Degree issue 9

Degree° Issue 9 Autumn 2017

5

people

YOU MIGHT MEET IN HALLS

A Golden Year - Uni Takes Top Teaching Award Five Reasons To Come To University Life On Placement - TV Production Management and PR Students Reveal All The Write Stuff - A Rough Guide to Storytelling And more…

°eergeD

01°

Welcome

It’s been an interesting six months since our last edition, to say the least. For a start, we’ve reaped a heap of awards, further evidence that we continue to put our students first when considering the future.

For example, taking gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework is recognition of the Uni’s commitment to ensuring all our students enjoy a first-class learning experience.

Also, in this Degree, cover star Anna draws back the curtains on hall life to reveal some of the characters you may encounter in your new home from home.

Don’t worry, they’re not actual people, she’s just having a bit of fun, highlighting the fact that everyone arrives here with quirks and foibles, but eventually finds their partners in crime.

Meanwhile, we have a masterclass in creative writing from Dr Jenny Barrett, with a little help from some writers who know their way around the edge of a seat, and Claire Blennerhassett outlines the trials and tribulations of setting up a research project. You need plenty of enthusiasm and stamina, which is fortunate as her project focuses on the nutritional demands of ultrarunning. Definitely food for thought.

We talk to students who have taken advantage of the University’s commitment to help them hit the ground running in the world of work once they graduate. Alex, Brad, Meg and Ross all secured work placements, Alex and Brad with money from the University’s Student Opportunity Fund, and returned energised and with a much clearer idea of their next step following graduation.

Talking of which, we have some tips for when the day to don your mortar board does eventually arrive. Hint: just enjoy yourself – you’ll have earned it.

And finally, if opportunities to get involved in major festivals like Sound City or our own Festival of Ideas aren’t enough and you’re still looking for reasons to experience the challenges of uni, we have some starters for ten.

We hope you enjoy reading this as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together – and don’t be shy about letting us know what you think.

Contents

01° Golden Year

03° Five Reasons To Come To University 06° Graduation Dos and Don’ts

07° My Edge Hill: Daniel Bocharnikov, SU V-P 09° 5 People You Might Meet in Halls

15° Pack Your Trunks: Spending a Summer in TV Production Management 17° The Sky’s The Limit

19° The Future Is Unwritten 21° The Write Stuff

24° My Heroes: Dr Jenny Barrett 25° Games Without Frontiers

28° Mersey Paradise: Sound City 2017 31° Bright Ideas

32° My Life in Music: Professor Stephen Davismoon 33° Pushing the Limits

Production Team Nick Lodge (editor), Mark Molloy (design), Sam Armstrong Photography Stuart Rayner, Getty

Golden Year H

What a year it’s been here at Edge Hill University. What. A. Year.

aving already taken the Whatuni Student Choice Awards by storm – named Best Student Accommodation in the UK and Best Student Experience in the North West, taking third spot for Student Support, and shortlisted in several other categories – we have now struck gold, with Edge Hill University recognised in the highly-prized top gold category of the inaugural Teaching Excellence Framework. Eat your hearts out, James Bond, Austin Powers, Spandau Ballet, amongst others with vague associations to element number 79.

Degree°

What does that actually mean in practice, though? It’s an excellent question. The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) has been introduced by the Government to encourage excellent teaching in universities and colleges, and sits alongside the already established Research Excellence Framework (REF). It’s intended to help potential students find the best study option for them by providing clear information about teaching provision and student outcomes. The award categories – gold, silver and bronze – are based on measurement of teaching quality, learning environment, student outcomes and employability, some of which has been drawn from the latest National Student Survey results. A gold award represents an institution that delivers ‘consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for its students’.

In short, it means that our undergraduate students can expect first class tuition, and to leave Edge Hill with enhanced career opportunities, the return on their investment more likely to yield a positive outcome – a decent job or progression to further study, for example.

This year has also seen Edge Hill identified in the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey as the top ‘modern diversified university’, and been ranked in the top two nationally for campus security and safety.

02°

All this follows on from our earlier successes, which have seen us named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2014/15, amongst other accolades.

The University’s reputation as a significant player in higher education is growing steadily year on year, a status reflected in recent university league tables, with Edge Hill climbing eight places to 58 in The Guardian’s 2018 rankings, and putting us in the top three in the North West.

And we’re determined to build on our success, sometimes quite literally, with a further 263 student rooms being built, taking total on-campus accommodation to 2,522 by September 2017, and a new library and student services centre also set to open in September 2018.

This comes hot on the heels of the £30m sports centre in 2015, boasting a 25m swimming pool, 100-station fitness suite, and brand new athletics track and field, and the opening of the £13.5m Technology Hub in 2016, the new home of the Computing department, alongside plenty more award-winning accommodation.

All this amidst a picture postcard of a campus that really turns heads. And has a beach. °

°eergeD

03°

Five Reasons to Come to University: Look What You’ve Got to Gain Your Independence

“The best part about living in halls is having my independence, and actually having to look after myself. The worst part is not having a dish washer,” said first year Jack Lloyd, highlighting some of the trials and tribulations of living away from home for the first time. University life offers many things, but nothing is quite as liberating – and daunting: doing your own washing up? The horror! The horror! – as being in charge of your own day-to-day life. Making every decision to do, or not do (see washing up, above), something yourself. Independence is a powerful drug, and can send some off the rails, but once you’ve got the hang of it, there’s no going back.

An Open Mind It’s worth remembering now and then that university isn’t just a pitstop on the path to your chosen career. It’s also somewhere to discover fresh ideas, and somewhere to mould your own. It’s base camp in the foothills of life’s huge challenges, a place where you can weigh up the journey ahead, and plan the best route for you, in collaboration with friends and fellow travellers. So take your time in the library, get involved in the seminars, forego that early pint to catch the speaker whose latest paper caught your eye, take a module that appears entirely alien to any previous study.

As English Literature student Melanie Senior says, “my tutors from first year really inspired the way I look at literature and the way I write, both creatively and academically.” The mental adventure you embark on at university is as exhilarating as anything else you will experience during your time in HE. You may even be able to answer one or two questions on University Challenge, which may be something you couldn’t say when you were neck deep in foam at a Freshers’ bash.

04°

Degree°

Responsibility and Employability Suggestive of cleaning, cooking, time constraints, and the basic requirements of personal hygiene, responsibility is a word parents tend to use on a depressingly regular basis. However, the responsibilities required to perform well in a job, or on a placement, or in an elected capacity are much less mundane.

And these life skills can all be gained through opportunities found at university, and they give you a head start in your search for a successful future. Psychology undergrad Lydia Suffling recalls the benefits of being a course representative: “It’s a really social responsibility and it allows you to blend with the other students on your course (because you are advocating for them) and also the module leaders. Not only this, but I feel that I understood a lot more about the effort put into the course itself and the way in which modules were created.” Alternatively you could approach the university careers team, who can help you find part-time work during your undergraduate years, or become a student guide, showing prospective candidates around campus.

Or you could try your hand at student politics, campaigning on issues close to your heart, join – or even start – a society around something you are passionate about, from Jeremy Clarkson to Jeremy Corbyn to Tom and Jerry. You could work abroad during the summer break, or devote some of your time to volunteering. All these things will enhance your life opportunities.

Your Money Goes Further

As a student, you get lots of free stuff – everyone loves that, don’t they? Banks will dangle carrots in front of you, and there are discounts-a-go-go through your NUS membership, as well as simply for holding student status. Student nights are regular dates in the diaries of most reputable after-dark entertainment establishments, while many shops, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and gig venues offer student discounts. Even public transport is cheaper. And here at Edge Hill you get automatic free membership to The Arts Centre, our on-campus venue for all things cultural, which includes free tickets to several shows of your choice each year, just to get you started.

And let’s not forget Freshers’, one of the most memorable weeks of a student’s time at uni, with something for everyone, from society fairs and comedy nights to super, great, smashing nights hosted by superstar DJs. With added foam and lasers. But why listen to us when there’s Lauren Mann, Edge Hill NUS Vice President, who can say it so much better: “Whether it’s an inflatable fun day, mini golf, slumber party film night or massive DJs and live bands taking the roof off the Quad at night, there really is something for everyone at Freshers’.”

05°

°eergeD

ehu.ac.uk/experience

Friends for Life You will be influenced by many academics, intellectual thinkers and figures from history. But you will also be influenced by the people who will come to be as important to you as family – new friends. From all over the world, not just the UK. With different ideas, cultural traditions, senses of humour, food, music and fashion tastes. But they’ll be there when you have your biggest revelations, are at your lowest ebb, or experiencing your first all-kind-of-things. And you’ll be there for theirs.

Psychology student Lydia Suffling clearly remembers time spent with her university buddies: “Travelling to Southport Beach with my housemates was great fun – walking along the coastline, going on the fairground rides on the pier and enjoying hot doughnuts from the beach stands.” It may not sound like the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle you’re sometimes sold, but they say that what you experience at the sharp end of your teenage years stays with you for life, its vividness undimmed. Doing stuff with these new friends is the point where you really bond, and it’s often for life.

So there you have it, and we haven’t even scratched the surface. If we’d compiled a top 50 reasons to go to uni we’d still have plenty more things to shout about. UCAS applications open in September – what have you got to lose?

04° 06°

Degree°

Graduation

G

dos

&

raduation is the pinnacle of your time at university.

