news & views september 2013

news &

views

THE UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER MAGAZINE September 2013

walk for kids p. 4

in this issue:

one Million and CoUnTinGThe Hive Welcomes its One Millionth Visitor p.2

nUs awardStudent Wins National Award p.8

Praise froM healTh ChiefRegional Health Chief Praises Worcester p.19

2 / September 2013 / [email protected]

feaTUre

one Year, one Million Books and one Million visiTsThe hive has reached yet another milestone just weeks after its first birthday.

The millionth visit to The Hive was made shortly after 12.30pm on Friday 26 July – another landmark moment for the library, which issued its millionth book earlier this month.Since opening its doors The Hive, developed, financed and jointly run by the University of Worcester and Worcestershire County Council, has also been recognised for 44 awards.The iconic, golden-coloured building on the banks of the River Severn is realising its creators’ vision of inspiring and enabling learning in a welcoming, purposeful, sustainable space.Book borrowing has soared since The Hive opened in July 2012. General public borrowing has dramatically increased. Students have loved The Hive’s space, extra facilities and long opening hours and have borrowed more books than ever before, with University borrowing up nearly 10% on previous years.The children’s library at The Hive has proved a magnet for younger readers, parents and grandparents alike with borrowing of junior picture books up by the most of any single category – a whopping 321%. Children’s authors led by former children’s laureates Jacqueline Wilson and Michael Rosen have both visited and found The Hive and its host of children’s and young people’s activities irresistibly attractive. There are lots of opportunities for volunteering at The Hive, with the University, known for its

outstanding teacher training, contributing thousands of volunteer and staff hours to promote reading and providing educational activities and advice for teenagers. Public library membership has grown dramatically. over 18,000 new members joined the new public library in The Hive in the first year since The Hive opened– a 500% increase on the previous year in the old Foregate Street Library. This has also lead to a surge in demand for public library services throughout Worcestershire with library usage across the rest of the County up by more than 10%. Despite reducing budgets the County Council remains committed to not closing libraries in the County.

The millionth book was borrowed by a University of Worcester student and long-time Worcestershire resident. Grandmother Alison Barrett, studying for a degree in Child and Adolescent Mental Health, whilst working with vulnerable children, borrowed ‘Why Love Matters: How Affection Shapes a Baby’s Brain’. The Hive’s success, popularity and beneficial public impact are reflected in the 44 awards for which it has been shortlisted. Outright wins include ‘Best Contribution to the Local Community by a University’ in The Guardian University Awards, ‘Outstanding Library Team’ in the Times Higher Leadership and Management Awards and three awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA),

including their prestigious National Award.There have been numerous nominations for environmental sustainability and architectural excellence, and awards for community benefit and design and innovation from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.Professor David Green, Vice Chancellor of the University said “The Hive is a stunning success. Britain’s first University and Public Library is brilliant for our students whilst attracting and inspiring people throughout Worcestershire.

“Above all it is encouraging new generations to learn, to read and to engage with the great treasury of human knowledge, understanding and culture. It is marvellous to be part of such a triumph of human imagination and teamwork.”Cllr Adrian Hardman, Leader of Worcestershire County Council, added:

“The millionth visit is a great milestone for The Hive and we would like to thank everybody who has visited and enjoyed using its facilities since it opened last year.

“We’ve been delighted with the wealth of support and enthusiasm from people all across the County. The Hive has been recognised internationally for its sustainable and inspiring architectural design and has helped to create a great amount of excitement and awareness of Worcestershire.”

september 2013Welcome to the September issue

of News & Views, featuring a round-up of news, updates and milestones from the past

month at the University of Worcester.

As a new term starts we look back at some of the key events that have taken place over the summer. There has been plenty to celebrate with both The Hive and The Infirmary Medical Museum reaching their one-year anniversaries.

Continuing the celebrations we congratulate members of staff who have been published and recognised for their commitment to teaching and research and also highlight

staff members who are taking on new roles and responsibilities this term.

In this issue we feature some of our students who are achieving great things. From winning a prestigious NUS award, taking a show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, to representing the country at sport our students continue to do us proud.

Welcome to the new term. Please keep sending news to us at [email protected]

CONTeNTS

Record-Breaking Applications 3Staff Developments 5Cyber Training 6Tae Kwon-Do Star in Olympics Bids 6Unique Study Heralds New Era for RE 7Teaching Fellowships 7Basketball Camps 8Partner Staff Development Day 9Finance Department 9Design Students Point the Way 9NUS Award 10Expert Gives Talk on Jenny Lind 10Links with Local Force 11Is Compassion at the Heart of the Current NHS Reforms? 11Reptile Research 12Midwifery Conference 2013 12Basketball Players to Attend Elite Training Camp 13New Police Community Support Officers 13Performance Summer Schools 14Welcome Nell! 14Student Stars on European Stage 14Praise for ‘Innovative’ Progress 15Summer School Graduates 15Lecturer Recognised in Influential Dementia Care Report 16Goalball Tournament Success 16Medical Museum Celebrates Birthday 17Bodybuilding Triumph 17Students Aim to Spark Interest in the Natural World 17University Welcomes Business Report Findings 18Hospice Declaration 19Regional Health Chief Praise 19Open Events: September 2013 20Edinburgh Fringe Festival 20England’s Arena Showdown 20Student Mentors Ensure School Summer Holidays Go With a Bang 21Record Number of Vacation Research Assistants 21GB Star on Countdown to Worcester 2015 22England Stars Aid Cricket Students’ Development 22Fundraising Cyclists Heap Praise on University of Worcester Arena 23Smoke Free: A Healthier Campus 23Marathon Challenge 24Youngsters Engage in Political Debates 24

news

feaTUre

Walk for Kids 4

Cover sTorY

The Hive: one year milestones 2

[email protected] / September 2013 / 3

Cover sTorYwelCoMe

RECORd-bREAkING ApplICATIONSApplications to the University of Worcester have reached a new record high, rising by just under six per cent this year - double the national increase reported by UCAS last month.

The number of UK students applying for places at Worcester by the 30 June deadline for entry this September rose to 12,939, up by 5.99 per cent compared with the same time last year. Nationally, applications from within the UK increased by 2.7 per cent in the same period, and overall by 3.1 per cent.

Professor David Green, Vice-Chancellor says the University’s strong graduate employment record and the effort it makes to prepare students for the world of work help explain its popularity.

“We are delighted to report that our applications are up on the record year of 2011 and our graduates are finding good jobs in record numbers with 19 out of every 20 in employment or further study within six months of graduation,” he said.

Clockwise from top left: Hospice Declaration pg. 19 Medical Museum Birthday pg. 17 Designing for Upton-on-Severn pg. 9 and Cyclists Praise Arena pg. 23

Cover sTorY

UNIVERSITY SUppORTS WAlk FOR kIdSThe University of Worcester has helped to secure a record-breaking fundraising total for Free Radio’s Walk for kids.

The University was the official fitness partner for the Worcester event – the last in a series of summer walks held by the radio station – which saw over 3,000 walk the challenging 10 ½ mile route, raising £124,070 for local charities Acorns Childrens’ Hospice, Megan Baker House and New Hope for short-term respite care.Members of staff from the University’s McClelland Centre, along with Sports Therapy students, led the race warm-up, provided fitness tips to walkers and were on hand to offer post-walk massages and advice.Louise Jones, the University’s Strategic Director for Health and Wellbeing, said:

“The University of Worcester is passionate about encouraging both our students and the local community to be active and, later this year, we will be launching a new Health and Wellbeing programme, ‘Fit for Life’.“We were delighted, therefore, to be invited to be the fitness partner for such a worthwhile cause as the Worcester Walk for Kids. Several of our students and staff took part in the event, and it was great to see so many people from the University walking the course for such a great cause.”

She added: “We would like to congratulate all those who took part in the event and helped to raise such a magnificent total, and we hope that many other people were inspired by their efforts.”

The money raised from the event will help fund construction of a garden room for Acorns Childrens’ Hospice as well as a play and teaching area at Megan Baker House. New Hope will receive money to kit-out their sensory room to enable children to benefit from resources such as water beds and lighting equipment.

Walk for Kids 2013



sTaff news

HEAd OF STUdENT SERVICESCaryn Thorogood

Caryn Thorogood, currently the Academic Support Unit Manager for the Institute of education, has been appointed to be the new Head of Student Services, following a process of national advertisement, which attracted many candidates.Caryn is well known to many colleagues in the

University and will prove to be an outstanding leader of our excellent team in Student Services, whose responsibilities for student welfare, guidance, advice and employability are wide-ranging, significant and growing. Caryn will also ensure Student Services works closely with colleagues throughout the University and

particularly closely with our Students’ Union. Caryn currently holds a post in the Institute of education, which is expecting a major inspection by OFSTeD in the autumn. With this in mind, Caryn will be taking up her new responsibilities in a phased way and will remain with the Institute

until her successor is properly established in post.

