InsideBU issue 3

Inside Issue 3 May 2013

BU’s first Festival of Learning 3-14 June 2013 Festival of Learning

New Student Centre

Research

BU’s biggest festival comes to Bournemouth this summer Pages 10 – 11

The next step in improving the student experience Pages 8 – 9

New portal showcases BU’s work in the local region Page 16

Message from John Vinney, Vice-Chancellor

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elcome to the third edition of InsideBU – the magazine that keeps you up to date with what’s going on around BU. The next couple of months are extremely exciting, with a variety of inspirational events to engage students, staff, businesses and the local community alike.

The Festival of Learning is a celebration not to be missed, with expert academics sharing their knowledge and research with the world. Everyone is welcome to attend the two week Festival, starting on 3 June.

We also have our annual events that showcase the excellent work produced by our students. The Media School LAUNCH event in May and the Festival of Design and Innovation in June are great opportunities to take stock of just how exceptional our students are.

students as well as being the new home for the Students’ Union.

I hope you enjoy the latest issue of InsideBU.

We continue to invest heavily in our facilities to allow our students to consistently excel in their studies and you’ll find details of our latest development, the Student Centre on pages 8 - 9. This impressive new building will be at the heart of the Talbot Campus and provide a large amount of flexible space for

#InsideBU

Contents

>> Thanks to everyone

who completed the survey included in January’s issue. Your feedback was extremely useful and will inform future editions.

One recurring piece of feedback was that you wanted more issues and we’re happy to announce we’re already working on the next one.

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Page 3

BU in the media

Page 4

BU in the Spotlight

Page 5

FODI and LAUNCH

Pages 6-7

News from around BU

Pages 8-9

New Student Centre

Pages 10-11 The Festival of Learning Pages 12-13 Aimhigher with BU Page 14

We Meet...Andrew Dyer and Mhairi Strachan

Page 15

National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work

Page 16

Poole and Purbeck Platform

Page 17

The Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards

Page 18

By Day… By Night…

Page 19

Dates for your diary

BU IN THE MEDIA

PRESS & PR COVERAGE Keith Brown on The Francis Report

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U Professor of Archaeology Tim Darvill was interviewed about his research into Stonehenge, for an article in The Observer which examined the different theories around why the monument was built in the first place.

Retail expert shares thoughts on ‘The Grey Pound’

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avid Kilburn, Associate Professor in Enterprise at BU, was featured on local BBC TV and radio programmes talking about the fact that Christchurch appears to be bucking current retail trends. He said of the success that some shops were having: “I think a lot of residents have already paid the mortgage off, they may have held quite good jobs and therefore, they have got a reasonable pension.”

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rofessor Keith Brown, Director of BU’s Centre for Post Qualifying Social Work, appeared live on two BBC radio stations (including BBC Radio 5 Live) to offer his views following the release of The Francis Report into failings within the NHS.

BU expert gives opinion during budget coverage

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ermot McCarthy, Lecturer in economics, gave his expert opinion on George Osborne’s budget to BBC Radio Solent’s Drive show. Dermot said, “(The budget) does show some movement in the right direction, particularly with things such as the reduction in corporate tax and increased support for housing. But it doesn’t go far enough at addressing the underlying problem in the economy, which is that we are pursuing austerity at a time when economic growth is below expectations.”

Intellectual property law discussed on Radio 5 Live

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r Dinusha Mendis, Senior Lecturer in law spoke on BBC Radio 5 Live about the challenges which will be faced by intellectual property (IP) laws in the wake of 3D printing.

Dinusha was featured on the Outriders programme which is dedicated to exploring the frontiers of the web.

More details can be found at; www.bournemouth.ac.uk/newsandevents/bu_in_the_media

@BUnewshound

Stonehenge research featured in The Observer

A selection of news stories from the beginning of the year.

InsideBU | 3

Keith Brown, Tony William, Jo Sams, John Vinney

BU in the Spotlight

BU’s Vice-Chancellor John Vinney recently attended the launch of The Dods University Innovators Guide at Church House in Westminster, which was also attended by MPs, Members of the House of Lords and business leaders.

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he publication was produced in partnership with BU, as well as several other universities, and focuses on the strength of university-business collaboration in the UK. It examines how this relationship can be developed further in the future to help grow the economy.

BU can continue to prepare our graduates not just for the world of today, but for the world of tomorrow.”

Professor Sir Tim Wilson, author of the 2012 Review of Business-University Collaboration, discussed how, with the end of traditional industries, the UK has to rely on its workforce as the capital to drive forward the economy, and universities are vital in developing the vital skills for this.

