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AR Layout Introduction 004.Indd

AR Layout Introduction 004.Indd

Annual Review 2017 A Distinctive Learning Experience Contents

Achievements ...... 3 A stimulating learning culture

Forewords ...... 6 Inspiring staff...... 54

Mission, Vision and Foundational Values . . 10 Excellence in research and innovation ...... 59

#MyChesterStory ...... 11 Publications...... 66

Our campuses and sites ...... 12 Staff engagement...... 68 Conferences...... 72 Factfile A holistic student experience Eminent guests ...... 75 Established: 1839 . The University is one of the Honorary graduates include: Joining the University community ...... 16 Investment in facilities...... 78 longest established English HRH The Prince of KG, KT, GCB, OM, AK, CD, The student journey ...... 17 Commitment to sustainability...... 80 establishments still in its original form, predating all QSO, PC, ADC; , The Rt Hon Baroness but , Cambridge, and Durham . Bakewell of Stockport, DBE; The Most Rev and Rt Hon Outstanding student support ...... 23 Dr , Archbishop of York; Students: 20,700 (69% undergraduates, 31% Chaplaincy...... 28 A community focus CBE; Sir Ian Botham OBE; CBE, FSA; Sir postgraduates) . Andrew Motion FRSL; Sir OBE; Tim Firth; Sue Enriching educational opportunities . . . . . 29 Outreach activities...... 86 Staff: 1,660 . Johnston OBE; Phil Redmond CBE; Gyles Brandreth; Volunteering and mentoring...... 36 Educational partnerships...... 88 Matthew Kelly OBE; , The Rt Hon : Dr Gyles Brandreth . Baroness Morris of Yardley; Ronald Pickup; The Earl of Innovative student research and Engaging with business ...... 92 Vice-Chancellor: Professor Tim Wheeler DL . Derby; Sir OBE; Neville Chamberlain creative projects ...... 41 Beyond our boundaries ...... 95 CBE; Viscount Michael Ashbrook JP, DL; Professor Sir Campuses: Four in , one in , one Enhancing employability...... 47 John Enderby CBE, FRS; CBE; Beth Global connections...... 104 in Thornton, in addition to NHS sites on the Wirral Tweddle MBE; Colin Parry OBE; The Rt Hon Frank Field and in Crewe and Macclesfield . Honorary graduates...... 108 DL, MP; Martin Lewis OBE; Kenneth Baker, The Rt Hon Partner organisation: University Centre Lord Baker of Dorking; David Pickering FCA, DL, FIoD; The alumni community...... 112 (with Council) . Professor Alan Emery FRCP, FRCPE, FLS, FRSA, FRSE; Gillian Burns MBE; Sir OBE; the Singh UK strategic alliance partner: University Centre Twins; John Lea DL; Colin Daniels; Senior Staff and Reaseheath . MBE; David Parr; Sir Philip Craven MBE; Dame Carol Members of the University Council. . . . . 116 Associate colleges: Coleg Cambria (from 1-4-2017); Black DBE, FRCP; Amanda Wakeley OBE; Sir David Lees; Financial Results ...... 118 University College Isle of Man; Wirral Metropolitan Roderick Hunt MBE; Professor Sir Cary L Cooper CBE, College; West College (until 31-3-2017) . FAcSS; Helen Willetts; Lieutenant General Professor Sir Edmund Burton KBE, DL, MA, DSc, FBCS, FIET .

2 Annual Review 2017 Achievements

Achievements

4th 15th 26th 95.3% out of 130 overall out of 117 out of 129 of undergraduate institutions and first institutions for institutions for leavers in in the North student teaching employment/ West experience quality further study

Proportion of academic staff holding 9th 46th out of 129 Percentage of UK domiciled full- a recognised teaching qualification for academic experience institutions for student experience time first degree undergraduate Higher Education Statistics Agency/Higher Education = 61st out of 129 institutions overall leavers in employment/further Academy report to Higher Education Funding 10th and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018 study six months after completing Council for , December 2016 for student welfare their course Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey 2017 Higher Education Statistics Agency, Employment of Leavers UK Performance Indicator for 2015–16

     £386 Million World-leading research 27,801 hours £24,500 65 companies University’s contribution to the in 14 areas of the University’s of voluntary work contributed raised for charity by Chester are supported by Commercial Operations at region, according to an economic research activity by students and staff in the Students’ Union Clubs and Thornton Science Park, Riverside Innovation Centre impact assessment report in 2015 last year Societies and NoWFOOD, employing a total of 554 company staff and engaging with 46 students

3 Annual Review 2017 Achievements

Equality Challenge Unit for commitment to Return to Practice Course of the Year Student Experience Award advancement of gender equality: Return to Practice (Nursing) programme at Mid Cheshire The Porters representation, progression and success Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Leighton Hospital) (overall) and Department of Psychology Employer Engagement Award Faculty of Business and Management Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship

Environmental Industry Award Sustainability Unit Energy and Carbon Lab Positive judgement in all areas relating to 1st academic standards and the quality of learning Food and Drink category University Entrepreneur Award opportunities for students Hospitality and Residential Services Alumna, Emma Woollard for The Language Guys (Institutional audit, 2010) Highly Commended External Relations Team of the Year Research and Development Student category, Alex Lerczak (Highly Commended) Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions

First University in the North West University Leadership Award White Ribbon Campaign to end violence against women (Highly Commended) Ian White

Top 50 Future List Alumna, Stephanie Hooker HR Excellence in Research award from the European Commission North West Engineering Excellence Awards Design Project of the Year Harry Small, Mechanical Engineering student Winner of the Energy category of STEM Awards Wolfram Young Researcher Award Maisie Snowdon, Mechanical Engineering student Participant in National Union Luis Ferras, Mathematics PhD student of Students sustainability programme

4 Annual Review 2017 Achievements

100% 1st for Mathematics for German for 20th in the Teaching Quality 85.9% overall out of 127 'value added' and Student overall satisfaction institutions category Experience score

and top 10 for =1st nationally 2nd 1.72% above the international (for comparison of degree results for Chemical Engineering and sector-wide average Whatuni? with entry qualifications) Music for Teaching Quality National Student Survey 2017 Student Choice Awards 2017 2018 Subject League Tables 3rd for Biological Sciences for Teaching Quality The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018

21st out of 154 universities Teaching Excellence Framework 2017 Rated Outstanding by Ofsted in the People & Planet University League for Primary and Secondary Initial Teacher Education – the only with a First Class Honours award for environmental and provider in the North of England to achieve such recognition ethical performance in the last three frameworks of inspection

5 Annual Review 2017 Forewords

Forewords

Canon Professor T J Wheeler DL – Vice-Chancellor and Principal

Our 2017 Annual Review reflects on how the students to tailor their learning experience supporting local communities and developing 11th nationally and qualified for Henley for the University provides ‘A distinctive learning according to their aspirations, while making a international . , it brings in an estimated second year in succession; and the range of experience’ for its students – a factor which has real difference to the wider community . As a economic value of approximately £400 million eminent guests and home-grown talent, who always been of paramount importance to its result, this Annual Review contains a whole host each year . share their knowledge and expertise with staff, success and longevity . This hallmark is illustrated of examples where students have capitalised students and the wider public at the Parkgate by some of the key institutional achievements, on their time in higher education in order to Some of my highlights in 2016–17 include the Road Campus . such as: finishing ninth for academic experience accomplish their goals . graduation of the University’s first engineering out of 117 institutions in the Times Higher students from Thornton Science Park and the One of the most exciting and significant Education Student Experience Survey (and 15th The many and substantial achievements of our opening of the industry-focused Energy Centre initiatives in the history of the University is the overall); gaining Silver in the Teaching Excellence student body, and the University as a whole, on that campus; the continued development proposed development of a Chester Medical Framework; and being ranked fourth out of would not be possible without the wisdom, of public sector and creative industries courses School, which would seek to address the lack 130 institutions (and first in the North West) imagination and dedication of staff, who at the Warrington Campus and its reinforced of a specialist training facility for doctors in for the proportion of academic staff holding a provide a supportive and inspiring educational connections with the local community; a Cheshire, Wirral and Shropshire and national recognised teaching qualification . The tradition environment, in which students can flourish . steady increase in students at University Centre skills shortages . This facility would allow the of excellence in Primary and Secondary Initial In addition, the often revolutionary research Shrewsbury and a second Gold medal in expansion of training for health and social care Teacher Education has been upheld since 1839 . conducted by staff and students is enhancing succession for the institution’s show garden at workers in the area, introduce specialist medical These areas are rated as ‘Outstanding’ and we the profile of the University, establishing links the prestigious Shrewsbury Flower Show; the facilities for the local community and help to have the distinction of being the only provider in with institutions and researchers worldwide, growing relationship with University Centre relieve service pressures . It would also position the North of England to achieve such recognition making a real contribution to the knowledge Reaseheath and establishment of the Faculty the University very favourably for the future in in the last three frameworks of inspection . economy and creating a vibrant learning culture . of Agriculture and Veterinary Science; the an increasingly competitive higher education thriving arts scene at the Kingsway Campus; market in the UK and internationally . The diverse and innovative types of teaching was delighted to welcome the new Chancellor, the engagement with the business world and provided by the University’s seven different Dr Gyles Brandreth, to his inauguration in sector-leading activity around the new degree I am proud and privileged to share all the campuses, and the growing array of courses Chester Cathedral and we look forward to apprenticeships at the Queen’s Park Campus; examples on the following pages, which give a designed to meet the needs of both students enjoying his closer involvement with the the many accomplishments of students and flavour of how the University and its committed and their current and future employers, institution – a relationship which began over 20 staff in the Faculties of Education and Children’s staff continue to provide a distinctive learning mean that it remains at the forefront of years ago when he was a staunch advocate for Services and Faculty of Health and Social Care experience for students, a constant thread higher education provision in the region . The the University in his role as MP for Chester . He at the Riverside Campus as they embrace throughout its 178-year history . I would like to opportunities for students to broaden their recognised then the value that the University careers of service, true to our Mission; the thank every staff member and student who has horizons through activities such as volunteering, brings to the North West, as a major employer, sporting achievements of the Men’s Basketball contributed to the University’s over the Work Based Learning, Chester Students’ Union raising the profile of the area internationally, team, who won the BUCS Northern Cup and past year and we look forward to the next 12 (CSU) activities and Study Abroad, enable attracting students, increasing visitor numbers, Women’s Eight Rowing team, who finished months with optimism .

6 Annual Review 2017 Forewords

The Rt Rev Dr Peter Forster – Lord of Chester, Chester Students’ Union Lord President of the University Council and Pro-Chancellor Sabbatical team

The University continues to develop in a most drawing on its particular traditions and history At the of Chester Students’ Union's ideas relating to academic and non-academic pleasing and encouraging way, consolidating to frame a distinctive student experience . (CSU) work are our core values of democracy, issues and services . For example, research initiatives of recent years and planning for inclusivity, representation, supporting students was conducted into the key environmental the future . The Annual Review illustrates this in various ways, and staff, and engaging with the community issues for students . As a result, we lobbied and provides a rich testimony to our strengths . and our valued stakeholders . This year has been successfully to install solar panels on the The UK higher education sector is vibrant and Above all, though, there are lots of ways in exceptional in terms of demonstrating these, CSU building and our ‘Waste not, want diverse – and increasingly competitive . Each which we can further improve what we offer with productive campaigns; a record-breaking not’ campaign collected 861 bags for the institution needs to play to its strengths, and to the noble world of university education and number of students actively involved in clubs and British Heart Foundation, raising £12,054 for the University of Chester this will include research in the years ahead . societies; sporting success; the enhancement of For these actions, we achieved Gold and the student experience and the empowerment the Environmental Hero Award at the of the student voice . Green Impact Awards . Students also ran a community clean-up day in partnership with CSU champions the interests of students through Cheshire West and Chester Council, helping to its partnership with the University . Twenty- dispose of large unwanted items and tidying two members of the Students’ Union Council up the areas around the Garden Quarter for were recruited to represent students across the the benefit of local residents . Chester campuses, debating, engaging with and carrying out projects on behalf of students . We A record-breaking 4,000 members joined work in close collaboration with the University our sports clubs and societies, helped by to support and manage the Student Academic the Activities Team and Sabbatical Officers’ Representatives (StARs) . In 2016–17, no fewer than #ILoveCSUCampaign . We are proud of 870 StARs were recruited and trained to act as the all their achievements, which include liaison between the departments and students, improving sporting links with the community, to ensure that students gain the most from their supporting national campaigns, raising a academic experience . CSU also held the annual phenomenal £24,500 for charity (£3,500 more Above and Beyond Awards (AABs), now in their than last year) and significant competitive fourth year, which celebrate outstanding work success . Varsity 2017 saw more than 450 from staff and StARs – nominated by, and voted students travelling to Salford to compete in for, the students themselves . a range of sports . Chester did not win this time, but there’s always next year! In the CSU engaged with over 4,000 students over British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) Professor Tim Wheeler and The Rt Rev Dr Peter Forster. the year, gathering feedback, opinions and competitions, four new teams entered the

7 Annual Review 2017 Forewords

leagues and the sports teams had a 51% education and an end to cuts . We facilitated Social Care students in setting up the Blackburn the volunteering opportunities available for win rate overall against other North West a campus referendum, in which students Fund, in honour of the late Lucy Blackburn, students . The extensive social calendar began universities, ensuring that the overall league voted to remain affiliated to the NUS, while the which offers those on Nursing programmes with a welcome river cruise and concluded with position of 72nd was maintained . There were Generation Vote campaign resulted in more help with course and placement costs . a masquerade-themed Summer Ball . no fewer than seven league winners this year, than 500 additional students registering to three of them from the Netball Club . Two vote before the General Election . Our issue-led It is really rewarding to see the growth of All these activities show how CSU goes the extra teams made the cup finals, Women’s Water campaigning also extended to generating University Centre Shrewsbury, where the mile to enrich the experience of all students, Polo and Men’s Basketball, and the latter was a better understanding of sexual consent, University and Students’ Union are providing building relationships with them, empowering triumphant in the BUCS Northern Conference saying ‘No' to LGBT+ Phobia, anti-drink spiking superb opportunities for the first cohorts of them to broaden their horizons and maximise Cup, having surpassed its runner-up position and encouraging students to look after their undergraduate and postgraduate students . their learning potential, welcoming, embracing last year . Through a new CSU Media Team, mental wellbeing during exams . There has been an outstanding response to and celebrating diversity . As a result, our we hope to raise awareness of the great work student-led campaigns, on topics ranging students can benefit from a fulfilling and done by our Sports and Societies within the This year, we have invested in a new online from dyslexia, mental wellbeing and sexual memorable higher education experience, University and the wider community and, in system, which offers students more social health, to the work of the Student Council and tailored to their individual needs . turn, encourage students to develop better opportunities, while they are sharing good communication skills . practice about their academic studies and volunteering . Our Advice and Representation Team (ARC) worked with over 750 students, to provide We always strive for a healthy work/life support throughout their University experience . balance for our students . The CH1 Bar creates ARC hand-delivered information booklets to all a real sense of belonging and it attracted a first years’ properties, prompting an increase packed programme to kick-start the year and in accommodation queries . Contractual welcome the freshers . There were more than 80 advice is the largest area of demand and comedians, student bands and headline acts, we want to ensure a fairer deal for students along with live music, karaoke, sober nights on accommodation through lobbying and with activities and student-led events, such as campaign activity . ARC also highlighted sexual drag races, in aid of local and national charities . health, facilitating 194 sexual health tests, and worked with local charities, such as the Antony At the Warrington Campus, involvement Nolan Trust and Body Positive, to educate has been very impressive . The number of students and raise awareness around issues societies has trebled and the revival of the facing young people today . hall championships saw the participation of all residential students . Introducing the In terms of being heard more effectively, CSU ‘Text the porters’ system provided additional also enabled more than 20 students to attend support and gave a more accessible way to the National Union of Students (NUS) National communicate with staff . CSU is also extremely Demo to promote free, accessible higher proud to have supported Faculty of Health and Chester Students' Union Sabbatical team.