HEAd EdUCATIONAl dEVElOpMENT UNITWill bowen-Jones

Will Bowen-Jones has been appointed to the post of Head of the University’s educational Development Unit (eDU). One of the central aspirations of the University, as expressed in our Strategic Plan 2012-18, is to be an outstanding University at which to study any and all of the subjects/courses we offer. The educational Development Unit will play a central role

in working with colleagues throughout the University to turn this aspiration into achievement.Will has been at the University of Worcester for 14 years. He is a Principal Lecturer in the Institute of Sport and exercise Science and latterly has served as the Associate Head of Institute (Quality Assurance, Learning & Teaching). In 2011, Will

was awarded a UW Senior Teaching Fellowship and he is a Fellow of the Higher education Academy.Will’s research focus in recent years has been on the evaluation of learning and teaching strategies which inform policy and practice. He led a University project, ‘Improving the Student experience through embedding Inclusive Policy

and Practice’ which has been widely disseminated at international as well as national conferences.

pROFESSOR OF pSYCHOlOGY ANd SOCIAl CHANGEprofessor Elizabeth peel

Professor Peel joins the University as Professor of Psychology and Social Change and brings a record of substantial research and achievement in a broad range of related topics.Professor David Green, the University’s Vice Chancellor said: “We are delighted to welcome Professor Peel to the University. She is a first-class researcher and university educator. Her work at the University will contribute to such crucial areas as tackling dementia, helping those suffering from diabetes and

promoting inclusion.”Professor Peel explains: “My background is in critical social psychology and critical health psychology. I’m primarily interested in two things – one is challenging psychology as a discipline and focusing on marginalised groups and the other is trying to effect positive social change for marginalised and vulnerable groups through my research.

“There have been two main themes within my research to date. One is around marginalised sexualities

– people who occupy non-heterosexual sexual identities

– and looking at how discrimination operates and affects people’s everyday lives, relationships and families.”Professor Peel continues: “The other is patients’ experiences of chronic illness in later life, especially with type 2 diabetes, and how they manage and come to terms with their condition.”In recent years, Professor Peel has also conducted research into dementia – specifically looking at the experience

of carers and how they communicate with people living with dementia, with the ultimate aim of improving the way in which people with dementia are communicated with and about.

news


loCal YoUnGsTers reCeive CYBer TraininG

Over 60 Year 8 and 9 students from across Herefordshire and

Worcestershire were present at the University of Worcester

Arena last month to learn more about cyber security.

The University staged the event as part of its regional partnership with STeMNeT – an organisation funded by BIS (the Government’s Department for Business, Innovation and Skills) which aims to create opportunities to inspire young people in Science, Technology, engineering and Mathematics (STeM).As the local contract holder, the University of Worcester works primarily with schools and colleges in the two counties to help young people and their teachers access a range of STeM enhancement and enrichment opportunities.STeMNeT IT project manager, Debbie Tunstall, explains: “We have 340 STEM ambassadors in the two counties, who are business volunteers that work to support young people with curriculum enhancement and career options around the STEM subjects.”Of last week’s event, which saw pupils from six schools take part in challenges and activities relating to cyber security, she adds: “This was the first event we have staged on cyber, and we did this in partnership with QinetiQ and e-skills (the national body for IT), and supported by local ambassadors from Hewlett

Packard and Key IQ.”STeM Ambassador Chris Clinton, from QinetiQ, explains: “QinetiQ is proud to support STEM activities as it is vitally important to encourage the younger generations into careers in Science, Engineering, Technology and Maths to ensure the UK is best placed to face the demands of a modern, technological work place.

“As a founding sponsor of the Cyber Security Challenge and in particular the Cyber Security Schools Challenge, QinetiQ is helping to inspire school children to pursue a career in Cyber Security in order to build a future workforce capable of countering the ever increasing cyber threat and ensuring the prosperity and security of the country. “Debbie Tunstall added: “The event was a great success and the feedback we had from pupils was excellent. We couldn’t run any of these activities however without our STEM ambassadors, from whom we receive great support.”

sUPPorTinG Tae kwon-do sTar in olYMPiCs Bid

A teenage Tae kwon-do star is receiving

sports science help from experts at the

University of Worcester as part of his bid to

compete at the 2016 Olympic Games.

Alex Dowson, who currently competes for england in the sport, is getting specialist fitness testing and nutritional advice, as part of the University’s Athlete Support Scheme, which has been supporting promising young athletes across a range of disciplines since 2010.The 17-year-old, from Crowle, near Worcester, said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for me to take my martial arts to another level and hopefully set me up for the Olympic Games.”Alex has been competing in the sport for around six years and in April won the British Championship for points fighting.

“I got into the sport through my older brother, who is also very good,” he said. “It’s something I really enjoy and I’m hoping that with this specialist support from the University I can get even better.”Alex, who will be joining the University as a student in September, is under going physiological and biomechanical testing with experts from the University’s Motion and Performance Centre, who will be giving him advice on training programmes, nutrition and fitness.Dr Dan eastough, Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Alex and to work with him and his coach to increase his fitness and skills and hopefully go on to become a world champion.”The Athlete Support Scheme provides sports science support for two to three promising young local athletes per year who are based within the West Midlands, Herefordshire or Worcestershire or attending a course at the University of Worcester. For more information email [email protected]

Alex Dowson with Dr Dan Eastough


news

UNIqUE STUdY HERAldS NEW ERA FOR RElIGIOUS EdUCATIONA unique study into the history of religious education broadcasting may help inform the way in which the subject is taught in schools.The research at the University of Worcester, funded by a £219,050 grant from the Leverhulme Trust, is set to uncover the history of religious broadcasting in the UK since 1920. In turn, resources and curriculum materials will be uncovered that will help revitalise the teaching of religious education. As well as evaluating the material that broadcasters make available to teachers, the study will examine reports from the BBC and independent producers on how their programmes have been used in schools. It will address the fundamental questions of how Re is taught and the part it plays in education and society.Professor David Green, said

“All of us at the University are truly delighted that this exciting study led by Dr Stephen Parker will be funded to the tune of nearly a quarter of a million pounds by the Leverhulme Trust. Dr Parker is an outstanding researcher and educationalist. This, his latest study, is sure to lead to a series of fascinating insights and publications which will serve society well.”There is a long-held view that Re is a Cinderella subject, under-resourced and neglected, says Dr Stephen Parker, senior lecturer in the University’s Institute of education, who is leading the study.

“Many of the coalition

government’s policies have had a direct and negative effect on religious education,” says Dr Parker whose acclaimed PhD thesis was on “Faith and the Home Front.” He cites as examples Re’s exclusion from the national curriculum review, the fact that it is not to be included in the new eBacc qualification, and that GCSe Re short courses are not counted in the proposed

‘performance 8’ measure for schools.

“Though RE has been compulsory since the 1944 Education Act, its place in the future of education has been made insecure,” he adds.

“The time for the review and an in-depth study of the history of RE broadcasting is very opportune. The RE community would welcome a positive affirmation of its place in the curriculum and an open dialogue about the best ways to reform the teaching and bring it up to date.”

UniversiTY TeaChinG fellowshiPs

Congratulations to the following colleagues who have been awarded University Teaching Fellowships.karen blackmore (Institute of education)Helen Corke (Institute of Sport & exercise Science)Glyn Harding (Institute of Sport & exercise Science)Tim Jones (Institute of Health & Society)Vanessa Jones (Institute of Sport & exercise Science)libby Symonds (Information and Learning Services)This is the largest number of teaching fellowships ever awarded in a single year and reflects both the excellent work being done by these colleagues and the overall development of outstanding education throughout the University.The inspiring teaching, course development and other educational work being done by these colleagues, and those with whom they work, is making a terrific contribution to realising these aims. In turn, the outcomes help our graduates to contribute to the University’s aim of making an outstanding contribution to the development of the region, whilst the scheme itself helps to meet our aim of being an outstanding university at which to be a member of staff.Many congratulations and thanks to Libby, Vanessa, Tim, Glyn, Helen and Karen and to all those colleagues who are working with them and who are contributing to the operation and success of the University’s Teaching Fellowship scheme.

