InsideBUOctober 2014

[Heading One] Contents Page

Page 3: BU in the Spotlight

Pages 4 – 5: News from around BU

Page 6: Meet your new SUBU team

Page 7: sportBU

Page 8: Welcome to the BioDome

Page 9: Why placements work

Page 10 – 11: Graduation and Vice-Chancellor Staff Awards

Page 12: Research round-up

Page 13: Bright people. Bright futures: Postgraduate study

Page 14: Health, safety and wellbeing

Page 15: We meet…James Stevens and Abiola Shobande

Page 16: New to BU

Page 17: By day, by night – Colin Paterson

Page 18: BU in the news

Page 19: Dates for your diary

[Heading Two] Welcome from John Vinney, Vice-ChancellorWelcome to the October issue of InsideBU – the magazine that keeps BU’s

community of students and staff up to date with what’s going on around the

university.

We have another exciting and busy year ahead of us and I’d like to take this

opportunity to welcome new students and staff, as well as those who are continuing

their journey with us.

We kick off the year by celebrating the outstanding achievements of our students at

the Graduation Ceremonies. It’s a fantastic week where our graduates see their hard

work recognised and have the chance to share the day with friends, family and the

staff who supported them through their time at university. You can read more about

the ceremonies on page 10.

It’s been a busy summer for BU researchers, who have been working on an array of

topics from women in politics to global environmental solutions. Find out more about

some of the fascinating knowledge exchange and funded research projects taking

place on page 12.

As always, there is a lot going on around the university and I encourage you to share

your stories and successes at insidebu@bournemouth.ac.uk.

[Heading Three] BU in the Spotlight

[Standfirst] Dr Sarah Bate’s extensive public affairs activity has made impressive

steps in raising awareness of prosopagnosia.

[Body] Dr Sarah Bate researches prosopagnosia or ‘face blindness’, the inability to

recognise faces. Until the last decade it was thought the disorder was very rare,

acquired following a brain injury. We now know that 2% of the population is born with

a developmental form of the condition.

Prosogapnosia can vary depending on severity. Some sufferers struggle to put a

name to a face whereas others simply cannot recognise people they have known

their whole lives. In extreme cases people can withdraw socially, become depressed

or leave their jobs.

Sarah has led an outreach programme, striving for formal definition and classification

of prosopagnosia and increased awareness of the condition. The campaign enjoyed

considerable success over the summer with NHS Choices formally recognising

prosopagnosia by adding it to its A-Z of conditions.

This milestone was a result of Sarah’s on-going conversations with policy makers.

Local MPs have asked questions in Parliament on her behalf and tabled two Early

Day Motions. Minister of State for Care and Support Norman Lamb MP committed to

adding prosopagnosia to NHS Choices last year.

Sarah recently hosted a roundtable event at the House of Commons with Tobias

Ellwood, Bournemouth East MP and Parliamentary Private Secretary to the

Secretary of State for Health. Together they called for measures to raise awareness

of prosopagnosia, especially in schools, workplaces and the healthcare system. Mr

Ellwood MP has since written to the Offices for Health and Education.

“This support from our local MPs has been wonderful and really helps our

campaign,” explains Sarah.

“Prosopagnosia being formally recognised by the NHS is a really important step and

puts us in a much better position to tackle our next goals.

“Prosopagnosia is a very challenging condition. People experience social isolation,

often leading to depression and other difficulties. Ideally we think prosopagnosia

should be covered in GP training, teacher training and in school special needs

provision.

“Only then will people really get the recognition and support they so desperately

need.”

The NHS Choices information is informed by Dr Bate’s work and links to BU’s Centre

for Face Processing Disorders website - prosopagnosiaresearch.org/.

[Heading Four] News in Brief

[Subheading] Eating and Drinking at BUBU offers students and staff a wide range of eating and drinking options. Whether

you’re looking for something quick to have on the go, or have the time to relax with

something more substantial, you’ll be able to find what you’re after at one of the

many eateries available on both campuses.

BU is committed to Fairtrade and sustainability, whilst also providing healthy food by

refining cooking techniques and minimising unhealthy ingredients. If you’re looking

for a place to eat or drink at Talbot or Lansdowne, there are a number of options:

Talbot Campus• Starbucks in the Atrium

• Dylan’s

• The Loft

• The Retreat

• The Refectory in Poole House

• Costa Cafe in Weymouth House

• Starbucks in The Sir Michael Cobham Library

Lansdowne Campus• Caffé Liscio and The Market Place in the EBC

• Costa Coffee in Studland House

• Deli Marche in Bournemouth House

[Sub-heading] BU Retains Gold Environment AwardBU has retained its EcoCampus Gold Award, recognising the university’s continued

commitment to managing and reducing its environmental impact.

EcoCampus is a national environmental management system programme and award

scheme for the further and higher education sector. It encourages, rewards, and

provides universities with the tools necessary to help them move towards

environmental sustainability.

“We’re delighted that BU’s promise to manage our environmental impact has again

been recognised through the Eco Campus System,” says Stephen Jones, Head of

Facilities Management. “It’s important that the university takes this responsibility

seriously and that we can demonstrate it openly across all areas of the institution.’’

[Sub-heading] National Student SurveyBU held its position in the National Student Survey (NSS) earlier this year, with an

overall student satisfaction score of 80%. This is in comparison to the sector average

of 86%.