Professor Keith Brown from the National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work at BU was also at the event, highlighting the work the NCPQSW does in providing education Also speaking at the launch was Adrian and training for professionals within Health Bailey MP, Chair of the Business, Innovation and Social Care. He was joined by Jo Sams and Skills Select Committee at Westminster. who studied at the He emphasised that NCPQSW and now owns “The recommendations universities are already and runs a number of in The Dods University collaborating with residential care homes for Innovators Guide will business, but that not young people. ensure that BU can continue enough is being done to to prepare our graduates publicise this.

The Dods University not just for the world of Innovators Guide features “Universities need to today, but for the world of an article by John Vinney highlight their overall tomorrow.” in which he outlines contribution to driving his plans for universityforward the economy business collaboration. and society today,” he said, adding that he welcomed the publication.

“University-business collaboration brings clear benefits to our students, the university, and the businesses we engage with, and our work with local, national and international business is a source of >> To download a copy of the publication, considerable pride” he said. go to www.dodsmonitoring.com/ “The recommendations in The Dods downloads/Central_Lobby/uni_guide.pdf University Innovators Guide will ensure that

A celebration of Innovation This summer BU will celebrate the innovative and creative work of many of its students. InsideBU discovered more about two big events that will highlight their work to industry professionals.

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pening its doors to the public, this year’s Festival of Design and Innovation (FODI) from the School of Design, Engineering and Computing (DEC), and The Media School’s LAUNCH 2013 will give the local community, BU students and staff a unique opportunity to experience some of the fantastic work from our final year students.

towards student achievement. The Festival confirms our students’ commitment to professionalism and demonstrates their graduate employability.”

Some of the most outstanding students exhibiting at FODI will also be given the chance to showcase their work at New Designers 2013, an exhibition held in London from 4 to 6 July that welcomes over 3,000 of the most talented graduates from around the country.

Another event highlighting BU students’ innovative work is LAUNCH, hosted by The Media School on the 30 and 31 May on Talbot Campus.

This degree show is a fantastic opportunity to experience exciting new projects from final year undergraduates from the BA (Hons) Interactive Media Production course. A keynote speech from Running from 21 to 24 June on Talbot Campus, Anthony Lilley, CEO of Magic FODI welcomes over 170 DEC “I believe that this year’s Lantern, an award-winning students to exhibit original Festival will once again interactive media and and innovative designs and demonstrate the creativity of multiplatform creative house prototypes which could make an our students, as well as the and consultancy, will kick-start impact on our everyday lives. dedication of our staff towards the exhibition.

More than 1,500 people, student achievement. The including talent scouts from Festival confirms our students’ LAUNCH attracts employers Dragons’ Den, international commitment to professionalism from the media industry keen to see the work of fresh, companies and local businesses, and demonstrates their talented and creative students, will meet students face-to-face graduate employability.” who use this as an opportunity to learn about their designs, to show their work. offering them the potential to gain commercial funding.

Mik Parsons from the Media School said: “This is a great opportunity to see innovative work from our Previous students who have exhibited at FODI and students before they are ‘snapped-up’ by national gone on to make a name for themselves include and international companies, or start up their own Franziska Conrad, who designed a pop-up tent, The digital agencies.”

Quick Pitch. Her prototype was noticed by Gelert, one of the UK’s best-known camping brands and it has since been voted ‘Best Festival Tent’ by The Guardian newspaper.

Xavier Velay, Deputy Dean of Education within DEC commented: “I believe that this year’s Festival will once again demonstrate the creativity of our students, as well as the dedication of our staff

>> To register for FODI, visit www.bournemouth. ac.uk/festival. To learn more about LAUNCH head to www.bournemouth.ac.uk/launch.

InsideBU | 5

SUBU’s new full time officers for 2013/14 This year’s full-time Students’ Union officer elections were hotly contested with 12 candidates campaigning to win the students’ votes. SUBU are delighted to announce the full-time officers for 2013/14 are:

News from around BU

President: Murray Simpson VP Education: John Gusman VP Communications: Annie Hall VP Lansdowne: Sophie Chaytor-Grubb

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Over 2500 votes were cast overall, with strong participation on both campuses. A record number of votes were placed for the VP Lansdowne role, highlighting the increased focus on improving representation across both campuses.

The winning candidates will start work in June to represent BU’s 18,000 students and will work in close partnership with the university to improve the student experience.

