International Newsletter Issue 01 2013

Worcester international

news THE UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER INTERNATIONAL NEWSLETTER

Issue 01 2013

Graduation 2012 Over 2,500 students in Graduation splendour p.4-5

In this issue:

Scholarship Awards p.12

The Queen Opens New University Library p.14

Would you like to spend a semester overseas for a life-time experience?Read on for an interview with Lois Lewis, Exchange Coordinator

What is your role in the University?

Lois: I am the Exchange Coordinator and I administer the exchange programmes for both incoming and outgoing students. I am based in Student Services in the Peirson building.

We offer two different types of programmes. ERASMUS is the name of the European exchange programmes which are subject specific links with a range of universities across Europe and mobility grants are available to students on this programme. We also have the REST OF THE WORLD exchange programmes with several other countries. The agreements we have with these universities cover the broad range of subjects they offer. The exchange programmes are for one semester in the second year of the degree programme.

Who are our exchange partners?

We have ERASMUS partners in Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. Our REST OF THE WORLD partners are in Australia, America, Canada and New Zealand.

What are the benefits to students who would like to take part in the exchange programmes?

Adding value to your degree and personal development:by adapting to another educational culture, students will find that they become increasingly flexible in their approach to study and confident in the way they tackle assignments. If they have been on an overseas exchange, they will be perceived as having useful transferable skills as well as broad horizons and an adaptable approach to life and work. The impact on their personal development will be difficult to quantify but they will certainly become more self aware, self reliant and open minded in the face of new experiences. The exchanges are also great fun, giving students an opportunity to travel and see other countries in a different way than they would as a tourist. They will meet students from all around the world sharing the same experiences, and building friendships that could last for ever.

What issues do students have to consider when applying for an exchange programme?

Students should begin by looking at our partner universities to consider which country they are most interested in going to. Check that the partner offers appropriate subject modules and what language they are taught in. Many of our European partners offer modules taught in English but there are funded language courses available through ERASMUS, and our Language Centre also offers language modules for students to take. Students should call in to the Peirson Study and Guidance Centre where we have more information and can advise what grants are available.

What would you wish to say to the prospective exchange students?

This is a wonderful opportunity and can be a life-changing experience. I would encourage all first year students to find out more about these programmes either from our website or by contacting me. We can also put students in contact with others who have been on exchanges. We welcomed this year the new group of International Exchange students and they seemed to bring new flair into our community here at Worcester.

I have been dealing with the exchange programmes for many years and always look forward to the students returning from their exchanges and hearing about their experiences. Some previous exchange students have gone on to work overseas as a direct result of contacts they made during their exchange, whilst others have met their lifelong partners, and almost all have come back with many new friends around the world and the desire to travel more.

Students should contact me either by calling in to the Peirson Study and Guidance Centre, or email me on: [email protected] and I’ll be very happy to help with the information they need to be able to make the right decision.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

WELCOMEWelcome to the new edition of the International Newsletter

Firstly, a very warm welcome to all new international students, who started their degrees and a life changing experience at the University of Worcester. We hope that you will enjoy your time with us!

A number of University developments have recently opened their doors. The Hive, Britain’s first joint university and public library, was officially opened by Her Majesty The Queen in July last year. This exceptional £60 million facility provides over a quarter of a million books and 12 miles of archive collections. The feature on page 14 gives more details and photos from the Royal Opening.

The Peirson building opened its doors once again, this time as the new Study and Guidance Centre. Providing a wide range of study areas, the Peirson building is now also home to Student Services and students will be able to talk to advisors there on a range of queries including finance, accommodation and module choices.

Graduation was another highlight of 2012, celebrating the success of more than 2,500 students receiving their degrees in November. The special Graduation feature on page 4 will present you with some of the most emotional moments of our international graduates and their stories.

The International Recruitment Office, with Jane Shore, Chris Taylor, Chloe Pattison and Rina Devilly, is now in EE1008 and their colleagues Catherine Hyde, Lois Lewis and Susan Ellis have now moved into the Peirson Study and Guidance Centre. You are welcome to visit us for any support that you need or just to say ‘Hello’.

Perhaps some of you have already seen the new student blog ‘Worcester Student Life’ – if you haven’t seen it yet, you can visit www.worcesterstudentlife.com and read about what other students here are doing in and outside the lecture theatre.

Don’t forget to check our Facebook page for information and events updates at www.facebook.com/pages/University-of-Worcester-International-Students

Your well-known friends from the International Committee are also planning interesting events for you! Just check their Facebook page for the latest updates at www.facebook.com/worcesterinternationalcommittee

If you have a story that you would like to share with us for the next edition of the newsletter, please email it to [email protected] or pop in to see us!