Dr Stephen Parker with Professor David Green

ABOVE L-R: Karen Blackmore with Human Biology student Alana

RIGHT L-R: Vanessa Jones, Glyn Harding, Helen Corke and Libby Symonds


UniversiTY of worCesTer arena PlaYs hosT To sPanish BaskeTBall hoPefUls

The University of Worcester Arena has gained further international approval after hosting a group of young

Spanish basketball hopefuls.

The english Language Basketball camp was delivered by the University of Worcester in partnership with the Worcester Wolves and the Basketball Federation of Castilla y Leon in Spain.Thirty five students, all aged between 12 and 17, divided their time between the Arena, where they practiced basketball skills, and the St John’s campus, where they took classes to improve their english and gained accreditation from the British Council for english Language.The trip also afforded the students the chance to try different sports, but with the emphasis on basketball, one of the highlights of their stay was a friendly game against Worcester Wolves’ junior academy teams at the Arena.Further activities included day trips to the West Midlands Safari Park and Warwick Castle.As their stay in Worcester drew to a close, the Spanish coaches who

accompanied the students and led the training sessions confirmed they would be keen to return to the Arena and the city in the future.Raquel Romo, Assistant Coach of Perfumerias Avenida, said: “It is not easy to find a practice venue as good as the Arena, particularly when it is combined with the outstanding accommodation and facilities at the University of Worcester.”

“It is the best place that I have visited in my four years of basketball summer camps.”Javier Portela, Assistant Coach of Leganes, added: “The three-court capacity of the Arena allowed a large group such as ours to practice at the same time – it is one of the best places to practice basketball in the UK.”Paul James, University of Worcester and Worcester Wolves Director of Basketball, said: “This was the first time we have run the Spanish English language

basketball camp and it proved to be a great success.

“The Arena is a fantastic and ideal place to hold such an event. We hope to develop this programme further and grow it significantly from the thirty-five Spanish children who attended this year”. Mick Donovan, Head of the Institute for Sport & exercise Science, said: “The basketball and languages specialists from the University gave the youngsters a great experience.

“The camp emphasised another aspect of our ‘Learning Through Sport’ programme that we can build upon in the future.”

news

basketball Camp

desiGn sTUdenTs PoinT The waY for residenTsUniversity of Worcester graphic design students have been pointing the way for Upton-upon-Severn residents

after creating new directional signage and information boards for the market town.

Town Councillor Mike Ostick approached the University after seeing similar successful work exhibited in Malvern, and the students began working on the project in February.

The initial designs recently went on display for a public consultation at Upton’s Memorial Hall, and, after positive feedback was received from residents, the Town Partnership will now make a final decision on which work should be used.

Cllr Ostick explains: “The Town Partnership, Town Council and Tourism and Trade Association have agreed a positive marketing strategy for our town.

“New branding styles, signposting and signage are a key part of this. I’ve been very impressed with the innovative and well presented ideas that have come

forward, and many of these could be applied to our new marketing strategy.”

During the course of the project, the students maintained close links with Cllr Ostick – who was on-hand to offer feedback mid-way through the project – and they also visited London to analyse the capital’s ‘Legible London’ wayfinding system.

Second year student Megan Feeley says of her experiences: “At the start of this module I had a very basic understanding of information graphic design and wayfinding signage in general.

“The module has opened my eyes to this subject, and for me personally, signage will never go unnoticed again. I have found working on the module highly enjoyable and exciting, and I have formed an unexpected relationship with

wayfinding and information design.

“I now think that signage is beautiful if designed well.”


news

ParTner sTaff develoPMenT daY - hUGe sUCCessThe recent Partner Staff Development Day on 10 September proved a real success and demonstrated the commitment of our educational partners to delivering an outstanding student experience. Over 70 people, representing the majority of our partners delivering collaborative courses and link tutors, attended the day organised by Dr Sue Cuthbert, Head of Collaborative Programmes. The aim of the day was to provide an update on recent changes and, most importantly, to provide a forum for discussion, sharing of good practice and celebration of our partnership working. The programme included sessions on paperless admissions, LibGuides, the new University ethics Policy, lesson observation of He in College settings, and ‘Beating Cheating’ – a popular session led by Helen Corke and Annie Lambeth-Mansell from the Institute of Sport and exercise Science which took an innovative approach to exploring the priorities for staff and students

in understanding academic integrity – described as inspirational by participants. Sessions have been videoed and once edited will be available on the University’s partner website.

Partnerships and our collaborative provision continue to make a significant contribution to the University’s recruitment and widening participation, with over 2000 students studying collaborative courses in 2013 across 34 partner organisations. Sue was delighted to greet so many partner representatives; “this really demonstrated the enthusiasm of the University and its partners for delivering high quality collaborative courses. This shared commitment comes from the mutual desire to achieve the same ends – the best professionals, practitioners, skilled, knowledgeable and employable graduates in whatever discipline and place of study they have chosen.”

finanCe deParTMenTThe Finance Department have now moved to Woodbury – WB057 – and will be resuming the daily opening hours for staff of 2-3pm. If you require any of the following services, we would be grateful if you come within the times above and if possible, let us know beforehand so that we can ensure we deliver a prompt service.• Petty Cash• Cash Advances• Foreign currency requests• Car park permits• Card payment forms and cheques for

conferences etc. – Payment requests• Meal Vouchers• Stamps• Floats for events• Any other query which doesn’t fall

within any of the above.

news


NATIONAl RECOGNITION FOR UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER STUdENTA paramedic student has earned national recognition after

picking up a prestigious National Union of Students award.

Michael Anslow, a first-year Paramedic student, was nominated in the category of ‘Course Representative of the Year’ after displaying outstanding commitment to his course and colleagues.Michael, who is studying Pre-Hospital, Unscheduled and emergency Care, was shortlisted along with another two Course Representatives before being named as the overall winner at the award ceremony in Manchester.After returning to the University of Worcester, Michael said:

“It was amazing just to be nominated and to be shortlisted for the award, so to attend the ceremony and actually win was a surreal experience – I think I’m still in shock now!

“The other nominees were very worthy candidates – I believe another nominee actually stopped her course from being shut down, which is an amazing thing.”He added: “Given the standard of the competition, I was so surprised to actually win the award, but absolutely delighted.”Michael has now scooped four awards in recent months, after being awarded both the Student Academic Representative (StAR) of the Year for the Institute of Health and Society and the ‘100 Hours exceptional Attainment in Volunteering’ award from the Students’ Union.

He followed this up by being presented with the Worcester Award from the University. Vice Chancellor, Professor David Green, was keen to praise the 21 year-old.He said: “The University is absolutely delighted that Michael has won this award and it’s a tribute to Michael himself, all of his colleagues on the Pre-Hospital, Unscheduled and Emergency Care course and the Students’ Union, who have developed the structure and network of Course Representatives.

“It’s a great instance of the University working in close partnership with the Students’ Union and Michael is a brilliant example of everything a that Course Representative should be.”PHOTO: L to R: Sharon Hardwick (Lecturer, Allied Health Sciences), Professor David Green (University of Worcester Vice Chancellor), Michael Anslow, Sam Uppal (former VP Education, Worcester Students’ Union)

ExpERT GIVES TAlk ON JENNY lINdAn expert on the life and work of the Swedish opera singer Jenny lind delivered an informative talk

at The Infirmary, the University’s medical exhibition, on 20 July.

Arthur Candenquist, who travelled from Virginia USA, has devoted 40 years of research to Jenny Lind and his talk was richly illustrated by archives and photographs from his studies. Jenny Lind was one of the most highly regarded soprano opera singers of the 19th century. Though born in Stockholm, she later made england her home and spent the final years of her life at Wynd’s point on the Malvern Hills and is buried in Great Malvern cemetery. Jenny Lind was renowned for her charitable work across europe, especially for supporting the work of hospitals. In 1849 she left a ‘munificent gift’ of £840 towards the building of the Worcester Royal Infirmary’s beautiful chapel, which opened in 1851. Carol Bowsher, Learning and Access Officer at the University of Worcester, said: “We were delighted Arthur spent some

of his limited time in this country to share his enormous passion and knowledge with us. It seemed most fitting to have the talk in the chapel named after her.”In addition to giving the talk, Mr Candenquiest also donated a framed portrait of Jenny Lind by eduard Magnus, to hang permanently in the chapel. It was painted in the mid-1840s, just a few years prior to Lind’s benefit concert in College Hall, which raised funds for the chapel.

UniversiTY sTrenGThens links wiTh loCal forCeThe University of Worcester increased its links with West Mercia police

ahead of the new academic year – strengthening what is already a unique

collaboration.

The link-up sees the force use the University’s Crime Scene House to train their own Forensic Investigators.