The NSS is an annual survey which gives all final year students across the country

the chance to rate their university, and the results feed into several league tables.

Work is now underway to help bring BU in line with the Higher Education sector

average.

[Sub-heading] New space for Centre for Excellence in LearningBU’s Centre for Excellence in Learning (CEL) was launched earlier this year with the

aim of bringing renewed energy, enthusiasm and talent in teaching to enhance the

student learning experience.

A new learning space is now open in Poole House (PG30a), which will host a wide

variety of CEL activities for both students and staff. This will include workshops,

seminars, presentations, drop-in sessions and meetings.

To find out more about the events running throughout the year, head to the News

and Events page at: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/cel.

[Sub-heading] Research and Knowledge Exchange Office (RKEO)

RKEO has recently been restructured to make sure the team is as effective and well

equipped as possible in supporting academics with research and knowledge

exchange activity.

Following a BU-wide staff consultation held earlier this year, some significant

changes have been made to the department’s structure, which is now grouped into

three teams.

[Sub-heading] Funding Development TeamThis team offers support and advice with all pre-award activities, such as horizon

scanning, identifying funding opportunities and developing and submitting proposals.

[Sub-heading] Project Delivery TeamThis team manages all post-award activities, including project and financial

management of grants and contracts.

[Sub-heading] Knowledge Exchange and Impact TeamSupport and advice is offered for all knowledge exchange corporate-level initiatives,

including business engagement, the Festival of Learning, research communications

and societal impact.

[Sub-heading] 222 - BU’s Emergency NumberAt BU we are committed to keeping students and staff as safe as possible when on

campus.

In the event of an emergency or serious incident at either the Talbot or Lansdowne

campus, use BU’s emergency number. It’s 222 if dialling from an internal phone, or

01202 962222 if calling from a mobile.

Calls go straight through to the main switchboard and take priority over other calls in

the queuing system. Using these numbers means the reception team can direct the

emergency services to the nearest entrance of the correct building, saving vital time.

[Heading Five] Meet your new SUBU team

[Standfirst] InsideBU meets the new Sabbatical Officers for the Students’ Union at

Bournemouth University.

[Sub-heading] Chloe Schendel-Wilson, PresidentAs President, it’s my job to represent the student body and let people know what’s in

the best interest of students – whether that’s at top-level university meetings, or

speaking to residents in the local area. I also head up the Activities Council which

decides how to get students involved and give them the best experience when it

comes to clubs and societies, volunteering and Raising And Giving (RAG).

You can find me, Reece and Ellie in the SUBU office above Dylan’s in Poole House.

We also encourage students to use our ideas section at www.subu.org.uk/ideas,

so you can let us know what the main issues are for you as a BU student.

[Sub-heading] Ellie Mayo-Ward, Vice-President EducationAs the Vice-President for Education, it’s my job to work closely with students,

representatives and BU staff members to ensure the academic experience is the

best it can be. I’ll be working to ensure university policy is relevant to students and

allowing students to help shape their courses and the academic environment.

During my Psychology degree, I became involved in SUBU as a student rep. Last

year I was also a school rep sitting on the education council looking at how we could improve the overall BU experience for students.

[Sub-heading] Reece Pope, Vice-President WelfareMy role within SUBU is to ensure the welfare of all students at BU is upheld. As well

as looking at the general well-being, I also focus on areas around liberation, diversity

and equal opportunities. I work closely with SUBU Advice and the Student Support

Services to represent any issues that students may face whilst at BU and bring them

to the attention of the university.

If you have any issues please do not hesitate to visit the SUBU offices, or feel free to

pop into SUBU Advice.

[Sub-heading] Peter Briant, Vice-President LansdowneAs the new SUBU Vice-President for Lansdowne Campus, my primary aim is to look

after the students of the campus, including those who live in halls of residence. So if

you’re a student based at Lansdowne and there’s anything you need help with, let

me know. If you ever want to come and have a chat, my office is on the ground floor

of Studland House.

I’ve just finished a degree in Sports Management and was actively involved with

SUBU for the four years of my study. This included being a student rep and also a

project leader for volunteering.

[Heading Six] SportBU – Online and mobile[Standfirst] ‘Being mobile’ has new meaning for sportBU this autumn, as the team

launches a new mobile friendly website and function on online and mobile the iBU

mobile app.

[Body] Team sports, exercise and fitness can be an important and fun part of the

university experience for many students. They are also great for staff, and contribute

to wellbeing in the workplace.

From this autumn, staff and students will be able to view the group fitness class

timetables, book classes, check availability for facilities and purchase membership

via iBU or the new website.

You can also follow @sportBU on Twitter to keep up to date with the weekly results

from our brilliant varsity teams, as well as other news and events.

SportBU facilities, activities and programmes run throughout the week to ensure

there is something for everyone.

[Sub-heading] Facilities• Fully equipped, state-of-the-art gym

• Two large dance and activity studios

• Sports hall with four badminton courts

• Three fully equipped treatment and rehabilitation rooms

• High performance training suite

• Dedicated spin studio

• Two all-weather 3G astro pitches

• Changing rooms and lockers.

[Sub-heading] MembershipMembership packages for students and staff offer excellent value for money and

provide unlimited entry to the gym, bookings on the Group Fitness classes (up to 50

per week) and access to over 15 social sport sessions each week.