The culmination of several years’ hard work, and official acknowledgement of your readiness to take on the world.

But how do you approach the big day? Here are a few handy pointers to help make the most of your once-in–a-lifetime opportunity to throw a mortar board in the air.

Do wear something appropriate The flowing robes are compulsory, which at least gives you the opportunity to dress like a Hogwarts extra for a day without fearing for your life. But what to wear beneath this traditional garb?

Jeans and a t-shirt may be comfortable, and it may be tempting to don your Cookie Monster onesie, for your Instagram account, but those sensible people in charge recommend a smart outfit, if only to please your mum. And think carefully about what you put on your feet – there will be steps. A pair of Nicki Minaj’s cast-off stilettos may not be the wisest decision. Although it may make a great snap for (someone else’s) Instagram account.

Don’t forget to check the timetable No cheeky lie-ins and a sprint across campus on graduation day, I’m afraid – you need to be in your designated seat at least 30 minutes before the start of your ceremony. Unless you’re Axl Rose or Justin Bieber the show will go on without you, and you will have to graduate ‘in abstentia’.

Which will make your gran cry.

Do take plenty of photos There’s an official photographer, yes, but that shot’s for your parents’ mantelpiece. Get snaphappy, as if you need any encouragement. Our campus makes an ideal backdrop, and we’ll even provide some props for you, your friends, even your lecturers, if your airborne mortar board loses its novelty value. And there’s always the possibility of grandad photobombing one of our honorary graduates, who will also be enjoying the day with you. Previous honoraries include Marc Almond, Jane Horrocks, David Morrissey, Dame Janet Suzman, and Johnny Vegas, so have your dabs at the ready.

don’ts

Don’t be afraid to pile your plate high It’s not every day you celebrate the culmination of what will be, for most, 16 years of continuous study, so treat yourself. It’s a special day, a day for cakes and ale. Other, non-alcoholic, refreshments are available, of course. There’s loads of complimentary food and refreshments on offer – get stuck in.

poultry not recommended

Don’t forget to show your folks around our beautiful campus You’ve spent the last few years here, so maybe you’ve started taking it a little for granted, but your family may experience serious neck spasms from serial double-taking as they wander around the lakes, bask on the beach, sip fizz in the Rock Garden, follow the sculpture trail (leaflets provided on request), and, of course, introduce themselves to our aquatic feathered friends, the Edge Hill ducks.

Do tell us and anyone who’ll listen about your great day on social media.

We always have dedicated hashtags and threads and whatever the latest thing is for each graduation ceremony so you can tell us all about the great day you’re having. If our official tags don’t appeal, #bestdayever, #arentducksace?, and #EHUgraduationrulesok are also available.

And of course, don’t be a stranger Once you’ve graduated you’re officially a member of the exclusive Edge Hill alumni. This grants you unlimited free access to many of the services you’ll have got used to during your time here, including the library and careers services, and you can follow our fortunes online and in our regular mag. We can even help out with your reunion plans.

Oh yes, you don’t get away that easily, you’ll be back.

°eergeD

07°

DANIEL

MY EDGE HILL

BOCHARNIKOV Currently studying for an MRes in Physical Geography after completing a first degree in Environmental Science, Dan’s career goals lie within environmental research, perhaps someday running a sustainability-orientated company. He loves to travel, finding interesting and quirky places to cycle, kayak and swim, while closer to home he enjoys engaging students in fun activities.

Q A

Q&A

Best place to enjoy a quiet drink?

Cobble’s Twisted Thursdays, offering a healthy selection of cocktails combined with relaxing music, is a winner.

Q A

Best place for a big night out?

There’s a real mixture of nights out in Ormskirk depending on how your group are feeling. You may find yourself living it large in the Students’ Union during Wednesday Socials or in Alpine’s R&B night. On occasions Liverpool is only a train ride away and it’s nice to see the sights by day then head out to party by night.

Q A

Best place to get a cheap bite?

It’s got to be Wetherspoons, especially as their new app means that you can simply head in, grab a table, and order.

There's been many times where a small catch-up turns into a big night out in ‘spoons.

Q A

Best place to relax in the sun?

It’s a close call between the Edge Hill beach and the deck chairs on the Sports Centre terrace. For the fact that you can dip your toes in the water on a hot summer’s day, for me the beach would be the winner.

THREE WORDS OR PHRASES TO DESCRIBE EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY… Community-feel, inspirational, home from home

Students’ Union Vice President (Activities) MRes Physical Geography

04° 08°

Degree°

Q A

Best place to get your groceries?

To pick out a few, Morrisons is probably the largest and easiest in terms of variety, but when it comes to small shops the local greengrocers and butchers are great.

Q A

Best place for a day out?

For ease of group travel and variety I would say Liverpool. From the paddle-boarding on the docks to a cheeky Nando's in the centre you won’t leave unhappy.

There's a cultural vibe within Liverpool, walking through the centre listening to the buskers, and people are happy to offer directions and recommendations.

Q

Best place to meet people?

A Recreational sessions run by campus sports offer an opportunity to mix sports with socialising. A fond memory was competing against Pro Vice-Chancellor Mark Allanson in badminton. Despite being beaten it was great to see staff mixing with students.

Q My sport or society?

A Each year my incentive is to try something new, so I’ve been part of the climbing and mountaineering society, big games society, and Vibe Media, as well as helping run Geo-sciences and the Cycling Society.

I would really encourage students to get involved with societies as they are an amazing platform to meet like-minded students, making your university experience exponentially better.

Q Best place to go bike-riding?

A Those who know me tend to have a good idea of where I am by where my bike is parked up. Burscough canals, stretching to Leeds, offer a great chance to travel long distances, seeing landmarks from a unique vantage point.

Q Best eating place?

A I love food, both quality and quantity! Located on the edge of Ormskirk you’ll find Toby Carvery.

Not only do they offer a hearty roast but also a buffet-style breakfast for about £4. A great place to head to with a group of friends – and you’re pretty much guaranteed to waddle out.

Q Best place to get away from people for a bit?

A A personal favourite of mine would be to cycle to Formby sand dunes on a sunny evening. The soft sand running through your feet, crisp sounds and smells of sea air makes for an incredibly relaxing experience.

Q A

Ormskirk/Edge Hill’s best kept secret?

If I told you I’d have to kill you! Only kidding.

Walking through Ormskirk towards Aughton Hill I’ve found the perfect place to embrace candyfloss sunsets with a flask of hot chocolate. I’m a bit of a photographer so I love finding new places to appreciate the area in all its glory – check out my Instagram: dansescapade

Q A

Song to relax to/revise to/get ready to go out to?

I've recently learnt a beautiful song called River on guitar. I don’t quite sound like Leon Bridges but it's definitely relaxing. As for my going out playlist it’s pretty dynamic, but if I had to choose an artist, Bruno Mars seems to bring out tune after tune.

Q A

Best way to spend Freshers’?

One word, engage. It's a huge opportunity to get to know like-minded students over a variety of social activities. Another life-changing first-week experience was getting a part-time job. Sign up and go to as many events that interest you as possible. I’ll always remember themed nights out that made for a great bonding experience.

Q A

Best university-related trip?

A visit to Mallorca during our second year. We travelled around the island identifying areas of geographical and cultural importance, then carried out our own research. The sun was shining and luckily we got to head out to the beach on several occasions for a cold but refreshing swim.

Q A

Best Uni improvement during my time here?

The sports centre has seen huge developments.

The new facilities are brilliant, from the huge double sports hall to the modern swimming pool with health suite, we’re spoilt for choice. I even went to a Zumba class with some friends the other day and we had a hilariously good time.

Q A

Best way to spend a day off?

Getting up early I would try and spend a few hours in the Library before making the most of the day hanging out with friends. I remember heading out Friday night in first year and what was just a funny conversation on a night out turned into climbing Mt Snowdon the next day. Those are the kind of spontaneous adventures that you remember.

Q A

Did you use the Rose Theatre/Arts Centre?

Open Mic night surprised me this year. I decided to be brave and make a last minute entry. As nervous as I was I had a great time getting to know everyone there while watching some amazing performances.

Seeing just how passionate and friendly students are around campus is an inspiration.

www.edgehillsu.org.uk

°eergeD

09°

5

people you might meet in

l l s a M

oving to university is an exciting, yet daunting, prospect, and who you will be living with is one of the most important defining aspects of your first year at university. Your new hallmates will be the people you rely on in the first few weeks of moving in as you get used to living independently away from home, the first time for many. But who will you be living with?

What will your new hallmates be like? Here’s teaching student, Anna Sharp with her guide to some of the people you’ll be living with next year.

10°

Degree°

1.

he time t l l a t u o s e go The one who It was understandable through Fresher’s week.

Going out every night was part of the university experience.

But now you’re in week three, and all those nights out and takeaways are starting to catch up on you. That doesn’t stop this hallmate, though, who insists on going to every Mustard Monday, Alpine Tuesday, Social at the SU on Wednesday, and back at Alpine for Thursday night too.

There’s no stopping this hallmate, and somehow they’re the most persuasive person you’ll ever meet, and you soon realise you have little willpower as you end up joining them on half of their nights out. Although you shake your head at their constant partying, you’re secretly jealous of their stamina and seemingly inexhaustible bank balance.

°eergeD

11°

2.

The one who thinks they are a chef You loved it in the first few weeks.