The facility – based on the St John’s campus – which is used to replicate real-life scenarios for Forensic Science students during term time, was utilised to provide training to the force’s experienced Forensic team during the summer months.

Six members of the West Mercia team were in attendance for the latest training day and it is expected that all the force’s Forensic Investigators would attend similar events at the facility as part of a wider collaboration between the two organisations.

Kate Unwin, Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science and Biology, explains: “There were eight training days throughout the summer, giving the Forensic Investigators the chance to use Bluestar, a bloodstain reagent which is new to the force.

“Not only does this collaboration allow West Mercia Police to make use of our facilities, but events over the coming academic year will also provide our students with a great opportunity to interact with and learn from professionals.”

She continues: “The fact that our local force is so keen to work alongside us is recognition of the standard of the courses

we offer – and students are aware that the training they receive is exactly the same as that which the Forensic Investigators are going through.”

Wendy Watkins, Senior Forensic Investigator and Lead Trainer at West Mercia Police, adds: “It’s a great link-up for us as a force as it means our training is more accredited, and the collaboration also represents an amazing opportunity for students.

“The course here is led by professionals who have first-hand experience, and this, coupled with the facility that we are using today, allows students to experience real-world problems faced by the police.

“This ultimately means that we as a force are aware of the calibre of the course and therefore, the standard and employability of the students.

One second year student, Joe Butler, worked alongside the team at the latest training day, and

will now go on to produce a paper on the extended research into the Bluestar technology.

He says: “Getting published and knowing that the research will go on to help everyone that uses Bluestar in the future is obviously very exciting.

“The link-up is a fantastic opportunity – I’m able to network and build connections with Forensic Investigators, which could help me in the future, and this kind of research will ultimately contribute to the enhancement of the science, so it’s great to be a part of it.”

is CoMPassion aT The hearT of The CUrrenT nhs reforMs?

The Head of the Institute of Health and Society, Dr Jan Qualiiington, took part in a public debate last month on whether the primacy of compassion will be supported by current NHS reforms.

Panellists included Dr Jan Quallington, Worcester MP Robin Walker and Worcestershire Royal Hospital Chaplain, Reverend Dr David Southall.

Dr Jan Quallington spoke out publicly after the launch of the Francis Report Inquiry into the scandals in care standards at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust and welcomes an increased focus on compassion in the recruitment, training and education of nurses. She is also working in close liaison with local care providers and has constituted a Nursing Senate of nurse leaders to discuss how compassion can be better embedded within care provision in our region.

Dr Quallington, who has been a nurse for 30 years, said: “The Francis Report puts the patient back at the heart of care”.

“At the University of Worcester, we look for qualities such as kindness, common sense, emotional intelligence and compassion for others in our applicants. We assess their ability to communicate effectively and their values and behaviours when undertaking simulated nursing activities, such as feeding and washing patients, we also assess their sensitivity when discussing controversial issues with others.”


news


news

sTUdenTs To UnderTake Malvern hills rePTile researChA team of researchers from the University of Worcester’s Institute of Science and Environment will undertake potentially vital research looking at the future of the county’s reptiles this summer.

The numbers of adders, grass snakes and slow worms on the Malvern Hills are already in decline due to habitat loss, and recent anecdotal evidence suggests that pheasants released on nearby shooting estates are contributing to the problem.

Rory Dimond, who is studying a Bachelor of Science in Conservation ecology, will be working under the supervision of Dr Duncan Westbury and Dr Mike Wheeler to determine whether there is a direct link between the pheasants and the decreasing number of reptiles.

Dr Westbury explains: “The Malvern Hills provide excellent habitat for our native reptiles, but conditions are also good for the pheasants that manage to survive the shooting season.

“Around 35 million pheasants are released each year in the UK, and it is estimated that about 16% of these survive the shooting season, and that figure suggests that pheasants could be having an impact on our reptiles.”

The project will see the University team work in conjunction with Nigel Hand, a reptile ecologist at Central ecology, as they analyse pheasant scat (faeces) for reptile DNA.

Dr Westbury continues: “If a link between pheasants and our native reptiles can be demonstrated, a more detailed study is planned. This will then investigate whether pheasants are actually having a negative impact on reptile populations.”

Dr Wheeler, Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry and Genetics, adds: “The University has the facilities to undertake molecular studies of samples from the environment.

“Using similar techniques to those used in DNA fingerprinting, we can identify potential prey species of pheasants which will make an important contribution to understanding their ecology.”

The pilot project has enabled third year student Rory to take part in cutting edge research as part of the ‘earn as You Learn’ scheme.

Rory says: “As someone with a keen interest in reptile conservation, it’s exciting to be able to contribute to a real-life investigation into the impacts on their populations.

“The molecular ecology techniques I have been learning are fascinating and a great addition to what I have already gained from my course at the University of Worcester, particularly since the use of genetic analyses is growing in the field of ecological conservation.”

Rory DimondMidwiferY ConferenCe 2013Midwives and health leaders from across England converged on the University of Worcester last month for the 6th Annual birth Conference.

The conference - titled ‘Midwife led units: Simply the Best?’ - debated whether midwife-led units represent the best opportunity for women to have a straight-forward, normal birth and for midwives to be truly effective, independent practitioners.

The conference was chaired by the University of Worcester’s Professor Mary Nolan.

Professor Nolan, who is the country’s first Professor of Perinatal education, said: “Large scientific studies have conclusively shown that midwife-led units are the safest place for women who are at low-risk of complications during labour to give birth.

“The Government has pledged to give women the right to choose where they give birth. For women who do not want interventions during their labour – and for midwives who want to use the full range of their skills – midwife-led units provide the ideal environment for birth.”

Sarah Snow, Senior Lecturer and Lead Midwife at the University says that the realisation of such a unit in Worcestershire is not far away.

She explains: “A working party has been established between the Worcestershire Acute Hospital Trust, the University of Worcester, student midwives and service-users to help establish at least one midwife-led unit in the county in the near future.”

Professor Nolan believes that the feedback received from the conference - which was attended by well over 100 delegates, including heads of midwifery from around the country, practising midwives and student midwives –demonstrates the very strong desire in the profession to ensure that first class midwife led units are created throughout the UK.

“The feedback we received was excellent,” she says. “Women like midwife-led units because they are intimate, friendly, low-tech and give them the best opportunity to have a straightforward normal birth without unnecessary intervention. Midwives like midwife-led units because they enable them to support women throughout labour and tailor care to the woman’s individual preferences.”

Sarah Snow, Patti Paine, Professor Mary Nolan, Ethel Burns, Professor David Green, Cathy Atherton and Kate Taylor


news

TAlENTEd bASkETbAll plAYERS TO ATTENd ElITE TRAINING CAMp IN lITHUANIATwo Worcester business

students have been selected to

participate in the prestigious

European Adidas basketball

Summer Camp in lithuania.

The students will have the opportunity to improve their skills at the camp as a result of the strong partnership links between the University, the Worcester Wolves Basketball Club, the Lithuanian Sports University and the Lithuanian Basketball Federation. The experienced players, who are part of the University’s first team and both played for the Worcester Wolves British Basketball League team last season, jetted off to Kaunas, Lithuania on 3 July. They have been awarded £750 each from the University’s Scholarship Panel to support the funding for their participation in Lithuania.Kalil Irving, who has recently finished the first year of his Marketing course at the University, has been practicing the sport for 14 years. His skills enabled him to make the leap from a regular basketball player to the england International team. The 21-year-old player from Canterbury said: “I am elated that the University considered my application and awarded me the scholarship. I am looking forward to refining my personal basketball knowledge and individual skills.” Harry Turner, who is about to start the second year of his Business Management studies, is one of the University’s most promising student athletes. This is the second time he has been awarded a scholarship from the University to boost his professional sports development. The gifted player from Milton Keynes said: “Luckily, I was awarded the scholarship and I will be able to develop my basketball skills further. It is an excellent opportunity provided by Mick Donovan, Coach Paul James, the Worcester Wolves and the Lithuanian partners. I hope to improve and absorb as much information as possible during the camp.”

Paul James, Director of Basketball at the University and Head Coach of the Worcester Wolves, said: “A key part of the strategic vision of the partnership between the University and the Wolves is to support the best British young players in studying and playing, alongside challenging them when possible. This one month camp with some of Europe’s best coaches and young players will certainly do that and prepare them for the season ahead.”Mick Donovan, Head of the Institute of Sport & exercise Science added: “The University is recognised for its excellent partnership programmes with Lithuania and Spain, two of Europe’s basketball powers. By finding new ways to support student athletes, we firmly believe we are providing one of the best basketball experiences for university students in Europe. With the launch of the new women’s programme, we can create even more exciting opportunities.”Mindaugas Balciunas, Chancellor of the Lithuanian Sports University and Secretary General of the Lithuanian Basketball Federation, said: “We see that the University of Worcester operates a very good model for developing players. Once again, we are happy to support their vision and hard work.”