[Sub-heading] Free Your FitnessSportBU aims to get as many people as possible participating in sports and

activities. One way this is achieved is through the Free Your Fitness scheme, funded

by Sport England. It’s open to all BU staff and students and provides exciting new

sporting opportunities in activities ranging from volleyball and golf, to kite surfing and

skiing.

[Sub-heading] Competitive sportAs well as sport and fitness on a social level, there are opportunities for staff and

students to play sport at a more competitive level. These range from Inter-BU

leagues in sports such as football and netball to varsity fixtures for students to

represent BU in their chosen sport against other universities.

[Sub-heading] Varsity sportThe sportBU varsity programme consists of over 40 teams and individuals competing

in the British Universities and Colleges Sports league. BU has had a very successful

year and we are currently ranked 30th out of 165 institutes.

[Sub-heading] Health and rehabilitationThe Health and Rehabilitation services offered by sportBU allow everyone access to

chiropractor and sports massage treatments to relieve general aches, pains or

injuries. The team can also provide gym programmes and health checks for all users

to set goals, improve performance and monitor their health.

[Sub-heading] Sports campsOn top of the various sports, activities and classes for students and staff, sportBU

run holiday Sports Camps for children aged 8-14 years. This is a fantastic

programme that allows children to be active and learn new skills and sports,

providing fun and varied activities whilst parents are at work.

To find out more, visit www.bournemouth.ac.uk/sportbu or download the iBU mobile

app, available from the Apple App Store, Googleplay and Blackberry Store. You can

visit the team at Talbot Campus or call them on 01202 965012.

[Heading Seven] Welcome to the BioDome

[Standfirst] If you have spent time exploring BU’s Talbot Campus then you will be

aware of the white dome sitting behind Kimmeridge House. It has echoes of the

Crystal Maze Dome from the popular 90s television programme – but BU’s BioDome

holds so much more than fluttering foil paper.

[Body] The Biodome provides a year-round controlled climate so research can be

carried out, and offers a permanent base for students and staff to conduct

experiments into a range of forensic, ecological and wildlife projects.

One such research project currently underway sees the BioDome play host to a

species of carnivorous plant that has settled amongst Dorset’s countryside, preying

on local insects. Sarracenia Purpurea is a species native to North America that has

taken root on the lowland heath near Wareham.

Over the last two summers, BU’s dissertation students have been studying these

plants in the wild and carrying out surveys to uncover how the plants behave and

what they are feasting on. The next stage of the experiment is to introduce insects to

the plants in the controlled climate of the BioDome to see how the plants trap their

prey, and to gain further understanding of how the plants work.

The project is being led by Dr Elizabeth Franklin, a demonstrator in Biological

Sciences, along with her colleagues Dr Anita Diaz and Damian Evans. “These plants

are pitcher plants, so they have lots of little hairs in them and a sticky solution,”

explains Elizabeth. “When the flies fall in, they can’t get back out again. They don’t

snap closed like a Venus Fly Trap, they just work by being difficult to get out of.

“In the wild these plants have caught a lot of flies, beetles and bees, so this is what

we’re going to be focusing on next in the BioDome. We’re going to try and

understand how these plants are trapping invertebrates and what effect this plant

might have on our native fauna.”

The experiment will look at what lures the flies into the trap set by the plants, as

Elizabeth explains: “Once the flies are trapped they start to break down and create

nasty smells that other flies might be attracted to. It could be that the plants are quite

clever and use the corpses of their prey to trap more food.

“This particular project is the latest in a long line of experiments conducted in the

BioDome. It provides a stable atmosphere for us to run these tests and we can bring

the plants here and keep them happy all year round. It’s important that we’re not

limited by the need to conduct experiments outside during the summer season only.”

Next time you walk past the BioDome, take a moment to peer through the window at

the active experiments within: but do watch out for those carnivorous plants*!

*Plants are not actually harmful to humans, no humans were harmed in the writing of

this article.

[Heading Eight] Why placements work

[Standfirst] In an increasingly tough jobs market, a placement year could give you

the edge over other graduates – and working abroad could give your CV an extra

boost.

[Body] Over 90% of UK-based BU students find work within six months of

graduating, and placements play a huge part in this success. They provide valuable

insight into a particular industry, improve a student’s career prospects and

confidence, and look fantastic on a CV.

BU’s Careers & Employability Service help to provide impartial information, advice

and guidance to all students on issues related to developing employability, including

advice about placements.

Vianna Renaud, Placement Development Adviser in The Media School, has seen

countless students complete their placements in prestigious companies such as

Saatchi & Saatchi, Walt Disney and Microsoft.

She believes a placement year is necessary in getting on the employment ladder:

“As the competition for graduate jobs increases, having a placement or work

experience provides students with the chance to outshine their fellow graduates, and

essentially their competition. BU prioritises employability and actively helps prepare

students for this experience.

“Each year we have students who have made such a great impression that they’ve

been offered contracts to go back to their placement company after graduation.”

[Sub-heading] Overseas PlacementsThe Careers & Employability Service also recognises the considerable value of work

experience overseas.

Professor Jonathan Parker and Dr Sara Ashencaen Crabtree have a particular

interest in overseas placements for social work students. Their research has

demonstrated the new heights UK students reach when operating in unfamiliar

cultures, from developed values to increased knowledge.