From left to right: John Gusman, Annie Hall, Sophie Chaytor-Grubb, Murray Simpson

National Student Survey NeSSa the camel has been out and around BU since February, encouraging final year students to complete the National Student Survey (NSS).

NeSSa was accompanied by a seaside-themed tent, free candyfloss and a large sand sculpture of her.

The NSS is a national survey which gives all final year undergraduate students across the country the chance to rate their university.

All respondents to the survey have been entered into a free prize draw with opportunities to win a range of prizes including iPads, Amazon vouchers and Summer Ball tickets. The results from this year’s survey will be published in September.

Watch the NSS graffiti time lapse video by downloading Aurasma Lite from the App Store or Google Play Store, subscribe to the ‘Bournemouth University’ channel and scan the logo on the image.

Summer Ball

BU on Sina Weibo Bournemouth University is reaching out to students in China through Chinese social media website Sina Weibo. BU’s profile engages with students by giving information on courses and posting current news stories.

To further enhance the experience for Chinese students thinking about coming to BU, a Chinese brochure is now available and can be downloaded from www.bournemouth.ac.uk/china.

If you have a story that you would like to post through Sina Weibo then please contact newsdesk@bournemouth.ac.uk. Alternatively, you can view our Weibo page by visiting the following link - http://weibo.com/u/2633922357.

SUBU’s annual fundraising Summer Ball 2013 is one of the biggest events in the social calendar.

On Saturday 8 June, thousands of BU students will be gearing up to watch a live performance from breakthrough indie band Everything Everything, and a DJ set from number one album chart art, Rudimental.

At the ball there will be fancy dress, the best live music, world class DJs, dancing, food and a fun fair.

This year’s Summer Ball is sold out, but you may be in with a chance of winning a ticket if you head to www.subu.org.uk and complete a ‘How’s SUBU for You?’ online survey.

Bournemouth’s Family Adventure Festival SportBU is working with BH Live, a local trust that provides leisure and cultural activities in Bournemouth, to support Bournemouth’s first Family Adventure Festival which takes place between 31 May and 2 June.

Around 20,000 visitors are expected to visit the area to Tuesday 28 May (10am – 1pm) – Southbourne Rugby (supported by RFU) Ultimate Frisbee (supported by SUBU Ultimate Frisbee Club)

take part in a number of indoor and outdoor activities such as the Animal Bike Tour, Roller Racing, Outdoor Zip Wire and the Inflatable BU Speed Gun Machine.

As part of the festival, sportBU will be running various sport taster days at the following beach locations:

Wednesday 29 May (10am – 1pm) – Boscombe Volleyball (supported by Wessex Volleyball) Badminton (supported by Badminton England)

Thursday 30 May (10am – 1pm) – Alum Chine Beach Soccer (supported by England Beach Soccer National Squad) Wake & Kite/Surf (supported

by SUBU Wake & Kite club with SUBU Surf Club)

To find out more, go to www.familyadventurefest.co.uk. Book a place on one of the free beach sports sessions by contacting sportBU on 01202 965012 or email swoodward@bournemouth.ac.uk.

InsideBU | 7

Student Centre Development for BU BU is committed to providing world class facilities to support world class performance, as well as reducing our impact on the environment. InsideBU finds out about the next exciting estates development; the new Student Centre at Talbot Campus.

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hen students returned to BU last September, they couldn’t fail to have noticed that some familiar parts of the campus had undergone a radical facelift, resulting in new or hugely enhanced academic and social facilities. However, the work doesn’t end there, and BU has one eye firmly on the future when it comes to developing our estate even further to enhance the experiences of students, staff, visitors and the local community.

Central to this exciting vision is the building of a new Student Centre at Talbot Campus, between the Sports Hall and the Library, meeting a need for high quality spaces where students can engage in social learning and study activities, with full access to a range of integrated services to help students’ personal development. It will also provide SUBU with a much larger presence on campus.

Frequently Asked Question’s 1. When will work start?

Works will start in June 2013.

2. When will it open?

It will be open to students in April 2015.

3. What will be in the new Student Centre?

The six-storey building will include social learning spaces,

8| InsideBU

SUBU offices, a student advice centre, a cafe, radio and media studios, bookable meeting rooms and access points for student services. At the third floor a glazed walkway will provide access to the library.

4. During construction will it be disruptive or noisy?

As with any major development, intermittent noise disturbance will happen throughout the construction period. Periods of high risk, any weekend or evening work will be publicised in advance and we’ll do all we can to minimise any disruption.