Best wishes,

The International Team

CONTENTSFeatures Semester Abroad 2

Graduation 4-6

International News

Illustration Graduate Wins Major Deal 7

Scholarship For Fine Art Graduate 7

Studying at the University of Worcester, a Life-Changing Experience 8

On the Way to Advertising Success in Bangladesh 8

Professional Basketballer Moves to Worcester for Play and Study 8

Worcester Futsal Player Represents France in International Games 9

International Student Gets Dream Job at the Olympic Games 9

Business Students Juggle Studies with Opening New Sushi Bar in Worcester 10

Creating the Magic of Christmas for the First Time 10

Home is Where the Heart is 10

Scholarships

Commonwealth Scholars 11

University Fine Art Graduate Awarded Exclusive Scholarship 11

Academic Achievement Scholarship 12

University Developments Royal Opening of The Hive 14-15

Research and Partnerships

UK’s First Visiting Fellow in Basketball Appointed at Worcester 16

University of Worcester Researchers Conduct Detailed Aerial Survey of Chilean River 16

Successful EU Project Funding Bid 17

Striking a Balance in Malawi 17

Delivering Palliative and End of Life Care Course in Nairobi 17

Leadership Training for Saudi Head Teachers in the UK 18

Social Work Ties With Russia 18

Contact Us 18

More than 2,500 Students in Graduation Splendour A record number of graduates took part in the annual University of Worcester graduation ceremonies in November, held in the atmospheric Worcester Cathedral.Year-on-year, the University of Worcester celebrates the success of an increasing number of students. This year, the ceremonies took place over four days to allow for the capacity of 2,536 successful graduands who received their degree, two thirds more than five years ago.

From the record number, 83 were European students and 104 were Overseas students celebrating their successful studies.

The University of Worcester has one of the highest overall graduate employment rates for any English university, with 15 out of 16 graduates in work or further study within six months of leaving. This year’s graduands are already gaining employment across the region in vital areas such as teaching, nursing, midwifery, science and sports.

Vice Chancellor Professor David Green said:

“This has been an excellent year for our students and we are delighted that so many have graduated.

“Our excellent graduate employment rate is testament to the quality of our degrees and the level of practical teaching and work experience that we provide for our students.”

The University also awarded four University Fellowships and five Honorary Doctorates to people selected by the University Honorary Awards Committee for outstanding achievements and distinction in their field.

Professor Green continued: “The University is developing its strengths in arts, culture and heritage and health and wellbeing and this year’s University Fellows and Honorary Doctorates have been chosen as inspiring examples of people in these fields.”



COVER STORY

First Steps in the IndustryCorina-Cristina Calugaru, a Marketing, Advertising & Public Relations graduate, successfully started her career just after she graduated.

Corina is currently working as Online Communications Intern in the Communications & Participation department at the University of Worcester, focusing on the social media and PR areas in the Higher Education sector.

The 21-year-old Romanian said: “I want to continue working in the social media field as I enjoy what I’m doing and it’s exciting to see the results of your work straight away.”

Talking about her graduation ceremony, she said: “It was very rewarding; I was thinking that all my hard work paid off at the end and I felt important, like I achieved something big that nobody can take away from

me. I was very proud and very emotional at the graduation day.”

Looking back on her student days, Corina said: “I think for me the most important aspect was the freedom and flexibility I had in doing my university work. I had deadlines to meet and I received all the support I needed from my tutors, but apart from that, it was my decision when and how to do my assignments and prepare for the lectures. It gave me the feeling that I was in charge. I had the right to have opinions and as long as they were supported by solid arguments, people did not reject them.”

Another thing that brings a smile on Corina’s face when

thinking about her time as a student is the wide range of people she met from all over the world not only at social events, but as part of her job working for the International Office. With many of these people she managed to create strong bonds, exploring their different cultures, traditions, customs and beliefs.

Corina added: “I enjoyed my time here at the University and I believe I’ve grown a lot in the last 3 years. Coming to university was definitely a life-changing experience.”

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CAPTAIN OF LITHUANIAN NATIONAL BASKETBALL TEAM GRADUATES FROM UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER One of the world’s top basketball players, Robertas Javtokas, has graduated at the University of Worcester with an MSc in European Basketball Coaching Science.

The innovative course is delivered by Worcester in partnership with the Lithuanian Sports University and endorsed by FIBA Europe.

Robertas is a 6ft 11in Lithuanian professional basketball player for Žalgiris Kaunas, of the Lithuanian Basketball League. He has also played for top clubs in Europe such as Dynamo Moscow (Russia) and Panathinaikos (Greece).

He has been a member of the Lithuanian national team since 2004 and has played in the full range of elite events including the European Championships, the Olympics and captained his country to a bronze medal in the World Championships in 2010.

In June last year, Robertas was named as one of the best Eurocup players of all time.

“I am proud to be graduating with an MSc in Basketball Coaching Science,” Robertas said. “To combine study and play has been a very challenging, yet worthwhile experience and something I will also benefit from in the longer term. I would like to thank all of the staff for their support.”

Mick Donovan, Head of the University of Worcester’s Institute of Sport & Exercise Science, said: “We have attracted student athletes and coaches from all over the world onto this course and we are delighted to be celebrating this academic success with Robertas, who is one of Lithuania’s finest ambassadors on the court.”


INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Corina on her Graduation Day

Photos: Robertas celebrating his success at Graduation

INTERNATIONAL NEWSINTERNATIONAL NEWS


ILLUSTRATION GRADUATE Wins Major Animation DealAn Illustration graduate from the University of Worcester has won a prestigious competition to illustrate an entire series of children’s characters.