Jonathan says, “In a world that’s increasingly mobile across populations and

workforce, this kind of experience exposes students to cultural difference and

challenges, which they learn to deal with in safer environments, and they learn to be

more thoughtful and insightful citizens.”

Jonathan and Sara recently returned from Fusion-funded study leave in Southeast

Asia, where they visited some of the social welfare agencies where BU social work

students have worked on placement. Sara comments: “A number of our social work

and sociology students have experienced international placements, including work in

mental health settings, orphanages, elderly residential care and notably HIV/AIDS

outreach work. The students have such a positive impact on the organisations and

individual lives – it’s a win-win situation for them and the people they work with.”

[Sub-heading] Work & Study Abroad FestivalHosted by Academic Partnerships, the Study & Work Abroad Festival aims to

increase BU’s engagement with international experience opportunities, raising

awareness of the value they add to the student journey and graduate prospects.

Students will have the chance to find out more about the employability and academic

value of study exchanges, work placements and extracurricular activities,

encouraging them to step out of their comfort zone and undertake international

activity both on campus and abroad.

To book your place at the Festival, go to www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student-abroad.

For more information on careers and placements, head to

www.bournemouth.ac.uk/careers or visit the Graduate and Placements Fair on

Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 November, 11am - 3pm in Kimmeridge House.

[Heading Nine] Graduation Celebration

[Standfirst] Caps and gowns at the ready…it’s graduation time again! A proud day for

students and staff to celebrate.

[Body] BU’s graduation ceremonies are the biggest dates in the calendar – and for

good reason.

Students who have spent the last few years working hard towards gaining their

degree are given the chance to proudly cross the stage, collect their certificate and

then celebrate with the classmates, families and staff who have all shared the

journey with them.

“It was important to share the day with my family” says Emma Matthews, who

graduated in 2010. “I wanted them to have the chance to celebrate with me and

experience a little bit of what my time at BU was like, meeting some of my friends

and lecturers in the reception afterwards.”

Emma feels passionately that all students should attend their graduation: “I felt it was

really important to attend graduation to round off my whole university experience. It

was a bit nerve-wracking but very exciting; putting on the cap and gown and having

your photos taken before the ceremony makes it all feel very real and it sinks in that

you’re no longer a student, and about to start the next chapter of your life.”

James Thornton, who graduated in 2000, feels the day is the best way to complete

your time at university. “After three years of hard graft I felt my classmates and I had

earned our moment in the sun. The graduation ceremony was the perfect way to

celebrate our achievements and at the same time applaud each other’s good work.

“It was great having my parents and all my university friends with me. Everyone

realised it was a special day and there was a real buzz. I just remember lots of

smiling, pats on the back and high-fiving. Everyone was genuinely happy for each

other.”

It’s an important day for staff as well, as it’s a chance to watch the students they’ve

worked with collect their degrees before embarking on the next important step of

their lives. Mark Ridolfo Associate Dean (Student Experience) in The Business

School believes it to be “the most important and rewarding day of my academic year.

To meet graduates and their families on such a special day, and find out how their

fledgling careers are evolving, is a real privilege.

“Graduates really like to meet with staff, especially at the post-ceremony reception,

and introduce them to their families. Students greatly value and appreciate the

opportunity to meet with their tutors, who have supported them throughout their

studies, on this special day.”

Fiona Cownie, Head of Student Experience in The Media School, agrees. “Sitting on

the platform for graduation is honestly one of the highlights of my academic year.

“Each year, whether it’s the endless applause and periodic whoops during the

ceremony or after the formal part of the day, being introduced by students to their

parents, I’m reminded of how much spending time at university really matters.”

[Heading Ten] Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards

[Standfirst] This year’s Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards have seen more nominations

than ever before. InsideBU finds out who has been shortlisted, and announces the

winners of the new BU Learning and Teaching Fellowships.

[Body] One of the best ways to celebrate the dedication and outstanding

achievements of our talented BU colleagues is to nominate them for a Vice-

Chancellor’s Staff Award.

When the Awards opened over the summer, staff needed little encouragement to put

forward individuals and collaborative teams that they deemed worthy, with more

names submitted than ever before. We are now delighted to announce the following

staff have been shortlisted for a Vice-Chancellor Staff Award 2014:

[Sub-heading] Individual Achievement - Academic StaffDr Ana Adi, The Media School

Dr Carol Clark, School of Health & Social Care

Dr Zulfiqar Khan, Faculty of Science & Technology

[Sub-heading] Individual Achievement - Professional & Support StaffSteve Cox, Estates

Dan Ford, Marketing and Communications (M&C)

Gary Underwood, Faculty of Science and Technology

[Sub-heading] Unsung Hero - Academic StaffDr Zulfiqar Khan, Faculty of Science & Technology

Lee Read, Kingston Maurward College

Dr Chindu Sreedharan, Media School

[Sub-heading] Unsung Hero - Professional & Support StaffLauren Duff, Estates

Helen Elsey, M&C

Jon Mildenhall, Academic Services

Dean Pinfield, Estates

[Sub-heading] Unsung Hero - Affiliated StaffPC Andy Scarratt

[Sub-heading] Collaborative Team• Business School Placement Development Advisers

• Durotriges Project

• REF 2014 Submission Team

• Service Excellence Conference Team

[Sub-heading] Recognition Awards will also be presented to staff at the ceremony:

• Qualifications Relevant to Role, including Fellowship of the Higher Education

Academy

• The Long Service Award

• Promotion to Professor

• BU Learning and Teaching Fellowships

• Postgraduate Certificate in Education Practice Outstanding Achievement Award

• SUBU’s ‘Most Outstandingly Brilliant!’ Gold Award

[Sub-heading] BU Learning and Teaching FellowshipsBU’s educational excellence derives from a powerful combination of research and

professional practice. Staff share our commitment to these activities and work hard

to ensure students are well equipped to have a positive impact in their chosen field.