They would cook you a proper meal every now and then, a blessing after weeks of super noodles and pasta. However, soon it becomes more of a curse than a blessing. You always see them cooking, but you never seem to see them washing up, and the mounting pile of unwashed dishes seems to grow every time you walk into the kitchen. At first you refused to wash anything in defiance, but after resorting to eating your cereal out of a mug, you took one for the team and washed everything up, only to find a new mountain of dirty dishes the very next day.

12°

Degree°

3.

ever see n u o y e n o e Th You saw them in Freshers’ week, and you thought they were quite nice, actually.

But do they still live there? You haven’t seen them in weeks, although you do hear them coming in and out of the flat at random times of the day. You’re pretty sure that they do still live there as they leave little pieces of evidence, like half-eaten pieces of toast on the side, some questionable music coming from their room, and a pair of their shoes still hanging around in the kitchen from Freshers. You’re still not quite sure what course they’re on, and the fact that they go home every weekend confirms that they’re still holding on to friends at home.

Warner TV

°eergeD

13°

4.

The one who eats all your food You’ve been dreaming of the pepperoni pizza that’s been sitting in your freezer all day, only to find that it’s mysteriously disappeared when you get home. You’ve slowly noticed food disappearing from your cupboard, your crisps and pasta rations are depleting at a much faster rate than you’re eating them, and you start to wonder which hallmate is responsible. Within weeks the trust is gone and you have to resort to keeping your milk in the mini fridge in your room. Eating your favourite biscuits is the final straw and your food cupboard is now on permanent lock-down – the ultimate gesture to show that you don’t share food.

5.

14°

Degree°

iend Your best fr

Anna Sharp is studying for a BA (Hons) in Primary Education (English). She is a contributor to The TAB. Read more of her ponderments at:

thetab.com/author/annasharp1

ac ot *N

Your hallmates in first year will always hold a special place in your heart, despite how annoying they may seem at times. They’re with you through your first few weeks at university as you’re all learning how to live independently. You’ll laugh together and probably cry together when you realise that clothes don’t wash themselves, but they’ll help shape your first year, and you’ll almost definitely miss the strange dynamic that was life with your first year hallmates.

tu

al

BF

F

How have you only just met this hallmate?

Within weeks you know everything about each other and you spend every minute of every day together. They’re with you on every night out to Alpine or every all-nighter at the library finishing your assignments, you have exactly the same sense of humour and you’re already friends with all of their family. You feel like you’ve known them your whole life. Your friends from home are jealous that you’ve already found a new best friend and the two of you do everything together, including putting down a deposit for your house in second year.

°eergeD

15°

SPENDING A SUMMER IN TV PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT Megan Hughes

T

hey say never work with children or animals. Well Megan worked with baby animals, and loved it.

Most of the time.

“Sometimes you come in and there's not a lot going on…so I'd pull everything out and clean. And then some days you'd be getting phone calls, 'the orangutan's escaped, you need to run over here,’ and I'd be running round the whole zoo.”

Not a scene from the latest instalment of The Planet of the Apes franchise, but a glimpse into the secret life of the wannabe tv production manager, seen through the eyes of Edge Hill student Megan Hughes.

She spent over five months on paid work placement at Chester Zoo, working for tv production company Blast! Films on the second series of Channel 4’s The Secret Life of the Zoo. Reminiscent more of scenes from Madagascar, if it wasn’t the orangutans playing up Megan would be tasked with monitoring the pregnant elephants and zebras, or keeping an eye out for Bernie, the spectacled bear, sitting on his branch.

The flipside to these fleeting moments of televisual gold, of course, is hours of waiting around. Animals tend not to follow the script:

“Everyone thinks that working in tv is glamorous, but it really isn't, it's hard work and long hours. At the zoo, there was a zebra due to give birth so we were doing rotating twelve hour shifts to make sure we didn't miss it. One night we needed to do a kit inventory so me and the Production Coordinator stayed until midnight to try and organise it to make sure it was all ready for the next day.”

Coursemate Ross Eaton also had a placement that appeared, on paper, to have a touch of glamour about it. He worked with BBC Sport’s Rio 2016 Olympic production team. Unfortunately for Ross, while the real action took place 6,000 miles away in Brazil, he was busy organising the staff paperwork back in sunny Salford:

“The production manager's team has to make sure health and safety is covered, all their passports are correct, make sure they've got the right medical documents.

All that times, say, 500. It involves a lot of correspondence, checking details, all the stuff you think 'I don't want to do that', [but] I wanted to do it because you're working at the BBC so you just want to impress, don't you? A lot of people think it's just making cups of tea for a month.

It's not at all, I got so hands on.”

Ross clearly displayed the right stuff at the Beeb who were looking for “someone who would hit the ground running, contribute to team meetings and with extremely good attention to detail,” according to Sheona Griffiths, Production Manager at BBC Sport. “Ross delivered on all counts. He showed confidence in his work, without being over-confident. He really understood the processes and challenges we were faced with and got stuck in, and always with good humour and a calm, positive, can-do attitude.”

To land the placement he had to devise features which would improve his favourite shows, suggesting the use of digital technology to bring a social participation element to A Question of Sport and Match of the Day, and impressing enough to stay on for a few

04° 16°

Degree°

“From arranging talks from the Unit manager at the BBC Natural History Unit, to workshops from ITV programme developers and series producers, to liaising with talent managers, every module is threaded through with opportunities to get real ‘on the ground’ training.”

more months as a paid employee on various projects: “I didn't really have a summer holiday, but I didn't want it to end.”

So, what is a television production manager?

What do they do? Is it just someone good at ticking boxes? For a job that pays, on average, over £36k a year, you’d expect there to be just a little bit more to it than that. Why did Megan and Ross choose TV Production Management?

“I studied film and tv production at college, alongside English, Music and Drama, and I was undecided about what to study further. I came along to the Open Day, and [the lecturers] were like, 'oh, if you like being organised and bossy, this is the course for you', and I was like 'oh, it's me', so that's what made me want to do it,” says Megan, laughing.

Ross was equally mystified initially.

He did photography at college, loved sport, was interested in the media, considered journalism, but decided to take a punt on TV Production Management after a chat with one of the course developers (now a Managing Editor at BBC Sport). The degree has really opened his eyes, and helped him to discover the career path he wants to follow:

“I just want to focus on brand new technologies, and this is linked to what I've enjoyed about the academic side of the course. I like how production techniques and technologies are constantly being improved. I would never have said that two years ago, wouldn't have had a clue, but learning about new things does influence you. So much that I'm doing something I've never done before.” That “something” is developing a programme idea for his final project – an audience-centric twist on Dragons’ Den – that is well out of his comfort zone: “From the first year I've always done something about sport, and I wanted to challenge myself.”

Course tutor Perelandra Beedles worked in the industry before joining Edge Hill’s pioneering degree, and knows what it takes to succeed:

An enthusiasticallyencouraged rather than compulsory element of the programme, the University goes the extra mile to support students looking to secure placements, providing contacts and highlighting The Secret Life of the Zoo - Blast!/Channel 4 opportunities, helping out on the cash front through the Student Opportunity Fund, making sure “Production managers stay calm under they don’t miss out on any work while pressure, have the skill to problem-solve they’re away: and find solutions where no others can, and possess the ability to marry practical “I think they're all there for you, and and financial considerations with creative they want us to succeed, and especially ones. A good TV Production Management with [course lecturers] working in the student needs to have excellent listening industry, they're like 'go, go, go, get jobs,'” skills, attention to detail, be happy to work says Megan. in a team but also be prepared to step up Her previous work experience as a and take responsibility. Enjoying working production runner for a local media with creative people is a must.” company was the factor that sealed the deal when she applied for The Secret Life of the Zoo: “I was the only person who'd gone out and got other placements, done something rather than just sit around expecting something to be handed to me on a plate.”

“

I DIDN'T REALLY HAVE A SUMMER HOLIDAY, BUT I DIDN'T WANT IT TO END.

“

Megan and Ross are both students on the BA (Hons) Television Production Management (TVPM) programme, the only one of its kind in the UK, and an acknowledgement that an awful lot more goes into making a film or a tv programme than what you see on screen – just take a look at all those end-credits.

Breaking into the media industry, especially without contacts, is notoriously difficult. How do you get these allimportant contacts? Through friends and acquaintances, through course contacts (lecturers, industry speakers, alumni working in the media), and through your own contacts made during periods of work experience. It makes sense, then, to make employability a core element of any undergraduate media course.

“Finding credible work placements is incredibly important for our students,” says Perelandra. “The University takes this aspect very seriously and has ensured the TVPM programme is delivered by industry professionals with many years of experience under their own belts and valuable contacts who can be accessed in a number of ways.

Megan is perhaps being a little modest.

Paul Evans, Production Manager at Blast!

Films and an alumnus of the same course (Class of 2011), says it was because she made a great first impression:

“Megan showed a genuine interest in the project by asking relevant questions about the job which demonstrated her enthusiasm.

I believe it’s how you first come across that is the most important – whether that’s through a phone conversation, email or a face-to-face interview.”

Once she’d landed the gig, though, Megan didn’t disappoint.

“Megan was a brilliant addition to the team,” says Paul, “and worked extremely hard to assist with the demands of the production. A production of this size needed someone with a positive can-do attitude every day and Megan was keen to impress. We’ve recently invited Megan back to help on the new series.”