5. Will there be restricted access to other areas?

• The Sports Hall will be closed between June and September in 2014 and the capacity will be reduced to 150 persons during construction.

• The walkway between the Library and the Sports Hall will be closed during construction. The Allsebrooke lecture theatre will only be accessible via the Library courtyard during construction.

6. Will parking be relocated and where will the construction traffic go?

• Temporary construction accommodation will be positioned in car park 2, resulting in a small reduction in on-site parking.

• The existing cycle compound behind the Sports Hall will be

relocated to the edge of the Student Village.

• The existing 6 short stay parking spaces to the side of the Sports Hall will be lost and reduced provision will be made in car park 1.

7. How environmentally friendly is the building?

• The building will be designed and constructed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating (www.breeam.org) • Natural ventilation will reduce energy consumption.

• Photovoltaic panels and ground source heat pumps will reduce carbon emissions.

• Sedum roofs will increase the ecological value of the site.

• A revolving door on the main ground floor entrance will reduce heat loss.

• Increased thermal insulation will reduce heat loss.

• Energy efficient lighting and boilers will be installed.

• Water consumption will be reduced with the installation of efficient sanitary ware.

8. Will any trees or wildlife be affected?

Four trees will be removed from the site and will be replaced by plantings elsewhere on campus.

9. What’s the impact on the physical environment surrounding the building?

• The existing storage area on the site will be consolidated with other storage areas.

• The landscape around the building will comprise block paving with up lighters.

• Pedestrian access will be via the existing network of communal spaces and walking routes. The main entrance will be accessible from the courtyard.

• Vehicle access to the campus will not be affected.

building will have a central atrium with stairs rising through this to allow natural light and ventilation.

• The materials selected will be similar to those used on other buildings at Talbot Campus.

• The northern elevation will be glazed from ground level to the fifth floor providing views and connectivity in and out of the building.

11. Who will be relocated and what happens to the freed up space?

• SUBU staff and sabbatical officers will be relocated from the second floor of Poole House to the Student Centre.

• A decision has not been made about the future use of the space decanted by SUBU.

12. Who has been engaged in discussions so far?

• Students

• SUBU • Student and Academic Services, including Library, Community and Sports Teams • Estates, including Maintenance, Environment and Energy Teams • Arts University Bournemouth • Poole Borough Council Planning Department (via Pre-Application service) • The University Board • University Executive Team • University Leadership Team • BU will be consulting on proposals to develop both campuses in the next few months

13. Where is the money coming from?

The development will be funded from positive cash inflows which are generated annually from all activities of the university together with an existing loan facility.

10. What about the design?

• The building design respects the character of the site and complements existing uses at Talbot Campus.

>> For further details please email studentcentre@bournemouth.ac.uk.

• The northern part of the

InsideBU | 9

Festival of Learning For two weeks in June BU opens its doors to the public to celebrate the best of what the university has to offer.

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estivals are now synonymous with the British summer, regardless of whether the sun’s shining or monsoon season has inexplicably reared its head. But not all festivals have to be about rock bands and leaking tents.

Some festivals give us the opportunity to try something new, to learn about subjects we never thought we’d be interested in and the chance to make new friends. This is exactly what BU’s Festival of Learning hopes to achieve when it opens its doors to staff, students and, most importantly, the public this summer.

From 3 - 14 June, we will celebrate the best of what BU has to offer, with over 100 free activities open to all. These range from interactive workshops, seminars, ‘pop up’ activities, presentations and much more. A variety of short courses will also be available throughout the summer and are open to anyone interested in developing themselves professionally or personally.

Humble beginnings

The idea of the Festival of Learning came about early last year but no one could have expected just how large it would become. Research Development Officer for Public Engagement Dr Rebecca Edwards told InsideBU: “The Research and Knowledge Exchange Office put out an open call last spring to academics and were absolutely inundated with applications that covered a massive variety of subjects from all Schools.

It’s not only a brilliant opportunity for our academics to share their interests, passions and cutting edge research but it’s a rare chance for the public, students and staff to all come together to learn about them.”

Pro Vice-Chancellor Matthew Bennett is excited that the public will be able to engage with the university on such a huge scale: “BU is really at the heart of Bournemouth and the local and surrounding communities.

This Festival is unique as it gives

them a chance to find out about all of the fantastic things that go on here. Academics and Professional and Support Staff have all worked incredibly hard to contribute to the programme to give the local community a real flavour of what goes on at BU. We’re really looking forward to getting the community involved as much as possible.”