To celebrate this we have launched the new BU Learning and Teaching Fellowships

(BU L&TF) and nominations opened over the summer. The awards are open to any

member of staff from across BU who supports and promotes excellence in student

learning.

Following a large number of nominations, six staff members have been recognised,

who live and breathe this passion and have set their sights on extending their

influence beyond BU. Those recognised for their excellent practice in supporting

student learning are:

Dr Milena Bobeva, Business School

Dr Bethan Collins, School of Health and Social Care

Joanna Hawkes, School of Tourism

Dr Mel Hughes, School of Health and Social Care

Marian Mayer, The Media School

Dr Mark Readman, Centre for Excellence in Media Practice

The winners of the Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards 2014 will be announced on the

Student Portal and Staff Intranet shortly after the ceremony has taken place on 27

November.

[Heading Eleven] Research round-up

[Standfirst] InsideBU finds out more about some of the knowledge exchange and

funded research projects that have been going on in and around BU.

[Sub-heading] Wellbeing as a destination resourceDr Heather Hartwell is leading an Economic and Social Research Council-funded

project, ‘Promotion of wellbeing as a destination resource’. The project sees BU

researchers sharing tourism and wellbeing expertise to inspire healthy lifestyle

products and initiatives with local businesses. Early examples include developing

cycling facilities at a local hotel. At the heart of the project is student-employer

engagement. Twenty business consultancy projects will be assigned to hospitality,

sport, tourism and wellbeing students.

[Sub-heading] Chronic Lower Back PainPhD student Fiona Mellor’s National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) fellowship

comes to an end this month. Fiona has been researching how spinal motion differs in

those with chronic lower back pain and those without. The research helps determine

whether those with chronic lower back pain have a mechanical disruption in their

spine. This will facilitate treatment, leading to better health, occupational and social

care decisions, and reduce the amount of ineffective treatment.

[Sub-heading] Bio-beachPupils at two local schools have been helping BU researchers develop designs for

structures to increase biodiversity on the town’s beaches. Bio-Beach is a BU and

Bournemouth Borough Council collaboration to place structures on groynes along

the local coastline. The creatures living within them will then be recorded by

underwater cameras – giving insight into their habitat and behaviour.

[Sub-heading] INEA projectThe INEA project team from the Faculty of Science & Technology recently returned

from an important Neolithic site visit in Southwest Asia. Little has been known about

the area until now, which holds important information about sedentism, agriculture,

and ultimately the move from nomadic to settled societies. The team have brought

their fieldwork to life through a fabulous presentation of image and diary entries,

which can be viewed by searching ‘INEA’ on the BU website. The project is funded

by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

[Sub-heading] Women in PoliticsThe Media School’s Dr Heather Savigny spoke at the All-Party Parliamentary Group

on Sex Equality over the summer, chaired by Diane Abbot and Bernard Jenkin MP.

Dr Savigny presented findings of her research into press coverage of female

politicians, which was co-authored with Deirdre O’Neill. The research found women

politicians in 2012 received less coverage in proportion to their relative numbers in

Parliament than in 2002 and 1992. Conservative and Labour women received

proportionally more negative coverage than their male counterparts by 2012, while

female Liberal Democrats were generally ignored.

[Sub-heading] BU Global Environmental Solutions (BUG)BUG’s diverse research team applies academic and practical expertise to provide

solutions to wide-ranging ecological concerns. They have worked on projects such

as fish age interpretation, predicting food requirements for wading birds and

assessing the impact of environmental disturbance. They have worked with regional

governments, charities and fishery owners, among other organisations. BUG is a

Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) project.

For more information on these and other projects, please visit

research.bournemouth.ac.uk

[Heading Twelve] Bright people. Bright futures.

[Standfirst] Thinking about taking up further study? InsideBU takes a look at some of

the reasons behind gaining a postgraduate degree.

[Body] Enhancing your career prospects. Gaining a more in-depth knowledge around

a subject you’re passionate about. Challenging yourself intellectually and personally.

People’s motivations for applying for postgraduate study vary hugely. With the

current competitive job market, many want to gain a Master’s to give them the edge

over other candidates, and in some sectors a postgraduate qualification is essential.

For others, the biggest draw is their passion for learning. A postgraduate degree can

help broaden existing skills and knowledge of a subject you love, whilst developing

your ability to learn independently.

BU graduate Summer Abrahams undertook further study after completing her

undergraduate degree as a way to get ahead in the world of law. “Successfully

passing my postgraduate Legal Practice Course has helped me immensely,” she

explains “as I’ve been able to get excellent law-based experience and employment in

a well-known firm in the area. I really enjoyed studying at BU because of the support

from lecturers, which was invaluable in helping me achieve my degree.

“I chose to continue my studies at BU as I wanted to stay near home to keep costs to

a minimum, but also because of the reputable status the university has, especially

for Law.”