Do a good job, and doors will open, according to Paul:

°eergeD

17°

“There’s a huge demand for production secretaries, co-ordinators and managers within the industry. I got my first tv job two months after graduating and I’ve never been out of a job since.”

“There’s always a shortage of good production management staff and the good ones always stand out,” agrees Sheona Griffiths.

So, the course is geared towards getting everyone’s size nines in the door of the media industry, becoming a name amongst the scrolling credits at the end of films and tv shows. Even if it means setting up your own company, something Megan and Ross have discussed, albeit half-jokingly – “one of our course tutors has given us a list of everything you need to set up your own production company, and me and Ross were thinking, 'we could do this'...we'll only do it if we can film stuff abroad so we can go on holidays...”

Ross Eaton

Post-placement, Ross’ outlook is decidedly rosy, building on the confidence successfully fighting your corner in a very competitive BBC Sport environment brings: “What stands out was just meeting loads of people who are keen about the same things as you. You all enjoy media, television, and you're getting to know brand new people, and, when it comes to the end of your time and for them to say such positive things about you is a real confidence boost. I want to work now, I'm ready to work, I feel like I've grown up in the last year.”

Megan, meanwhile, will hopefully be walking up in hat and gown to collect her degree from Chancellor Professor Tanya Byron revelling in the knowledge that she’s already secured paid employment on the next series of The Secret Life of the Zoo. Good luck to any pregnant animals that don’t give birth according to her filming schedule this time round.°

edgehill.ac.uk/media

A

fter his college radio production course was axed before it had even started, Liverpudlian Brad Grant’s dreams of working in the media seemed destined for the same fate.

He took up an apprenticeship, and embarked on a career in social housing. And that appeared to be the end of the story.

04° 18°

Degree° Fast forward to the present, and Brad is now in the second year of a degree in Public Relations with Politics, and has just spent a week with Sky TV at their impressive Sky Central offices in West London, a base the size of Heathrow’s terminal 5, he enthusiastically informs us.

He applied for one of Sky’s Starting Out programmes, a raft of opportunities to gain real work experience for anyone looking to break into broadcasting, both in front of and behind the cameras.

In Brad’s words, it was an almost “surreal” experience, a whistle-stop tour of pretty much everything Sky does, crammed into five hectic days:

“I enjoyed being in an environment with so many creative and talented people. It was a surreal week, but put into perspective where hard work and passion can get you.

It definitely inspired me.”

And Edge Hill University were more than willing to offer Brad the helping hand he needed to get his foot in the door. A week in London is going to involve substantial demands on anyone’s bank balance, so Brad was extremely pleased when his tutor gave him a heads up about the University’s new Student Opportunity Fund (SOF), aimed at providing financial support for current students looking to take advantage of career-enhancing and life-changing opportunities:

Brad Grant

But let’s rewind a little, to a 15 year old Brad, daydreaming in a science class about travelling, specifically to America. Brad held onto that daydream, through his apprenticeship, into full-time employment in social housing, a job he enjoyed, with great managers and some brass in pocket, until one day, a few months after his 18th birthday, he bit the bullet, and asked his manager for a three-month sabbatical. He was amazed, and grateful, when he said yes, and hot-footed it home to apply for Camp America, the inspiration for his daydream three years earlier.

A life-changing summer in America helped him to reassess his life goals, and he returned to England determined to forge a new path: go to night school, get into university, conquer the world. Well, something like that, anyway.

“The fund was able to cover accommodation for the week, as well as transport costs to and from London,” says Brad. “The application process is very simple – I waited about a week to find out that my application had been successful.

Bearing in mind I found out about my work experience quite late in the year, the SOF team did a great job fast-tracking my application.”

And Frances Scattergood, heading up the SOF team, is keen to spread the word: “Brad’s experience is a great example of how the SOF can support our students’ goals. If you’ve got an idea which will enhance your employability, or you need to travel to get some work experience, or you’re looking to develop a specific skill then you can apply to us for any amount, from bus fare up to £2,000. And don’t worry, you don’t have to repay the money.

Of course, it all starts with you. Tell us what you’d like to do, how you’re going to do it and why it will enhance your employability and future prospects.”

Taking in Sky Studios (where Sky Sports broadcast from, as well as being a battleground for the Cameron/Miliband dust-ups during the 2015 general election campaign), Sky Cinema, and Sky Academy (providing media taster sessions for 8-18

year olds), Brad spent the majority of his week at Sky Central. The nerve centre of operations, he worked on Christmas campaigns, presenting ideas, and edited the cinema pages on an intranet with a potential audience of 30,000 staff-members.

Yes, Sky has its own 200-seat cinema. A particular highlight for keen newshound Brad was spending time on Sky News Sunrise, the company’s early morning show: “As an avid fan of Sky News, to be in the actual ‘glass news box’ was unbelievable, and to meet the team, who were absolutely great, was a privilege.”

And he praised the patience and generosity of the Sky employees, at all levels, who also gave him an insight into their own formative years, getting feet on ladders: “I’m sure you’ve heard of horror work experience stories, when you’re sat doing nothing or left to boil the kettle, but thankfully Sky was the complete opposite.

At Sky, you’re treated and respected like you’re on the payroll – there’s no different treatment of individuals on work experience.

The staff at Sky fully acknowledged that they too were once in my position, and went out of their way to offer advice and share their experiences.”

Brad “really connected with Sky and its ethos”, and would recommend the experience to anyone looking to build an impressive media CV. His course had already provided opportunities to spend time in the newsrooms of Radio Merseyside and the Liverpool Echo, but as he gets further into his undergraduate degree, he is considering his next step.

As a two-time Camp America veteran, Brad’s caught the travelling bug, and would love to see more of the world. But he’s also acutely aware that more work experience will help him to stand out in a fiercely competitive industry, so for now he’s following up leads and plugging into his developing network of contacts. His dream job is, of course, one which combines travel with a prized media role:

“I'd like to work within an organisation which allows me to communicate with people, with the option to travel. I like how the media industry is able to share information and communicate not only locally and nationally, but also globally, whether through news, radio, or advertising.”

His time with Sky has inspired Brad to reach for the stars, and Edge Hill University encourages all its students to follow their career dreams. With a little help from the Student Opportunity Fund, the sky really is the limit for our learning community.° For further details visit ehu.ac.uk/itstartswithyou

19°

°eergeD

“I

04° 20°

Degree°

“Get on and do it. The amazing thing about writing is that you don't need anybody's permission to do it, you can do it now,” said Chris Chibnall. “If you feel passionate about writing, give some time to it, like everything it takes practice, but unlike other disciplines, you don't need anybody else to write. It's just you and a pen and pencil, or your phone, or whatever. Also, watch or read stuff that you love, get yourself familiar with what you want to write. I think there's been no better time to be a writer in tv in Britain in history, actually. There's going to be a lot of demand for the next generation of writers coming through.”

“

Following the announcement of a new Doctor, in the distinctly non-male shape of Jodie Whittaker, Chris was addressing graduating students after becoming a doctor himself, receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Literature from the University.

Jodie Whittaker - BBC

“Keep going, persist. You don't know how life is going to go once you graduate, and I think when there are setbacks, and things are difficult, or you're maybe not where you want to be, keep going. You can change the world, you can make a difference. The biggest thing I wanted to communicate to the graduates was that the world isn't fixed and it'll be those people that can and will change the world, and the world needs them, it needs good people.”

Born and bred down the road in Formby, Chris has come the long way round to get here, taking the reins of Doctor Who from Steven Moffatt who guided the series through the Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi years. In an earlier incarnation a 16-yearold Chris represented the Doctor Who Appreciation Society on a BBC feedback programme discussing the lack of quality in the show’s 1986 season. His subsequent career has seen him putting in long hours honing his craft, and growing in confidence,

before finally taking on the role for which he was perhaps always destined.

YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD,YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

“

t's a good time to be studying to be a writer, couldn't literally be a better time in history.”

Coming from the man who has just taken over the mantle of showrunner for the BBC’s flagship family show Doctor Who, this is a powerful message for anyone looking to put pen to paper in order to make a living:

After having his first short play produced at the age of 18, an MA in Theatre and Film, and clutching a range of influences including fellow Merseyside writers such as Alan Bleasdale, Jimmy McGovern and another Edge Hill Honorary Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Chris was well-set for a literary life. But with no contacts in the film and tv industry he had to bide his time initially, working as a football archivist and floor manager on Sky Sports during its infancy in the 1990s.

He took his own advice and kept going, and by the time he finally broke through, with monologue Stormin’ Norman, performed by James Bolam, he was no stranger to rejection. In 2001 he began developing Born and Bred for the BBC, a 1950s-set drama based around a village medical practice at the dawn of the NHS. It hit the screens in 2002, running for four years. He had finally materialised onto the scene (sorry…but surely you knew a TARDIS pun was a-coming).

Life on Mars, Law & Order: UK, Camelot, Torchwood, and five episodes of Doctor Who itself, all helped him to further develop his story-telling and characterisation skills, within various genres, before putting a small fictional town in Dorset – and his own tv vision – on the map: “I wrote Broadchurch for myself and never thought anyone would want to make it, let alone watch it, but that story has gone around the world, been remade in America and France and turned into a novel. It led to me being offered what was as a child my dream job, being in charge of the TARDIS and Doctor Who – I never thought that would happen either!”