Showcasing BU

Dr Debbie Sadd from the School of Tourism will be running several events throughout the fortnight and explains why she thinks the Festival of Learning will make a difference: “Much of the great work we do stays within academic circles and this is the chance to show the wider community some of what we do.”

Associate Dean of the Business School, Mark Ridolfo and Felicity Robinson, Placement Development Advisor, are both excited about the opportunities that the Festival can offer their chosen topic, ‘The Power of the Placement Year’. “Placements are one of BU’s most impressive success stories. Our event gives us the opportunity to celebrate the excellent relationships we’ve built up with many employers, as well as providing insight to prospective placement employers who will be there” Mark commented.

Working with the public

Most of the events and activities are run by BU staff and many are in partnership with members of the public, charities and local businesses, so it will truly be a collaborative event on a huge scale.

Universities are about creating and sharing knowledge and BU is no exception. With so much constantly going on around the university, the Festival of Learning is the perfect opportunity to try something new, meet new people or even ignite a new passion or interest. So why not sign up today?

>> To find out more about the Festival and to book any events and activities, visit www.bournemouth.ac.uk/fol or call 01202 962362.

InsideBU | 11

Creating a truly open university Although many people consider applying to university to be a natural progression for sixth-form or college students, large numbers of young people think of university life as something that is not an option for them. One man who is aiming to change that is Professor Les Ebdon, Director of the Office for Fair Access, who visited BU in March.

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he Office for Fair Access’ remit is to promote fair access to higher education for all and as part of his visit, Professor Ebdon was shown the schemes that BU runs to work with under-represented groups.

“I was particularly impressed to see the work BU does with primary schools and how effective it is in raising aspirations and motivation, and how that is linking in with parents and staff. This is very powerful,” noted Professor Ebdon in an address to students, staff and the public.

“I believe higher education is a life-transforming experience which opens up a wealth of opportunities. I think BU has an excellent record in widening participation and reaches out to a lot of people in the area.”

As part of BU’s Access Agreement, which measures the outreach work and financial support given to students, the Aimhigher with BU team work with young people from under-represented groups, identified by postcode and other demographic information, Young People in Care and

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Care Leavers and those with a disability or additional learning need, to give them an understanding of what university is really like.

Two very successful ways this can be achieved is through Mentoring Schemes and Summer Schools, both of which support a broad programme of outreach activities.

“Every person has untapped potential which needs to be encouraged, as greatness is subjective and lies within us all” Leroy-Winston Scott, Student Ambassador Fully trained BU Student Mentors visit local secondary schools to work with students who might be struggling, ultimately helping to raise their self-esteem.

Summer Schools give teenagers a taste of university life and this July over 260 students aged between 15 and 17 will visit BU for four nights and three days.

They will get the chance to take part in social activities, stay in

the Student Village and visit the Academic Schools.

Matthew Usher, Outreach & Student Recruitment Officer explains why these schemes are vital; “The positive experiences that students gain through mentoring or Summer Schools can affirm in their mind that university can be for them. They help to raise aspirations but also dismiss misconceptions of what higher education is like.”

BU Student Ambassadors and Mentors are crucial to the work carried out by Aimhigher with BU. Second Year BA (Hons) Events Management student Leroy-Winston Scott explains why he signed up; “As a Student Ambassador I talk to potential students and their parents to explain how I came to be at university myself.”

“I find mentoring so rewarding as you can see young people gaining confidence through encouragement. I believe every person has untapped potential which needs to be encouraged, as greatness is subjective and lies within us all.”

“I think BU has an excellent record in widening participation” Professor Les Ebdon BU’s Access Agreement includes funding to support students during study and this also includes funding for the National Scholarship Programme (NSP). The BU Maintenance and Care Leavers’ bursaries offer a comprehensive package of support throughout their time at university. This includes an accommodation discount or fee waiver, living cost vouchers and a cash sum.

Students need to meet certain eligibility criteria to apply for this support, as determined by the NSP.

Current students

The GROW@BU initiative allows current students from a widening participation background to reach their potential academically, socially and personally. By examining the individual’s goals, options and the reality of what can be achieved, students are encouraged to seek solutions to their personal, professional or academic issues, with the aim of increasing student resilience and independence.

A Student Engagement Team made up of six recent BU graduates, one for each School, offers a support service for first year students with a focus on those from a widening participation background. They promote engagement through social events and can offer knowledge of other support services available.