Hannah Simpson who studied MSc Archaeological Practice, had different reasons

for tackling postgraduate study: “I wanted to challenge myself to conduct a good

piece of research as a potential practice run before a PhD. The course was flexible

and helped me to become more self-sufficient and develop my own ideas and

theories.”

She continues, “I chose to stay on after my undergraduate degree as I felt

comfortable at BU and it had all the equipment I would need to conduct my research.

I was also awarded a scholarship which meant the costs were lower than moving

somewhere new. However, the biggest draw was the approachable staff and that the

lecturers always had time and listened to me. I didn’t feel like another number.”

There are many benefits to continuing your studies at BU, including:

• An unlimited number of Academic Excellence Scholarships worth £2,000 off your

tuition fee* are available

• Up to a further 25% off your tuition fee* with graduate loyalty and early-bird

discounts

• If you work at BU, your immediate family members are eligible for a 20% fee

discount.

• Conversion courses are available if you’re looking to change your subject

• Certificates of Personal and Professional Development can be gained, further

enhancing your employability

• Dedicated postgraduate accommodation options*

Studying at postgraduate level may be an idea worth exploring if you’re looking to

pursue your passion, boost your knowledge and further enhance - or even change -

your career.

*Terms and conditions apply.

[Heading Thirteen] Health, Safety and Wellbeing

[Standfirst] Health, Safety and Wellbeing at your place of work or study is important

for helping you achieve your goals. InsideBU looks at the services in place to support

you.

[Body] In July 2013, BU launched its Wellbeing Strategy which outlines the

university’s commitment to enhancing staff and student wellbeing. Over the coming

months BU will also be working towards the Wellbeing Charter and will host the

Universities Safety and Health Association Conference next year.

But what does this mean for you? Whether you would like to lose a couple of pounds

by joining the gym or need guidance with something you’re struggling to manage on

your own, BU has a range of information and support services available for staff and

students.

[Sub-heading] Line Manager/HR ManagerBU staff with any concerns should contact their Line Manager or HR Manager in the

first instance.

[Sub-heading] Occupational Health & Wellbeing AdvisorA confidential service for staff to discuss any health or wellbeing matters.

[Sub-heading] RecourseRecourse provide free 24 hour support for staff within the Further Education and

Higher Education sector, offering information and advice, telephone counselling,

online coaching and financial assistance. Find out more at www.recourse.org.uk.

[Sub-heading] Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)A free and confidential help, advice and support service (including counselling) for

staff. Available 24/7 on any matter, work, home or personal.

[Sub-heading] Dignity, Diversity & EqualityJames Palfreman-Kay, Dignity, Diversity & Equality Adviser, can provide support and

advice for any staff member on any issues related to diversity and equality. Contact

him on 01202 965327.

[Sub-heading] ChaplaincyChaplains are available to discuss life concerns along with providing counselling

services. Discussions are not restricted to ‘religious’ issues and are kept confidential.

The Chaplaincy can be found in Talbot House.

[Sub-heading] sportBUSportBU is located on Talbot Campus and offers excellent gym facilities plus a wide

range of classes, group activities, kids summer club, personal health checks,

chiropractic treatments and massage.

[Sub-heading] Complementary Health TherapiesA range of therapies such as Indian head massage, Thai yoga massage and

reflexology are available at Lansdowne and Talbot Campus.

[Sub-heading] Mental Health ‘Time to change’ videosA set of videos has been created by BU and Dorset Healthcare, which look at

reducing the stigma around mental health issues. Check out the videos at

www.youtube.com/bournemouthuni.

[Sub-heading] Occupational HealthThe university has access to a professional Occupational Health Service based at

the Student Medical Centre in Talbot House and via the associated Talbot Surgery.

[Sub-heading] GP & NHSYou should always consider making an appointment with your GP for any health

related matters or contact the NHS on 111 or visit www.nhs.uk.

[Heading Fourteen] The IT Crowd

[Standfirst] InsideBU meets a staff member and placement student from the IT

department to find out more about what it’s like to work together.

[Sub-heading] James Stevens – Information Security ManagerBefore joining BU a year and a half ago, I worked for an advanced engineering

company, focusing on land and naval defence systems. I wanted to explore new

challenges and opportunities though, and BU offered both.

As Information Security Manager, I work with various key internal and external

stakeholders to support and continually improve the protection of students, staff and

operations of BU.

My role focuses predominantly on protecting our systems from threats related to

forms of cyber-crimes. This could include anything from hacking, the spread of

viruses, harassment and fraud via phishing and other scams and data theft.

We often work with placement students like Abiola in the IT department, and there

are huge benefits to doing so. They offer fresh ideas, different perspectives and have

the curiosity to explore situations and challenge things rather than just accept them.

In my spare time I really enjoy powerlifting and strength training. I also like to keep

up with various aspects of science, technology and politics.

[Sub-heading] Abiola Shobande – Fourth year Computing studentOne of the main reasons I was attracted to the course here at BU was because it

offered the opportunity to complete a year on placement.

Whilst applying for placements, I discovered BU had an opening in its IT department

for a web developer and the job description included many of the aspects I was

interested in. I’m so pleased that I was given the chance to take the position, as the

last year has been everything I hoped it would be.

As well as gaining practical skills, which will help with my final year project, I’ve also

grown in confidence, which I know will help me when working in the industry after

graduation. Seeing how things work behind the scenes at the university has also

been interesting.