Maria Gonzalez entered the competition on the advice of her lecturer and was delighted that her interpretation of a specific character was selected as the winner.

The competition, run by In the Picture, sought to find a talented undergraduate or postgraduate student from across the UK, with the winning artist contracted to design and create a full character series that will be developed towards a range of children’s books, toys, platform game and animated series.

Participants were given the brief of a character named Sergeant Nutty, a militant, super-organised, over-energetic character who loved to create armies from inanimate objects.

Maria is now working with the publishers on the illustrations for the series and said she was enjoying the chance to work on a live project.

The 22-year-old, who hails from the Basque Country in Spain, said: “I couldn’t believe it when my illustration was chosen as the winner - this is fantastic experience for me, and to get the chance to see my drawings actually being used in professional works is incredible.”

Piet Grobler, Course Leader for Illustration, said: “Maria understands characterisation and she is a very skilled draughtsperson. By including Animation modules in her course, she also developed a very good understanding of sequence and movement – she has it all.”

Maria GonzalezBelow: Maria’s winning

Fine Art Graduate Awarded Exclusive Scholarship

A talented Fine Art graduate is going on to postgraduate study after being awarded with the Cecil Lewis Sculpture Scholarship.

Ken Omom, who graduated from the University of Worcester in 2010, is about to start his Master’s Degree in Fine Art at the University of Fine Arts, London Chelsea College of Art.

His talent won him the Cecil Lewis Sculpture Scholarship, which will help him fund his course.

The 26-year-old artist from Kenya, who is one of two artists to receive the scholarship, said he looked forward to developing his skills and unleashing his creativity without any boundaries.

“When I applied I didn’t expect that I would be one of the lucky two to be selected,” Ken said. “Before that happy moment when they sent me an e-mail saying I was going to be awarded, my plans were to try and push it to one more year so that I would get enough money to pay for the tuition fee.”

Professor Antonia Payne, Head of the University of Worcester’s Institute of Humanities & Creative Arts said: “Ken is one of an impressive number of Worcester Fine Art graduates now progressing to further study. His success is evidence of how Worcester’s BA course prepares its graduates to compete effectively for highly coveted places on the very best Fine Art Masters programmes in the UK.”

Looking to the future, Ken hopes that his work will inspire many young artists and aims to become an influential Fine Art artist.

Ken Omom

Below: Ken’s artwork

Studying at Worcester, a Life-Changing Experience Dr Kirti Paik joined the University in 2006 as an international Masters student in Health & Social Care. Coming from India, where she completed a Bachelor of Ayurveda and Medical Science at the University of Pune and a Doctor of Medicine in Physiology at the University of Nagpur, Dr Paik decided to do a Masters qualification in the UK.Since returning to India, she has launched a new charity in memory of her father, DF Paik.

“The DF Paik Foundation will play a major role in providing the regional society of Walhekarwadi, Chinchwad, Pune, with a quality health care and educational support programme,” she said.

“An Ayurveda Clinic offering therapies and consultations will be the main asset of the foundation. The foundation will also be giving free workshops on livelihood, handicrafts, and herbal medicine manufacturing.

“Various fundraising events advocating for free health care and support for women and children will be continually launched and empowerment projects for women will be organised.”

Dr Paik puts much of her success down to her time at Worcester.

“Studying in the UK was an entirely different experience for me and changed my life completely. I found my identity and became a stronger person,” she said.

“Studying both in India and the UK allowed me to analyse the difference between the two education systems, which helped me to find out what was good for me and areas I had to improve on.

“Through the University I also worked for a British Red Cross project, which was a fantastic experience. Above all, I found my life partner when I was in Worcester.”

Advertising Success in BangladeshSyeda Umaila, a Worcester Business School graduate from Bangladesh, made her way to working in a leading advertising agency in her home country.

Syeda first completed an International Foundation Diploma course at the University and in 2010 graduated with a degree in Business, Marketing and Advertising. During her time here, she worked as part of the Student Ambassador scheme, which helped her gain confidence and improved her communication skills.

Remembering her student days in Worcester, she said: “Although initially residing away from home was tough, I learnt to be independent and responsible. The University of Worcester gave me a chance to interact with people from all parts of the world and learn about different cultures.”

After her graduation, Syeda returned to Dhaka, her hometown, and started her career in international companies, including Standard Chartered Bank and Grey Advertising Ltd. After years of experience, she now works as an Account Manager at Paper Rhyme, a leading advertising company in Bangladesh. She also provides PR solutions to BARCODE, a local event management business.

Syeda said: “My decision to do my undergraduate study at the University of

Worcester helped me become what I am today - successful, confident and independent. I recommend to everyone to grab the opportunity to enrol to the University of Worcester, to enrol to a brighter future.

“I aspire to become a dynamic entrepreneur in the near future. It was difficult to live away from family and friends, but it was a lifetime experience. I am extremely proud of myself for getting quality education from England and bringing it back to my home country.”

