informal learning at awards event
Over 30 museums, historic houses, cathedrals and country parks from the East Midlands that took part in the Sandford Award for Informal Learning (SAIL) were recognised at a major award ceremony this week. SAIL, a National Lottery Heritage Fund joint initiative of Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) and the Heritage Education Trust, supports museums and heritage sites to create memorable learning experiences for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. From family discovery trails and toddler ‘mini museum’ play sessions to reminiscence sessions for visitors with dementia and autism-friendly visits, visitors to these award-winning sites can enjoy new opportunities to touch objects, share stories and see previously hidden treasures. Dr Tracy Borman, Chief Executive of the Heritage Education Trust, who presented the awards at the ceremony which took place at the National Civil War Centre, Newark said: “I am delighted to be presenting the SAIL awards, which recognise and celebrate informal learning at heritage sites. When we hear the term ‘heritage education’, we tend to think of school visits, but learners come from all backgrounds - from families and young adults to aspiring historians and those with special needs, or visitors simply looking for an enjoyable day out. Our award winners have shown just what a difference high quality programmes can make to visitors of all ages and abilities.” Professor Scott Fleming, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of BGU said: “The awards event was a wonderful celebration of inspiring work from across the East Midlands. So much of what’s been achieved is exactly what BGU is all about – inclusive education, outstanding learning, sharing heritage and changing lives. We’re delighted to have been involved.” Anne Jenkins, Director Midlands & East at the National Lottery Heritage Fund explained how the project was a perfect candidate for its support. “The National Lottery Heritage Fund has supported nearly 12,000 projects with over £1.6 billion National Lottery funding in the Midlands and East region, including the National Civil War Centre. Learning is central to most of our projects. Delivering best practice in learning has certainly been at the heart of this project led by Bishop Grosseteste University. The programme has played an invaluable role in building the confidence and skills of the heritage sector in this part of the world.” For more information please contact Lorraine Heyes, Sandford Cascade Learning Officer on 07808 018924 or via lorraine.heyes@bishopg.ac.uk Full list of award recipients: Banks Newton Heritage Beaumanor Hall Belton House National Trust Boughton House and the Montagu Monuments Bradgate Park Canalside Heritage Centre Chainbridge Forge Corby Heritage Centre Cotesbach Educational Trust Creswell Crags Museum and Heritage Centre Cromford Mills Derby Museums Trust: Derby Museum and Art Gallery Pickford’s House Doddington Hall Erewash Canal Preservation & Development Association Erewash Museum The Flintham Museum The Hero Project Hinckley & District Museum Kedleston Hall National Trust Leicester Cathedral Lincoln Cathedral Lincolnshire County Council The Collection Lincoln Castle Gainsborough Old Hall Museum of Lincolnshire Life Lincolnshire Road Transport Museum National Civil War Centre Nottinghamshire County Council Bestwood Country Park Sherwood Forest Rufford Abbey Perlethorpe Outdoor Education Cotgrave Country Park The Mill at Kingsmill St Michael’s Centre Normanby Hall North Lincolnshire Museum Nottingham Industrial Museum Nottingham News Centre RAF Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre Sir John Moore Foundation Southwell Minster Spalding Gentlemen’s Society Sulgrave Manor Thoresby Park We’ll Meet Again WWII Museum -
BGU research supports trainee teachers in Pakistan
Dr Abigail Parrish, Senior Lecturer in the School of Teacher Development, recently delivered an online seminar for participants at a research workshop organised by the Institute of English Language and Literature at the University of Sindh in Pakistan. Abigail’s session looked at Self-Determination Theory and motivation to learn English, drawing on her research interests, and giving participants chance to think about how they could apply what they learned in their own classrooms. It was attended by 35 participants, the head of the English department and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Sindh. One participant noted that the workshop was: "Rich in content and valuable in creating better understanding of the topics that were discussed, there should be more such events as it was a great learning opportunity" This feedback was also shared by the organiser, Dr Ghazal Kazim Syed, who reported that both the head of department and vice chancellor had been very impressed particularly with Abigail's commitment, professionalism and positive attitude to learning. Abigail has been invited to deliver another seminar for undergraduate and postgraduate students at a later date. James Duke, Digital Learning Developer at BGU, facilitated the online delivery of the session, providing invaluable support and advice to ensure it ran smoothly. You can read more about Abigail’s research into student motivation here: Abigail Parrish & Ursula Lanvers (2019). Student motivation, school policy choices and modern language study in England. The Language Learning Journal, 47:3, 281-298. DOI: 10.1080/09571736.2018.1508305 BGU have a global outlook on education, and our courses offer unprecedented opportunities to travel and teach. Our professionally focused educational courses are perfect for learners both within and looking to join the teaching profession. To find out how they can benefit you visit our website or contact our Enquiries Team for more information. -