8 Annual Review 2017 Forewords

Dr Gyles Brandreth – Chancellor

It is a considerable honour to have been the 1990s when I was Member of Parliament invited to succeed the 6th Duke of for the City of Chester . My admiration for what Westminster as Chancellor of the University it is achieving grows deeper as I get to know it of Chester . My installation took place in the better, meeting the undergraduates, graduates matchless setting of Chester Cathedral on 17 and staff at each of the University campuses . March 2017, coincidentally the anniversary of the death of one of my heroes, the Roman I see my role as an honorary ambassador emperor Marcus Aurelius, and the birthday of for the University, in serious ways (speaking one of my favourite authors, Penelope Lively, at educational conferences, for example) who once said, “We all need a past – that’s and in fun ways (wearing my University of where our sense of identity comes from ”. Chester Chancellor’s jumper on Countdown, for example) and I know that my principal The past is very relevant to the present of the duty is to preside at graduation ceremonies University which began its life as a pioneering whenever I can . college of education founded in 1839 to train teachers for schools . The At my first ceremony I shared wisdom that I had concept of ‘education for a life of service’ sought many years ago with the graduands . As remains at the core of the University’s ethos a graduating student myself I had written to the and Mission and is one of the many reasons I great wartime general, Field Marshal Montgomery am so happy to be Chancellor . of Alamein, asking him what he believed were the qualities a young person needed to succeed What does a university chancellor actually do? I in life . His reply was characteristically concise: wondered that, as well, when the invitation came “1 . Moral courage – always do what you believe my way . In the and throughout to be right . 2 . Complete integrity – no lies, the Commonwealth a university chancellor no deceptions, honesty and transparency . 3 . is the ceremonial head of the university . (The Ceaseless hard work ”. executive head is the vice-chancellor; the chair of the governing body is customarily the Those virtues, I believe, reflect the values that pro-chancellor ). I canvassed other university underpin the strength and success of this chancellors to discover what the role involved . remarkable university . At the next graduation Chiefly, I was advised, it calls for enthusiasm and a ceremony I attend, I may add some wisdom Dr Gyles Brandreth. capacity for shaking a lot of hands . from Marcus Aurelius: “When you get up in the morning, reflect on what a precious privilege The University offers a truly distinctive student Chancellor, I am conscious of the precious I trust I am up to delivering both . My it is to be alive – to breathe, to think, to enjoy, experience that is challenging, rewarding, privilege of being part of it . commitment to the University dates back to to love ”. exciting, worthwhile and fun . As the new

9 Annual Review 2017 Mission, Vision and Foundational Values

Mission, Vision and Foundational Values

Mission Vision

The University, a Church of England institution At the heart of the University’s Vision is an founded in 1839, continues to be guided by unwavering commitment to ensuring an Christian values and is justifiably proud of the outstanding student learning experience, open, inclusive and supportive environment developing the expertise of staff, providing that characterises the institution . The University teaching excellence, and actively growing welcomes students and staff of all faiths or none . research and scholarship .

It seeks to provide all its students and staff Through these actions, the University hopes to with the education, skills, support and make a positive impact on the lives of students, motivation to enable them to develop as staff, and the communities that it serves, confident world citizens and successfully to enabling the institution to make a significant serve and improve the global communities and growing contribution to the region, within which they live and work . nationally and internationally .

This Mission, which has helped shape our In valuing and celebrating its long history development and diversification, continues and traditions, the University is committed to to actively inform its future planning and engendering a sense of pride and shared ownership enrichment as a University . in all that it does . It is dynamic and enterprising in its approach to developing new opportunities .

Foundational Values Mindful of the University’s history and Christian foundation:

We recognise the dignity and worth of every We recognise the vital role of education in the We recognise the inherent value of the pursuit of truth individual . service of society . and freedom of enquiry . Therefore we value every member of the Therefore we encourage the acquisition of Therefore we find joy in discovery; we take pleasure in University; we endeavour to help each student knowledge and the development of skills; invention; we celebrate human creativity; and we seek and member of staff to discover his or her gifts and we acknowledge a responsibility to look wisdom, embracing it wherever we find it and strive to apply and talents and grow to full potential; and we for every opportunity to put that knowledge it to every aspect of life . foster wellbeing for all . and those skills to good use throughout the In humility, we aspire to honour these values and hold community . ourselves accountable to them .

10 #MyChesterStory #MyChesterStory is now an integral part #MyChesterStory is the real story of Chester as told by students, alumni and staff . It is a hashtag of the culture of the that is native to the University, narrating the lives of anyone and everyone with a connection to University . As the the University community . institution continues to grow and evolve, this hashtag captures the contributions that students, staff and alumni make to the University community and beyond . The University of Chester means many different @thecraftygingergifts @stuckinthepapertown @will .i .am .king Loving doing these illustrations for placement Grosvenor Park Linebackers #americanfootball #Legion #illustration #watercolour #artist #fineliner Found a Roman key today #roman #uniofchester #linebacker #55 #outside #strongside things to many different #royalmail #chester #cathedral #university #archaeology #finds #chester #runthemover #defense #redandblack people and it is these personal perspectives that combine to provide a contemporary overview of this historic institution .

Adam Bodger, Marketing Manager.

@holliepaynephotography @lauren .sharpe @abbietennant When your boyfriend is a trainee dancer and The reflection in the water #reflection #beauty Can’t believe I’ve handed in my dissertation! you’re a trainee photographer #mychesterstory #mirror #norway #norway16 #mychesterstory So proud of myself #universityofchester #geography #geology #mychesterstory #dissertation #psychologythesis

11 Annual Review 2017 Our campuses and sites

Our campuses and sites

Parkgate Road Campus is where our story Kingsway Campus has a focus on creative Riverside Campus provides specialist Queen’s Park Campus is a short walk from began and is home to a number of academic arts, hosting an array of outstanding art, facilities for professional courses such the lively city centre and is home to the departments, many of the University’s central design and performance-based facilities . as teacher training, childhood studies, University’s business school . support services and accommodation . nursing and midwifery .

Thornton Science Park is a centre for Warrington Campus is a self-contained Guildhall Shrewsbury is a modern, self- University Centre Reaseheath is the base scientific research and hosts our computer site that specialises in delivering vocational contained campus building that provides for our agriculture and veterinary science science, engineering and mathematics courses with an applied approach to learning . a personal approach to your learning . It courses . It is one of the UK’s leading land- courses, alongside innovative and Specialist areas include business, education, overlooks the River Severn and is a short walk based colleges and houses a licensed , growing businesses . health, media, policing and sport . from the bustling streets of Shrewsbury . equine centre and food innovation centre .

12 The diverse and innovative types of teaching provided by the University’s seven different campuses and the establishment of University Centre Reaseheath, offer a growing array of courses designed to meet the needs of both students and their current and future employers and this means that it remains at the forefront of higher education provision in the region .

Professor Tim Wheeler, Vice-Chancellor and Principal.

13

A holistic student experience

@emily_clarke_x @benherron @caitlinyoud @uoc_business @bethany_laurax Uni room is all sorted and looking pretty! Ready Gentle jog at the #universityofchester with Kangaroos are officially my second favourite Fruity freebie! Our Queen’s Park Library is offering Drama school days #thehammondschool to move in today #uni#mychesterstory #begins @jackallenet #v02max #tritraining #maxedout animal #kangaroo #animal #ballaratwildlifepark free fruit and a reusable water bottle to help our #mychesterstory #musicaltheatre #today #fresher #bioveterinaryscience #mychesterstory #studyabroad # #mychesterstory #fave students with exam revision Annual Review 2017 A holistic student experience

Joining the University community

The building of relationships with prospective students makes the process of integration into the University community a gradual and supportive experience, empowering students to take their first steps into higher education .

The award-winning Marketing, Recruitment and One of the most innovative ways in which Admissions (MRA) team gained further national the MRA team is able to reach prospective recognition in 2016–17 for its work in engaging students is through a strong presence on social with students in new and innovative ways . media . There is an active student base which The team was shortlisted in the ‘Outstanding posts messages about their own experiences Marketing/Communications Team’ category on Facebook, YouTube and Snapchat, and on in the Times Higher Education Leadership and Twitter and Instagram through the hashtag Management Awards 2017 and was ‘Highly #MyChesterStory . In addition, a student team Commended’ in the ‘External Relations Team of of digital ambassadors contributes to the the Year’ category at the Educate North Awards University blog and regularly takes over the 2017 . These accolades emphasise how targeted Snapchat channel . Staff from the Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions team. marketing activity, together with a sustained outreach programme, can connect with future All of this carefully planned activity, which uochester #mychesterstory #uochester students and encourage them to seek the is informed by market research, allows #MyChesterStory opportunities available at the institution . prospective students to gain an authentic idea of the student experience at Chester, The MRA team travels to higher education fairs directly from those in the midst of their in England, Wales, , the Isle of studies . The whole relationship is nurtured Man, Jersey and Guernsey to meet prospective through social media, and supplemented students in person, so that they can discuss by targeted information via the newly frannutrition Eeeeek! Not long til melanie_97_ I have great accommodation placement now :D #mychesterstory #University #uochester #mychesterstory how higher education can help them to achieve designed website, emails and flyers, so that #placement #grosvenor their goals . Prospective undergraduate and the contact continues to build throughout postgraduate students have many opportunities the application and acceptance process . This to explore the seven specialist campuses means that students develop a growing sense through a range of Open Days, Applicant Days of connection with the University, which and Campus Tours . These events brought more facilitates a smooth transition into student life than 6,500 people (plus their accompanying to begin their own #MyChesterStory . pecandante Starting the adventure #Chester families and friends) to the institution in 2016–17, #England #mychesterstory melaniecawthorne I did it! Four years of aridiyanto Chester High Cross stands at hard work and now I’ve fi nally graduated! the centre of the city of Chester and is #mychesterstory #universityofchester surrounded by old town buildings #Chester eager to see how they could benefit from a #chester #graduation #graduationday #mychesterstory distinctive student experience . #MyChesterStory material.

16 Annual Review 2017 A holistic student experience

Five students received an Outstanding Contribution an outstanding contribution in the field of The student journey to Community Award: Bethany Pennington visual craft . This was in recognition of the work (Learning Disability Nursing) volunteers with produced for her final major project, which Students have a wealth of opportunities in which they can make a significant Hosanna House & Children’s Pilgrimage Trust and explored the potential of landscape and nature contribution to their subject area, the University, Chester Students’ Union (CSU) Sports4all; Daniel Bushell (Psychology) volunteers photography as a treatment for sufferers of sports clubs and societies and the wider community throughout their higher with the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Seasonal Affective Disorder . education experience . Trust in the occupational therapy team and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services; Anca Stan (Graphic Design) received the prize for The annual Valedictory ceremony and prize- to those in need . Daniel (Community Policing Heather Carr (Health and Social Care) volunteers achievement in Graphic Design and had a project giving celebrated the significant achievements of and Criminal Investigation) volunteers for the with Tomorrow’s Women Wirral, previously recognised by one of the most prominent package students in the fields of voluntary work, sporting Cheshire Constabulary Special Constables for an volunteered with Age UK, was involved with peer design websites in the world . Her fictitious Aura success, contributions to the community and average of 105 hours a month and by this stage mentoring and acted as both a Student Academic Wine branding was featured on the website, University life . Some of the recipients included had made six arrests, taken witness and victim Representative and a student ambassador; Keith Packaging of the World, which showcases the the joint winners of the Ede and Ravenscroft statements and used his skills and own personal Terrill (Games Development) volunteers with the most creative work worldwide . Anca created bottle Award Prize for Excellence, who were Rachael experience of autism to help calm the mother of Army Cadet Force; and Lauren Cooper (Psychology) labels and an embroidered fabric sleeve, which Lambe and Daniel McKenzie from the Warrington a missing person . He has taken an active role in volunteers with PAPYRUS, the national charity for she described as “crafted to be passed on from Campus . Rachael (Adult Nursing) was shocked the Police LGBT network, represented Cheshire the prevention of young suicide, was the charity generation to generation” . to see how many people were sleeping rough Police at national conferences and been the secretary for the Psychology Society (CUPS), and was in the town in winter . She raised funds for and LGBT representative on Constable to Sergeant involved with the Time to Chat group on campus . A dyslexic student, who failed his GCSEs, earned created ‘survival packs’ for them and then Assessment panels . Daniel also volunteers on the a first-class honours degree in Marketing and worked closely with fellow Nursing students training team for the Warrington Police Cadets Rebecca Brown (Media) was awarded the Tourism and the Dean’s Commendation Award and numerous agencies to organise distribution and provides support to his fellow students . Department’s K M Herring Award for making for Outstanding Performance . Tariq Malik

The Valedictory ceremony prize winners. Anca Stan. Tariq Malik with Dr Andy Lyon.