Kalil Irving and Harry Turner

UniversiTY To fUnd new PoliCe CoMMUniTY sUPPorT offiCersThe University and West Mercia Police have announced an innovative deal which will make the University and surrounding areas even safer for the beginning of the new academic year.The University, which is already ranked as one of the safest in the country according to the most recent Complete University Guide report, has now put plans in place to fund two new Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), who will be dedicated to crime prevention in and around University sites from September.The two new positions will complement and enhance the local police presence and will work closely with both West Mercia Police and the University security team. They will be based at the St John’s Campus and will also work at the City Campus, Riverside, The Hive, University Arena and University Park.Vice Chancellor David Green, says: “We are delighted to be further strengthening our already excellent relationship with West Mercia Police. We are deeply committed to crime prevention and making our community safer.”The officers will work shifts through seven days between the hours of 8am and midnight. The University will have input into the standard rota to ensure that the PCSOs are able to assist at important times, such as graduation week and arrivals weekend.


PerforManCe sUMMer sChoolsYoung aspiring actors took to the stage this summer at various performance summer schools. People aged 13 to 16 who were enthusiastic about a career in performing, producing or staging theatre were encouraged to attend a week of theatrical activities during August.

news

sTUdenT sTars on eUroPean sTaGeUniversity of Worcester students past and present played key roles as one

Midlands team excelled at a recent elite disability

sport event in paris.

The Sporting Club Albion (SCA) Powerchair football team finished third in the sport’s Champions Cup in the French capital last month, with Sports Coaching graduate Adam Crowle managing the side, which was captained by Sports Business Management student Chris Gordon.SCA is affiliated with Premier League club West Bromwich Albion, and Adam acts as the organisation’s Disability Development Officer, delivering a range of sporting opportunities to introduce disabled people to high level coaching and competitive sport.Of the recent tournament, he says:

“Chris and the rest of the team did really well. Our initial aim was to reach the quarter-finals, so to reach the semi-finals and win our third place play-off was a great achievement.

“Both the players and the coaches took a great deal from the experience – we played a couple of French teams about three years ago, and they were surprised by how much we’d improved this time around.”Powerchair sees teams of four players using power wheelchairs face each other on a basketball court. The sport was first played in France in the 1970s and is popular across europe, with the Champions Cup representing the

pinnacle of club competition.Chris, who is set to graduate later on this year, adds:

“The tournament went really well for us – especially given the tough draw we had. We went through the group stage unbeaten and managed to get past a really good Belgian side.

“We upped our game for that match and ran out 2-0 winners, but we couldn’t quite repeat that performance in the semi-final. We were heartbroken to go out after such a fantastic run, but we picked ourselves up and rallied to win our third-place play-off on penalties.”Chris’s travel and accommodation costs for the tournament were partly funded by a University of Worcester Scholarship, which also meant he was able to upgrade his playing chair

– something which he says he would have found ‘extremely difficult’ to fund independently.

Adam – whose role at Sporting Club Albion sees him work with disabled youngsters across the club’s local area – says he too has plenty of reasons to be grateful to the University of Worcester, after his passion for disability sport was nurtured during his Sports Coaching degree.

“My interest in disabled sport really developed and evolved during my final two years at Worcester,” he explains. “I took the Disability Coaching module and was able to gain some great knowledge and experience, and it’s thanks to Glyn Harding and his team that I was able to take this interest further.”

welCoMe nell!Many congratulations to Communications & Participation Press Officer, Sally Jones, and the Institute of Sport & exercise lecturer David Mycock on the safe arrival of their daughter Nell over the summer.Parents and baby are all doing well.


news

UniversiTY Praised for ‘innovaTive’ ProGressThe University of Worcester provides a ‘hugely innovative’ environment for its students, and is destined for an ‘exciting future’ according to the Chief Executive of the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA).

Alison Allden heads up the organisation, which acts as the official agency for the collection, analysis and dissemination of Higher education data – a resource which is used by universities and colleges, Government organisations and politicians and policy makers.

Ms Allden, who has been in the post for four years, visited the University last week, and met with Vice Chancellor David Green and Director of Information and Learning Services, Anne Hannaford.

She said: “Having had a look around the University, I’m so impressed by what I have seen - I think the University has been hugely innovative in its investment for students.

“The development of The Hive is absolutely fantastic and it is a wonderful building. I heard of the concept quite a few years ago, and now actually getting to visit for the first time, I saw a vibrant mix of ‘town and gown’ – a great way of getting the city and the University working together.”

The Hive – Britain’s first University and public library – recently celebrated its first birthday, with the unique venue having landed a host of awards since

being opened by Her Majesty The Queen in July 2012.

These include three awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Ms Allden admitted to being particularly struck by the building’s imaginative design.

“You see the gold roof and you think ‘this is a statement’, and that, for me, signals what an important development this is for the University and City of Worcester.

“I’m also hugely impressed by the work that must have had to be done to move the physical library, plus the services, into a new space, and refocus them. It clearly has resulted in a massive success.”

Ms Allden was also shown around the University’s other recent developments, including the Riverside building and the University Arena – the 2,000-seat sporting arena which is the first venue in the UK specifically designed to meet the needs of wheelchair athletes.

“That was very exciting,” she added. “It is incredible to think that what once was a car showroom is now a fabulous working space for students (Riverside), and the University Arena is inspirational, and again, a triumph

of innovative design.

“The way that the University has thought about these buildings as integral to its academic plans and the level of investment that has been made is very impressive.

“The University of Worcester is clearly one of high ambition, and in what is a very attractive historic city, has demonstrated a new and exciting future.”

Professor Green said: “We welcome many influential visitors representing leading national organisations to the University.

“We are delighted that, as the Chief Executive of the influential and internationally respected Higher Education Statistics Agency, Alison takes such a positive view of our work.”

sUMMer sChool GradUaTesStudents from the USA and Russia recently graduated from their University of Worcester summer schools.The Jenny Lind Chapel, situated on the City Campus, saw the groups of students from Ball State University (BSU), Indiana, and Russia’s Perm State National Research University come together as they said farewell to Worcester.It seems the city, which was bathed in sunshine throughout their visit, certainly made an impression on the international students.Catherine Hyde, International Development Officer, says: “The feedback from students this year has been wonderful – one American student told me that she had ‘fallen in love’ with Worcester!

“The Russian students were also thrilled with the city and their course, and both sets of students will go on to be ambassadors for the University of Worcester long into the future.”The social work summer school – subtitled ‘Sustaining Community Practice’ –allowed students from disciplines such as Social Work, Sociology, Law and Information Technology to engage in a wide range of seminars, and to learn and reflect on community practice in the UK and Russia, hearing from local practitioners and University experts.The BSU Worcester Summer School is now in its fourth year and the collaboration offers students the opportunity to visit places of cultural, artistic or historical significance while studying hard for university credits.

news


lECTURER RECOGNISEd IN INFlUENTIAl dEMENTIA CARE REpORTA University of Worcester lecturer has had her groundbreaking work in dementia

research recognised after being quoted in an influential parliamentary report.

‘Dementia does not Discriminate’ – a report produced by the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Dementia, released in August, looks at the experiences of black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAMe) communities in dealing with the condition.Dr Karan Jutlla, Senior Lecturer for the Association for Dementia Studies – based at the University of Worcester – has carried out extensive research in this area, and gave evidence to the group on the importance of person-centred dementia care, and developing that care through an understanding of the individual’s unique culture and history.She explains: “My PhD researched dementia care in the Sikh community, particularly exploring how personal histories and migration experiences

influenced perception and experiences of caring for a person with dementia.

“Since arriving at the University of Worcester, I have been delivering education and training around how to be culturally competent via a person-centred approach to dementia care.”It was through these channels that Dr Jutlla was invited to the House of Lords in March, to witness to those giving evidence to the APPG – a group made up of peers and MPs with an interest in dementia. During these discussions, Dr Jutlla shared her knowledge and suggestions to the APPG which have been subsequently shared in this report.The APPG meet several times a year to focus on specific issues affecting people living with the condition, as well as conducting an annual inquiry on a specific topic.

Despite public awareness of dementia increasing over recent years, the report points out that people from BAMe communities are being ‘failed by the system’, and Dr Jutlla is delighted that the issue has finally been brought into the national focus.