INTERNATIONAL NEWS


PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALLER MOVES TO WORCESTER FOR PLAY AND STUDY

A professional basketballer, who has played for teams across the world, began his studies at the University of Worcester in the hope of starting his own business in the future.

Stan Ocitti, who has signed for the Worcester Wolves basketball club, specifically sought out the University after hearing about opportunities to combine play with postgraduate study.

The 6ft 8in American and Dutch dual national is studying for an MBA, with which he is hoping to one day start his own business providing support for individual young athletes.

Stan, who was born in Kampala, Uganda, completed his undergraduate degree in African Studies at Binghamton University in New York, and said he was looking forward to getting back into study.

“A friend of mine came to Worcester and told me about the opportunities to play basketball while getting a postgraduate qualification. There are very few places in the world where you can do that,” said Stan. “What Worcester provides is excellent for athletes like myself who want to keep playing but who are looking to the future and ways to broaden their knowledge and experience.”

Mick Donovan, Head of the University’s Institute of Sport & Exercise Science, said: “It is a great testimony to the University basketball programme to attract such a talented and well-respected player, who has such a vibrant approach to study.”


INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Worcester Futsal Player Represents France in International Games A talented footballer from the University of Worcester made a name

for himself in the world of Futsal, after representing his home nation of France.

Business undergraduate Flavien Chambaud started playing the sport two years ago when he was inspired to get involved by other players at the University.

“I started two summers ago a bit randomly as I was going to the gym at the University and saw players playing Futsal in the sports hall,” he said.

The 21-year-old went along to a training session for the Great Britain team that were going to a tournament in Serbia. He was unable to be selected because of his French nationality but that did not stop him as the coach liked his style of play and offered him the chance to play for Loughborough Futsal Club.

Flavien said: “He asked me to join his team where I’ve been to one training session and played one game but I finally signed for Birmingham Futsal Club, as it was more convenient to travel there to get to training.

“I was called up for the national team at the end of my first year. The next step for me now is the Euro championship in 2014.”

The accomplished Futsal player is also aiming to break into 11-aside football at a professional level.

Flavien has been awarded a £500 scholarship by the University of Worcester to assist the Futsal player in his international career.

“My scholarship will help me to pay for my travelling costs and the equipment that I need for the year,” he said.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GETS DREAM JOB AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES

Sayed Khurram Nisar, a Commonwealth Scholar from India, scooped a dream job transporting athletes, officials and members of the media around the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

He was selected to be a team leader by Adecco after a gruelling interview process, gaining the opportunity to meet a number of celebrities, including Microsoft owner Bill Gates.

The 34-year-old Commonwealth Scholar, who is studying MSc Sports Management at the University of Worcester, said: “It was a great experience, bringing people from different continents together. I was amazed by the spirit of the volunteers and the officials.”

Sayed was responsible for the transportation of team

athletes, Olympic officials, members of the media, and marketing partners at the North Greenwich Arena, otherwise known as the O2 Arena.

“The most problematic area of work was the Marketing Partner zone where delegates from big brands like Coca Cola, BT, and Deloitte were escorted,” he said. “These representatives were there to watch the games and I was managing the transportation of these people.”

“I had to go through six rounds of interviews - five telephone and one face-to-face in London,” he said. “It was a shock to find out five days before the Olympics started that I was accepted.”

He is now planning to write a book about the transportation of athletes during big sporting events. “It will be related to the Olympic transportation and protocols and will be useful for people from Physical Education and Sport Science backgrounds who are interested in Olympic transportation,” Sayed said.

Sayed was awarded a certificate which allows him to take part in the next Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

Flavien Chambaud in France’s Official Kit

Above: Sayed with his Olympics certificate

Right: Sayed on duty at the Olympics

Business Students Juggle Studies with Opening New Sushi Bar in Worcester Two international business students from the University of Worcester are juggling their studies with setting up their own business in the city.

Double Sushi in the Cornmarket is a sushi takeaway set up by Lithuanian students Kristijonas Gedvilas and Kornelija Guzaite.

Both are in the third year of a Business degree at the University and decided to put the skills they were learning into practice. After noticing the lack of sushi bars in Worcester, the couple put forward a business plan to their parents, both of whom run successful businesses in Lithuania, and secured the investment to set up the takeaway. Twenty-one-year-old Kornelija underwent six months training from a top sushi

chef to prepare the food.

“The University has been very flexible and supportive,”

said Kristijonas. “It has not been an easy process; we were not taken very seriously at first. But we have got there and now we are really starting to make an impact.”

Double Sushi celebrated its first birthday on 2 December and is attracting new and returning customers every day. In the future, the pair hope to be able to open more sushi bars and are already setting their

sights on new locations.

Mark Richardson, Head of Worcester Business School, said: “It is inspiring to see two young people with the drive and determination to start their own business. It’s certainly not an easy thing to do, particularly while still studying, but we will give them all the support we can to make it a success.”

For more information about Double Sushi visit www.doublesushi.co.uk or call 01905 20410.

CREATING THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS FOR THE FIRST TIME Some international students are spending Christmas away from home for a variety of reasons. How magical can Christmas be if they are away from their closest people?