17 The University of explained: “I was told in school that if I didn’t of activities . Initiatives include Active Cheshire’s Cup and the Men’s first team was unbeaten in Chester has never failed pass my GCSEs, I wouldn’t get anywhere in Give it a Go and Intramural Sports, while the This the league, gaining promotion into Division 1A . life . When I told them my dream was to travel BUCS Girls Can campaign increased the number The Men’s Basketball Club and Women’s Water to amaze me with its the world and help people in indigenous of females involved in university sport nationally Polo team secured their places in the Northern continued support and communities, my head teacher laughed at me . from 50% in 2014–15 to 60% in 2015–16 . Conference Cup Finals, with Men’s Basketball But I’ve done it . And from a boy who failed his winning the trophy . The National League Basketball opportunities available GCSEs to become an academic student who Around 50 sports teams compete in the BUCS Club narrowly missed out on promotion to for all students, regardless achieves 80% in my assignments just shows that (British University College Sport) leagues and seven Division 2 – a level at which only a few University if you enjoy and persevere with a subject, you play in national individual and team competitions . teams compete . The Women’s Eight Rowing team of skills . It brings the best can achieve anything ”. Tariq has already travelled The Chester campus teams finished 72nd in the finished 11th nationally and competed at Henley out of each individual to Cambodia twice to teach English to children league and fielded four new teams, while Men’s for the second year running, having benefited in a remote village and is now on a graduate Football was the first team to join the BUCS league greatly from international level coaching and and allows them to training scheme with a national restaurant chain . for University Centre Shrewsbury . The top five dedicated support . The sporting links with the flourish, not only on clubs were Football, , Netball, Basketball community include the Rugby League Club’s Events Management student, Rumer Cooper, and Volleyball . There were seven league winners collaboration with Chester Gladiators and the an academic level, but achieved the Ian McDonald Memorial Award (including the Netball first, second and third teams) Women’s Football team, who benefited from a also on a personal one . I for her outstanding contribution to the Faculty and a total of 162 wins, 138 losses and 19 draws . professional training session from Ladies of Business and Management and its students The Tennis Club won the Touchtennis Varsity Football Club Manager, Scott Rogers . would not have chosen and the Chester Difference Excellence Award, any other university for for her volunteering and extra-curricular efforts . An outstanding student, she was a Student my student journey . Academic Representative and assisted with numerous projects, events and open days . Rumer Cooper, Events Management student. CSU sports clubs and societies lie at the heart of student life and the 115 sports and societies have more than 4,000 members spread across the seven campuses . The sports clubs range from the traditional, such as Hockey, Football and Rowing, through to Sub Aqua and Quidditch . The most popular clubs have proved to be Running, Fitness and Yoga, which have collectively encouraged more than 300 new members to participate . CSU has worked with local clubs, national governing bodies and Active Cheshire to set up new, exciting partnerships and schemes to offer a wide range The Women’s Eight Rowing team, competing against the at Henley.

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The CSU societies provide opportunities to Management course . She was the Women’s was nominated in two categories – Most She liaises with staff and students to organise socialise, travel, make new friends, develop skills, Captain for the Rowing team, gained a 2:1 Inspirational Student Nurse and Outstanding events such as study days and conferences, follow interests and give something back to the degree and clocked up more than 300 hours Contribution to Student Affairs . Ellen suffers from while enhancing relationships between community . This integral part of student life was of volunteering for the University’s Chester a chronic illness and endured multiple hospital midwifery students . She also attends practice showcased by the #ILoveCSUSocieties week, Difference Award, which recognises a range of stays during her degree . Despite this, she has development meetings and instigated a buddy which raised awareness of the societies on offer, extra-curricular activities . Her actions involved persisted with her studies and stayed heavily system for new student midwives . such as the Swing Dance, Disney, International raising £5,000 for charity by cycling from London involved in student life, such as being Chair for Development, Debating, Green, Video Gaming, to Paris and helping to rebuild schools in Nepal the Student Quality Ambassador project, Vice The Cat Radio at the Warrington Campus was Wild Chester and Rock Societies . Subject-related following an earthquake . She also reached President of the Feminist Society and Charities nominated twice for the Student Radio Awards, societies include Psychology and Midwifery, Everest Base Camp in Nepal and hopes to climb Officer for the LGBT+ Society . Ellen is also held at London’s O2 . The student-run radio while the opportunities to travel included the Mount Everest in the future . She said of the part of the PowWow project, which has been station took the silver award in the prestigious Catholic Society’s visit to in support of University’s scheme: “The Chester Difference nominated for Teaching Innovation of the Year ‘Best Student Radio Chart Show’ category, while the refugee crisis . All these activities enrich the Award has opened my eyes to opportunities I’d for its work to help with the communication Radio Production student, Tommie Watts was student journey and provide opportunities for never dreamt of ”. needs of adults with learning disabilities in acute a finalist in the ‘Best Male’ category . Highlights students to expand their horizons . hospital and medical settings . Rachel Jones was from The Cat Radio’s Chart Show included an The University and six student nurses were nominated for Student Midwife of the Year, as exclusive interview with the chart-topping band, Millie Frith has made the most of her student finalists at the Student Nursing Times Awards . one of the original committee members who set , an interview with Chesney Hawkes and experience during her Marketing with Events Ellen Bassett, (Learning Disability Nursing) up the Midwifery Society and is now President . a performance from the late Viola Beach .

Graphic Design student, Brian Taylor, won second prize in a national graphic design competition for his exhibition stand designs . The competition was hosted by Display Wizard and the brief was for any UK-based higher education student to design two display stands representing the social and cultural benefits of studying at their institution . Brian received a £100 grant and a graphic design internship with the company . Sally Hiscutt, Director of the company, said: “We loved Brian’s design, as it showed how the University can help its students grow in their environment . To receive an award in this competition is a very big achievement considering the number and quality of entrants we received ”.

A Radio Production student was selected from The PowWow project. Brian Taylor with his display stand. hundreds to produce a programme on BBC

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won the University’s Institute of Biomedical Science President’s Prize in 2016 . She has now progressed to work as an Associate Practitioner in the Department of Blood Sciences at the Wirral University Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust .

Holly Jevons gained a first-class honours degree in Events Management as well as the Chester Difference Award for her outstanding volunteering and other extra-curricular activities . With a passion for the arts, Holly was a Volunteer Events Assistant with Chester’s new Storyhouse Theatre and as a Company Stage Manager with the Grosvenor Park Young Company . She was also an usher at the graduation services and a Student Kirsten Colley (left) with co-organiser Laura Williams. Tourism students in York. Ambassador in the University of Chester Business School . She said: “Volunteering in a range of Radio Manchester . Catherine Warren applied As part of their International Tourism created during the 48-hour competition run by different working environments has helped me to to be a part of the ‘Over to You’ project when Management programme, first-year students Ukie . Twenty-one UK student teams took part, develop a range of skills” and all of this experience a team of up to 100 non-journalist volunteers had a ‘behind the scenes’ visit to Hull, the UK including three from the University, and created will help with her career in the arts . ‘took over’ the airwaves for a week in various City of Culture, to see the investment and a full game from scratch over the two days . Taylor roles . Catherine was chosen after an interview regeneration taking place to boost the region’s Collins said: “this has been an amazing experience Student midwife Caroline Ingram was runner- process at Media City in Salford and produced tourism . As part of a three-day visit to the area, and I feel honoured to have the opportunity to up in the NHS Learning Matters – North West a three-hour show for Mike Sweeney on they heard from key speakers from the public, represent the University of Chester ”. Health and Care Awards 2017, run by Health BBC Radio Manchester, which she said “was private and not-for-profit sectors . Students were Education England . Caroline came to the absolutely amazing” . also inspired by hearing from alumna Hannah Thornton Science Park was one of the University via the widening participation route, Allen, who works for Scarborough Spa after worldwide venues for Global Game Jam, the and was nominated for the motivation and ’s Got to Dance finalists, Lee Crowley carrying out her Work Based Learning project world’s largest video game creation event, determination she demonstrated in overcoming and Nichollette Whitley, performed as special there and graduating from her course with a which attracted 36,000 competitors from 95 significant illness during her studies . guests for a unique event in Warrington, first-class honours degree . countries . Seventeen Games Development organised by a Music student . ‘For the Passion’ students participated, with the help of The opportunity to travel the world has been was organised by Kirsten Colley and included Games Development students were rated among Department of Computer Science staff, and they the reward for Rebecca O’Brien after upgrading a variety of workshops, such as hip hop, the best in the country for the second year completed four games over the weekend . her Travel and Tourism HND to a Tourism salsa, contemporary, tap dance, circus skills, running, after the biggest ever UK student game Management degree . Rebecca studied at West a masterclass from Joe Broughton from the jam . The Senate, a team of first-year students, won Elysia Broome not only achieved a first-class Cheshire College for her HND and joined the Urban Folk Quartet, and an after party . the Best Concept prize, with its game ‘Legion’, honours degree in Biomedical Science, she also University of Chester Business School for the final

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year . She is now following her dream as a cabin crew member for an international airline and putting her knowledge of tourism management to good use . She is also planning to mentor students making a similar transition from local colleges to a university environment, so that they can benefit from her successful experience .

The Student Quality Ambassadors (SQAs) from the Faculty of Health and Social Care travelled to Altcar Training Camp near Liverpool to complete team building and leadership exercises with other SQAs from the region . This offered the opportunity to meet others, participate in activities and share experiences . One participant said: “I learnt how important it is to work as a team and realised that there is a leader in every Natural Hazard Management field trip. Games Development students with the Best Concept prize. Rebecca O’Brien. individual ”. 200 Waitrose stores and some Tesco, Marks & Care category, and was encouraged to attend BACP (British Association for Counselling and Master of Business Administration students Spencer and Co-op stores . the conference by the midwifery team “for her Psychotherapy) . Ella used her own experience in the Faculty of Business and Management outstanding approach to the programme” . of miscarriage as a starting point for her own were offered a unique leadership development The Department of Geography and Joined by Pre-Registration Nursing students research and found that the opportunities on retreat in Snowdonia . In partnership with the International Development offers students a Sarah Parrington and Michael Warburton for the the course for “personal therapy, journaling and National Mountain Sports Centre at Plas y Brenin, range of distinctive national and international Florence Commemoration Service quiet reflection” offered her “time and space students used mountain walks, climbing and fieldwork activities and Work Based Learning at Westminster Abbey . Lauren said: “It was an to re-create a narrative and make meaning” of abseiling to explore the principles of leadership opportunities . These enhance employment honour to represent my fellow student midwives her loss which were not available at the time . and followership, communities of practice and prospects, develop subject knowledge and at such a fantastic event, but also to act as an She explored whether this was common for ethical management . skills, provide first-hand experience of the topics ambassador for the University of Chester ”. mothers with early miscarriage and hopes studied and give students a rewarding and that her research, presented at the BACP Nic Leeds, who graduated with a BA in Business memorable time . A former graphic designer turned a personal conference, increases awareness of the possible Studies in 2015, has brought a new superfood tragedy into a way to help others through her impact of early miscarriage and the role of to UK supermarkets using the skills he learnt Student midwife, Lauren Field, represented Counselling research . Ella Haselden decided acknowledgements in helping women to find during the course . Nic grows kiwi berries at the University at the Florence Nightingale on a change in career direction after closing peace and comfort . Ella added: “Gaining the MA his family’s Withers Farm in Herefordshire and Conference at St Thomas’ Hospital, London . She her business and the death of her father . She in Clinical Counselling has been life changing . It launched the product in the UK, promoting was previously nominated for an NHS Learning chose the MA in Clinical Counselling because it has enabled me to break free from the restraints its health benefits . The berries have proved Matters – North West Health and Care award offered theory, professional skills development, of low self-worth and I am now competent in to be popular and Withers Farm now supplies in the Widening Participation in Health and personal development and membership of the facilitating others on their journey to freedom ”.

21 #MyChesterStory Becky Lees

A combined degree of Law with Journalism was chosen by Becky Lees, who wanted to study in the North West in a small, close-knit campus community close to a city centre . Little did she know that she would end up being a sabbatical officer for Chester Students’ Union (CSU), complete a Master’s degree and find employment at the University .

Becky made the most of undergraduate student life studied for an MA in Theology, Media and Communication, and found it to be “by far the best three years of my which explored how different groups or communities life” living with “amazing people”, playing and coaching are represented in the media and the effect in shaping football (which she loves), volunteering in the community ideologies in wider society . She said of part-time study: and working in the CSU . She found her combination of “The department really went above and beyond to make courses stimulating and challenging and welcomed the sure every student felt part of a wider learning community, opportunity to “try new things, meet new people and where we could make friends and continually motivate develop a greater understanding of the world within a safe, and support one another along the way ”. supportive environment” . As someone who has seen higher education from many Becky stood for election as Vice President because the CSU perspectives, Becky advises students to follow her example had “inspired, empowered and supported” her and she and participate fully in student life, challenge themselves “wanted to give something back” to the organisation and and follow their passions . people who had changed her life for the better . She found it “the greatest honour” to represent 19,000 students and, She concluded: “Not only have I studied two exceptional in return, she always put her “heart and soul into the work courses, I continue to be inspired everyday by the people of contributing positively to student life at the University I have met here; staff, students and members of the local and beyond” . She championed the Student Academic community . #MyChesterStory has helped me to realise my Representative system (StARs) and the Above and Beyond long-term career goals, which are shaped by the desire to Awards during her term of office and represented the change people’s lives for the better ”. educational interests of students at a national level .