“It feels like it’s taken a while to get the issue on the agenda, and it’s been a constant effort,” she says. “I’m now just absolutely ecstatic that it has got to this stage.”The report makes seven recommendations, including facilitating an improvement of the knowledge and skills of healthcare staff around the issue of culturally-sensitive care.Dr Jutlla continues: “The recommendations are all quite straight-forward – there’s nothing new per se, but it’s giving out the correct message. It’s saying that we are going to meet the needs of people in BAMe

communities via a person-centred approach, looking at their cultural experiences as migrants.

“They acknowledge that there is a need to view these people as individuals, while still acknowledging that they have similar experiences. I like the message that it is sending out.”Dr Jutlla will now look to develop a number of projects based on the report’s recommendations - including advancing the cultural competency training already in development – while she is also working to evaluate the Alzheimer’s Society’s flagship ‘Connecting Communities’ project, which is aimed at improving dementia care among BAMe communities in eight London boroughs.

SUCCESSFUl EUROpEAN CHAMpIONSHIpSThe Chief Executive of goalball’s national governing body has praised the University of Worcester’s

‘excellent’ facilities and organisation after the St John’s campus played host to the European C Championships.The tournament was the first rung on the ladder towards qualification for the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics, with the top three teams from this tournament gaining promotion to europe’s B league, and keeping their 2016 Paralympic dreams alive.Despite a wonderful start, which saw Great Britain win their first eight

matches, the home side lost their final two fixtures to finish in an agonising fourth place and miss out on promotion.Russia, Portugal and Italy all made it through at Britain’s expense, but Goalball UK Chief executive Mike Reilly, said afterwards: “Despite the heartache, we are very pleased with the way the tournament ran and the excellent facilities at the University of Worcester.

“It is a fantastic campus and the staff and volunteers involved made all the teams and officials feel very welcome.”

STUdENTS AIM TO SpARk INTEREST IN THE NATURAl WORldGraphic Design students have been working alongside a children’s author on a project designed to encourage children’s engagement with nature.The students were asked to research and develop graphical solutions to help authors Gyles Morris and John Cook – of rural studies centre Naturebase – to create an activity book that would appeal to school age children.

The concept for the book came about in response to growing discussion linked to ‘nature deficit disorder’- a condition associated with British children losing touch with the natural world.

Author Gyles explains: “All of the recent research into children’s lifestyles points to the remarkable collapse of their engagement with nature and the huge reductions in time and growing restrictions on playing outdoors.

“Growing numbers of children are missing out on the real experiences of the natural world and the awe and wonder of being amongst trees, wildlife and landscapes.”

After spending time at the University and continually monitoring the students’ progress, Gyles and his team are now in the process of reviewing the various student submissions, and he believes that the link-up between Naturebase and the University has been successful.

He adds: “The collaboration between our rural studies centre and the Graphic Design & Multimedia course has been an exciting one and especially informative, with the project now ready to go to the next stage.”

Senior Lecturer in Design, Andy Stevenson, says that the project has been beneficial to his students in a number of ways.

“It’s been a great collaboration to undertake and Gyles’ workshop earlier in the year took the students out of the classroom and made them really think again about the value of their outdoor environment.”

MediCal MUseUM CeleBraTes firsT BirThdaYThe Infirmary – the medical museum based at City Campus – celebrated its first birthday last month with a special event delivered as part of the Worcester Festival.The venue, which was one of england’s oldest infirmaries, reopened as an interactive museum last year.

The ‘Birthdays and Memories’ event ran from between 13-15 August and offered visitors the opportunity to take historical hospital tours, viewing artefacts and exhibitions which chronicle the building’s past, and take part in a range of craft activities.

Carol Bowsher, the museum’s Learning and Access Officer, says: “It’s hard to believe that

we have been open for a year. Our first birthday celebrations proved to be fun for all the family.

“We put on our ever-popular behind the scenes historical guided hospital tours, and visitors could even try their hand at midwifery skills such as nappy changing – the traditional way.”

Laura Jones

BodYBUildinG TriUMPhFirst Year Tutor for the Institute of Humanities & Creative Arts, Laura Jones, celebrated a second place win this weekend at the UKBFF North east Championships bodybuilding competition. Laura, who is also a PhD Student and Disability and Dyslexia Support Worker placed second in the bodyfitness class, qualifying for the British Finals in Harrogate in October 19-20 2013.


news


UniversiTY welCoMes BUsiness rePorT findinGskey figures from the University of Worcester have welcomed a report from the Confederation of british Industry

(CbI), which has called for greater cooperation between Uk universities and businesses.

The report – ‘Tomorrow’s Growth’ – suggests that traditional university courses alone will not meet the growing demand for degree-level, technical skills in key areas such as manufacturing, construction, IT and engineering.The organisation, which is the UK’s biggest business group, also says that the higher education sector must work closely with businesses, giving students the opportunity to gain practical work experience alongside an academic qualification.Professor David Green, University of Worcester Vice Chancellor, reacted to the report, saying: “In recent years graduates from the University of Worcester have been amongst the most successful in the country in gaining employment after graduation.

“Much of this success is due to the high proportion of students taking up placements with employers as part of their course. This is a vital part of providing the highly skilled graduate workforce that the country needs.

“We entirely agree with the CBI that more students should have the opportunity to take a paid placement year with an employer as well as shorter placements. We urge employers in the region, large and small, to work with us to create these valuable opportunities which are proven to be a big help to participating businesses as well as to the students and future graduates.”Head of the Worcester Business School, Mark Richardson, adds: “We fully support the report’s findings, and at the University of Worcester, we already enjoy close relationships with both local and national businesses.

“Our students have the opportunities to take on work placements and participate in Earn as you Learn projects, giving them the chance to truly contribute to their chosen industry as they continue to study with us.

“It has always been our aim to produce graduates with the skills to make an immediate impact in the workplace, but also with the strategic thinking to be able

to contribute to their company’s long-term development.”Another issue raised by the report was the need for the Government and universities to address the 40 per cent drop in part-time undergraduate applicants since 2010/2011.Professor Green added: “The University of Worcester currently educates several thousand part time students. There are part-time study opportunities on 250 courses at the University of Worcester.

“This provides a terrific range of opportunities to earn highly valuable qualifications whilst continuing to work, bring up a family or both! Many part-time students can now also benefit from Government financial support.”

news


news

UniversiTY of worCesTer annoUnCes hosPiCe deClaraTionThe University of Worcester and St Richard’s Hospice today announced a

mutual declaration of Intent to develop a local Centre of Excellence for

palliative and End of life Care.

The University’s Vice Chancellor and Chief executive, Professor David Green, and Mark Jackson, Chief executive of the Worcestershire-based St Richard’s Hospice, signed the declaration at the 9th Annual Worcestershire Palliative Care Conference.

The agreement cements the relationship between the two organisations and articulates a commitment to develop a centre for best practice and research in palliative care and long term conditions. It will be a regional, national and international resource.

After signing the agreement, Professor Green said: “As people become terminally ill, approach death and die it is more important than ever that their care is sensitive and effective.

“The hospice movement in Britain is internationally renowned and respected for the brilliant work done by so many for those in their last months and days of life.

“The University is deeply committed to helping people realise their potential throughout their lives. We also recognise the importance of dignity in death and compassionate palliative care. This Centre will help us develop our work with our partners for the good of the people in this region and, we hope, many further afield.”

Mr Jackson added: “It’s an enormous privilege to work alongside such an enthusiastic and forward-thinking university.

“We’ve been linked with the Institute of Health and Society for a number of years now, and we have been working with Louise Jones, Strategic Lead for Health and Wellbeing and Dr Jan Quallington Head of the Institute of Health and Society about establishing a Centre of Excellence.”

This arrangement is only the second of its kind in the country. Mr. Jackson explains:

“This idea has already been established in the East Midlands between LOROS Hospice and De Montfort University, and

we are delighted to be able to set up this centre for the West Midlands region.”

Dr Jan Quallington, Head of the Institute of Health & Society, said: “We are delighted to be part of this innovative and valuable initiative. St Richard’s is already an outstanding care facility.

“The new centre will provide an opportunity to research and develop end of life care and to share this information with other partners and organisations locally and beyond. It will ensure the very best care and support for people who are nearing the end of their life.”

St Richard’s Hospice cares for patients and families in Worcestershire living with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, helping around 2,300 people every year.