Such was the story of Dina Tomas, a Bulgarian student at the University of Worcester:

“I spent my Christmas in Worcester in 2011 because all of my exams were in the first two weeks of January and going home wouldn’t have helped me prepare well.”

Every year, the University of Worcester offers a range of events for students who are staying during the Christmas holidays – from spending Christmas Day with a local family to attending the Carol Service and Christmas Service

at the Cathedral.

“I was lucky that my flatmates were staying in Worcester for Christmas. If I was alone, I would have been able to enjoy Christmas Day with one of the kind families who are hosting students, thanks to the University’s scheme,” said Dina.

“We managed to create our own magic of Christmas – it was a bit of a challenge in preparing all the meals and doing the set up. All of us were talking to our parents on Skype, asking them how they organise all the meals as we have never ever prepared them before!

“It wasn’t the same spirit, I missed my family, but it was exciting because it was a new way of celebrating Christmas and I think we all enjoyed it – putting all the decorations and the Christmas tree up with all the presents under it.”

Home is Where the Heart is

Studying at the University of Worcester proved to be a real life-changer for Wei Zhang. Coming from Shanghai, China, Wei started a new life, becoming more independent. The 23-year-old is in the final year of her course, Business, Management & Advertising, and she has to prove her multi-tasking skills in juggling her studies with organising her wedding. Wei and Matt, a third-year Illustration student at the University, met each other five years ago when he was visiting China as a tourist. Meeting each other on the street seems to be the moment when Wei’s life started to change and a couple of years later she enrolled in a course at the University. Preparing the wedding, which will be in the summer, she said: “Our story is really funny. Now I am quite nervous, but very happy!”Thinking about her future, Wei wants to go back to China and start her career there. “My dream job is to work for the British Council in China, especially in the Communications Office,” she said. Planning her independent study in Advertising, Wei said: “I am so lucky with my supervisor, Dr Helen Watts - all lecturers here are so helpful, patient and open to any course-related questions. Moreover, the Chinese Chief Executive for the University of Worcester has been very supportive with everything that we have to do here.

“I miss my family and friends very much, but my time here has given me independence - now I am even a master chef! It is a big life change, but a really good one.”


INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Dina, far right, and her friends enjoying their Christmas in Worcester

University Welcomes Two New Commonwealth Scholarship StudentsStacy Feveriere, from St Lucia, and Shanikee Pinnock, from Jamaica, will spend the next year studying at the University.

It is the fifth year the University has welcomed students under the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme and the second time that two have joined the University together.The scheme, which is a joint initiative between the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and UK universities, supports scholarships for students from developing Commonwealth countries who would not otherwise be able to study in the United Kingdom.Stacy, who is studying for an MA in Education, said: “Without this scholarship I would never have had the opportunity to study for a Masters. I’m finding the course great, but very challenging, which is a good thing.”The 27-year-old hopes to develop opportunities for young people with special educational needs in St Lucia on her return there.

“Neither my mother or father went to university,” she said. “So my mother was very keen that we all went and that we pushed ourselves educationally. I’m very lucky and this scholarship has been a huge help to me.”Twenty-two-year-old Shanikee, who is studying for an MSc in Applied Psychology, added: “Like Stacy, I could not have afforded to do a Masters degree without this scholarship. I’m really excited to be studying in the UK and especially at Worcester.

“When I first went on the University’s website I liked how small and community-orientated it looked. The facilities also attracted me.”University of Worcester Vice Chancellor, Professor David Green, said: “We are delighted to welcome Stacy and Shanikee to the University of Worcester. We are very pleased that two top scholarship winning students have chosen to study here in Worcester.

“We hope that Stacy and Shanikee will enjoy their time at the University, and are sure that the skills and knowledge they gain will help them to make a real difference when they return to work in St Lucia and Jamaica respectively.”

European Catwalk - Graduates Present Fashion Label in Berlin A pair of Fine Art graduates from the University of Worcester presented their fashion label on the biggest eco catwalk in the world during Berlin Fashion Week.

Paul and Nora Battenberg-Cartwright’s clothing line is made entirely from recycled materials and took to the catwalk on the prestigious Lavera Showfloor.

Paul, aged 21, said: “The clothes are made from curtains, tablecloths, sheets, duvet covers, scrap fabrics, donated scrap materials, scarves and saris which we cut up and sew together in our designs to recycle them into something with a new use.”The graduates presented a collection called ‘The Indestructible Object’ which uses handcrafted black and

white prints, set against contrasting ice cold blues and passionate reds.

“We are not trained in the fashion industry, neither of us has taken any sewing or textile classes,” Paul said. “It is our fine art focusing around the notion of the living art piece that has caused us to become designers over the past three years.”Paul and Nora had each been awarded a £250 scholarship by the University of Worcester to assist with the costs of the fashion show.Nora, aged 22, said: “We put the £500 scholarship towards the €5,900 fee that the Berlin Fashion Show asks for to hire models, hair and makeup teams, stylists, wardrobe helpers and technical equipment and technicians along with all PR activities and costs.”

“We have had quite a few commissions for prom dresses and evening wear since the label launch in Germany and this has been very fruitful. We would like to continue with the label to provide a comfortable income to live from, which will allow us to be able to create art alongside this,” she said.