A natural progression from this sabbatical post was to her role as Student Engagement Officer in Academic Quality and Support Services . Alongside helping students, she also

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The University has a strong reputation for support services and this has meant adapting Outstanding student support welcoming students from a wide range of services and introducing innovative ways in backgrounds and providing them with a high which to help those affected . For example, The University takes pride in the award-winning support services available quality and supportive experience, characterised The Active Wellbeing Programme is now a for students on all aspects of their higher education experience . Specialist by an emphasis on both academic and personal fixture in student life after the success of the help from Student Futures means that students can make the most of their achievement . This is especially evident in the pilot study for students with low-level anxiety, opportunities and benefit from a rewarding time at the institution . opportunities offered for the development of low mood and low confidence . This scheme employability skills and work-related learning . offers personalised support from a wellbeing The University underpins its work in this area assistant and a 12-week exercise schedule, with a commitment to high quality learning and which has proved to be overwhelmingly teaching and to the provision of strong support positive for participants . services to include, retain and develop successful learners who may have diverse entry profiles . The University promotes independence alongside responsibility for self and others, and Student Futures provides students with practical safety awareness through initiatives such as the information and advice on any non-academic Intervention Initiative: a bystander education aspect of the student experience, such as settling programme which aims to train students in into student life, helping with any problems the signs of sexual coercion or domestic abuse, that may arise and offering opportunities to and how they can intervene safely to stop try new things and learn different skills . These them occurring . The University is the first in areas include wellbeing and welfare, inclusion the North West to achieve the White Ribbon and disability, community liaison and financial Award for the role that it plays in creating an support, student counselling, volunteering and environment where students can feel safe from mentoring and sport and recreation . A greater violence against women . A sexual violence degree of tailored help is available for groups taskforce has also been established, to ensure such as commuting students, students from that the institution remains a safe and positive care backgrounds, international students, and environment in which to work and study . students with disability, in order to allow them to participate fully in student life . In addition, advice, Financial support support, counselling, and learning opportunities For 2017–18, the estimated average fee paid by are available throughout each course . The students at the University after fee waivers is University upholds the highest professional £8,866 . While tuition fees are set at £9,250 for standards and is committed to meeting the home and EU students studying full time for first needs of students with sensitivity and care . degrees (and £7,650 for foundation degrees), the estimated average cost to a student studying at There has been a national rise in students Chester, after allowance for University-provided John Smith’s bookshop staff issuing the free Aspire book bundles to new students. accessing wellbeing and mental health financial support, is £8,647 .

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Asim Khan (back row, third from right) with the Basketball team. Bethany Bolton. Megan Gaunt.

In keeping with the Mission, Vision and tuition fee of over £6,000, who has a declared basis . The scheme normally provides care ŸŸ All full-time students starting their first year at Foundational Values, which advocate extending household residual income of £25,000 or less . leavers with £7,000 of benefits over the University in September 2017 were eligible for opportunities for education to all, the institution This comprises £500 of benefits in each year three years of their programme . the University of Chester Aspire Books offer, offers an extensive range of targeted measures of the programme . which consisted of a package of essential to help provide financial support for around ŸŸ Young Adult Carers Bursary: In partnership textbooks for their undergraduate course . This 40% of students, particularly those from less ŸŸ Chester Bursary for Part-time Students: with organisations such as Cheshire Young scheme is run jointly between the University advantaged backgrounds . This bursary has a total value of up to Carers (CYC) the University has developed and John Smith’s bookshop on campus . £1,500 in cash and is applied on a pro-rata a targeted financial support package for The Office for Fair Access is an independent basis, based on the credit intensity at each young carers . This is in the form of a bursary ŸŸ The government-backed Postgraduate Loan body, set up to promote widening participation level of study . Eligibility is based on new package totalling £4,500 over three years of scheme allows students to apply for a loan of in higher education for under-represented part-time entrants study (or up to a maximum of £6,000 if the up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the groups, following the introduction of tuition fees . paying a tuition fee of at least £7,000 (full award is made from the Foundation Year of course and living costs . If courses are longer The University is committed to a comprehensive time equivalent), enrolled for a minimum of the programme) . than one year, the loan is divided equally support package for students for 2017–18, which 40 credits at the start of Level 4, and with across each year of the course . includes the following measures: a declared household residual income of ŸŸ Foundation Year: All students (home and £25,000 or less . EU) on the University’s extended degree ŸŸ The Chester Alumni Fund: Supporting ŸŸ Chester Bursary: An award to the value programmes including a Level 3 foundation current students was a founding principle of £1,500 is given to any new full-time ŸŸ Care Leavers Bursary: Available to verified year, receive a £1,000 fee waiver in the first, of the original ‘College Club’ and this ethos undergraduate degree entrant paying a care leavers on a first come, first served foundation year of study . is continued with the Chester Alumni

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Fund . This provides support for students to of a package of financial support and other limited financial support to help meet study the University and mentoring some of the participate in a range of memorable and benefits such as strength and conditioning and travel costs . younger members, she competes internationally meaningful activities that benefit the student sessions, access to a resident sports therapist for Coventry Dynamite and is now aiming for the experience . As part of the Chester Alumni and athlete education workshops . ŸŸ Student Futures Support can advise 2018 World Championships . Fund, the Cestrian Award is given annually on a range of other external options to initiatives by students showing excellence ŸŸ Santander Universities has increased to supplement students’ income while The Cestrian Award supported an innovative in sports, community or academic work . support to the University as part of its studying at the University including: project to create teaching materials, based This could include competing in sports at an commitment to 83 UK universities and over Financial Assistance Funds; Childcare or around the unique landscape and history of international level, leading special projects, 1,200 worldwide, in countries including Adult Dependants’ Grants; Parents’ Learning Bardsey Island, in North Wales . The team is or running academic conferences . An annual Argentina, , Italy, , Russia, , Allowance; Disabled Students’ Allowance postgraduate secondary school teachers, Dr Sian allocation of up to £1,500 is available for China, Portugal, USA, Germany, Mexico and (DSA); NHS Learning Support Fund; and James and Bethany Parsonage, who both have students requiring financial assistance for a Singapore . This partnership with higher bursaries from sponsors or charitable trusts . a keen interest in the ecology and archaeology specified activity, without which they would education institutions, which has seen of the island . struggle to achieve their goal . donations of more than £1 .5bn since 1997, Recipients of financial support provides scholarships, mobility grants, American student Asim Khan gained a sports A Foundation Award for Excellence has ŸŸ The University Mission Committee has support for special projects and academic scholarship for his role as an integral member allowed Jessica Brown to continue her limited funds for University Mission Awards, and non-academic awards . As Chester is of the Basketball team, runners-up in both the passion for landscape history through the which provide support for student projects a participating university, its students can BUCS and National leagues and winners of MA in Past Landscapes and Environments in and activities which are consistent with benefit from the range of funding options . the BUCS Northern Cup final . Asim is studying the Department of History and Archaeology . the University’s Foundational Values and For example, in 2016–17 students and staff for a Master’s degree in Exercise and Nutrition She thrived on her History degree, gaining a Mission Statement; for local community received five Community Service Awards, and has played basketball in the US National marketing internship with the National Trust at projects and voluntary work by students in four Community Project Fund grants, eight Collegiate Athletic Association divisions . Erddig, was nominated for the Federation of Chester, Warrington and the surrounding International Research Excellence Awards, Museums and Art Galleries of Wales Marketing area; for students who are past participants 21 Ambassador Awards, four Awards for Other sports scholars include Megan Gaunt and Excellence Awards and won the ‘Museums of projects, activities or volunteer work Excellence in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Bethany Bolton, who both study Community Marketing Champion’ award, funded by the which are consistent with the University’s and 21 SME (small and medium-sized Policing and Criminal Investigation at the Welsh Government . She presented at the Royal Foundational Values and Mission Statement, enterprise) Internships . Warrington Campus and play Water Polo at Historical Society Symposium ‘Putting History in who are returning to do volunteer work or national level . They were part of the University’s its Place’, undertook several memorial condition study related to their activity; and for students ŸŸ Since 2010, the University has supported women’s team, which reached the BUCS surveys at Chester Cathedral on behalf of Historic competing in sporting activities at national or the Helena Kennedy Foundation’s Article Northern Cup final, and are teammates in the GB England and Civic Voice and won the subject international level . 26 project, to promote access to higher women’s team, which is preparing for the 2018 prize at the University’s Valedictory Awards . education for people seeking sanctuary in European Championships . ŸŸ Sports scholarships are available for existing the UK . The University aims to make higher Liam Metcalf-White has benefited from another and prospective students who compete education a reality for one student per year Finally, Psychology student Bethany Stephenson Foundation Award for Excellence towards for the University in British Universities who is seeking sanctuary in the UK and who was part of the Chester Vixens Cheerleading his PhD research on the Visible Recovery and Colleges Sport (BUCS) events and at a does not have access to student finance . The squad, which won the Future Cheer Competition Movement (VRM) . This grassroots social national or international level . This consists bursary comprises a full tuition fee waiver and for the third year in a row . As well as representing phenomenon brings together those identifying

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as ‘in recovery’, primarily from an addiction, but as Professor Tony Wall (Faculty of Business also mental ill health, and other ‘illnesses’ . Liam and Management) and Business Student, Eli presented at the British Sociological Association Mitchell, who was successful in the Venture conference as a Master’s student and aims to programme and received Santander funding use the funding to disseminate the findings to launch his business LoveChester . He said from his ethnographic study of the VRM in the that the event “provided an insight into the UK and USA at similar events to raise awareness involvement that Santander has in the lives of his research . of students and the way in which my story is interwoven into the broader tapestry of Elizabeth Henwood and Emily Williams used Santander Universities’ funding and facilitation their Mission Committee Awards to travel to within the University . It was nice to mix with Uganda to work for the charity Team4U on other beneficiaries, to hear their stories, be the Development with Dignity programme . energised by their enthusiasm and inspired by This aims to show young women and girls the pursuit of their passions ”. their own worth and to enable them to menstruate with dignity . Elizabeth undertook Biological Sciences student, Mariann Biro, dissertation research on how menstruation was selected for a fully funded place at the Elizabeth Henwood and Emily Williams (second and fifth from right) in Uganda. affects the education of girls in urban and rural British Ecological Society (BES) Summer areas through focus groups and interviews School in Pembrokeshire . She was awarded with teachers and charity workers . Emily and one of only 50 places for first and second- Elizabeth assisted with running sports sessions year undergraduates to spend a full week for schools, taught Maths and English to immersed in ecology, ecological research and children who had dropped out of school and the wider community . helped with empowerment and menstruation information sessions . Elizabeth said: “This trip The latest recipient of the Sanctuary Award to Uganda helped me to use and grow my gifts for asylum seekers gave this anonymous in working with children and research”, while reflection on the experience at Chester: “My Emily added “this trip enabled me to become first year went amazingly, I loved every bit of it . more of a global citizen by helping others less It is an experience I will get once in a lifetime . fortunate than myself to unlock keys to the I never thought the University would give future with education and resources” . me so much support and help on everything from helping with my grammar to helping The annual Santander Scholars’ reception me get through personal issues . My Sanctuary celebrated the successes of staff and students Award has made the impossible possible and supported by the Santander Universities I will always be grateful to the Student Futures Scholarship awards . Successful Santander Support team and the people who gave me Santander Scholars’ reception. Scholars spoke about their experiences, such the Award ”.

26 #MyChesterStory Muhammad Uzair Nayyar

A career in accountancy has been the reward for a student who has benefited from the Helena Kennedy Foundation’s Article 26 project to promote access to higher education for students seeking sanctuary in the UK . As a result, Muhammad Uzair has been supported by the University during his BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance degree and his hard work was rewarded with a permanent accountancy job at the end of his studies .

Muhammad Uzair’s family is from Pakistan and they Now, having had the chance to celebrate his achievements migrated to the UK when he was 12 years of age . Despite at the graduation ceremony in Chester Cathedral, the hurdles he encountered, Muhammad passed his he described this momentous occasion as “the best GCSEs with flying colours and also gained valuable experience of my life” . experience and confidence with the RAF Cadets . His aptitude for business and finance was identified at school Muhammad Uzair said: “My advice for students is don’t and this influenced his choice of A level subjects and give up, even if things don’t go to plan . Always give career aspirations . 100% to prove your worth and opportunities will come your way ”. Muhammad Uzair wanted to study at Chester because it offered his chosen course with the addition of He continued: “#MyChester Story has been a life-changing accreditation to professional bodies . However, without experience and I thank the Vice-Chancellor and the access to financial support he would not have been able to University’s student support staff for giving me this take up the opportunity . He opted to apply for the funding opportunity to make my dream into reality ”. provided by the University and, after a rigorous process, he was selected as that year’s Article 26 funding recipient .

This financial support, together with his father’s ethos of hard work instilled at an early age, has enabled Muhammad Uzair to capitalise on his student experience . This was evident during the Work Based Learning placement that he arranged in the accounts department of Slater Gordon Solutions, where his combination of skills, knowledge and ability resulted in a job offer on completion of his course .

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Chaplaincy

Chaplaincy is a place where Friendships are formed and nurtured through Learning more about God, ourselves and others, where Worship, both individual and corporate, inspires our participation in God’s life and Mission .

Friendship Christian Union, the Catholic Society, Chapel and Creating a sense of friendship and community the Light Project (a Christian training scheme is a key part of the role of the Chaplaincy team accredited by the University) . Chaplaincy staff also and there is a wide range of activities on offer work in partnership with Student Futures Support across the University, including off-campus social to ensure that extra pastoral support is available trips and spiritual retreats . There are communal for students . spaces for staff and students to socialise in a relaxed setting across the campuses, in addition Learning Remembering the Manchester bomb victims. to multifaith spaces and quiet gardens . Regular Chaplaincy has a central place within events are held to build relationships and support the learning environment and provides Director of the Choir . Chaplaincy Assistant James community, with conversation around faith and the wellbeing of students and staff . For example, opportunities for students and staff to learn Wallace is also a Senior Residential Tutor, recently ethics all celebrated with food and drink . The the weekly ‘Faith and Food’ where students from each other, experience different types completed his MA in Sports Chaplaincy and University marks key occasions throughout the prepare and share a meal in Chaplaincy House of worship, meet people from different faiths received an Above and Beyond Award nomination annual calendar with services open to all and and the ‘Slow-Down Meditation’ where students and attend guest lectures from prominent for the second year running for his part in providing these include the Carol Service, Remembrance and staff can practise mindful meditation academics, clergy and charity workers . For practical and spiritual support, displaying faith in Day, Founders’ Day, Valedictory and Prizegiving together . Friendships are also fostered with faith example, the Wednesday evening worship action and making Chaplaincy accessible for all . and Foundation Hour, in addition to services communities on campus, such as a sponsored programme took ‘Faith and Service’ as the theme for specific events, such as a minute’s silence walk around the Chester City Walls to bring and speakers were welcomed on topics such Worship following the Manchester terror attack . together students, staff and friends from the as Chester Aid to the Homeless, working with The weekly services aim to express both the children and families, international development Church of England foundation and commitment Mission and pastoral support within the University . to ecumenism . In Chester the services consist of Chaplaincy is a worshipping community, deeply an ecumenical service on Wednesday evenings committed to participation in the Mission of Chaplaincy continues to engage with the wider in the Victorian chapel for students and staff God in both word and action . Its involvement University community by participating in and which is followed by sharing food together, a in Discipleship, Care for Others, and matters of running events in the Diversity Festival, attending joint weekly service of Holy Communion with Social Justice and Environmental Stewardship all Wellbeing Fairs, promoting sustainability and the parish church of St Oswald and St Thomas of form part of a broad Proclamation of the Good championing the University’s Fairtrade status . Canterbury and a Roman Catholic Mass . The main News of God . By working alongside those of Examples of collaborative working include Fr weekly service in Warrington, ‘Monday night other faiths and none, Chaplaincy aims to play Robert Clack’s role as a Visiting Lecturer in Music in Chapel’ has taken a more informal approach its part in a world in which peace, fairness and Sponsored walk. alongside his Chaplain’s role, and he was formerly to worship by focusing on the needs of the sustainability are a growing reality .