David Green with Mark Jackson

UniversiTY of worCesTer Praised BY reGional healTh ChiefOne of the region’s key healthcare education figures has praised the University of Worcester for its forward-thinking and modern approach.Professor Janice Stevens CBe, Managing Director of Health education West Midlands, met with key figures from the University, including Vice Chancellor Professor David Green, Head of the Institute of Health & Society, Dr Jan Quallington, Robert Dudley, Head of Nursing and Paramedic Science, and Jane Perry - Head of Applied Professional Studies last month.Professor Stevens was taken on a tour of the University, before discussing the future of healthcare education in the region.She said: “This is my first visit to the University of Worcester and I’m really impressed. The University has successfully managed to retain the history and legacy of the city and the University through areas like the Infirmary Museum, but at the same time it is looking to the future through its creative, interactive and community-spirited strategy.

“Projects like The Hive, which provide a learning environment for university students and the local community, embrace the important features required to enhance education opportunities for all.She added: “The University has struck a fine balance, and has clearly got an eye on the future. It is looking to be progressive and is doing some phenomenal work.”Professor Stevens’ organisation commissions education and development for all NHS staff in the region, ensuring that they are able to meet the challenges of modern healthcare and provide the best possible patient care.

news


oPen evenTs: sePTeMBer 2013

Saturday 21 September, 10am-3pm: Open DaySunday 22 September, 10am-3pm: Open DayFor further details please contact the Events Team on 01905 542276

enThUsiasM Grows for enGland’s arena showdown

Ticket sales for the netball

international between England

and South Africa at the

University of Worcester Arena

have passed the 1,000 mark.

The fixture, the third game in a three-match series between the two nations, will take place on Friday 27 September, and the prospect of a sold-out University Arena looks likely.The series will begin in Bath on 22 September, with the second match to be staged at London’s Wembley Arena before the teams arrive at Worcester’s new, purpose built 2000-seat arena for the climax of what promises to be a high quality contest.Current rankings see england third in the world – behind Australia and New Zealand, with South Africa ranked a further three places back in sixth.Mick Donovan, Head of the University’s Institute of Sport & exercise Science, says: “We are delighted that the people of Worcester have shown such enthusiasm for the fixture, and we are looking forward to seeing a great crowd getting behind England at the University of Worcester Arena.

“Following the success of the Netball Superleague Grand Final, which was held here in May, we are thrilled to host such a prestigious international event.

“Within our vision for the University of Worcester Arena, netball has always been one of our focus sports. We look forward to welcoming netball fans once again to our city and University.”

Speaking about the match against South Africa, england Netball’s Performance Competitions Manager, Mike Watson, said: “We are delighted to return to the first class University of Worcester Arena, after the success of the Netball Superleague Grand Final.

“The feedback from the players, coaches and spectators was excellent. This made the decision to return for an International Netball Test this September a very easy one to make.

“The netball family in Worcester really turned out in force in May, and we’d love them to unite behind the England team against very tough opponents. We are asking all supporters to Unite in Red - wear something red and show your true colours to will our girls on.”To purchase england versus South Africa International Series tickets visit http://www.worcester.ac.uk/discover/arena-whats-on.html or call the Ticket Sales Hotline on 0844 888 9991.

EdINbURGH FRINGE FESTIVAl

Four students performed their interactive show Limbo to large international audiences last month at the world’s biggest arts festival, The edinburgh Fringe.Rob Brittain, Vicki Stokes, Richard Wishart and Samantha Franklin were each granted a Scholarship of £500 to stage their work at the Festival.The four students met on the Masters course, ‘Contemporary Theatre Performance’, and formed the theatre company Chandelier Horse.They performed their 12-hour production, Limbo, to thousands of spectators who were able to take part in the interactive show. Rob, Vicki, Richard and Samantha portrayed ‘occupants’ trapped inside a large box fighting it out for the audience’s love and attention to become an “overnight” celebrity. During this time they were challenged by a series of tasks dictated by audience members. But as exhaustion set in, how willing were they to flatter the voyeuristic viewing public with their antics?Describing the installation piece, Rob Brittain said: “Limbo questions not only the nature of celebrity and the way it’s portrayed, packaged and perceived but also how we mark the passing of our own time.”Commenting on the scholarship, Rob added: “The scholarship gave us an advantage and the ability to perform our work at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival to thousands of spectators and potential funders, producers and theatre critics. We are incredibly grateful for such a significant contribution, which has enabled the performance to become fully realised.”


news

STUdENT MENTORS ENSURE SCHOOl SUMMER HOlIdAYS GO WITH A bANGUniversity student mentors

ensured that there was

plenty for the area’s young

people to do during their

summer holidays by leading

a number of fun and diverse

activities at University

venues.

The Summer Programme offered workshops on dance, performing arts, puppet making, comic book drawing, and glass painting, amongst others, at both The Hive and the University’s Riverside building.In addition, the University worked in partnership with My Big Adventure (MBA), a social enterprise project which aims to give young people adventurous opportunities designed to raise their aspirations. This involved young people going caving, canoeing and climbing, both locally and also at the Forest of Dean and Symonds Yat.Kate Thackeray, Lecturer in Youth and Community Studies and the leader of the Summer Programme project, was delighted with the response from both the young people and the student mentors.She says: “Whilst engaging in these activities, the young people had the opportunity to build positive relationships with our mentors, who shared their knowledge, skills and enthusiasm for each activity.

“Many of these activities related directly to their undergraduate studies, which again gave the young people an insight into how broad the opportunities in Higher Education can be.”One student mentor, Fine Art student Hannah Maxfield, adds:

“The young people seemed to benefit greatly from the activities, and it gave us as mentors a great chance to build relationships with them and

help fuel conversations about their schools and their hopes for further education.”The University also linked up with other partner organisations to offer workshops in DJing and cheerleading, and after receiving positive feedback, the intention is now to grow the project.Kate Thackeray continues: “The programme has been a success not only for the young people involved, but also for the mentors and staff at The Hive, Riverside and MBA. Young people have had a shared learning experience that we intend to build on.

“Over the coming months, we will be offering clubs and workshops after school and at weekends, in order to support young people in developing their skills and knowledge both in terms of their academic studies and their other interests.”She adds: “Students mentors are keen to be involved in the future, and the project gives them a valuable work opportunity that strengthens their employability and core skills for the future labour market.

“Based on what we have learnt from this first year, we are keen to start planning for next summer and potentially looking at offering a similar programme for the school and college holidays during the autumn and spring.”

UNIVERSITY EMplOYS RECORd NUMbER OF VACATION RESEARCH ASSISTANTSThe University of Worcester has employed a record number of Vacation Research Assistants this year, giving fifteen students the opportunity to be involved in live research projects. The scheme, now in its third year, provides students with the opportunity to work alongside experienced researchers on engaging, cutting-edge projects over the summer period. Projects on which students are employed this year include: a study seeking to understand cancer progression at a cellular level which may contribute to the fight against the disease; an examination of the impact of water abstraction on the ecology of rivers and streams in conjunction with the environment Agency which will ultimately inform government policy; and an investigation of women’s experiences of evacuation in Worcestershire during World War Two, drawing on evidence from archives in The Hive. The Vacation Research Assistantship Scheme is one of the many ways in which the University is helping students to earn while they learn. 19 out of 20 Worcester graduates currently find employment within 6 months of graduating. If you want to know more about the scheme please contact Charlotte Wasilewski on telephone 01905 542181 or email [email protected]


news

GB sTar on CoUnTdown To worCesTer 2015

The countdown is on for one of the most high profile international sporting events ever to be staged in Worcester, and one man likely to be at the centre of the action admits that it is already an exciting prospect.The University of Worcester Arena will host the 2015 european Wheelchair Basketball Championships, and has recently taken on the mantle of host city following the completion of the 2013 tournament, which was held in Frankfurt.That competition finished in glorious triumph for Great Britain – the men’s team edged a tense final against Turkey to claim gold, while the women comfortably defeated France in their bronze medal match.Both British teams are sure to be among the favourites going into Worcester 2015, and Kyle Marsh – one member of the team which triumphed in Frankfurt – believes that the support and enthusiasm of a home crowd, coupled with the impressive surroundings of the University Arena, will only help his side as they bid to retain their title.

“The fact that the 2015 European Championships are being held in Worcester is really important to get people in this country behind this

great sport,” he explains.“I have been to the University

Arena and I like it a lot – it’s one of the best facilities we have played in, it is well-equipped and it has all the things needed to be considered a world-class venue.”As well as being the host venue for the 2015 european Championships, the University Arena will serve as the training base for the Great Britain men’s team in the lead up to future major competitions, including the Rio 2016 Paralympics.After the tremendous exposure given to disabled sports at the London 2012 Paralympics, Marsh is now hopeful that the University Arena can play its part in increasing both the sport’s popularity and British success.

“The sport is growing, both in terms of participation and the amount of people wanting to watch the sport, mainly due to the extra coverage it received during the Paralympics,” he says.