There have certainly been challenges in the role, but members of the team I work

with have been so helpful and I’ve always been able to ask them for advice.

I’ve used the IT skills gained during this year to set up a website for my hair

extensions business – I’m delighted to say it’s becoming more and more popular!

[Heading Fifteen] New to BU

[Standfirst] Every term BU extends a warm welcome to new members of staff.

InsideBU talks to a selection of new starters that have joined us over the summer.

[Sub-heading] David Wakeford – Careers AdviserI work in the Careers & Employability Team, providing a range of services including

careers interviews, support with career planning and CV reviews. BU offers so much

to students in terms of employability and enterprise and placement opportunities. In

my spare time I love playing tennis, walking, going to music gigs and amateur

dramatics.

[Sub-heading] Beverly Barker – Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Advertising in The Media SchoolI joined BU two months ago after leaving a position at London South Bank

University. I wanted to work at BU because it has a great reputation and I knew the

people would be good to work with. Outside of work I enjoy gardening, baking, going

along to music festivals and enjoying some of the best views in Dorset!

[Sub-heading] Julio Molina Montenegro – Demonstrator in TV ProductionIt’s my job to teach production skills in camera, sound and lighting. Previously I was

involved in films and TV production and have worked in education in Central

America. I recently left Farnborough College of Technology to join BU, and was

attracted to the dynamic environment here. Outside of work I research and create

documentary films and enjoy funky music!

[Sub-heading] Amanda Procter – Head of Marketing ServicesI work with my teams to provide a range of marketing and communication services to

support the implementation of BU’s strategy plan. Right now I’m busy delivering the

new website which is currently being rolled out. My pleasures outside of work come

from spending time with family and friends and I still get a kick out of seeing the sea.

[Sub-heading] Anushka Naidoo – Dorset LEP (Local Enterprise Partnerships) Communications AssistantI’m graduating from BU in November with a BA (Hons) Communications Media

degree, so this is my first role since finishing my course. It’s my job to communicate

the key messages of the Dorset LEP to both its stakeholders and the wider Dorset

business community. Whenever I have any free time, I love writing, and curling up on

my sofa in my penguin onesie.

[Sub-heading] Harry Gibson – Events Organiser for Research & Knowledge Exchange OfficeI’m currently studying Tourism Management at BU and have started my placement

year working in RKEO. I’ll be working on public engagement events, including the

Festival of Learning and I’m looking forward to learning more about the industry.

Outside work, I have an interest in most sports, prominently football, and socialising

with different groups of people.

[Heading Sixteen] By day, by night

[Standfirst] Colin Paterson, Practice Fellow in Physiotherapy in the School of Health

and Social Care, loves the balance of teaching and working in practice – especially if

it takes him to the Gold Coast of Australia.

[Sub-heading] By DayI’ve been a physiotherapist for about 15 years and started at BU in 2004 – the same

year that the Physiotherapy programme started – so I was one of the first members

of staff in the team.

As a Practice Fellow, I think I have the best of both worlds. It means I get to teach

students, but also work as a physiotherapist and I really enjoy the mix of both.

Working in practice provides me with lots of material that I can bring to my teaching,

and vice-versa.

As a profession, knowledge around physiotherapy is evolving rapidly through more

and more research, so working at BU helps me to keep up to date with things that I

can then transfer into practice.

Physio is a really intensive course with highly motivated and demanding students, so

it’s great that my industry links can help them develop their skills. Lots of them have

taken part in extracurricular activities, such as the Bournemouth Rugby 7s. Putting

their learning into practice will definitely help once they graduate.

[Sub-heading] By NightI’ve worked at a number of major sporting events, including the 2008 Olympics and

Paralympics in Bejing, and I’ve just completed my third Commonwealth Games.

For these kinds of events, there’s a lot of intensive preparation - you’re exposed to

all kinds of training, including how to deal with the media. You have to be aware of all

kinds of scenarios, such as interest in an athlete’s injury, or allegations of doping. It

certainly adds to your skill set, but it’s a big build up for something that you hope

doesn’t happen!

It might sound quite glamorous, but there are long days involved and you find

yourself living in a bit of a bubble. After two weeks of 17-hour days, you realise

you’re unaware of what’s been going on in the real world and it can take some time

to adjust. However, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.

I really enjoy working in a high pressured environment with people that are striving to

do their best – it’s good to feel part of the team. Working with physios that I don’t

normally work with is great from a developmental point of view, as you learn from

them and vice-versa.

Would I do another Commonwealth Games? The next one is in the Gold Coast in

Australia, so that would be quite nice!

[Heading Seventeen] BU in the News

[Sub-heading] The Big Dig goes globalArchaeology students and staff made international news headlines after discovering

five skeletons – thought to be from the same family – close to the remains of a

Roman villa. This is the first discovery of its kind in Britain. First year student Demi

Wiskerke, who is from the Netherlands, told the British Council: “To find actual

important finds like these graves is incredible.”

[Sub-heading] Clearing Media SuccessStudents and graduates who came to BU through Clearing and Adjustment shared

their experiences of the process, with Forensic Science student Alex Curwen- Reed

saying the askBU service was “incredibly helpful” throughout. BU staff also gave

advice in several articles, which appeared in The Guardian, The Independent, The

Telegraph, and on local radio.