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Enriching educational opportunities

The University’s range of new subjects and different ways in which to study means that students can tailor their own educational programme according to their aspirations and circumstances . With opportunities including innovative ways of learning, Study Abroad options, new courses and Work Based Learning there is an abundance of choice for prospective students .

The Postgraduate School of Medicine, Dentistry Science; Spanish, Portuguese and American and Life Sciences is preparing a portfolio of Studies; and Initial Teacher Training with Media postgraduate medical programmes for the Studies . New postgraduate courses include a proposed Chester Medical School . These Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery are aimed at practising doctors and health (through CPD Solutions), an Integrated Master’s professionals in the health sector, or medical degree in Business and an MSc in Engineering practitioners wishing to enhance their Management . A range of new subjects is now independent practice through Continuing offered through the Foundation Year Pathway, Personal Development or a personal such as Applied Chemistry with Biotechnology, Institution of Chemical Engineers accreditation panel. development plan . The first two courses are Natural Sciences, Geography and Human a Physician Associate at MSc or Postgraduate Nutrition . The Department of Modern Languages visiting staff . The Accounting course gained NHS Foundation Trust has successfully led a Diploma level and Doctor of Medicine in also offers part-time language evening courses in accreditation from the Institute of Financial local partnership bid to be selected by Health Internal Medicine . Further postgraduate and Arabic, French, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Accountants, which adds to the maximum Education England as one of only 11 pilot sites undergraduate taught medical programmes Polish, Russian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish and exemptions available with the Chartered across England to pioneer the new nursing are planned, together with a range of other Welsh, which are all open to the wider community . Institute of Management Accountants, the associate role . This is designed to bridge Continuing Professional Development courses Institute of Chartered Accountants in England the gap between health and care support for health professionals . The provision of Successful accreditation of courses by external and Wales and the Association of Chartered workers and graduate registered nurses and high quality research supervision would give bodies is an endorsement of the quality of Certified Accountants, plus exemptions from offers opportunities for healthcare assistants the capacity to extend the existing research teaching for students, while exemptions the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and to progress into nursing roles through the programmes with six acute hospital trusts, from further study allow students to achieve Accountancy and the Association of Accounting new higher apprenticeship route . Changes two mental health trusts and a host of primary professional qualifications in a shorter time . The Technicians . This means that students enjoy a to the Non-Medical Prescribing programme care providers, to further trusts on a regional, Department of Chemical Engineering received faster route to full qualification as an accountant were endorsed by the Health and Care national and international level . unconditional accreditation of the BEng degree following their degree . Professions Council, which enables dietitians in Chemical Engineering and the Institution of and therapeutic radiographers to enrol on New undergraduate courses across the seven Chemical Engineers assessors were impressed An innovative partnership between local the course . The Faculty of Health and Social campuses include: Sport Marketing and with the strong links with industry, the provision NHS Trusts and the University has created a Care’s Mentorship provision was endorsed Management; Marketing and Advertising of learning facilities, opportunities to hone new support role for nurses across Cheshire by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, Management; Forensic Psychology; Medical interpersonal skills and the excellent use of and Wirral . Cheshire and Wirral Partnership allowing partners in the States of Jersey to

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status, alongside paid employment and lucrative funding for employers .

CWRS works closely with local partners and employers to drive the apprenticeship agenda in the North West, expanding upon the University’s 2016–17 intake, which represented Chartered Management Degree apprentices. 24% of all Chartered Management Degree apprentices in the UK . Two of these apprentices won the Apprenticeship Award – Best Individual, sponsored by Barlows Electrical at the High Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise . The students were Lucy Brown, who works for West of England Textiles Ltd, and Emilia Hoyle, who is employed by Heat Trace Limited . The new award was introduced in recognition of the growing importance of the new apprenticeship degrees Associate teacher Josh Moss. Emilia Hoyle with Michael Dicker. to employers . The University’s first apprentice at Airbus, Catherine Hill said: “The opportunity run the programme . Teaching on the MSc to be commended as they continue to review Leadership, in collaboration with the National to study for my degree at the University Chester Endodontology programme, run by SimplyEndo, and make improvements . It is very heartening Association of School Business Managers . Business School, while working for Airbus, has has also been approved for Formby College . that head teachers reported so favourably to Specifically designed for School Business given me a fantastic head start in my career ”. inspectors on the contribution made to their Managers, this programme offers applicants a The Faculty of Education and Children’s Services schools by our Newly Qualified Teachers ”. degree within the Chartered Manager Degree CWRS is currently expanding its apprenticeship Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Partnership was Apprenticeship Standard and attractive funding offer by developing an MA/MSc and an MBA praised by Ofsted for its outstanding teacher The Faculty of Business and Management for employers . under the new Senior Leaders Master’s Degree training provision . All the University’s early/ launched its first Summer Schools in Tourism/ Apprenticeship Standard . Both programmes primary years (3–7 and 5–11 age phases) and Events and International Business . These offer The groundbreaking Chartered Manager will be uniquely mapped to the ILM Diploma of secondary partnerships with schools were two weeks of experiential learning at venues Degree Apprenticeship won the Employer Leadership and Management at Level 7 and will judged to be ‘outstanding’ . Professor Tim across Chester and the North West, along Engagement Award at the 2017 Educate attract Chartered Manager status . Wheeler, Vice-Chancellor said: “We are all with master classes and a trip to London . The North Awards . This unique programme was extremely proud that this report recognises the inaugural Summer Schools hosted American developed and delivered by the Centre for Work The University’s collaboration with the Mid high quality of the ITE provision provided by staff students from Palumbo-Donahue School of Related Studies (CWRS) through the Work Based Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust was within the Faculty of Education and Children’s Business at Duquesne University . Learning framework and offers a BA (Hons) in recognised by nominations at the Student Services, partner Teaching School Alliances and Business Management and Leadership, three Nursing Times Awards for the Partnership of the our partner schools, colleges and early years The Faculty of Education and Children’s Services diplomas with the Institute of Leadership Year category and the Return to Practice Course settings . Their hard work and commitment is has developed a BA (Hons) in School Business Management (ILM) and Chartered Manager of the Year . The latter, aims to bring experienced

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Samuel Mendy. Lilli Goddard at the University of Chester Business School. Royal Caribbean interns. nurses back into the profession through a framework . Theresa Robberts joined the remote working . All my accountants are now The MSc in International Finance is the goal for salaried, flexible, innovative and supportive programme in 2014, despite living and working working remotely from home and clients’ current student, Lilli Goddard, who has been programme at the Leighton Hospital site, which in South . The Centre for Work Related premises, which has increased production, sponsored by her employer the Faenol Fawr has seen a 100% success rate . This achievement Studies carried out all liaisons and supervision staff motivation and the client base ”. Samuel Hotel in Bodelwyddan, North Wales . She works resulted in the category win for the Return to via e-learning to supplement Theresa’s work- has also supported the development of higher there as a Trainee Manager, and said of her Practice Course of the Year and Tracy Bullock, based practice and this flexibility allowed her to education networks in Gambia, where the experience: “My first degree was in Film and TV Chief Executive of Mid Cheshire Hospitals, said: study from another continent . majority of young people who want to study Production and when I graduated I was offered “We are very proud of winning this award . It’s a abroad cannot afford the fees and meet the a job by the hotel where I had worked for seven reflection of all the hard work that has gone into A graduate has used the skills from his studies visa requirements . The charity MANPEH links years . I wanted an academic qualification for our Return to Practice programme, which truly to transform his business and inform his Gambian students with institutions in the my new career direction and the Hotel part- embraces the needs of former nurses so that charity work . Samuel Mendy is a Chartered UK, USA and , who provide online sponsored me to do my MSc part-time for two they can return to a career in nursing ”. Certified Accountant and a Senior Partner at qualifications to help young people gain days per week whilst working four days a week . I YBSM Partners in London . He studied for a places to study abroad . Samuel hopes to love it . It puts everything in perspective because An international student, who is registered blind, Master’s degree in Strategic Leadership and continue his studies in order to work in Africa, I am training practically towards my job ”. has completed an MA in Project Leadership said: “Without the WBIS programme, I don’t support organisations, entrepreneurs and and Design (WBIS) through the innovative think I would have been able to transform my charities and inspire other people to achieve Study Abroad options allow students the negotiated Work Based Integrated Studies company and gain the strategic advantage of their full potential . opportunity to enrich their experience by

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studying abroad for a semester, a year, or for about different cultures . Marantha majored a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate in Marketing and International Marketing degree . The Study Abroad team provides advice and made the President’s List for academic and assistance to those who wish to explore this excellence while studying in the US . She said option and also to those who choose shorter of the experience: “I think it is important that placements overseas . students consider a Study Abroad programme, as it not only helps with broadening your A group of students gained first-hand experience academic knowledge, but also helps with of the tourism industry through an exclusive your personal development . This is why I have partnership with Royal Caribbean International . chosen to focus my dissertation on the benefits Seven second-year students studying Tourism of the Study Abroad scheme for students ”. Management and related business subjects joined the Royal Caribbean team for a month’s Ten Events Management students have had the placement . The group was chosen via a opportunity to study in Florida for a year and competitive selection process which considered gain valuable experience at Walt Disney World their academic performance and performance at Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and Loews interview . The students were given projects by Hotels . The academic exchange agreement Marantha Peterside. Ayfer Aram. different areas of the business with the support with Yummy Jobs and Central Michigan of a dedicated mentor . Laura Cuthbertson University means that the University is one of said: “I absolutely loved my internship! Royal only 11 UK higher education institutions to Caribbean International are great to work for offer this exchange . Luke Brisco, International and the people are welcoming and supportive . Recruitment Manager, Yummy Jobs, said: I am very grateful to the University and Royal “The University of Chester is one of the Caribbean International for coming together to most supportive academic institutions for create this internship opportunity and feel very students looking to experience life-changing lucky to have been chosen to be a part of this opportunities and we are truly happy to amazing experience ”. welcome its fantastic students on to our programmes with some of the world’s most One of the first interns on the Royal Caribbean admired companies ”. partnership scheme, Marantha Peterside, valued the chance to improve her employability skills was the destination for Ayfer Aram, on the placement, which included visits to who chose to do her Work Based Learning in a and the Isle of Wight . As a Global well-respected law firm in China . As a Law with Entrepreneurship and Business Management Business student, she worked in many areas of student, she went on to study for a year abroad the company, developed skills and decided on at Kennesaw State University in Georgia and her career plans . She said that with the support Students bound for Disney, Florida. welcomed the opportunity to travel and learn of the University “you are never left alone”

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and she learnt so much about the Chinese Megan Pancutt (Adult Nursing) travelled with language and culture during the trip, as well as four other Leighton Hospital students from making friends from around the world . Ayfer her cohort to the hospital in Bathalapalli in felt that “China allowed me to develop in an southern India through the Rural Development amazing way” and was offered a position at the Trust (RDT) . During their time with RDT they company after graduation . saw how cultural issues such as poverty, gender inequality, arranged marriage, education and An elective nursing placement in Ghana was a religion affected the population and made the “life-changing experience” for Jessica Joy . The students appreciate their lives in the UK to a Pre-Registration Nursing student worked at greater extent . Megan concluded: “The warmth Effia-Nkwanta, the regional hospital in Takoradi, and kindness we received from the staff at the in a range of different departments, spent time RDT was truly heart-warming . It was 110% the in a small village hospital and taught healthcare best experience of my training, and something to children and families . She took protocols, I will value as a true stepping stone in my policies and guidelines with her for the hospitals nursing career ”. and was able to demonstrate procedures which saved time and money . She was “inspired by Norwegian student Mikal Leroy used his Work the nurses and doctors, who worked so hard Based Learning placement to travel to China Mikal Leroy. and remained so strong in an environment and use some of the skills gained through where patients were dying purely due to lack of his International Business course . He gained resources”, and would recommend Ghana as a an internship with the British Chamber of placement to other healthcare workers because Commerce in Chengdu and worked with an of the community welcome . international team on tasks such as writing speeches, designing posters and compiling Geography student, Ethan Harvey, travelled articles on the local economy . He felt that he to Costa Rica for his five-week Work had a “priceless experience” that gave him a new Based Learning Placement, with multiple perspective on Chinese culture and business opportunities to get to know the country and and recommends that all students should “step its people . He stayed with families, studied out of their comfort zone to create memories of Spanish, helped endangered turtles, lived in a lifetime!” the rainforest and conducted research for his dissertation . He said of the experience that Ellen Bassett (Learning Disability Nursing) it helped him to develop as a person and travelled to Kuala Lumpur to undertake a that “Each and every step you take opens four-week placement at CareSpeech, which is a up a new pathway, or a new perspective on speech and language therapy centre for children how the world around you operates and the with autism and learning disabilities . She found circumstances in which people live ”. the families to be very supportive and the Jessica Joy. Ellen Bassett.