INTERNATIONAL NEWSSCHOLARSHIPS


Stacy and Shanikee with Professor David Green

Nora and Paul

Top Scholarship Awards for Ten International Students 98 British and European students received £1,000 scholarship awards in recognition of their outstanding academic performance for the last academic year.

The Academic Achievement Scholarship Award ceremonies took place on 19 and 26 October 2012 at the Pear Tree bar, St John’s Campus. In front of scholars’ families and friends, the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor David Green, presided over the ceremonies.

Amongst the brightest students of the University, ten of them are European nationals of Romania, Sweden, Slovakia and Bulgaria.

Professor Green said: “I am delighted that so many of our students have been awarded scholarships this year. It is testament to their hard work and commitment to their studies.

“This year we also had a number of students who picked up scholarships for the second year running, which is a superb achievement. I’m delighted to confirm that the scholarships scheme will continue to run for new students who join the University in 2012/13 and beyond.”

Caroline Engevi, a 21-year-old student from Sweden, said: “I’m extremely grateful, happy and proud.”

Caroline is in her final year of the Business, Management and Public Relations course. She added: “When I started my second year I’d set up a personal goal of getting one A, and in the end I was able to achieve more than one. I’ve always worked hard in my academic career but I’ve never been rewarded for any of my achievements so I can’t find the exact words to describe how happy I am to receive the Academic Scholarship.”

Simina-Angelina Zevada, a third-year Human Nutrition student from Romania, received the scholarship for the second time at the ceremonies.

She said: “I think the scholarships are a great way of acknowledging the effort students put into their work. It feels great to go to the ceremony and see all the students who are doing well, together with their friends and family. It feels even better when many of those students are people you know.”

Dina Tomas, a Marketing, Advertising & Public Relations student from Bulgaria, also received the scholarship for the second time. She said: “Since I received my first scholarship, I was aiming to keep the high level of academic performance and hopefully receive the award again. Now that this has happened I am very happy and proud of my achievement and extremely thankful to all of my tutors who have helped me strive for these high results.”

The University of Worcester is continuously expanding the variety of scholarships which are offered to our students before and during their education at the University. For details on scholarships availability please visit: www.worcester.ac.uk/scholarships

Once again many congratulations to the University of Worcester students for their outstanding academic success during the 2011/2012 academic year!


“I’ve always worked hard in my academic career but I’ve never been rewarded for any of my achievements so I can’t find the exact words to describe how happy I am to receive the Academic Scholarship.” Caroline Engevi

Photos: Students receive their Scholarship Awards from Professor David Green

Opposite page ( l-r): Simina-Angelina Zavada and Svilen Andreev

This page, top row (l-r): Dina Tomas and Marius Patru

Bottom row: (l-r) Caroline Engevi and Erik Andersson

INTERNATIONAL NEWSFEATURE


THE HIVE SHINESThe £60m new library and history centre is a joint venture between the University of Worcester and Worcestershire County Council and opened on 2 July.

In the first week alone, almost 20,000 people visited the landmark building, whose gold-clad roof is already an iconic sight in the city.

The project, which has been almost a decade in planning and development, is the first such collaboration between an academic institution and a public sector body in Europe.

Professor David Green said: “At a time when many libraries across the country are under threat of closure, this new facility is a beacon for the future. An imaginative partnership has produced the country’s first university and public library in a beautiful building providing outstanding facilities for learning, education and culture. Its highly inclusive, efficient and sustainable nature will, we hope, inspire many into similar action.”

The Hive - which has been described as “ground-breaking” in both its concept and design - brings together books, documents and archived items from both organisations under one roof. It also houses one of the largest children’s libraries in the country, council customer services, meeting rooms, study areas and a café.Students are given priority over some high demand books, but otherwise the two library stocks are completely combined to provide users with a quarter of a million books.

The Hive contains 12 miles of archived collections, 26,000 records of historic monuments and buildings, and covers 10,000 square metres of space over five floors. The building has already won international awards for its design and sustainability features, which include drawing water from the nearby river Severn to heat and cool the building.


UNIVERSITY DEVELOPMENTS

A ROYAL OPENINGAs part of The Queen’s regional tour for the Diamond Jubilee, Her Majesty performed the official opening of The Hive on 11 July.

Her Majesty The Queen, accompanied by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, unveiled a commemorative plaque at The Hive, as well as meeting various members of staff, students and the public. The royal couple were joined by HRH The Duke of Gloucester, the University of Worcester’s Chancellor.

Professor David Green said: “We were thrilled that Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh were able to open The Hive. The Hive is a truly worthy, iconic building in which to house the country’s first university and public library. It is a special distinction that Her Majesty opened the building in the year of her Diamond Jubilee.”The Royal opening involved a number of community activities with university and college students, and schoolchildren provided performances for Her Majesty.

University of Worcester Art students also had their work on display, alongside the building’s two professional pieces of commissioned artwork.

INTERNATIONAL NEWSUNIVERSITY DEVELOPMENTS


UK’s First Visiting Fellow in Basketball Appointed at Worcester A world-renowned basketball coach has

become the UK’s first Visiting Fellow in Basketball at the University of Worcester.