First Implicit Religion Research Centre Launched at BGU
The Edward Bailey Centre for the Study of Implicit Religion, the first dedicated centre for the study of implicit religion in the world, has been launched at Bishop Grosseteste University by the Reverend Canon Professor Neil, Vice-Chancellor of BGU, together with Dr Francis Stewart, Implicit Religion Research Fellow. Implicit Religion focuses on commitments, rituals, actions, rites of passage, behaviours and beliefs that appear in things we would not normally think of as ‘religious’, for example the game of football or knitting communities. To this end Edward Bailey suggested three areas for focus: commitment, integrating foci, and intensive concerns with extensive effects. These have been explored in a wide range of topics from art, shopping, Elvis fans, pilgrimage, Occupy protests, video games, Starbucks, punk rock, elective childlessness, animal rights, tattoos and sport. The centre will serve as a hub for a wide range of activity including work in local schools, university modules, research projects, free public events in Lincoln. The centre aims to create new degree modules that are relevant and focused on implicit religion within Lincolnshire, to develop new degree courses that will bring international postgraduate students to BGU and be accessible for adults in Lincolnshire. Speaking on behalf of BGU, Professor Neil said: "Professor Bailey is synonymous with implicit religion and was well ahead of his time when he shaped the concept. The time is now right to expand the reach of the research exploring the concept of implicit religion to interpret the changing landscape of religion and spirituality in the UK. Theology is a core part of our University's heritage and I am delighted to see us continuing to push the boundaries of its exploration with this new centre of excellence.” As the lead of the new centre Dr Stewart expressed her excitement at how it would build on the legacy of Professor Bailey's work: "What do we mean when we say something is religious? What do we mean when we say something is not religious? Do we ever stop to consider if the person we are speaking to or about understands the word religion in the same way that we do? These are all questions that drive the study of Implicit Religion, a fascinating area of theological study that I look forward to being able to bring to a new generation of scholars." BGU's growing involvement in the study of implicit religion saw the institution host the 42nd Implicit Religion Conference earlier this year. The call for paper for the 43rd conference, which will also be held at at the University, is now open and submissions are free for all Lincoln residents. The Conference's theme will be 'Implicit Religion, Race and Representation' and will feature a keynote speech from Dr Ipsita Chatterjea, an expert on race and violence. If you’re interested in a future exploring and discussing religion then our Theology courses and RE teaching pathways could be for you. Visit our website or contact our Enquiries Team today for more information. -
Castles, Palaces and a Zoo Among 2019 Sandford Award Winners
Historic houses, palaces, castles, museums, archives, gardens, parks and a zoo are among over 40 heritage attractions to win a Sandford Award for their high quality heritage education provision. Mr Tom O’Leary, Director of Public Engagement, Historic Royal Palaces will present the awards to a broad range of heritage attractions on Monday 18th November at the V&A Museum of Childhood in London (one of this year’s recipients) and Caroline Marcus, Chair- Group for Education in Museums will be guest speaker at the event. Looking ahead to the ceremony, John Hamer, Chairman of the Heritage Education Trust, commented: “It is a great pleasure to be able to welcome this year’s Sandford Award winners to such a delightful venue as the V&A Museum of Childhood. The winners, coming from all parts of the United Kingdom, represent some of the best work currently being achieved in heritage education.” The Sandford Award is managed by Bishop Grosseteste University in partnership with the Heritage Education Trust and recognises and promotes quality and best practice in heritage education provided by sites across the British Isles. The Award is independently judged and offers a quality assured assessment of a site’s formal education programme. More than 500 sites including country houses, museums and galleries, archives, places of worship, wildlife parks, gardens, landscapes and different collections have received the prestigious quality mark since the scheme began in 1978. Speaking on behalf of BGU the University’s Vice-Chancellor, the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, explained why BGU continues to actively support the awards: “Heritage sits at the heart of Bishop Grosseteste and the Sandford Award is a scheme of which we are immensely proud. It is great to see the educational work of so many of the country’s great historic buildings and institutions being rewarded for their inspirational projects designed to make heritage accessible to the public and bringing the past to life in so many creative ways.” For more information about the Sandford Awards, please contact: Jayne Ellis Sandford Award Administrator 01522 583695 Jayne.ellis@bishopg.ac.uk Photo credit: 'Learning at the Palace of Holyroodhouse' - Royal Collection Trust © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2019. Photographer: Jane Massey 2019 Sandford Award winners Beaumanor Hall & Park, Leicestershire Benjamin Franklin House, London Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire Bowhill House & Grounds, Scotland Bradgate Park, Leicestershire Bramall Hall, Greater Manchester Buckingham Palace, London Cannon Hall, South Yorkshire The