33 We have been delighted placement was a valuable learning experience, Work Based Learning Department and Alanna Bolton (Geography), joined Consulting as she relished the cultural differences and the are specialists in various job sectors, work Engineers, Betts Associates, as a Flood Risk with our student experience boosted her confidence . She said: closely with local and national businesses to Technician for her placement, working on a placements – great “This trip was the best thing that I have chosen secure a range of placement opportunities range of projects assessing the risks around to do during my time at University, and I’m very for students to help them meet their career fluvial flooding . She found the experience to young people with a grateful I got the opportunity to do so; it really aspirations and develop their employability be “a brilliant insight into working life, a taster very professional attitude was an adventure and has definitely changed skills . Each student is allocated an academic for a potential career path and probably the me for the better ”. tutor who, with the placement co-ordinator, best opportunity you’ll have at University!” towards their placements helps to ensure that effective support Richard Nicholas from Betts Associates said, and our work . The The University has always been a pioneer in is in place for students and placement “The students bring an element of enthusiasm Work Based Learning with over 20 years of organisations . They also work together to and a new approach, a fresh view . It also gives University has some fine experience in offering students the opportunity provide an essential quality assurance and us the opportunity to assess for future possible ambassadors in these of a five-week work placement as part of their enhancement role, which is not only focused employment, as it helps with de-risking the second-year curriculum, or for longer periods on academic standards but also manages the employment of staff ”. students! of time to meet other requirements of specific relationship, expectations and perceptions of courses . As UK universities are under increasing all stakeholders . As a result, 92% of placement A work placement with Power Solutions led Nigel Hughes, government pressure to strengthen university providers agreed that having a student on to a permanent job for Luke Murphy (Business YMCA Wirral. and employer engagement, the University placement was a positive experience . Studies) . The company is one of the leading is at the forefront of developing employable UK business energy consultants and Luke graduates with transferable skills and the ability The programme evaluation reports show that a created a marketing strategy for a new product to adapt to a changing workplace . Second-year significant number of students have developed on his placement that impressed the team . students are assessed through a 4,000-word greater self-confidence, together with personal He now works as a Site-Works and Metering report on their placements and there are and professional growth, through meaningful Consultant, where he manages clients, other written requirements for longer spells engagement with the placement experience . contractors, engineers and energy suppliers, to of employment . The combination of practical Placement providers feel that the programme help to ensure that gas, electricity and water experience and the assessment means that they helps to equip students for employment and connections are fitted correctly and efficiently . have the opportunity to apply and develop they highlight the positive experience of Luke is responsible for a team of staff and its knowledge, integrate theory with practice and hosting a student and the benefits it can have performance as well as successfully creating, explore possible future career areas . All of these on their business . As the placement is assessed implementing and developing new strategies . factors help to develop employability skills for and credit bearing, students have to reflect students and shape their expectations about critically on their learning, which differentiates Roanne Wood (Journalism and TV Production), the world of work . the programme from many others and helps to completed her Work Based Learning module embed significant learning to aid and prepare at The Unsigned Guide and secured a job after The Work Based Learning team oversaw students for securing and undertaking graduate completing her degree . Roanne made a good 1,411 placements in 2016–17 for around jobs . The following examples demonstrate how impression with her proactive approach and 1,400 students on a range of programmes . Work Based Learning benefits both students the ability to apply skills she gained during her Placement co-ordinators, who work in the and employers . degree . Roanne now works as a Music Researcher

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for The Unsigned Guide, which involves a mix career path . Emma concluded: “It was the most theatre, film and other techniques to a permanent role at Mars and worked with of skills such as communicating with music incredible experience and I learned more than I help improve the emotional wellbeing of the company’s pet care brands, creating and industry contacts, interviewing bands and ever expected to about sports photography ”. young people from socially excluded and delivering the national marketing plan and artists, curating blog content and co-hosting a disadvantaged backgrounds . Jessica Carroll growing key accounts . Jas now works as a monthly show on Amazing Radio . Elspeth Woolsey (Radio and Television (Tourism Management), and Megan Boden National Account Manager at Red Bull, a role Production) was able to identify the areas of the (Criminology), had an insight into Yellow which heavily relies on strategic marketing Photography student, Emma Simpson, media industry that interested her through her House’s services and the management skills and interaction with high street and discount completed her Work Based Learning at work placement and gained useful contacts at needed within a third sector organisation . stores . Jas said of her learning experience: “The Everton Football Club, where she shadowed the same time . She worked with Bauer Media They were also able to engage with the young small campus really attracted me to Chester, the Club photographer, Anthony McArdle, at on her final year Major Radio Project and this people visiting Yellow House and give them an as well as the very friendly staff and students . a range of events . She photographed football led to a job as Creative Partnerships Project idea of life at university . The course was accredited to the Chartered matches for the men’s and women’s teams, Manager for this entertainment network, which Institute of Marketing and unlike a lot of the end of season awards ceremony, training includes brands such as 4 Music, Kerrang and Jas Dhillon (Marketing), thrived in her sandwich universities, Chester offered the option of a sessions, charity events and did some portrait Heat magazine . year work placement at a field marketing four-year course, with an inclusive sandwich photography for the players . This work will company, where her enthusiasm and placement in the third year . With greater feature in her final year exhibition and the Two students worked at the charity willingness to develop further were identified competition for jobs after university, I wanted placement has confirmed that this is her chosen Yellow House, in Liverpool, which utilises by colleagues . She was subsequently offered to stand out as a graduate ”.

Everton Football Club. Image credit: Emma Simpson. Megan Boden.

35 We are extremely proud Volunteering and mentoring of all our volunteers and the great work they do Continuing the long-standing tradition of public service to the community, students and staff contributed 27,801 volunteering hours in 2016–17, in addition as ambassadors of the to the £24,500 raised for charity by the Chester Students’ Union (CSU) sports University . Volunteering clubs and societies, the £9,000 raised by the Events Management students, a range of other fundraising efforts and the support offered by school mentors to is a great way of gaining 230 mentees in local schools . Abigail Hunt. new skills, meeting new The annual Volunteer Celebration Evening nine students received University of Chester a long-standing and exceptional student people and making a recognised the outstanding efforts of students Volunteering awards (gold, silver and bronze), volunteer with the Dee Sign Choir, giving up huge difference to the in giving back to the community . The total which recognise the level of volunteering her time and raising £180,000 for the charity number of registered student volunteers was hours, together with related activities such as over a 12-year period . PAPYRUS, a national lives of other people . 1,466 and their chosen charities included workshops and presentations based on their suicide prevention charity, was the Students’ Cancer Research, Childreach International, experience . Abigail Hunt (Games Development) Choice charity for providing an outstanding Dr Chris Haslam, Claire House Hospice and Girlguiding . Sixty- won the Charity’s Choice Award for being student volunteering experience, having been Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Corporate Development and the Student Experience.

Student Volunteer Celebration Evening. Volunteer Celebration Evening.

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nominated by Lauren Cooper (Psychology) . ŸŸ The Thespian Society performed A Midsummer ŸŸ At Chester, boxes were collected for Operation school work and organisational skills and raising CSU sports clubs and societies volunteer and Night’s Dream to an audience of 250 guests Christmas Child and a Harry Potter Movie aspirations . Peer mentoring opportunities to fundraise for a variety of charities and this is and raised over £1,400 for MIND . Marathon held to raise money to support families help new University students are also available a selection of their activities, which raised an of disabled children via Caudwell Children . and 170 students acted as mentors to help impressive £24,500, an increase of £4,000 on the ŸŸ The Fencing Club undertook an 8km memory others with the transition into higher education . previous year: walk in Delamere Forest for the Alzheimer’s ŸŸ At Warrington, over £500 was raised through Society and raised £678 . Hockey and Netball matches in aid of Epilepsy UK, Events Management students organised a range ŸŸ The Orchestra Society raised over £2,000 from as well as a 53,000 metre Rowathon for Joining of fundraising events, which gave them valuable performances in Chester city centre ŸŸ The Equestrian Club has spent over 200 hours Jack, a Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy charity . experience and benefited their chosen charities and elsewhere . volunteering with local charity, Horse Sense, to the tune of £9,000 . These included: an equine rescue and rehabilitation charity, School mentoring offers the opportunity for ŸŸ The Tennis Club ran the Liverpool Half and helped to rehome four horses . students to inspire school pupils to reach their ŸŸ ‘The Treasure Trail’, run by 4Paws Events to Marathon and raised £2,000 for Diabetes UK . full potential, either through group or one-to- support and raise awareness of Manchester ŸŸ The Ultimate Frisbee Society held a one contact . Fourteen schools participated in and Cheshire Dogs’ Home . ŸŸ The Swimming Club raised over £1,800 Cheese and Wine evening for residents 2016–17 and 48 school mentors supported 230 for charity and volunteered with Chester at the Homedee House retirement mentees with advice on issues such as gaining ŸŸ Connect Events Chester hosted a 1940s Terrapins and Chester Aid to the Homeless . accommodation . greater self-esteem and motivation, helping with themed tea party in aid of Age UK Cheshire .

The 4Paws Events team. The PARC Events team.

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The Lord Mayor, Cllr Angela Claydon, with Events Society students. Alan Critchley. Morgan Dowling.

ŸŸ PARC Events organised ‘Let’s Eat ’ and Chester Council (CWaC) staff with a series Desert carrying food and emergency equipment She thanked everyone who helped to make raised £532 for Chester Women’s Aid . of Christmas events . Cllr Angela Claydon in temperatures exceeding 50°C . Alan finished in it such a success and wanted to ensure “that presented a certificate to each volunteer who 43 hours over the six days raising over £2,000 for other people like me receive the amazing ŸŸ One Moment Events raised £505 for The worked on events such as the city’s Christmas Bloodwise (formerly Leukaemia and Lymphoma support I was given, and also to raise awareness Clatterbridge Cancer Centre after the success Lights Switch On, Chester Lantern and Winter Research), a charity supporting his mother-in- of the charity” . She continues to volunteer of its Parisian chic wine tasting event . Watch Parades, Frodsham Christmas Festival law with leukaemia . Lynton, who now works for the cause and has been trained to help at and the Roman Saturnalia . President of the as a tutor with Premier Training International, workshops for families facing bereavement . ŸŸ ‘The Alder Hey Hoedown,’ organised by Events Society, Laura Jones, said: “Working finished in just over 45 hours and raised money Eventions, raised more than £1,000 for Alder on these events is hugely important, as it for Families for HoPE – which supports families Generous students and staff from the Hey Children’s Charity . provides a fantastic opportunity to gain insight and children diagnosed with holoprosencephaly Warrington Campus and the Faculty of Health and invaluable experience on live events . The – a birth defect of the brain . and Social Care raised more than £2,500 for ŸŸ VI Events raised the highest figure of £1,479 at Events Team at CWaC is really supportive and Warrington Disability Partnership (WDP) . The dinner in aid of local brain injury rehabilitation provides guidance and mentoring ”. Psychology student, Morgan Dowling, organised charity aims to help remove social barriers faced charity B .I .R .D . a charity barbecue and fun day for local families by disabled people, their families or carers and The gruelling Marathon des Sables was at the Chichester Arms, Garden Lane and to support independence throughout work Sixty-five volunteers from the Events Society the objective set by Porter, Alan Critchley raised over £1,300 for Child Bereavement UK . and life . Events included a cake sale by student were praised by the Lord Mayor of the City and former student, Lynton Dawson . Both Morgan organised the event for the charity, as nurses; a Wear Your Christmas Jumper to Work of Chester for helping Cheshire West and completed the 156-mile route in the Sahara it had supported her after her father’s death . Day; a staff member completing a 10km assault

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Dig the Quarter’s wildlife garden. Catering Services staff with charity collection boxes. Ben Hultum with Rose Winchcombe. course; the staff Great Warrington Bake Off and Students, staff and visitors have helped to raise raise over £350 for CRY – a national charity which the walk at Erddig Hall to raise money for the a Faculty of Health and Social Care Christmas more than £1,400 from spare change collected at works to reduce the frequency of sudden cardiac mental health facilities, to acknowledge how Jumper Day . The founder and chair of WDP, the catering outlets in 2015–16 . The proceeds were death in the young . The event was organised by much he and his family appreciated their Dave Thompson MBE, DL, MBA, who is also an donated to the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, Warrington Campus Fitness Instructors and CSU . support from the Hospital . honorary graduate, said: “The donation towards Clatterbridge Cancer Charity and Marie Curie, to our Legacy Appeal is fantastic; it is already support the care of patients in the local area . Staff and students supported a fashion show in World Mental Health Day 2016 saw Faculty making a difference to our work ”. aid of Children Today, a local charity providing of Health and Social Care staff and students Ben Hultum from, Learning and Information specialist equipment for disabled people up to raising more than £600 for PAPYRUS – a national Students and staff helped Dig the Quarter Services, competed at the Brompton World the age of 25 . The event at the Doubletree Hilton charity dedicated to the prevention of young community group to prepare ground for Championship bike race in aid of Rose attracted over 100 visitors and included clothes suicide . A 10-mile walk in aid of PAPYRUS and a wildlife garden in the Garden Quarter . Winchcombe, the daughter of colleague Jo, and supplied by Fashion Design students . The event Barnardo’s Cymru took place at Barmouth; The project is part of ’s Wildlife finished 252nd out of 574 riders . He raised over raised £4,000 for the charity and a Christmas Fair Warrington staff and students ‘donated steps’ on Connections campaign, aimed at encouraging £1,000 towards Rose’s treatment at the Family Hope held at the Riverside Innovation Centre raised a a lunchtime walk, and held a three-legged hope local communities to reconnect with nature and Center in the US . further £700 . walk . At Chester a walk was held, medals were create wildlife-friendly spaces . The team of 10 handed out for acts of kindness, happy photos student volunteers worked alongside Dig the More than 100 staff and students at the Warrington A sponsored walk raised over £650 to create were shared on Twitter, and an anti-stigma Quarter to provide an area ready for planting Campus put their skills and stamina to the test a garden space at Wrexham Maelor Hospital . information stand, tea and talk, mindfulness and with wildflowers . when they took part in a 24-hour football match to Clerical Assistant Leighton Williams organised art sessions were all on offer .

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The Warrington 24-hour football match. World Mental Health Day.