A regular writer on Doctor Who since the series regenerated in 2005, he once admitted that he loved the fact that he didn’t have to run it: “That’s Steven’s problem…he has those headaches.” In theory, then, it seems he’s now provoking the mother of all migraines, but he seems more than happy to meet it head on, perhaps taking a leaf out of the Doctor’s own handbook: “It's about building a team, the thing that will make this next iteration work is the team.”

To doubters, Doctor Who is just a niche show about freaks and geeks for freaks and geeks, but Chris remembers “the feeling I had on a Saturday afternoon about an hour before it was on, and it would be the longest hour of your life, and then the sense of thrill and excitement, the unknown and possibility and madness.”

Landmark family tv, in other words. And he wants to instil those feelings of wonder, excitement, hope, and infinite possibility in the next generation.

When we put it to Chris, he refuses to be drawn on a favourite interpretation, although he grew up with Tom Baker’s take on the Timelord, and remained determinedly tight-lipped about his favourite Who adversaries. And the fact that the next incarnation of the Doctor will be female just adds to the mystery. No spoilers.

Broadchurch - ITV

The time between now and series 12 will feel like the longest time of many fans’ lives. It’ll be worth the wait.

“So… all of time and space, everything that ever happened or ever will – where do you want to start?” the Gallifreyan genius once said, and these words unite both Chris and our graduates as they step into their own as-yet-unwritten futures.

A classic cliffhanger, where anything and everything is possible. ° To find out more about our BA (Hons) Creative Writing visit edgehill.ac.uk/creativewriting

WHOVIANS UNITE. Fan of Doctor Who? Check out the Edge Hill Doctor Who Society

www.edgehillsu.org.uk/groups/ doctor-who-society

°eergeD

21°

The

Write stuff

04° 22°

Degree° In his memoir on short story writing, Stephen King, the doyen of best-selling storytelling, revealed the secret of his success:

“When asked, ‘How do you write?’ I invariably answer, ‘One word at a time,’ and the answer is invariably dismissed.

But that is all it is. It sounds too simple to be true, but consider the Great Wall of China, if you will: one stone at a time, man. That's all. One stone at a time. But I've read you can see that from space without a telescope.”

summon up the energy, will-power and discipline to put aside distracting things.

“I hate writing, I love having written,” admitted Dorothy Parker, waspish wit of the 1920s New York literary scene.

As you practice, your style will emerge, what Jenny refers to as your “voice”: “You may find your own voice by writing several short stories with a theme or a linking character. As you change, so does your writing, and so does your voice. Short stories are a way to get that voice heard.”

You always start with a blank piece of paper. This can be intimidating, but it’s also liberating. Your imagination can take you anywhere and everywhere: “Try something new, try a story genre you’ve never written before, or mix genres together. Your talents may lie in unexpected places,” says Jenny.

Dr Jenny Barrett, Reader in Film Studies and Popular Culture, leads projects that invite young people to put pen to paper:

“Writing well takes lots of practice.

Writing the kind of stories that people want to read takes even more practice! So you’ll find that many experienced writers will encourage new writers to start with the short story.”

“

Fortunately, writing creatively is accessible to all. All you need is a pen and paper. Yes, you also need imagination and creativity, but as much as these, you need persistence and the kind of work ethic that drags you to your notebook or keyboard day after day.

1

“Read, read, read. Read everything,” advised William Faulkner. “Trash, classics, good and bad, and see how they do it. Just like a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! You'll absorb it.” And Jenny and the team have put reading at the top of their list. “It’s probably the most important part of being a writer,” she says. “You need to become familiar with what’s ‘out there,’ so that you can learn from it, so that you know what to do, what not to do, and what you really like.”

“

L

iterary heavyweight Ernest Hemingway once said that “it's none of their business that you have to learn how to write. Let them think you were born that way.” The easiest literature to read is the hardest to write. You have to work at it.

A flawless diamond begins life as a lump of coal. Rewrites, reinventions, and re-imaginings are part of the process – as Hemingway claimed, in typically blunt fashion, “the first draft of anything is s***.”

YOU NEED TO GRASP THE BASICS OF STORY COMPOSITION, CHARACTER CREATION AND PACING YOUR STORY

With a long-standing reputation for creative writing, Edge Hill’s team of published wordsmiths has put together a checklist to get you started on the road to Rowling-sized riches. And we’ve added some advice from the masters.

Budding scribes will be pleased to know that Jenny and her colleagues, including Ailsa Cox, the world’s one and only Professor of Short Fiction, are on hand to guide your literary ambitions. Or at least to get you writing. The rest is up to you, your fevered imagination, and an insatiably demanding reading public.

Yes, there are those with a natural gift for writing, but that’s the same in any walk of life. For anyone born outside the Shakespeare family, though, there is some good news: writing is a craft, and, says Jenny, like any craft, the more you do it, the better you get, it just takes practice: “You need to grasp the basics of story composition, character creation and pacing your story. If you leap straight into novels, you could be working on a single story for years!”

And even the very best writers have to

Other writers, from Stephen King –“If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time (or the tools) to write”, to Annie Proulx (Brokeback Mountain, The Shipping News) – “Reading is the finest teacher of how to write”, would be the first to encourage regular trips to your local library.

2

We’ve already touched on this, but it’s worth mentioning again: write regularly.

You only get better at things through regular practice. As with most things, says fantasy author Neil Gaiman (American Gods, Stardust, The Ocean at the End of the Lane), that’s easier said than done: “This is how you do it: you sit down at the keyboard and you put one word after another until it’s done. It's that easy, and that hard.”

Jenny recommends routine: “Set aside a time each day or once a week when you won’t be disturbed. Make that your very own special writing time, when that’s the only thing you’ll do. Even if you only get a hundred words written, you’ve still practiced your craft and you’ve moved your story forward.”

°eergeD

23°

3 6 “Ideas are like rabbits. You get a couple and learn how to handle them, and pretty soon you have a dozen,” said John Steinbeck, and learning how to identify good ideas, and then develop them, is crucial to creating a good story. What ideas to keep – and follow to their logical conclusion, what to discard, how to test your ideas. These are all part of the writing process:

“People work differently,” says Jenny.

“One writer will find that planning the story arc ahead of writing is the only way to get started. Another writer will find that the only way to start is to jump straight in.

Try both and reflect on which way worked better for you.”

And ask for feedback. “Write with the door closed, rewrite with the door open,” suggests Stephen King, and Jenny believes fresh eyes on your work are crucial: “Many writers find that discussing and sharing their work gives them very productive feedback. It’s not easy to do though! None of us like criticism, but if it seems no-one understands our story, maybe we need to take on some advice.

Why not set up a Writing Workshop with friends?”

You may need to set up ground rules, though, as people can respond to criticism in very different ways.

4

We all know what Hemingway thought about first drafts, and novelist and Hollywood screenwriter William Goldman (Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Princess Bride) would agree, if in a slightly more conciliatory tone. He claimed that his first drafts for screenplays often bore little or no resemblance to the end product, and whether legendary lines such as ‘Follow the money’ (All The President’s Men) were in the original draft only he could say: “A good writer is not someone who knows how to write – but how to rewrite.”

“No work of art ever emerged perfectly formed,” says Jenny. “Any poem, painting or sculpture is the result of many hours, days, months or even years of work. Hold your first draft of a story ‘lightly’, know that it needs to mature and develop through several re-writes, perhaps after getting feedback from other writers.”

5

Ever started reading a book, and then given up after a chapter? It’s essential to grab your reader by the metaphorical throat from the get-go, especially in short story writing where your window of opportunity is more like a paragraph. “A short story is like a quick kiss in the dark from a stranger,” Stephen King believes. Jenny is a little less melodramatic: “Practice the opening of stories in ways that make the story event or the characters as interesting as possible,” she advises.

Poet and novelist Sylvia Plath believed “everything in life is writable about if you have the outgoing guts to do it, and the imagination to improvise. The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.”

Our final rule is, basically, believe in yourself. “If you have writing talent, use it,” says Jenny. “Don’t give up if your story doesn’t win a competition, or if someone dislikes it. If you believe you’re a writer, that’s a significant step. Keep on writing even if you’re the only one who believes it.”

Three final triple A-rated tips when crafting your short stories and tall tales:

Audience: you need people to read your work, so remember who you’re writing for, even if it’s just yourself.

Authenticity: know your subject area, do the research – “because your readers will!” says Jenny. Goldman researched Butch Cassidy for eight years.

Adjectives: don’t just describe what’s happening, “sounds, smells and views are also an engaging aspect of any story,” Jenny advises.

Now go find your muse and “then write,” said William Faulkner. “If it's good, you'll find out. If it's not, throw it out of the window.” °

Books about writing worth a glance Adventures in the Screen Trade: A Personal View of Hollywood and Screenwriting William Goldman No one knows the writer's Hollywood more intimately than William Goldman.

Two-time Academy Award-winning screenwriter and the bestselling author of Marathon Man, Tinsel, Boys and Girls Together, and other novels, Goldman takes you into Hollywood's inner sanctums... behind the scenes for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, All the President's Men, and other films... into the plush offices of Hollywood producers... into the working lives of acting greats such as Redford, Olivier, Newman, and Hoffman...and into his own professional experiences and creative thought processes in the crafting of a screenplay.

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft Stephen King There is a reason why Stephen King is one of the bestselling writers in the world.

Described by The Guardian as 'the most remarkable storyteller in modern American literature', Stephen King writes books that draw you in and are impossible to put down.