>> To find out more about any of BU’s Access Agreement support, please contact us through www.bournemouth.ac.uk/ aimhigher, www.bournemouth. ac.uk/ugfunding or the GROW@BU page on myBU. InsideBU | 13

Hospitality at BU Serving up a generous helping of education and professional practice, InsideBU meets an academic and a student from the School of Tourism.

Andrew Boer

Associate Dean of the Hospitality and Retail Academic Group, School of Tourism

We meet...

I’ve been at BU for nearly 27 years and it’s my job to increase the academic, research and professional profile of my Academic Group, the School and the university. I try to get the most out of our staff team and I genuinely enjoy being given the opportunity to make (sometimes difficult) decisions and finding creative solutions.

14| InsideBU

There’s always a great ‘buzz’ about BU which you sometimes don’t notice because you’re always immersed in it.

But talk to colleagues in other institutions or visit their open days and you realise how fortunate we are, especially when you get visiting industrialists from major companies who remark on how ‘friendly, focused and hardworking’ we are.

One of the reasons I love working here is being able to mix with great colleagues and students who somehow put up with my rather strange sense of humour.

>> I am, without doubt, the worst skier in Europe (if not the world). I have the grace of a clumsy hippopotamus and the destructive capacity of a minor avalanche, but I love it!

an

Mhairi Strach

Second year Hospitality Management student and SUBU Welfare Officer I decided to study Hospitality Management at BU as the course was a lot better than others I’d looked at. During the Open Day it seemed like a really friendly place and I got a great feeling about it.

Hospitality is one of the biggest industries in the world and something I’m really passionate about. You may have seen me working in The Retreat, our restaurant for staff; I’ve recently finished my 6 week placement there and, aside from learning a lot about the industry, I had an incredible amount of fun.

I was given a great piece of advice from a lecturer in my first year which was “you’ve got to make time”. This encouraged me to become more involved in other aspects of university life and, as a result, I’m a SUBU Welfare Officer as well as a School Rep for the School of Tourism. Both of these roles involve interacting with students to find out how we can make both the wider university, as well as aspects of Tourism courses, better.

>> I really enjoy socialising and having as much fun as I can, both inside and outside of university. I know I’ll look back in 10 years’ time and know that I had the time of my life.

The National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work

Professor Keith Brown, Director of NCPQ SW

The National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work at BU is leading the way in research processes designed to help Health and Social Care professionals work to the best of their abilities. InsideBU met the team to find out more.

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he hotly debated topic of standards of health and social care in the UK is constantly in the spotlight. Recent high-profile incidents such as the Francis Report have highlighted critical failings in the system, where social workers and nurses have been unable to protect the most vulnerable citizens in our society.

With so many people needing vital care and support – from the young to the elderly – it’s vital that those working within the social care sector are doing so to the very best of their abilities and are supported by their organisations.

#ResearchBU

It may seem obvious but offering health and social care workers unrivalled training and education to ensure their professional development, gives them the best chance of being able to help those most in need.

But how can local authorities be sure that the training professionals receive creates a positive impact for those who depend on the Health and Social Care workforce?

The National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work (NCPQSW) at BU has designed a research process to assess the effectiveness of the Leadership and Management Course. Focusing on the ‘Improving Personal and Organisational Performance’ (IPOP) model, the evaluation of course impact, both short and long term, helps to ensure that professionals are putting what they learn into practice and that it’s making a difference to the people who need their help most.

The methodology behind IPOP is refreshingly simple; participants fill in a questionnaire both before and after their training course. Three months later they complete a telephone interview and give examples of how the training has impacted upon their day-to-day work. This is then supported by third party testimony

and evaluation of action plans to further validate this impact.

Professor Keith Brown, Director of NCPQSW explains the importance of proving an impact: “Professionals need opportunities to develop the resilience and ability to make the right judgements at the ‘crunch’ moments, but we also need to offer a clear way forward that helps prevent or reduce the chance of problems. The NCPQSW have developed important, but simple, fundamental principles that ensure leadership development strategies make a real difference, providing evidence of the organisational shift and changes that can be made.”

The Centre currently works in partnership with around half of local authorities in England, many of who use IPOP to assess and improve the quality of social work practice. The results they gain from IPOP is the evidence they need to ensure they are effectively raising the quality of standards within their teams.

IPOP has proved invaluable to local authorities and hospital trusts and although a simple way of measuring impact and change in practice, this unique research programme could be applied to any sector and any course.

Professor Brown concludes; “The NCPQSW’s main priority is to develop and run courses that have a positive impact at both individual and organisational level.