The University is recognised as one of Europe’s strongest in terms of the academic and playing disciplines of basketball, being the UK partner in the FIBA European Centre for Basketball Research, as well as running the world’s only MSc in European Basketball Coaching Science.

Dr Alejandro Vaquera, whose profile includes experience as the strength and conditioning coach for a range of Spanish national teams and ACB and LEB league teams, joins the University to work in the Institute of Sport & Exercise Science.

For the past seven years Dr Vaquera has coordinated the physical conditioning of the international basketball referees of FIBA Europe, performing work with them throughout the year and more specifically

in each Eurobasket competition for men and women. He is also the Co-ordinator of the the FIBA Europe Universitas project.

Dr Vaquera said: “I am thrilled to be joining the team at the University of Worcester and to be part of an exciting European partnership in basketball.”

Dr Vaquera will remain in post as Director of Sport at Leon University in Spain and combine focussed visits to work with the University of Worcester in a range of teaching projects including the MSc degree in Sport & Exercise Science and the MSc in European Basketball Coaching Science.

The experience that Dr Vaquera brings from working with elite teams will be used when working alongside the University’s Director of Basketball, Paul James, with the expanding Worcester Wolves and university playing programme, and he will also link up with the University’s recently appointed strength and

conditioning mentor, Marc Scriven.

Head of the Institute of Sport & Exercise Science, Mick Donovan, said: “This is clearly an exciting appointment for the University and we are familiar with the expertise that Alejandro brings from our work with him on FIBA Europe research projects. This is an innovative post that will help to raise the bar in both playing and academic disciplines.”

Dr Alejandro Vaquera

Researchers Conduct Detailed Aerial Survey of Chilean River Researchers from the University of Worcester have used a state-of-the-art mini helicopter system to conduct a photographic survey of a Chilean river.

This small and lightweight drone, the Draganflyer X6, is known as an ‘unmanned aerial system’ and is capable of collecting very high resolution aerial images. The Worcester research team took the Draganflyer X6 to the San Pedro River in Chile to assist with a major project looking to map endangered river habitats.

Using the Draganflyer they captured hundreds of images of an important shallow habitat on the margin of the river. This area is home to a native fish species which is currently threatened by plans to build a major hydroelectric power dam.

The aerial images have been stitched together to create a very detailed aerial image mosaic and a 3D digital elevation model, which will now allow Worcester’s researchers to produce accurate and detailed maps of the river habitat.

This mapping forms part of the PhD work of Amy Woodget and is part of a larger collaborative project between Dr Ian Maddock (Principal Lecturer in Physical Geography at the University of Worcester) and researchers based at the University of Concepcion, Chile. The wider project aims to improve understanding of the complex relationship between the physical nature of the river and its flow, and how that influences the different species that live within the river.

The University of Worcester is one of only a handful of universities to own and have a licence to fly the Draganflyer X6. It can be used for a wide range of applications and is currently used for teaching and research at the University of Worcester in a number of different ways.

RESEARCH & PARTNERSHIPS


Top: Worcester Researchers working on site in ChileBottom: The Draganflyer X6 mini helicopter



SUCCESSFUL EU PROJECT FUNDING BID Dr Val Chapman, Director of the Centre for Inclusive Learning Support (CILS), will be collaborating with Dr Richard Woolley, Dr Ruth Hewston and other colleagues from the Institute of Education to act as partners in a new EU funded project that will be led by the Italian organisation Aforisma.

The project aims to create an online in-service training course for teachers which will help them to better meet the learning and social needs of secondary school pupils with learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

The course will be made available in each partner country: Italy, Poland, Romania, Spain and the UK. The project, worth €299,500, brings funding to the University of Worcester of €108,000.

For further information, please contact Dr Val Chapman on [email protected]

Delivering Palliative and End of Life Care Course in Nairobi Written by Dr Brian Nyatanga, Senior Lecturer based in Applied Professional Studies in the Institute of Health & Society

Two senior members of the Nairobi hospital management team visited the

University of Worcester to discuss ways for collaboration between the two organisations. Palliative and end of life care was one of the areas they felt needed urgent educational input to enable their ambitions of providing such care to all who need it.

Palliative and end of life care provision in Kenya is one of their Government’s post millennium initiatives. The model of care being adopted is largely based on the UK modern approach to caring for people at the end of life.

I went to Nairobi in August 2012 to deliver a palliative care module to a group of fifteen students based at the Nairobi hospital. Lectures covered all aspects of palliative care from the philosophy and practice to the ethical dilemmas of managing and sharing limited resources and issues of hydration at the end of life.

Different methods of teaching were employed and to my surprise, students wanted to take part in more role-play scenarios, which is a total antithesis from a UK student perspective. The enthusiasm of the students and their ability to think outside the box provided a safe academic platform to discuss sensitive topics like assisted dying in a predominantly Christian country.

The positive post-module evaluations and discussion between senior members in Nairobi and the University of Worcester suggest this may be the first of many modules this University can deliver in Nairobi.