Part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have.

King's advice is grounded in the vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported, near-fatal accident in 1999 – and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery.

The Elements of Style William Strunk Jr. Generations of writers and college students have learned the basics of grammar from this short book.

It was rated "one of the 100 most influential books written in English" by Time in 2011, and iconic author Stephen King has recommended it as a grammar handbook that all aspiring writers should read.

Written a century ago, Strunk's book is a nostalgic link to the Art Deco era and the Roaring Twenties. The 18 main topics are organised under the headings, “Elementary Rules of Usage,” “Elementary Principles of Composition,” “A Few Matters of Form,” “Words and Expressions Commonly Misused,” and “Words Often Misspelled.”

04° 24°

Degree°

edgehill.ac.uk/media

MY HEROES

Dr Jenny Barrett is Acting Associate Head of the Department of Media and is Reader in Film Studies and Popular Culture. She is currently collaborating on projects linked to slavery and film, racial representation and performance, and the ghost story on screen. Outside of her academic work, Jenny writes fiction.

Jenny Barrett

Joanna Lumley “I'm a bit of a fan of Absolutely Fabulous, and Joanna Lumley's performance as Patsy Stone is one of the reasons for that. But my admiration goes much further back to the days of The New Avengers and Sapphire & Steel when she was one of the first female action heroes I'd ever seen on television. Seeing such a smart and independent woman on tv told me that not all exciting stories about adults had to revolve around male heroism. Not only that, but Lumley is an incredible advocate for some just causes like the Gurkha Justice Campaign and Child Rescue Nepal.

She's got a sense of life and liveliness about her that is infectious. Whenever I think I'm too busy, I think about how busy she must be!”

Patrick Ness “I was introduced to the fiction of Patrick Ness when I was studying for my Masters in Creative Writing by our tutor Peter Wright. His 2008 book The Knife of Never Letting Go was all I could talk about for weeks. His vivid creation of another world where everyone’s thoughts can be heard was quite literally haunting for all of us on the course. After that I read as much of his work as I could find, including A Monster Calls, which has recently been adapted for the big screen. Ness has a remarkable ability to make the darkest themes tangible on the page, often along the theme of the very human experience of loss. Ness’s advice to other writers, on his website, has been a great inspiration to me as a writer with a full-time job as a lecturer and researcher, particularly: ‘within challenges, I often find my best creativity.’ He’s also a good example of a thoroughly contemporary writer who engages with social media, helping us to recognise how public a writing career can be.”

The Italian Neorealists “I'm going out on a limb here and I'm nominating a whole group of people for hero-status: the Italian Neorealists of the post-Second World War years. Their response to the fakery of feel-good cinema towards the end of the war led to them initiating a hugely significant 'wave' of realist film that gradually spread further and further west over subsequent years, fuelled by postwar disillusionment.

Their stripped back techniques and frank narratives about everyday people played a part in changing cinema as we know it in France, Britain and, eventually, the US. If it's new to you, try The Bicycle Thieves by director Vittorio De Sica or Germany, Year Zero by Roberto Rosselini. It's a tough watch at times, but sometimes art has to hit hard.”

25°

Games Without Frontiers

°eergeD

ou’re just wasting your time.”

“You’ll ruin your eyesight – get some fresh air!” “All that sitting in a darkened room can’t be good for you.”

“Stop playing those silly games and do something productive.”

It’s an all too familiar refrain to teenagers throughout the country world. BSc (Hons) Computing (Games Programming) student Alex Parry-Brown, however, provides a perfectly rational riposte:

“The way I see it, older generations might sit there and think you're wasting your time sat playing that game, but then my mum, for instance, sits and watches tv for three hours – I just think watching tv for three hours is your entertainment, I'm engaging with other people around the world, and depending on the game, you learn skills.”

It’s a strong response from straight-talking Halifax lad Alex. And it’s hard to argue with him when you consider that the global games industry generated $91billion in 2016, according to Ukie, the Association for UK Interactive Entertainment.

When last year’s gaming phenomenon, Pokemon Go, coins $950m – and $800m in its first 110 days – and exceeds the worldwide box office gross of cinematic blockbusters like Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, you know a career in this industry will take you places, real and virtual. Gaming is now serious business.

A stepping stone on this journey, Alex, along with a group of fellow Edge Hill students, got involved in the Global Game Jam (GGJ) 2017, an event designed “to bring people together worldwide through the shared joy of game creation”.

Helen Walters, Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise Co-ordinator for the Department of Computer Science, encouraged students to join in:

“Computer game programming is a very credible career, in an emerging industry which will be part of the future of technology, so any assets and anything they can gain while studying is going to be so beneficial for them. They’ll remember the GGJ years later when they're in high positions in technology around the world.

You see all the games on the shelf at the moment – they're only going to evolve.”

In a nutshell, players and programmers from across the planet get together to create games based around a specific theme. The catch? Attracting over 35,000 people in 95 countries, it all has to be done over a 48-hour period. It’s a bit like a task from The Apprentice, but without the gratuitous use of empty business jargon or Olympian levels of self-regard.

Oh, and there are no real prizes, people get involved simply because they like a challenge, and want to learn.

Despite his natural confidence, perhaps cultivated as a competitive online gamer, Alex admitted he had “absolutely no clue” what to expect from the brief, which has previously invited jammers to create gaming gold by interpreting cryptic one-liners like "We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are" and "What do we do now?"

“The ethos of the GGJ is very much about collaboration and creativity rather than competition, there's no specific prize to be won at the end. It's about learning, it's about being creative, and doing that in the safe way that allows students to build skills.”

The first annual Global Game Jam was held in 2009, with over 1600 participants in 23 countries, and a provocative theme of ‘As long as we have each other, we will never run out of problems’ produced 370 games. The following year participant numbers leapt to over 4,300, with 900 games developed around the theme of ‘Deception’. This year 36,401 registered participants from 95 countries in 701 sites, created 7,263 games, including those by around 50 Edge Hill students, from computer sciences, psychology, media and the creative industries. And this year the University was itself a host site for the first time, one of only two in the region.

The brief was a single word, ‘Waves’, and was released to groups simultaneously around the world. Edge Hill students no doubt greeted the brief with suspicion initially, before their creative juices kicked in and ideas began to flow.

The result was Crimewave – try and crack the safe on the GGJ Website.

Key objectives of the Jam are networking and collaboration, working with like-minded groups on a global scale, augmenting their creative reality, and stretching hands of friendship across physical, virtual and cultural divides.

And the beauty of computers is that they speak the same languages, even if their programmers don’t.

Michael Banford, Business Development Manager within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, sees multiple benefits from the event: “Putting themselves on a global stage, to an industry audience, other academics, professional sectors, the students' careers could take any path from this event, and they get an output of either a digital or non-digital game. It's a portfolio piece for them which they can use in front of employers to say ‘this is my skillset, this is what I can do’, and who knows where that will take them?

“I anticipated it would contain long hours of continuous work,” admits Alex. “I learnt an entirely new technique of programming to implement this – and a seemingly endless struggle against minor errors. Having managed to develop a game which works, having a start and end point, I believe the end result was great given the time scale and only working in a team of four.”

“

FOR OUR STUDENTS, OPPORTUNITIES LIKE THIS ARE PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT

“

“Y

26°

Degree°

°eergeD

27°

Alex has very specific criteria for what makes a great computer game, given time and resources:

“I prefer games which allow for community building and a great multiplayer experience. Moving into the future I would expect to see more large scale games with extremely realistic graphics, the animation of movement, speech and overall look over the last few years has become much more advanced and accurate.”

Access to the new Games Lab in the Tech Hub, the Uni’s new computer science building, will have helped, and given them a taste of a life working in the computer games industry, says Dr Peter Matthew, the BSc (Hons) Computing (Games Programming) Programme Leader:

If Alex can combine this team ethic and winning mentality with the technical skills he’s developed over the course of his degree, his own career mission objective should be well within his sights.

And a week’s placement with the BBC’s games development team, reward for winning a national University Technology Challenge, has consolidated these objectives and “made me 100% sure I want to go into game development.” Other than discovering an entirely new programming language, the biggest lesson was the pivotal role of team-working: “There are just so many members doing different things – a user experience team, quality assurance testers, the game developers and designers – so in order for all that to work at once everyone has to know where everyone's at.”

And Alex and his team-mates were grateful for the assistance of the University’s Student Opportunity Fund (SOF), which helped put a roof over their heads and food in their mouths for the duration of the placement. The SOF is designed to support our students’ employability.

Crimewave

“For our students, opportunities like this are particularly important as the games industry is typically led by entrepreneurs and small-scale teams rather than large companies.”

So if Alex could program his own future, what would the source code contain?

Now graduated, Alex is about to begin his next challenge – conquering the real post-university world. And he’s negotiating the early stages with ease, recently taking up a graduate software testing role with a digital development agency.

Who said computer games were a waste of time? °

“I hope to work in either software engineering or computer games programming – I’m applying for a variety of organisations. Eventually I’d like to become a senior AI [Artificial Intelligence] games programmer at a large developer, or lead a team or project on a game.”