We believe this evaluation shows how our unit has a positive impact on many practitioners’ key skills and work practices.” >> For more about the NCPQSW, please visit www.ncpqsw.com

InsideBU | 15

Poole and Purbeck Portal A new online portal will highlight the work the university is doing in the Poole and Purbeck region. InsideBU finds out how the Poole and Purbeck Portal will benefit staff and students, as well as the local community.

School students developed the website through their company 8 Bit Lemon while graduates at BU’s in-house production companies Red Balloon and Rock, Paper, Film created a promotional video.

The website will showcase the work and research that the School is doing across the region, and will offer a space for staff and students to network with local employers and stakeholders.

Dr Genoveva Esteban and Ben Thomas

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he Poole and Purbeck region is an area of outstanding natural beauty, hugely rich in biodiversity with fascinating heritage sites.

It has also long been a popular place for research within BU’s School of Applied Sciences and a new online portal allows students and staff from the School to share their knowledge and research more easily with the local community. It also provides a space for employers and key stakeholders in the region to post exciting placement and project opportunities.

Dr Genoveva Esteban, Associate Professor in Aquatic Environmental Sciences at BU, is principal investigator for the Poole and Purbeck Portal.

The project received a £41,000 grant from the BU Fusion Investment Fund to get it up and running for a year.

>> Find the Portal at www.pooleandpurbeckportal.co.uk 16| InsideBU

Ben Thornes, Networking and Bid Development Officer said: “The Portal was created by the School of Applied Sciences, to share and develop our knowledge of this hugely important region.”

“Students can benefit from using it to find placements and opportunities, and people who have just graduated can connect with potential employers.”

“The online community is open to anyone who wishes to understand, study, protect or improve the region – this includes professionals in organisations outside of BU, students, academics, scientists and anyone living in the area.”

“Opportunities, knowledge and expertise will be shared, creating collaborations across the region.”

Establishing the portal has been a collaborative process. Second-year Media

Genoveva said: “Job offers, third year dissertations and research projects will go on the Portal. Students can benefit by finding placements and opportunities, and people who have just graduated can connect with potential employers themselves.

“We’ve already spoken with businesses and organisations in the area about it and they think it’s an excellent idea.”

Ben added that they are also hoping to connect with wildlife, conservation and heritage groups in the region, alongside businesses, local authorities and key stakeholders who have an interest in the area.

“If you want to find out what we’ve done in a particular area, the Portal is an easy way of locating it,” said Ben, who graduated from a BSc (Hons) Applied Geography degree at BU last year.

“It’s a way for people to easily see the work that the School does in the community and the benefits of that.”

Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards 2013 The Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards recognise the achievements of those who have made an exceptional contribution to the university. InsideBU found out more about this year’s event.

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n November 2012, the hard work, dedication and commitment of BU staff received formal and public recognition at the Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards.

Whilst the university values all its staff, Award winners are people who have shown something outstanding and the VC Staff Awards are a way to recognise some of their exceptional achievements.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Vinney firmly believes that the key to our success rests on the achievements of our staff and students, and with over 1,500 staff working in academic and professional, support and administrative roles within the Schools and Professional Services, it is important to acknowledge their efforts and dedication.

academic achievement and promotions. Shortlisted staff and their guests are invited to an Awards Ceremony held in November along with the top SUBU ‘You’re Brilliant!’ Award winners. Nominations for the ‘You’re Brilliant!’ Awards come from the students and are a great way to recognise how much they value unique engagement and collaboration with BU staff.

Details of the VC Staff Award categories for 2013 are shown below. This year some changes have been made to selection and other criteria. These are: • Nominated staff need to have been in post for one calendar year by the nomination date.

• The selection criteria for the Unsung Hero Award now ensures the broadest possible coverage of staff at all levels.

The VC Staff Awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of staff across the university, and • The timeframe within which staff receiving their acknowledge contributions that might otherwise have Certificate for achieving an academic or professional gone under the radar. qualification at BU (or another institution) is 1 August 2012 - 11 September 2013. Qualifications Each Award category is designed to reflect BU’s need to be relevant to the role held.

Vision and Values, as well as recognising long service,

Categories of VC Staff Awards 2013 Academic staff

Professional and Support Staff

Affiliated Staff

Unsung Hero

Unsung Hero

Unsung Hero

Individual Achievement Award

Individual Achievement Award

Individual Achievement Award

All staff groups Collaborative Team Award

Recognition Awards 2013 Long Service Award Promotion to Professor Qualifications PG Cert Education Practice Outstanding Achievement Award SUBU ‘You’re Brilliant!’ Awards

Any member of staff who has been in post for one calendar year by the date of nomination is eligible to be nominated for any category of Award, either by their peers or by their line manager. Nominations will open on Monday 3 June and the deadline to submit nominations is Wednesday 11 September. Staff will be advised if they have been shortlisted in early October.