The Dry January Challenge resulted in Helen Centre in Chester . Over 150 people took part Society, she has encouraged other members to join Roberts raising £870 for Breast Cancer Care . and received information on the dangers of high in her multiple fundraising efforts . Four students Helen, a Work Based Learning Placement Co- blood pressure and stroke-related illness . accompanied Kerry and her three children for ordinator, achieved this through sponsorship the sponsored Walk for Wards at the Countess of from friends and colleagues and her efforts were Madeleine Mansfield, Associate Dean in the Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust . She also prompted by family experience of the disease . Faculty of Business and Management, completed finds time around her studies to fundraise for the an 11,000ft sky dive for charity, reaching 157mph Labour Ward at Leighton Hospital . The Ward uses Pre-Registration Nursing students raised over £300 in freefall before the parachute opened . memory boxes provided by the charity 4Louis for for the children’s ward at Mid Cheshire Hospitals Madeleine raised £700 and said “The Christie parents whose babies are stillborn or die soon after NHS Trust: Leighton Hospital through a bake sale . does such amazing and ground-breaking work birth so that parents and midwives can collect The September 2015 cohort of Adult Nursing to improve the lives of people with cancer and I precious memories . Kerry has raised funds for these students raised the money for refurbishing and am always happy to support the charity so they boxes through multiple cake sales and completing updating the play area on the ward . can impact on more lives ”. the Tough Mudder with her family, because she has seen how much they are appreciated . She feels Free blood pressure checks were offered to the Kerry Hemmings developed a passion for privileged in her role as a midwife and believes that public by volunteer Pre-Registration Nursing midwifery after the birth of her first son and she “the care and support we offer during this painful students alongside Chester Rotary Club and completed an Access course before starting and sensitive time is paramount to our role and for Leighton Hospital cake sale. the Stroke Association at the Forum Shopping her degree at Chester . As part of the Midwifery the grieving family members” .

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A Business Management and Entrepreneurship at URENCO UK Limited, while studying for her Innovative student research student was named in the ‘Top 50 Future Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply List’ at the Northern Power Women Awards . (CIPS) qualification . Connie Hancock, Head of and creative projects Stephanie Hooker achieved a first-class honours the Department of Business and Finance, added: degree, and then completed a Master’s “Steph was always a winner to me and her The opportunity to investigate topics in depth and produce original work is a (with distinction) in Business Consultancy in inclusion on the ‘Top 50 Future List’ is testament key part of student life for both undergraduate and postgraduate students . Supporting Employee Development through to her hard work . She is a credit to the University These varied projects help students to build a portfolio of skills and often the Work Based Integrative Studies (WBIS) of Chester Business School, and I am very proud achieve wider recognition . programme . Steph believes it was her Master’s of her achievements ”. degree research paper that contributed to her PhD student, Luis Ferras, has won a Young Computation Developments and Applications in receiving this recognition, as this investigated A North West Engineering Excellence award and Researcher Award at an international Portugal . During the conference, Luis presented the gender imbalance at management level a first-class mark was the reward for Harry Small’s Mathematics conference . Luis is benefiting from work focusing on how fractional derivatives can within STEM (Science Technology Engineering design project, submitted as part of his degree . the collaboration between the University and be applied to the field of rheology (the study and Mathematics) orientated organisations Harry won the ‘Design Project of the Year’ in the several Portuguese universities, as he is from the of the of matter) . Dr Jason Roberts, Head across the region . The ‘Top 50 Future List’ awards, hosted jointly hosted by the Institution University of Minho, Guimarães, and is studying of the Department of Mathematics said: “Luis is designed to recognise the influencers of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), the Institute in the Department of Mathematics at Thornton is an absolutely outstanding student – and this and change makers of the future, who are of Mechanical Engineers and the Institute of Science Park . Luis was awarded the Young award proves that his ability and potential is making a difference in their environments and Engineering and Technology . He received Researcher Award from Wolfram Research and recognised at an international level too . We look communities . Steph was also nominated in the most votes in the North West for having received his award during the 3rd International forward to seeing his future achievements in the ‘One to Watch’ category at the awards and demonstrated the application of chemical Conference on Numerical and Symbolic this field ”. now works as a procurement analyst/buyer engineering design principles to deliver an

Luis Ferras. Stephanie Hooker at the Northern Power Women Awards. Harry Small. Fiona Nelson.

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innovative solution in his individual design family members from seeking or accepting Sarhan was promoted to the position of Director is being used for research purposes, including project . Harry is also Secretary of the IChemE help . The study highlighted the importance General of the Royal Cavalry, where he oversees as a tool to aid medical students, by providing Chester and North Wales Members Group and for this group to recognise how perceptions of human resources and skills development across virtual models for training and educational serves as the main link between the University psychological support may be formed through around 20 departments of the Royal Court of scenarios . Tom said: “We have already had and local companies, helping to bring together an individual’s level of understanding, prior Affairs . He said: “Studying in Chester was one success with a Virtual Reality version where you students and professional chemical engineers . experiences and social influence . Fiona has used of the best decisions I have ever made . While are completely immersed in a virtual world . her knowledge for the benefit of the Stroke completing my PhD, I learned a great deal However, Augmented Reality allows you to see A Master’s graduate, who received a distinction Association and returned to the University from my supervisors – their experience and the real world and augment it with computer- for her work, is using her academic knowledge as a guest lecturer to present to Psychology knowledge helped me understand how I can generated objects . This offers many advantages to support stroke survivors and their families . graduates about stroke recovery . She hopes to further develop the skills of the people I work for my research and it’s a great time to be Fiona Nelson has worked with a range of people, pursue a career in clinical psychology . with in my home country ”. studying for a PhD in this area at Chester!” including children and adults with disabilities in educational, social care and health settings, Skills learned during Sarhan Al Zeidi’s PhD Tom Day is using a new Augmented Reality The growing problem of cyber bullying and currently works for the Stroke Association . studies will help to boost the employability headkit in his PhD work to help train powered among school children and teenagers was During her MSc (Conversion) Psychology of people in Oman . Mature student Sarhan wheelchair users as part of its use in the Faculty highlighted in research conducted by an degree, she opted to explore the perceptions of successfully completed his doctorate at the of Science and Engineering at Thornton Science MSc student in Family and Child Psychology . psychological support from the perspectives of Business Research Institute and his thesis Park . The HoloLens is described as the first self- Peter Macaulay completed his dissertation, stroke survivors, carers and family members . She explored the economic and social development contained holographic computer which allows on ‘Bystander Behaviour in Response to found that many intrinsic as well as social factors of skills in Oman, focusing on supporting his wearers to engage with digital content and Traditional/Cyber Bullying Scenarios: A influence perceptions of psychological support, government’s policy of providing jobs in the interact with computer-generated holograms Consideration of Victimisation/Perpetration, which may prevent stroke survivors, carers or Sultanate, for its people . On his return home, projected in front of their eyes . The equipment Empathy and Severity’ . It focused on youngsters’

Sarhan Al Zeidi. Tom Day with the Microsoft HoloLens kit. Microsoft HoloLens images. Peter Macaulay.

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understanding of online risks by looking at even though most respondents felt they had a their behaviour in response to different bullying responsibility to provide it safely . Bev Smith, RDI scenarios and his interest in keeping young Director, said: “To engage with our local university people safe online in a tech-savvy world grew is important and it is great to see such talent in alongside the project . Peter gained a distinction the students that worked on this project ”. for the research and he won a scholarship to continue his studies into e-safety at PhD level . BA (Hons) Photography student, Matthew Lainchbury, chose to create a photobook for one Artwork was installed at two Chester city of his third-year projects and the resulting zine, centre car parks, following a joint project Pre-Match, follows the lives of Liverpool FC fans between Cheshire West and Chester Council and the changes in their football day experience . and the University . A group of Fine Art students It was displayed at the Open Eye Gallery Zine developed the work for the Market and Trinity and Photobook Fair in Liverpool and is stocked Street car parks after staff from the Department in the Open Eye Gallery’s shop . Having gained of Art and Design worked closely with Ken a first-class degree, Matthew hopes to travel to Prior, Parking Manager at the Council . The gain more experience of different cultures and project saw artwork by 25 students installed then begin a Master’s degree in Photography . and Councillor Louise Gittins, Cabinet Member Car park artwork. Matthew Lainchbury. for Communities and Wellbeing at the Council, Students working with the Informatics Centre said: “The new artworks have caught the were tasked by CyberSafr to develop a user attention of car park users . I hope the students friendly and easy way to use cyber security have benefited from working in these unusual applications to help users keep their homes areas, giving a unique canvas for their work ”. secure from hackers . The group worked on the problem of vulnerability as part of a Work A group of Business and Marketing students Based Learning project and initial designs from the University of Chester’s Business School and prototypes for different solutions were conducted market research for businesses on produced . Based on this work, the Informatics providing safe WiFi for their customers in the Centre then developed a proof of concept web city . The research was conducted for RDI, a application, optimised for mobile devices, which Chester-based business that created Friendly allows a user to enter a list of devices they own, WiFi – the world’s first safe certification standard receive notification when a known vulnerability for public WiFi for businesses across the world . is found and to access advice on protection . The research aimed to find out the views of local businesses towards filtered WiFi and being part Two research students from the Department of a standard . The students found that just under of Biological Sciences used prized scholarships half the respondents from city centre businesses from the Universities Federation for Animal could not confirm that their WiFi was filtered, Welfare (UFAW) to increase their knowledge Beverley Smith of RDI with students and staff.

43 The students spent hours chatting to and listening to older people attending Brightlife events, creating a level of trust whereby the older people felt comfortable to open up and share precious memories . We have been so impressed by the compassion, maturity and

respect the students have ‘Beneath the Surface’ exhibition. Brightlife Photography students. demonstrated, not to about welfare in captive fish and amphibians . ‘Epilogue’, the final-year student photography and Design) said: “It is an exciting time for the mention their wonderful Jack Wootton received his scholarship for exhibition, was held at the Tower Gallery Department of Art and Design students, who photography skills! ‘Reducing Negative Effects of Tank Surface at the Warrington Campus . This was the are encouraged by acclaimed visiting artists Impacts in Captive Male Guppies (Poecilia culmination of three years’ study for Digital and staff to work beyond the present as they Chris McMahon, reticulata)’ and presented his work at the Photography students and explored themes define the future of visual culture ”. Social Prescribing Manager at Brightlife annual UFAW Animal Welfare Student Scholars’ such as anxiety, grief, death, the subconscious and exhibition organiser. Meeting in Essex . Jack has now completed mind, architecture and landscape . External The work of four Photography students Master’s level research on sustainability and Examiner Ken Grant of School of Art was showcased in an intergenerational welfare in the eel fishing industry in Lough (University of Ulster) said: “These are well exhibition at Storyhouse in Chester and at Neagh in Northern Ireland . Martin Pearson won resolved and powerful pieces that stand other Cheshire locations . The exhibition, ‘Keys his UFAW scholarship for his work on welfare amongst the best engaged work I’ve seen at to My Memory’, captures intimate dialogues indicators in captive frogs: ‘Impact of Visitors graduate level recently ”. between strangers of different generations on Morelet’s Tree Frog in a Public Aquarium’ and was produced for Brightlife, the Big and presented his results at the annual UFAW ‘Beneath the Surface’ was the title of the final- Lottery Fund project . Lorna Elwin, Abi Miller, Animal Welfare Student Scholars’ Meeting year degree show for Fine Art, Graphic Design Beth Grimes-Thomas and Tim Newman’s in Stirling . Martin has now finished his MRes and Fashion . This was situated across 600 exhibition came to Storyhouse as part of the looking at enrichment impacts on behaviour in square metres at the Kingsway Campus and ‘Great Get Together’ weekend, inspired by the adult African clawed frogs . Professor Neil Grant (Head, Department of Art late MP Jo Cox .

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Fashion students with some of their designs. Aspiration Live.

Enterprising Chinese students carried out organised by Music Production students in Alyson Moyes is using her PhD work to undertake valuable market research for the Faculty of the Department of Media and was a chance a clinical research project aimed at monitoring Business and Management on their five-week for them to showcase both their own music the changes that occur to patients undergoing work experience placement . They worked on acts and those from the local community that Flexible Ureterendoscopy Surgery (FURS) for a project examining the UK higher education they have been developing and recording the treatment of small kidney stones . Alyson, system and how UK universities market their over the year . who also completed her degree in Biomedical international courses . They particularly focused Science at Chester, found that several changes on the use of social media and how it can reach A special catwalk event, showcasing student to routine blood tests were evident following the student market in China . A presentation collections and seasonal styles, was held at FURS during the pilot study . The findings were was made to management at the end of their the Grosvenor Hotel in Chester as part of published as a journal article and presented at project and their conclusions have informed CH1ChesterBID’s Style in the City campaign . international meetings . This work is being carried the Faculty of Business and Management’s CH1ChesterBID, in partnership with the out in collaboration with the Betsi Cadwaladr marketing plans . University, hosted an evening of glamour as the University Health Board and the North Wales style spectacular featured the work of the first and North West Urological Research Centre at The best of local live music was celebrated cohort of Fashion students at the University Wrexham Maelor Hospital . Alyson’s continuing at the annual Commercial Music Production alongside professional models, who showed research on the blood and biochemistry markers showcase event, Aspiration Live 2017 at a range of seasonal garments and style trends after this operation may help to identify patients the Warrington Campus . The event was available in the city centre . at increased risk of complications . Aspiration Live.

45 #MyChesterStory Maisie Snowdon

A coveted finalist’s place in the Telegraph STEM Awards 2017 was the reward for Maisie Snowdon, who harnessed her practical and creative abilities on an innovative dissertation project on tracking devices for birds of prey . Maisie opted to study Mechanical Engineering at Thornton Science Park, having had an interest in design and solving practical problems from an early age . Throughout her three-year course, Maisie took full advantage of student life and acted as a Student Academic Representative for Mechanical Engineering, represented the University in the Women’s Hockey 2nd team and was an active member of the Swing Dance Society .

However, it was her talent, ideas and hard work in the It may have laid the foundation to develop a potential academic environment that led her lecturers to suggest technology disruptor in the bird tracking industry ”. Maisie that she enter competitions to gain wider recognition . said of the competition that “it was a massive confidence As a result, she and fellow student James Home won boost and really was an amazing experience” . the Thornton Transport Innovation Challenge for their car-sharing app idea to reduce the environmental impact Maisie has now progressed to a Master’s degree in Product of travel . Design and Management and plans to work as a design engineer in the future . Her advice for students after her The third year of Maisie’s course gave her further experience is to gain as much experience as possible and: opportunities to put her problem-solving skills to work on “Go to your lectures, start your coursework the day you get the dissertation project . She was inspired by the falconers it and enter every competition relevant to what you are at Chester Cathedral Falconry and the poor battery life doing . Make friends with your lecturers and they will get of the wireless tracking devices on birds of prey . Maisie you through anything ”. looked at harvesting the energy used by a falcon in flight through the use of a piezoelectric energy harvester to power the device and it was this project which saw her win through to the national final of the Telegraph STEM Awards in the Energy category .

Yu Jia, Maisie’s dissertation supervisor said: “Her work has been exceptional on all fronts, factoring in both technical development and feasibility for the end-user application .