Alex’s all-time favourite game is Call of Duty: Black Ops, a game which has racked up over $1 billion in sales. Set in the Cold War during the 1960s, it features CIA operatives attempting to foil a chemical weapons attack on the US. Alex enjoys the multiplayer option, because it “allows for making groups and enables competitive play. Either in pairs or teams of four I play competitively regularly with a rather high success rate.”

ehu.ac.uk/studycomputing

SOUND CITY 2017

Degree°

04° 28°

y e s Mer e s i d a r a P

For the fifth consecutive year, Edge Hill University teamed up with the space rock cadets at Liverpool Sound City to ensure the Uni had a bigger presence than ever at this year’s musical mayhem.

Alongside headline slots from the likes of Peaches, Metronomy, The Hunna, !!!, and The Cribs, the University’s very own recording imprint, The Label, showcased a clutch of bright young things keen to mix it with the big boys – and girls, as they staged a Saturday takeover of the Cavern Stage.

Third year Biology student John Plume attended Sound City 2017 on our behalf, alongside a clutch of other Edge Hill students involved in various activities, from photography and film work to broadcasting. He cast a critical eye over the Sound City smorgasbord, and was on hand to see how The Label’s new kids on the block measured up.

°eergeD

29°

Sound City+ Conference, Friday 26th May Sound City+ is essentially an international conference hosting guest speakers and panels, musicians, and workshops. It’s also a great opportunity to gain insight into the world of music by talking to people who work in the industry.

One panel discussion I attended was about the illicit sales of tickets for gigs.

This was an enlightening look into the workings of the event ticket industry with a specific focus on resale tickets and the measures taken to reduce this form of “theft”.

I manned Edge Hill’s Label [the University’s recording imprint] kiosk for a time, handing out CDs and talking to conference goers, as well as visiting kiosks run by representatives from a number of different music industry organisations.

This is an amazing networking opportunity for anyone looking to pursue a career in the industry.

John Plume (left)

SOUND CITY 2017

Sound City, Saturday 27th May

This year SC was held at Clarence Dock, only a short walk from last year’s venue, though the terrain was significantly different. The circular layout adopted this year made for a more open plan with fairground attractions in its centre and the circumference comprising stages and food stands. First impressions were that the new site was bigger and more impressive than previous years.

The day began with beautiful sun but, before long, the dusty layer lacing the concrete floor was taken by the wind, effectively creating a sandstorm worthy of the lonely desert planet of Tatooine [one for Star Wars fans, there]. Vant on the Atlantic stage were undeterred by the weather, and put on a great show, playing anthems such as Parking Lot and Do You Know Me?

After three margarita slices from American Pizza Slice and a pint, The Hunna were next, performing an hour-long set.

The melodic indie troupe commanded one of the biggest audiences of the day, an impressive feat for the band formed in 2015.

The iridescent, summery sound reflected not only the weather, but also the general feel of the day. The only thing more colourful was the outfit donned by frontman Ryan Potter, in characteristic fashion.

The end of The Hunna’s set led nicely onto The Label’s takeover of The Cavern stage. This began with Shrinking Minds’ fast-paced, passionate set. The Liverpool band’s loud, abrasive, catchy sound created a great atmosphere and got the audience moving from the first song to the last.

After catching a bit of Slaves’ set, Wuzi were a band I’d never heard before, and I was impressed. Towards the end of their set, the crowd began to build, drawn to their overwhelming charisma and energetic stage presence.

I stayed at the Cavern stage for Oranj Son and was not disappointed. The psych punk band’s smooth, synth-charged tunes were reminiscent of 80s classics, and attracted a more diverse audience, many brandishing a copy of Oranj Son’s latest single, Still. The Wirral band provided the perfect soundtrack as the sun went down behind the stage – a great distraction from the sudden drop in temperature I was about to endure, having optimistically worn shorts.

Wrapping up The Label’s takeover was Ali Horn. The Liverpool-based singer had to be one of the most chilled out performers on stage that day with his relaxed demeanour and witty song intros, and his trippy, melodic tunes had everyone rocking.

This performance was one of my personal highlights and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for any upcoming Ali Horn gigs.

Wuzi

04° 30°

Degree°

I was excited to see Yak, an alternative rock trio hailing from Wolverhampton, over on the Pirate stage, with their heavy, aggressive, garage sound. Despite an uncharacteristically small audience preoccupied with battling the elements, Yak were still able to get everyone going with favourites such as Harbour the Feeling.

The excitement was too much for one lad who attempted to climb the light fittings at the side of the stage. To his credit, he managed to get to the top before security brought him back down to earth.

After a visit to the karaoke tent (and many, many Oasis interpretations), I caught the end of Colonel Mustard and the Dijon Five. This was a great way to finish the day and not only because it was a lot warmer in the tent. The light-hearted Scots could put a smile on any face with their brightly coloured pageantry. The Colonel even commanded the authority to have every audience member crouch down in unison, which after a long festival day took some effort. It was worth it however, as moments later the beat would drop and the crowd exploded back to life, getting everyone amped up for the afterparty.

Oranj Son

Sound City, Sunday 28th May

Sunday kicked off with Cabbage, one of the bands I was most looking forward to seeing. The Mossley-based five-piece put on quite a performance (even by their own high standards), drawing a hefty crowd despite their modest position in the line-up.

Cabbage have become synonymous with a loud, eccentric, hyperactive stage presence, and the punk outfit delivered exactly that. A clear contingent of the audience was made up by the dedicated fan base of the Tameside punks, singing along to almost every song and making for an electric atmosphere. This reached fever pitch as the set closed to chants of “Jeremy Corbyn” as frontman Lee Broadbent, standing atop a monitor, flaunted a bass drum inscribed with “VOTE LABOUR”.

I spent most of my time on Sunday at the Atlantic stage, seeing acts such as The Sherlocks, Milburn, White Lies and The Kooks, but one band that stood out was Proletariat, the second Mossley-based band to perform. Cabbage frontman Lee Broadbent provided the introductions, citing Proletariat as “the best named band I have ever heard”, and paving the way for a great set from the four-piece punk outfit, whose powerful performance made for an equally vibrant atmosphere.

Overall, my experience of Sound City this year was fantastic. I saw a number of bands I know and love, and discovered some new ones. The festival atmosphere made for a great weekend out and a perfect introduction to the summer.

Read more about our partnership with Liverpool Sound City at: edgehill.ac.uk/thelabel

Shrinking Minds

31°

W

ho am I? Who are you?

Where do you even begin to answer questions like these, in a world where identity has never been so fluid and that pointedly refuses to stand still for a second, and a post-EU Referendum UK struggles to pin down what it means to be British in the 21st century.

Bright Ideas

Across a variety of formats – film, lecture, Q&A, exhibition, roundtable discussion, seminar, performance – our academic community invited you to question everything in order to understand yourselves and others more positively.

Amongst those helping plot a path through the minefield of identity were renowned poet Roger McGough revisiting his Summer with Monika on its 50th anniversary; actor, model and Edge Hill alumna Phina Oruche tackled her identity crisis in a series of self-penned

on page 32, launched Resonant Edge, our new contemporary music festival-within-a-festival, seeking to “challenge and beguile” listeners with genre-defying aural experiences. Fans of Olly Murs may have been slightly confused: “The festival gave Edge Hill students a chance to experience cutting edge contemporary music and saw a group of students from Stockholm’s Royal College of Music visit us to work on four sound installations – with a view to our students visiting their university in the future.”

Well, we could blame the internet. For everything.

But a far more productive starting point in the search for answers would be Edge Hill University’s Festival of Ideas which this year explored themes of Identity and Belonging.

They’re rich veins of thought to explore: gender, sexuality, race, class, age, disability, culture, politics, geography, almost everything but the kitchen sink can help shape who you are.

The Festival focused on some of the intellectual discussions within the University’s research institutes – The Institute for Public Policy and Professional Practice (I4P), The Institute for Creative Enterprise (ICE), and The Postgraduate Medical Institute (PGMI), and is designed to appeal to anyone looking for stimulating and (com)passionate debate.

°eergeD

characterisations; and Professor Geoffrey Beattie launched his latest book with a public lecture on The Psychology of Language and Communication.

“The Festival is a response to public discussions about, and intellectual speculation on, what makes us who we are,” said Professor George Talbot, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) and Dean of Arts and Sciences. “It’s a platform for communication, aiming to inspire innovation and cross-disciplinary collaboration within and between people engaged in healthcare, policy-making, the arts, and the wider public audience.”

Meanwhile Professor Steve Davismoon, who reveals more about his life in music

But if the concept of hauntology, a critical exploration of temporal and ontological disjunction in art (if you were wondering), doesn’t keep you up at night, then maybe special screenings of Terence Davies’ latest A Quiet Passion, tracing the life of American poet Emily Dickinson, or I Am Not Your Negro, based on the writing of James Baldwin could have set your mind racing. Or maybe it would have been discussions on the impact of health on our identity, or whether we can dance our way to better mental health.

Edge Hill University’s motto, In Scientia Opportunitas, translates as ‘In knowledge there is opportunity’, and the Festival brimmed with fresh ideas that enable you to embrace different philosophies, to break free of conventional narratives, to take a walk on the wild side. And, to be fair, what is university for if not to experience the new and explore the unknown?°

ehu.ac.uk/foi

04° 32°

Degree°

My Life in Music: Stephen Davismoon The first music I remember hearing As a young child the Irish influence in my household was very strong, so Irish folk songs were prominent from when I was very little. I didn’t know what the words were about, but I loved the melodies. My mother was a big Elvis Presley fan and my dad was a big Beatles fan – so the two records from my very early childhood that I remember being played on our radiogram were In the Ghetto by Elvis and Instant Karma by John Lennon. I can still clearly see the colours on those record labels as I watched them spin around: bright orange on the Elvis one and an apple on the Lennon one.