The University is proud to be able to facilitate such education and development in order to benefit dying patients in this part of Africa. As a result of this visit, new opportunities for staff and students from Nairobi to visit the UK palliative care services were identified, and further visits by our university lecturers to Nairobi would expand the benefits into research knowledge and skills to produce local evidence for local patients.

STRIKING A BALANCE IN MALAWIDr Alan Dixon, Senior Lecturer in Geography, spent three weeks in the summer in Malawi where he had been investigating how community-based institutions can help build sustainable livelihoods in an area of the country affected by severe food shortages. The work sought to evaluate the impacts of a development project called ‘Striking a Balance: Maintaining Seasonal Wetlands and their Livelihood Contributions in Central Southern Africa’, which was implemented in the Simlemba district between 2005 and 2008 by the Malawi Enterprise Zone Association (Maleza) and Wetland Action.

Alan explained, “The idea behind the original ‘Striking a Balance’ project was to increase food security and well-being among local communities in Malawi, through developing their use of wetland resources in a sustainable manner. Over a period of three years our implementing partner, Maleza, worked with communities to develop soil and water conservation measures, intercropping techniques, improved marketing arrangements, and perhaps most importantly, Village Natural Resource Management Committees which ensure water, wetlands, forest and agricultural

resources are used sustainably.”

Although this project officially ended in 2008, Alan used his project leave to return to the area to find out whether the activities had been successful and whether they had led to an improvement in people’s livelihoods and the natural resource base.

“Most of the local people I spoke to said that they are now beginning to see the benefits of our project. The village natural resource management committees are making sure that people don’t use too much water or cut down trees, and it appears that the conservation measures are having a positive impact on crop yields, which is great. However, it was clear that communities also need improved crop marketing arrangements, so that people can generate more cash and reinvest in their farms.”

Photos: Top: A farmer illustrating the changes in rainfall in the area over the last 7 years

Middle: A farmer showing us cucumbers that he’s now able to grow by the side of a wetland

Bottom: Alan Dixon and one of the communities he has been working with



SOCIAL WORK TIES WITH RUSSIAThe partnership between the University of Worcester and Perm State Research University in Russia has allowed for some rich experiences through joint working in the Social Work Faculties. It has become an annual path of staff and student visits – with Perm State lecturers and students visiting Worcester for the sixth time in a year, and a third visit of Worcester staff and students visiting Perm State in November 2011 to support their celebrations for 20 years of social work practice in Russia.

On the last visit to Russia, Catherine Hyde spoke at the Perm State Research Conference on the importance and intricacies of international student support provided by the International Office at Worcester, and Joy Gauci, combined with two students from her Masters in Social Work, presented papers on aspects of UK and international social work practice.

As the partnership has developed it has invited students to identify and exchange practice and research interests with the potential for collaborative approaches to research. In addition, Stuart Barber and Lorraine Morris, the two students awarded scholarships to travel to Perm and present in the Perm State Research Conference, have now had their conference papers published in the Perm State Research University Journal.

On their return, they were invited to co-lead a workshop with Joy at the British Association of Social Work Annual Conference in Stoke which was held in March 2012. At this event, the BASW Russia Social Work Networking group was launched and was jointly chaired by Joy Gauci, the University of Worcester Social Work Faculty and Sue Kent, BASW Professional Officer.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR SAUDI HEAD TEACHERS IN THE UK

A group of headteachers from Saudi Arabia spent three days leadership training at the University of Worcester, which included visiting their UK partner schools in Devon.

The visit was organised in partnership with the British Council within the framework of its global project, Connecting Classrooms.

Tom Whittingham, Head of External Development in the University’s Institute of Education, said: “The visit of the Saudi Arabia headteachers is part of a wider international leadership network being grown and facilitated by the Institute of Education. The network globally connects like-minded leaders around themes of mutual interest and provides high quality facilitation, built on best and innovative practice.”

The UK schools prepared an activity filled itinerary for the visitors, including lessons observation, planning and engaging in group discussions with their peers.

The headteachers also received opportunities to share experiences, celebrate achievements and receive guidance on undertaking joint curriculum project activities, as well as receiving an introduction to the British Education system.

One of the headteachers said:

“This is a great opportunity for us to get some professional development and being at the University of Worcester will provide us with a unique experience which can help fulfil our professional careers.”

The teachers got the opportunity to meet students and staff involved in the project and attend classes to get a taste of British student life.

Christopher Palmer, Deputy Director of The British Council in Saudi Arabia, said: “Connecting Classrooms is one of the British Council’s flagship projects linking schools globally. This initiative is particularly important because it is the first time that Saudi state schools have been involved and the first time Saudi state school headteachers are visiting the UK under such a programme.”

The Worcester team who presented at the British Association of Social Workers Annual Conference

CONTACT USIf you need to contact the International Team, you can reach us at:University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, Worcester, WR2 6AJ, UKTel: +44 (0)1905 855141 or email: [email protected]/pages/University-of-Worcester-International-StudentsIf you have a story that you would like to share with us for the next edition of the newsletter, please email it to [email protected]

www.worcester.ac.uk

International Newsletter Issue 01 2013

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