Charterhouse, London Chester Zoo, Cheshire Chiltern Open Air Museum, Buckinghamshire Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum, Lincolnshire Dunster Castle & Gardens, Somerset Elsecar Heritage Centre, South Yorkshire Fishbourne Roman Palace, West Sussex Fort Nelson, Hampshire Fulham Palace, London Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Somerset Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House Arts & Visitor Centre, Northern Ireland Kelmarsh Hall & Gardens, Northamptonshire Kirkleatham Museum, North Yorkshire London Metropolitan Archives Lotherton, West Yorkshire M&S Company Archive, West Yorkshire Milestones Museum, Hampshire The National Archives, London National Army Museum, London National Museum of Ireland- Country Life, Ireland New Walk Museum & Art Gallery, Leicestershire No.1 Royal Crescent, Somerset Oakham Castle, Rutlandshire Oxford Castle & Prison, Oxfordshire Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scotland Roman Baths, Somerset Royal Museums Greenwich, London Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum, Dorset Time & Tide Museum, Norfolk Ufton Court Educational Trust, Berkshire V&A Museum of Childhood, London V&A Museum, London Welsh Mining Experience: Rhondda Heritage Park, Wales Wicksteed Park, Northamptonshire Windsor Castle, Berkshire -
International Guest Speaker Launches BGU's new Research and Knowledge Exchange Unit, Voicing the Past
‘Voicing the Past: Culture, Legacy and Narrative’, a new Research and Knowledge Exchange Unit established by academics at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), was officially launched on the 16th of October with a special lecture by Professor Mariaconcetta Costantini. Established by Dr Cassie Ulph, Dr Claudia Capancioni, Dr Daphne Whiteoak, Dr Duncan Wright, and Dr Jon Begley, 'Voicing the Past: Culture, Legacy, and Narrative' aims to remap and reshape the ways in which we understand human identity, communities, and intellectual connections by unfolding historical voices connected to regional, national, European and transatlantic archaeological, cultural and literary heritage, its legacy and narratives. Original scholarly research based on archival research, digitalisation projects, historical fictional and non-fictional writing such as life writing, artefacts and documents will form the main drive of this work. Professor Mariaconcetta Costantini was welcomed by the Vice-Chancellor of Bishop Grosseteste University, the Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, before going on to deliver her research seminar ‘Material Traces of the Victorian Past: Authenticity and Artifice’, which builds on her ongoing research into Victorian literature and culture, with a special interest in sensation fiction and the Gothic. Following the lecture, which formed part of a week-long visit to BGU during which she also shared her passion for the Gothic with first-year English students and for the Posthuman with the MA students, Professor Costantini said: “'Voicing the Past: Culture, Legacy, and Narrative' is an exciting, forward-looking initiative with great potential, and I accepted the invitation to join the unit very warmly. I have enjoyed my time at BGU and am thrilled to have had the opportunity to present my research.” Professor Costantini’s lecture was very well attended by staff and students, and received many, engaging questions and comments. With a bilateral agreement now existing between BGU and Gabriele d’ Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara in Italy, where the Professor teaches English Literature, both institutions hope the Professor’s Voicing the Past Lecture will become the first of many events and collaborations on which the two universities will embark. Speaking on behalf of the lecturers involved in the new research unit Dr Claudia Capancioni thanked the BGU community for their support: “We have been delighted with the warm welcome our RKE unit has had and are grateful for the support of the Vice-Chancellor, and those of you who attended and sent us inspiring messages and congratulations. We look forward to seeing what this exciting new unit can achieve” If you are interested in knowing more about 'Voicing the Past: Culture, Legacy, and Narrative', our initiatives, projects, future events, or you want to join our RKE Unit, please email Dr Claudia Capancioni at claudia.capancioni@bishopg.ac.uk -
Dr Rob Boast
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) Rob joined the senior management team at BGU in November 2017, firstly in the role of Executive Dean for Learning, Teaching and Student Engagement, and now as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students). Rob leads on all aspects of the academic learning, teaching and student experience, both on-campus and also through collaborative arrangements with educational and business partners. His focus is on supporting academic staff to deliver inspirational teaching, an excellent student learning experience and meaningful student engagement. Through his role he has direct oversight of the Centre for Enhancement in Learning and Teaching, the Library, Student Advice, UK and International Partnerships. Prior to joining BGU, Rob worked at Staffordshire University, where he was most recently Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching. Rob is recognised as an innovator in higher education practice. He has a particular specialism in problem-based learning and practical scholarship, personalised learner support and innovative course development across a range of disciplines. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, he has also championed the introduction of technology-enhanced learning and creation of new employer engagement and student employability opportunities.
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