The first music I fell in love with This is a tricky question to answer since I fall in love with new music almost every day. As a teenager my obsession with music deepened: more of the music from 1950s USA; 1960s and 1970s soul and jazz. Then when I was about 14 punk broke. I still clearly remember seeing the Sex Pistols on tv: the now legendary Bill Grundy interview and an early performance of Anarchy in the UK. Can’t say that I fell in love with the Pistols, but the raw power and conviction of John(ny) Rotten/Lydon remains with me. I did fall in love with The Clash and The Jam. I learned so much from them and their lyrics, as I did from The Specials and Madness.

It was at this time that I became obsessed with playing the electric guitar and began to compose my own songs, playing in numerous groups.

The first music I bought I wish I could lay claim to something really cool here. But I was nine years old and bought Slade’s Skweeze Me Pleeze Me and The Hot Shots’ Snoopy Versus the Red Baron. I still vividly remember walking home holding the records in the white paper bag. I played those two records over and over.

This started one of my life’s great obsessions. There are few greater pleasures for me than buying a new vinyl record.

First bought classical music treasures include Bartok’s string quartets, Nono’s Das Atmende Klarsein, and Boulez’ Le Marteau sans Maitre, all in specialist 2nd hand record stores around London’s Oxford Street.

The music I’m currently listening to This is a really difficult one to answer: a variety of works by the Estonian composer Arvo Pärt and a revisiting of a historic work by Pierre Henry, to recent releases by The Charlatans, Autechre and Gwen Stefani and, largely because of my daughter, the recent albums of Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande. But if you were to ask me this question next week, really the answer would be very different.

Professor Stephen Davismoon is Head of Performing Arts. He composes for a variety of voices, instruments and media and writes on contemporary music history and practice.

The music my students have to hear There is a profound difference between hearing and listening.

So I ask my students to listen to, rather than to hear, music.

Definitely the music that I would suggest my students listen to firstly is that of their life, their household etc. The music of the voices of their family and friends, listen really carefully to the intonations and rhythms of their environment: whether urban, rural, by the sea, mountainous, all have different resonances. Music starts with sound and their music must start from their environment. I also ask that my students always remain open in their listening, to maintain a state of never knowing what it is that you should listen to. Listen, always listen, then decide.

°eergeD

33°

PUSHING THE LIMITS

M

ile 34. You’re exhausted.

You’re hallucinating. And you’re hungry. But what should you eat? More importantly, what do you want to eat? These questions intrigued Edge Hill University researcher Claire Blennerhassett, who is shedding some light on an area that currently has remarkably little academic research: ultra-running.

Ultra-running seems to be having a(nother) moment. Though a London to Brighton race dates back to the 1950s, ultra-running events initially gained prominence in the 70s and 80s, and now appear to be getting a second wind. Defined as anything above the 26.219 miles of a marathon, but typically 50 miles plus, the world’s longest ultra-running event is the Self-Transcendence 3,100 Mile Race.

UNIVERSITY RESEARCH: A CASE STUDY Terrain is also a major factor, though, with some of the toughest events taking place over the course of several days through some of the planet’s harshest landscapes, such as the Sahara desert, the Amazon jungle, and the bone-chillingly arctic Yukon territory in Canada.

What motivates and inspires people to put their minds, bodies, and, yes, souls through the wringer in this way? The Olympian achievements of the remarkable Brownlee brothers, perhaps? A desire to test yourself, or to fill an emotional void in your life? Some may even suggest it’s a mid-life crisis? Or maybe it’s a combination of all of the above. But more and more people appear to be ready to take on challenges that would make a battle-hardened packhorse wince.

In his autobiography, legendary ultrarunner Scott Jurek, seven-times winner of the Western States 100-mile run, talked about the pursuit of mental highs over personal bests:

"The longer and farther I ran, the more I realised that what I was often chasing was a state of mind – a place where worries that seemed monumental melted away, where the beauty and timelessness of the universe, of the present moment, came into sharp focus."

Which makes ultra-running sound like a very pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

But what kind of physical toll does constant running for six hours or more take on the human body?

04° 34°

Degree°

With a background in nutrition, Claire Blennerhassett’s research project is designed to investigate whether diet can help to improve gastrointestinal discomfort (stomach cramps, nausea and bloating to me and you) and running performance during an ultrarunning endurance event: “Research indicates that ultra-endurance runners struggle to meet their calorie (energy) and carbohydrate needs during competition and training.

This may have immediate consequences for performance or long-term implications for health, if energy deficits are sustained long term. Potential reasons for poor nutritional intake may reflect the logistical challenges of carrying foods and fluids, but it could also be due to the conflicting demands of consuming sufficient amounts of carbohydrate, while preventing gastrointestinal discomfort.”

Claire wants to find out more about the ideal dietary preparation for ultrarunning, given that there is very little scientific research currently available for participants to reference, and initial research suggests ultra-runners tend to eat whatever they fancy and, crucially, can carry. More often than not, food intake is against the recommendations of nutritionists.

One of the biggest challenges for a researcher is to devise a meaningful research study, one which enhances our understanding. Claire wanted to study the effects of diet on ultra-runners in an environment which replicated as close as possible real race conditions.

Most available research was either treadmill-based, so not entirely reflective of real race conditions, or non-interventionist, so monitoringbased. As she observed herself, 4-6 hours on a treadmill is a hard sell, so she was overjoyed when she had her “light bulb moment”: put on her own race. And the Edge Hill University campus provided the ideal location, easily incorporating the 3.5 mile course, of which the runners would then cover ten laps.

It sounded simple, but she soon ran into her own wall. Turns out, it’s not as easy as you’d think. You’ve got to map and mark out a course, then there’s the costs, including insurance. Then there’s the strict research and health protocols to follow – collection and analysis of bodily fluids, physical data collection assessing the condition of participants before, during

and after the race. She was certainly going to need some help, which would come in the shape of students on the University’s nutrition course. And for Claire an unforeseen, but most welcome, side effect of the event was seeing these

In the run up to race day, Claire took a week off to prepare, and was on-site from 6am on the big day, checking the course, and ensuring all the requirements for measurement and analysis were in place, with each runner’s food and fluid intake during the race carefully monitored by student helpers.

They also joined the final participant on their last lap, providing some welcome moral support at the end of a long day.

After the race, all the runners provided immediate feedback, before tucking into a welldeserved plateful of lasagne, courtesy of the EHU catering team.

Claire Blennerhassett

students actively reappraising their own academic ambitions, moving from “interested nutrition students to budding researchers keen to set their own goals… one now wants to do a Master’s in sports nutrition,” she says, sounding positively proud-parent-like.

EHU sports students joined a PhD student volunteer from Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) to gather bodily fluid samples, while runners from Claire’s local club, St Helens Striders, acted as marshals.

Finally, you need your guinea pigs.

In other words, seasoned ultra-runners willing to be studied. Claire put out invitations on social media for participants.

They had to have at least two marathons or one ultra-marathon under their belt.

Needing enough participants for an academically-acceptable study size, Claire admits to being astonished, and relieved, when she received 50 interested replies.

Ultimately, 18 participants signed up, enough for a significant study, and they followed a four-week pre-race training diet – or “gut training plan”, individually devised by Claire according to tastes, and designed to improve participants’ tolerance to ingesting food and fluid. Participants kept a diet log, jotting down any physical reactions, during and after training runs, and introduces the sensory stresses that ultra-runners can experience, alongside the physical challenges, concepts such as taste fatigue, where runners would eat something else solely because they were tired of eating the same thing, regardless of nutritional value.

For Claire the research race is still only half run, and she is now in the process of documenting and examining her results:

“I’ve analysed all the quantitative data – race times, dietary intake – to check compliance, physiological markers – capillary bloods, urine concentration, guts symptoms and heart rate data. I don’t want to give too much away ahead of publication but the participants did demonstrate good compliance with the dietary intervention.

I’m also analysing the post-race interviews, exploring the factors that influenced their dietary choices during the race.”

So the finishing line is still a way off, but Claire’s already thinking beyond her PhD thesis, to follow-on studies, maybe revisiting the search for dietary solutions to taste fatigue.

Academic research could well be considered an endurance activity itself, requiring stamina, resilience, and the perseverance to keep going when you hit the wall, as Claire did on several occasions. But the rewards can be similarly mind-expanding for researchers, and life-enhancing for a wider population, as research is adapted to create real-world products and solutions, bringing “the beauty and timelessness of the universe… into sharp focus.”

Until she achieves research nirvana, though, Claire’s happy to mark her milestones more modestly. Continued research funding, and maybe a small plateful of lasagne, will do just fine. °

ehu.ac.uk/studysport

Open Days 10am – 3pm

Saturday 7 October Saturday 2nd December th

Saturday 11th November Saturday 16th June, 2018

Download the Edge Hill Uni Virtual Tour App to explore the campus yourself

Follow @edgehill for live tweeting at open days. Use #EHUopenday to get involved.

Come and take a closer look...

Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire L39 4QP T: 01695 575171

W: edgehill.ac.uk/opendays E: study@edgehill.ac.uk

i

ehu.ac.uk/beautiful