“The University Arena can help this in terms of grass roots development all the way through to the Great Britain senior teams – it will be a central venue for the GB team, a home from home for us as we look to train and prepare for future tournaments.”

enGland sTars aid CriCkeT sTUdenTs’ develoPMenTThe women’s cricket teams of both england and Australia spent the summer months locked in battle over The Ashes tournament. Their progress was keenly followed by one set of University of Worcester students.england all-rounder Jenny Gunn and off-spinner Danni Hazell spent time with BSc (Hons) Cricket Coaching and Management students earlier this year, demonstrating training drills and practice routines used at international level.This visit was organised in conjunction with Worcestershire Cricket, particularly Cricket Development Coach and University of Worcester graduate, Katie Blunt.Course Leader Kelvin Beeching explains: “We welcomed both Jenny and Danni to the University earlier this year and they were able to pass on their knowledge and experience from the world of professional sport, which really benefited our students.”One student that has already experienced cricket on the biggest stage is David Millward, who begins his second year at the University in September.David worked as a volunteer throughout the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy – one of the highest profile events in international cricket – which was held at three stadiums across england and Wales during the early summer months.He says: “We were encouraged to apply through the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) website, and I was lucky enough to be shortlisted for interview and then selected.”David says that the opportunity to experience diverse modules including Sports Coaching, Management and Marketing at the University of Worcester helped to develop both his confidence and ability to work at one of the sport’s premier events.

“The nature of the modules available gave me the opportunity to develop my knowledge of a number of different areas, but coaching is something I am still very interested in,” he says.

“In that respect, it was great to be able to learn from Jenny and Danni when they came in.

“They’ve obviously experienced cricket at the highest level, so they knew exactly what they were talking about and the drills were very organised. I’m delighted that England have regained the urn.”

David Millward


news

FUNdRAISING CYClISTS HEAp pRAISE ON UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER ARENA

A director of a leading disability charity has praised the University of

Worcester Arena as a ‘fantastic’ example of an inclusive sporting venue.

Nick Goldup was one of three cyclists, all representing the Whizz-Kidz charity, who stopped off at the University of Worcester Arena on day four of their Land’s end to John O Groats fundraising cycle ride last month.Mr Goldup and fellow cyclists Rahul Moodgal and Denis Ball were met at the University Arena by Vice Chancellor, Professor David Green; the University’s Head of Recreation and Sport Strategy, Susie Hart; and Councillor Pat Agar, Mayor of Worcester.The fundraising trio are cycling the famous route to raise £250,000 to buy 150 adapted trikes for disabled youngsters, and were keen to see the new University Arena, which has been purpose-built to host both able-bodied and disabled elite sport.After being shown around the venue, Mr Goldup said: “It’s a fantastic development. The amount of thought and effort that has gone into the University Arena is incredible.

“As you walk around the facilities, the thing that strikes you is just how flexible the University Arena is. You look at the changing rooms and notice immediately the amount of thought that went into making them truly accessible for wheelchair users.”

“It gives people the opportunity to not only play sport, but to do it easily – there are no barriers here, it’s just fantastic.”The charity – which is focused on helping disabled children to lead full, independent lives – is looking to build on the phenomenal success of last year’s London 2012 Paralympics, which brought disabled sport to the nation’s attention like never before.Mr Goldup added: “Whizz-Kidz wants to ensure the lasting legacy of the Games, which is why we’re using our challenge to seek out fantastic sporting facilities like the University of Worcester Arena.

“During our ‘Bikes for Tries’ challenge, we’re looking to raise as much money as possible so that 150 disabled children are given the independence and exercise they need with specialist trikes.

“With the right mobility and equipment, young people can take part I sport and play with their friends and families, and some may even aspire to be a future Paralympian.”Professor Green was delighted to meet the charity representatives, saying: “The new University of Worcester Arena is designed to be exceptionally inclusive. At the University of Worcester, we believe that sport should be for everyone, which is why we offer the country’s first disability sports coaching degree.

“The University Arena has already proved incredibly popular with wheelchair athletes, and we were delighted to welcome the representatives of Whizz-Kidz, who work so hard to create opportunities for disabled people.”

sMoke freea healThier CaMPUsAs part of the University’s Fit for Life programme, it has been agreed that the Riverside campus is, from 3 September, a smoke free campus. This includes the Riverside building, the University of Worcester Arena, The Garage, and all University owned ground, including the car parks.There is to be no smoking on the Riverside campus and there will be no designated smoking area provided at this campus. Simultaneously the University is re-launching, as part of our general health and wellbeing policy, a “smoke free, breathe easy campaign”. Key aspects of this campaign include offering smoking cessation advice and support to all members of the University who seek it and confining smoking at the St John’s and City campuses to designated smoking areas only.Louise Jones the University’s strategic director for Health and Wellbeing is leading this campaign and will be very happy to help colleagues engaged with health promotion work.The intention of the University is that all the sites of the University will in due course become smoke free. The University executive will be reviewing the experience of the campaign in a few months’ time and colleagues will be informed of the results after the review has been completed.For further details, visit: www.worcester.ac.uk/smokefree


news

UniversiTY of worCesTer leCTUrer CoMPleTes MaraThon ChallenGeA University of Worcester Professor completed her fifth marathon challenge last month as she aims to put her best foot forward – in more ways than one – in the fight against dementia.

Professor elizabeth Peel is a Professor of Psychology and Social Change at the University’s Institute of Health and Society, and after her own family was touched by dementia, she has conducted research into the disease over the past three years.

After arriving on campus earlier this month, she will work to continue and develop this research alongside the University of Worcester’s influential Association for Dementia Studies.

However, she has recently stepped out from her office and into her running shoes to complete five marathons in three months to raise money and awareness for the charity Young Dementia UK, having taken up running just two years ago.

On her marathon journey, which started with the 26.2 miles in Worcester back in April, she says: “Originally I was only going to do one marathon – in Edinburgh – but it’s kind of snowballed from there.

“I did the Worcester Marathon with a friend of mine and then I completed the Stratford

Marathon a fortnight later. I ended up going to Edinburgh and running a personal best time, and decided to do two more – Coombe Abbey in Coventry and Tenby.”

Professor Peel is now closing in on her fundraising goal of £3,000 as she bids to support the charity that helps and supports people such as her father, who passed away from Alzheimer’s Disease last year at the age of just 66.

“My dad was 44 when he started to experience memory problems and 56 when he was formally diagnosed. Anyone under the age of 65 is classed as ‘young’ in terms of dementia,” she explains. “Young Dementia UK is a relatively small charity, but they do brilliant work in terms of supporting younger people living with dementia and their families.

“There are around 64,000 people in the UK living with younger onset dementia

– a small minority of the total number of dementia sufferers but a significant number, and a number that is growing all the time.

“The charity’s work is so important because these people are so often overlooked as their needs are different. They almost face reverse ageism – there are all sorts of cultural stereotypes and assumptions about dementia and services are geared up for much older people,” she continues.

“Young Dementia UK is such a brilliant charity because it stops younger people and their families from falling through the cracks and ensures they get the support they need.”

Professor Elizabeth Peel prepares for 26.2 miles

YoUnGsTers To enGaGe in PoliTiCal deBaTeYoung people interested in politics were invited to take part in a ‘Your Questions’ debate hosted by Haybridge High School and Sixth Form in Hagley last month. Designed to encourage young people into politics, the debate gave both students and people from the region an opportunity to engage in discussions about the issues affecting our society.Panellists included the University of Worcester’s Vice Chancellor, Professor David Green; former Home Secretary, The Right Honourable Jacqui Smith; Councillor Liz eyre of Worcestershire’s Children’s Services; Councillor Rachel Jenkins of Clent Hills; and Sajid Javid MP of Bromsgrove Conservative Party. Speaking before the event, Professor David Green, said: “I am delighted to be taking part in this event. The more we can get young people involved in informed discussion, the deeper the benefits of a strong, vibrant democracy. All sections of society need to be involved in shaping the future of the country – and it is particularly important that our young people are fully engaged. I very much welcome this imaginative initiative by Haybridge High.”event organiser, Michael Conroy Harris, Community Projects Coordinator at Haybridge High School and Sixth Form, said: “Schools have to play their part in igniting enthusiasm amongst their young people about what’s happening in the world. When you are able to host an event like this, in a great venue like Haybridge, with participation from students, families and the local community, it makes you optimistic about what can be achieved.”

news & views september 2013

Documents

countingthe hive

visitsthe hive

new public library

public library services

public library membership

library usage

guardian university

outstanding library