The selection criteria are available on the Staff Intranet. Why not reflect on the colleagues and/or teams with whom you work who you think make them worthy of recognition through a Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Award.

InsideBU | 17

Dr Rebecca Edwards clearly gets a buzz from engaging with the public; not only is it part of her day job, but outside of office hours she’s working on getting a new local charity off the ground.

By day, by night M

y passion for public engagement and impact stems from my research career.

Last year I left my post as a research fellow at the University of Southampton to become BU’s first Research Development Officer for Public Engagement and Impact.

BU has a growing reputation for leading research, so my role is to provide a link with the wider public to ensure that the benefits of higher education are shared, and that our research is informed by society.

In reality, this involves developing initiatives to ensure that the benefits of research go beyond our institutional walls. I’m currently working on the Festival of Learning, the biggest public engagement event we’ve ever held. I also help to facilitate Café Scientifique, a monthly event held in Café Boscanova in Boscombe where anyone can come along to explore the latest research in science and technology. I’m involved in various other public engagement activities and always welcome new ideas!

There’s so many benefits to engaging with the public; academics and researchers use creative ways to show what they’ve been working on and colleagues have told me how re-energised they’ve felt giving a talk within a community context.

It’s brilliant to see the public enjoying themselves whilst learning about some of the brilliant things we do. Working with colleagues to show the impact their work has on society is incredibly rewarding.

D

uring my academic career, much of my research focused on some of the UK’s most deprived communities. It was great that I could develop the research but personally I became increasingly frustrated that I couldn’t do more to help those most in need.

I’ve always been active in the community wherever I’ve lived and when I moved to Bournemouth, I learned that within Boscombe West there’s a lot of hidden poverty and debt.

Wanting to try and improve life in the area, and after a lot of local campaigning and getting to know members of the community, I became the Chair of Trustees for the Boscombe Independent Advice Centre (BIAC) in November 2011.

The charity provides support and information around issues including housing, poverty and debt that are specific to Boscombe. We also provide support to people who can’t leave their home for whatever reason to make sure that we’re fully engaging and accessible. We were delighted when earlier this year, we were successful in winning the biggest lottery grant in the South West – nearly £300,000.

To make sure people know about BIAC, we’re continually working with key partners to build links and networks. Ultimately our aim is to make a positive difference to the community. >> If you’re

Dr Rebecca Edwards 18| InsideBU

interested in becoming a Trustee or a volunteer for a charity local to BU, please email redwards@ bournemouth. ac.uk.

Dates for your diary LAUNCH 2013

History of PR Conference

30 - 31 May, Marconi Lecture Theatre and Kimmeridge House

24 – 25 June, Executive Business Centre

The Media School’s final year students will present their production projects in a public exhibition.

Festival of Learning 3 – 14 June, Talbot and Lansdowne Campuses

Celebrates the best of what the university has to offer, with over 100 free activities open to the public, staff and students.

Postgraduate Information Session Wednesday 12 June

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

EMMA 2013 13 - 14 June, Executive Business Centre

The European Media Management Association Conference provides a forum for academics researching and teaching media management in higher education.

Undergraduate Open Day Saturday 15 June, Talbot Campus

An opportunity for researchers, historians and interested practitioners to meet and discuss this emerging area of research.

Connecting people at the heart of nursing care; leading the way 21 June, Executive Business Centre Phi Mu Chapter (England) Inaugural Conference

Festival of Design & Innovation 21 – 24 June, Talbot Campus

FODI showcases the designs, models and prototypes created by our students as their final year project.

Making Waves Event Management Conference 3 - 5 July, Executive Business Centre

Making Waves: International Conference on Events (ICE2013) and 10th AEME Forum.

HSC Awards 8 July, Kimmeridge House

The School of Health and Social Care will be awarding their sponsored prizes to final year students at a dedicated Awards Ceremony.

An open day for prospective students.

How to submit If you would like to submit a story for the next issue of InsideBU, please email insidebu@bournemouth.ac.uk by Friday 12 July 2013.

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

Photographs for print must be 300dpi.

>> For more information about these events at BU, please contact the Events Team on 01202 961018 or email buevents@ bournemouth.ac.uk InsideBU | 19

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