[Sub-heading] Dr Darren Lilleker on The Moral MazeSenior Lecturer in Political Communication Dr Darren Lilleker appeared on the BBC

Radio 4 programme to discuss changes in the way the public perceive politicians

and the role of the media. “What we’ve ended up with really is a choice of

managers,” he said. “It’s about the person. It’s about their ability to get things done.”

Regional coverage for BUDI Dementia Orchestra

[Sub-heading] The work of Bournemouth University Dementia Institute(BUDI) orchestra was featured on BBC Radio Solent and in the Bournemouth Echo

after the moving performance during the Festival of Learning. “Their achievements

show us that people living with dementia are still full of life and creativity, and can still

make invaluable contributions to our lives,” said BUDI Research Assistant Laura

Reynolds

[Sub-heading] Clean birth research in New York TimesBU Midwifery Professor Vanora Hundley’s research into clean birth kits was featured

in a New York Times article looking at how ‘frugal innovation’ can support the world’s

poorest people. The inexpensive kits are designed to prevent deaths from avoidable

causes in pregnancy and childbirth in the developing world, such as an unsterile

environment. Vanora told the journalist that the kits work best when they take into

account cultural practices in the country.

[Sub-heading] Prime Minister’s QuestionsBU research into the impact that respite care at children’s hospices has on parental

relationships was raised during Prime Minister’s Questions. The work being done by

PhD student Ashley Mitchell in conjunction with Julia’s House hospice was

mentioned by MP Julie Girling, with Prime Minister David Cameron responding: “I’m

sure that this research from Bournemouth University will help to inform our work in

the future.”

More details can be found at: news.bournemouth.ac.uk/bu-in-the-media.

[Heading Eighteen] Dates for your diary[Sub-heading] Undergraduate Open DaysSaturday 25 October

Saturday 15 November

Open Days for prospective students on the Talbot and Lansdowne Campuses.

[Sub-heading] The Study and Work Abroad FestivalWednesday 29 October, Kimmeridge House

An event for students to explore the range of international experience opportunities

available at BU.

www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student-abroad

[Sub-heading] Graduation 2014Bournemouth International Centre

The biggest event in BU’s calendar sees students and staff celebrate their hard work

on the following dates:

Tuesday 4 November, 10am; The School of Health & SocialCare

Wednesday 5 November, 10am; The School of Tourism

Wednesday 5 November, 2.30pm; The Business School

Thursday 6 November, 10am; Faculty of Science &Technology (School of Design,

Engineering & Computing)

Thursday 6 November, 2.30pm; Faculty of Science & Technology (School of Applied

Sciences)

Friday 7 November, 10am; The Media School.

www.bournemouth.ac.uk/graduation

[Sub-heading] Bournemouth Chamber Music Society ConcertSunday 2 November, Kimmeridge Hall, Talbot Campus, 3pm

Bournemouth Chamber Music Society Concert – Anthony Goldstone and Caroline

Clemmow perform a professional piano duet.

www.bournemouthchambermusic.co.uk

[Sub-heading] Green WeekMonday 10 - Friday 14 November

A week of events across both campuses, open to both staff and students, raising

awareness of sustainability and environmental issues.

[Sub-heading] Graduate and Placements Fair 2014Wednesday 12 - Thursday 13 November, Kimmeridge House

Organisations will be on campus to offer insight into their placements, summer

internships or graduate opportunities.

www.bournemouth.ac.uk/graduate-and-placements-fair

[Sub-heading] Postgraduate Open DayWednesday 19 November, Talbot and Lansdowne Campus

An event for those interested in studying for a Master’s degree at BU.

www.bournemouth.ac.uk/pg-visit

[Sub-heading] Vice-Chancellor’s Staff AwardsThursday 27 November, Talbot Campus

An awards ceremony that recognises the achievements of our staff.

[Sub-heading] BU Christmas ConcertSunday 7 December, The Royal Bath Hotel

Festive favourites performed by BU/AUB Big Band, Orchestra and Choirs.

studentportal.bournemouth.ac.uk/news/events/music-arts.html

[Sub-heading] Back to the futureWednesday 10 – Thursday 11 December,

Executive Business Centre

This one-day event will look at some of the newly emerging issues related to the

future of sport.

[Sub-heading] Christmas ClosureThe university will close at 1pm on Wednesday 24 December and reopen on

Monday 5 January 2015.

[Sub-heading] Creative Tuesdays

Every Tuesday in the Atrium Art Gallery, Balcony Lounge

A weekly drop-in between noon and 2pm for anybody that would like to knit, sew or

make/create drawings, arts and crafts.

news.bournemouth.ac.uk/events/event/creativetuesdays/

[Sub-heading] Café ScientifiqueFirst Tuesday of every month

Explore the latest ideas in science and technology in Café Boscanova, 650

Christchurch Road, Boscombe.

Doors open from 6.30pm, with the speaker at 7.30pm.

www.cafescibournemouth.wordpress.com

For more information about events at BU, please visit

news.bournemouth.ac.uk/events/ or contact the Events Team on 01202

961018/buevents@bournemouth.ac.uk.

[Sub-heading] How to submitIf you would like to submit a story for the next issue of InsideBU, please email

insidebu@bournemouth.ac.uk by 31 October.

We reserve the right to edit your copy and the editor’s decision is final. Photographs

for print must be 300dpi.