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extra-curricular activities, in which students Enhancing employability engage during their time in higher education . All the activities recorded, such as part-time work, The need to provide students with the skills and experience to enter the volunteering, employability training, additional workplace is a key part of the distinctive learning experience, which is borne out short courses or being a captain or committee by the fact that 95 .3% of the 2016 leavers were in employment and/or further member of a Chester Students’ Union club or study six months after completing their course . Student Futures Careers and society, are valuable in building up a portfolio of Employability offers opportunities such as the Enhance Your Employability skills for future employment and allow students sessions, the Chester Difference Excellence Award and Graduate Head Start to develop on a personal level . In addition, the programme, which, together with the many activities offered by academic opportunity to use their skills for the benefit of departments and the Work Based Learning scheme, mean that students can gain the local community often leads to continued a clear advantage in a competitive jobs market . participation in community activities for students after their studies have finished . Student Futures Careers and Employability offers participated in 2016–17 in a variety of roles . advice and support for students on all aspects Sabrina de Sa won the Student Employee of Students, staff and community representatives of preparing for their chosen career . The Career the Year Award: Commercial Impact at the celebrated the achievement of students gaining Consultant team carried out 495 career guidance Valedictory Service for her roles as a UniJob the different levels of the Chester Difference sessions, 610 drop-in sessions, 276 curriculum bank member, Work Based Learning student, Award . In 2016–17 there were 720 students James Bullen. sessions and 742 e-guidance responses this year . Research Assistant in the Department of in the scheme, with 66 achieving the Chester Eighty-one Enhance Your Employability training Psychology, and caller for the Destinations of Difference Award, 17 the Chester Difference Plus sessions were held for 751 students and the Leavers in Higher Education survey . She won the Award and 18 the Chester Difference Excellence average monthly vacancies nearly doubled to Above and Beyond On Campus Award and was Award . University staff, students and community 228 from the previous year . Other innovations a regional winner in the National Association members gave the speeches at the event and include the extending of the Graduate Head of Student Employment Services Commercial James Bullen (Geography and Natural Hazard Start scheme to final year students from Easter, Impact category . Sabrina said: “I recognise that Management) said: “The awards evening proved so that they can benefit from the extra assistance I would not be in this position if it weren’t for that we are making a difference collectively with securing employment at an earlier stage; the support and guidance from the outstanding in communities and in societies . On a more the launch of the Student Planner for all new Psychology Department and the amazing team personal level, it’s not just the hours you put in, students; the roll-out of Career Hub, the student/ that makes up the Careers and Employability or the great award you can put on your CV, but staff/employer interface; the re-brand of the Department . This award is not just a personal it is about the enjoyment of the scheme and the Venture Create theme; a new tailored freelancing recognition but, in my opinion, underpins the enthusiasm to use the skills you’ve developed programme for the Kingsway Campus; and the brilliance of the Department of Psychology and and take that further into your career ”. Business Blast programme for Warrington . everyone who has helped me along my journey at University ”. The Careers and Employability team developed a The popular UniJob scheme facilitates the new Graduate Profile to highlight how graduates employment of students in temporary The Chester Difference Award was created four can stand out in the workplace . Based on six core vacancies across the campuses and 216 students years ago to provide recognition for the many attributes, including specialist skills, networking Sabrina de Sa.

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turnover of less than £50 million . Marc Smith, from Contour Showers, said: “My experience of the Internship Programme was extremely positive and I would highly recommend this initiative ”.

The University of Chester Business School hosted the regional stage of the Young Enterprise Start Up competition and was represented by three The Young Enterprise Start Up competition teams. teams, Innovia, Embrace and BBCozy . Innovia make bespoke photographic gifts and team leader, Alex Clarke, was also nominated for Entrepreneurial Student of the Year . Embrace makes leather bracelets which double up as USB pen drives and BBCozy produces traditional baby slings . The student teams worked on the project over a year and had to provide business reports, showcase their products or services and then answer questions from the expert panel of judges . Business Management student Hannah Kennedy-Haynes, Josh Luckhurst (far right). Staff with the Graduate Profile. and her start-up company BBCozy reached the Young Enterprise Start-Up Final in Liverpool . Her and self-awareness, the Profile aims to prompt could better understand and articulate their students with valuable work experience and is team, including four international students, was students and staff to think about the longer term employability skills to potential employers . Their also an opportunity for businesses to benefit one of only 10 in the UK to reach the final . Hannah value of a degree and can be used during career ideas included more flexible drop-in sessions from the extra resource, while gaining fresh also achieved the Dean’s Commendation Award planning and guidance discussions . The Profile is and the availability of more online training perspectives and new ideas from some of the for Performance from the Faculty of Business and available through the University’s new CV guide videos . A further group of student Project latest graduate talent . The Programme allows Management at the Valedictory ceremony . on the University’s careers resources website Assistants then turned these suggestions SMEs to employ up to three interns to help and is included in handbooks and as posters in into practical applications, such as online address a period of increased workload, or to After graduating from the Sports Journalism academic departments . video material and the new student-focused provide support with a specific short-term project course in 2015, Josh Luckhurst is now covering information guide for incoming students . on a full-or part-time basis . Interns are paid a top sports stories for the Press Association (PA) . Fifteen students were employed as Student guaranteed salary of £300 per week, only half He was one of hundreds of applicants and Ambassadors to evaluate the current student Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the of which is paid for by the business, with the landed one of two Trainee Multimedia Sports perception of Careers and Employability’s issues North West can benefit from a highly successful other half being match-funded by Santander Journalist roles with PA Sport . Since then he and services through surveys and personal internship initiative offered by the University and Universities and other University funding . In order has seen his work published across a range of contact . Their project themes include the Santander Universities, which has recently been to participate in the Programme, the organisation national and international titles and channels importance of extra-curricular activities, the role expanded . The Chester Internship Programme must have been based in the North West, including , .com and of academic departments and how students provides current undergraduate and postgraduate have fewer than 250 employees and an annual MSN . Josh uses a range of skills taught on the

48 Annual Review 2017 A holistic student experience

University of Chester Business School Master’s students. Hamza Hussain with Santander staff.

Sports Journalism degree at the Warrington performance at interview . She said of the course: the judges with his frozen curry base concept . a variety of placements on the course and Campus and benefited from placements at “This Master’s has given me the confidence to Seven start-up teams had to prepare full after her final one at Alder Hey, she secured a York Press and the Press Association before go out into the working world with a better business plans and pitched them to a panel of permanent role there on graduation . Jenni’s graduating . He said: “If you are keen to get into understanding of what it takes to succeed” . judges from the business community . Runners- current role involves caring for children and their industry, I’d say do as much work experience as Angel Barry (BA Hons, Business Studies) has up were Go Rawr, run by Business student parents who arrive at the ward with acute, life- you can while you’re at university ”. joined the UK operations of the Müller brand at Natasha Chipampe, featuring range of exclusive threatening injuries and illnesses . its UK base in Telford after choosing the one-year cacao products, while Resolade, run by James Several Master’s students from the Business Business Master’s Programme . Zuzana Mihalikova Horne, Lars Larson and Mikal Leroy, came in third The Venture programme is part of the School have gained key full-time roles during is also progressing through her one-year Master’s place with its exothermic drinks . The Embrace consortium-led Cheshire and Warrington their studies . For example, Alex McConnell was degree within the Centre for Work Related team led by Ben Summers (Business) was highly Business Growth Programme Project, supported only halfway through his Work Based MA when Studies after completing her BA (Hons) in Events commended for its pen drive bracelets . by the European Regional Development Fund he was recruited as Finance and Operations Management and Tourism . She overcame strong (ERDF), which is designed to inspire students Manager by Chika Russell, Chief Executive Officer competition to land a full-time role within the A position as an Accident and Emergency Nurse to be enterprising and develop the skills and of London-based Chika’s . Rebecca Small (Chester marketing team at EA Technology . at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital was the result knowledge to start a business, enter self- Business Master’s Degree) has been appointed of Jenni Hollingsworth’s final year placement . employment, freelance or innovate within by global marketing company Armstrong Business Management student Hamza Hussain Despite difficult personal circumstances, and an organisation . The events are designed to in Chester as a direct result of her final MA won the £1,000 University Enterprise Challenge, with the help of University staff, Jenni excelled challenge students (and graduates for up to assignment, which gained a distinction, and her sponsored by Santander Universities, impressing and she graduated with a high 2:1 . She enjoyed three years after graduating), give them exposure

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Football Focus talked to students about his life as a journalist in TV and radio; Conservative MP for Eddisbury, Antoinette Sandbach took part in a Question and Answer session with BA Education Studies students; Gary Kennedy, Chairman of Connect Group plc, spoke to MBA students at the University of Chester Business School; alumnus Colin Telford, founder of The Candidate, talked to students in the Warrington School of Management; Helen Jennings, Campaign Officer for Tourism Concern, spoke to Tourism students; and entrepreneurs Garry Hill, Paul Harter and Harry Keen spoke at a digital business event for University Centre Shrewsbury students .

Larger events tailored to the needs of students are run jointly by individual departments and Student Futures Careers and Employability . For Gary Kennedy with students on the MBA programme. Psychology Careers Conference. example, the Department of Psychology careers conference attracted key speakers such as to the business world and encourage them to designed to help students to find local bargains the UK or overseas after their second year of Professor Coral Dando, Forensic and Chartered make the first steps in starting a business . and events of interest within the city, working studies . Thirty-eight students participated Psychologist, University of Westminster; Dr alongside local businesses . Prizes of £1,000 with companies such as Bentley, IBM, L’Oreal, Jamin Sohrabi-Shiraz, Educational Psychologist, As part of the Venture scheme, those who have were awarded to Andrew Davey (MA, Design), Welocalise, Porsche, Marks & Spencer, Marketing St Helens Council; and Clinical Psychologist Lisa received 12 hours of support can pitch for up for social enterprise Gro Space, a co-working Cheshire and Cheshire West and Chester Heaton Brown, Cheshire and Wirral Partnership to £5,000, courtesy of Santander Universities, space in Chester for start-ups, and Ryan Holland Council . Many placement students have been NHS Trust . They all shared their experiences to help with the start-up costs associated with (Fine Art and Graphic Design), for Hoz Designs, offered jobs on completion of their degree, with the students and there was a networking their business . The Pitch involved students which offers bespoke packages for promotional such as Meera Ghedia (International Business) session with representatives from organisations preparing a 500-word business summary and videos . Michelle Parkinson (English Literature) at Golfbreaks .com and Jake Gardiner (Business), including Here and Now Chester, Hospice of a 60-second video pitch and submissions were received £500 for The Speak Easy, a monthly who has been recommended for the Graduate the Good Shepherd, Health Box CIC and the narrowed down to a shortlist of eight . Those event of literature and entertainment and a Programme at Microsoft . Countess of Chester NHS Foundation Trust . shortlisted were invited to bid in person for the community service offering workshops to Professor Ros Bramwell (Head, Department of start-up funding and business support prizes . promote wellbeing . Students have many chances to engage with Psychology), said: “As employability is now a Jordan Tew (Global Entrepreneurship and leading local and national figures to learn more fundamental aspect of the students’ University Business Management) and Jessica Saunders Faculty of Business and Management single about their specialist subjects and how they journey, our Department is devoted to (Health and Social Care), were awarded the top honours students have the valuable opportunity have progressed in their chosen careers . For providing students with optimal guidance for prize of £2,500 for their app Stu’sDeals . This is to work for a year out in industry, either in example, Dan Walker, from BBC Breakfast and their future careers ”.

50 #MyChesterStory Pull quote example . Tommie Watts The building of relationships with A new career in Australian radio beckons for Tommie Watts, as heprospective begins life on the students other side of the world with his first-class degree in Radio Production with Commercialmakes theMusic process Production of . Tommie lived and worked in Canada for a few years and instrumental in meintegration achieving an ambition into to present the on wanted to pursue his interest in commercial music on commercial radio Universitywhen I was given thecommunity opportunity to a his return to the UK . He found that the course at the present a show on Signal Radio ”. Warrington Campus allowed him to study a broad range gradual and supportive of themes in a modular format, as well as to nurture his Another success wasexperience, a 24-hour radio show empowering he organised passion for radio . in aid of the Warrington, Halton and St Helens Branch of the RSPCA . Tommiestudents worked with RSPCAto take staff to their produce The Warrington Campus provided “excellent facilities in interviews and radiofirst packages steps about into animals needinghigher care a convenient location” and, despite living some distance or new homes, with contributions from DJ Rasp and other away, Tommie took full advantage of the opportunities students, during theeducation marathon event . which raised funds saying that: “As a mature student I recognised the for the charity . Tommie’s multiple efforts throughout his Name importance of participating in as much extra-curricular degree were recognised at the Valedictory ceremony by activity as possible, to enhance what is a very brief time in the Hilary Tucker Prize for the greatest contribution to the higher education ”. Warrington Campus .

The broad approach to Tommie’s course has given him Tommie is now moving to Australia to be with his fiancée many future career options, but it was the experience on and has started to build his network of contacts in the The Cat student radio station which was the highlight radio and music industry, where his first-class degree from of his degree . Tommie developed presenting skills and Chester is ‘well regarded’ . confidence through his weekly shows on the student-run station . He was a finalist at the national Student Radio Tommie’s advice for other students is: “to ensure you Awards and The Cat won a silver award in the Best Student take every opportunity to develop your knowledge, skills Radio Chart Show category . and talent” .

He said: “Being nominated for national awards allowed me to gain valuable insights into commercial radio and to make valuable contacts in the music business . This was

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A stimulating learning culture

@andyrowntree @echood94 @Tariqjnr @wildo2015 @lucyroyle High Growth Centre University of Chester Three years of student rep’ing #student These lecturers are a credit to Chester University . What a day #study #teaching Made some happily ever after potion today Thornton Science Park #university #unilife #studentlife #studentrep A fantastic lifetime experience being taught by #holidays #assignment #shreksaywot Impressed with the new #ThorntonSciencePark #mychesterstory #chester #hoodies #packing these people . @uoc_business @uochester #chesteruniversity#newlyqualifiednurse #ididit Annual Review 2017 A stimulating learning culture

Inspiring staff

Staff members play a critical role in shaping the educational experience for students through sharing their knowledge, providing a supportive learning environment and achieving excellence through significant professional and personal milestones .

The University was ranked first in the North of schemes operate to assist staff in different West, and fourth nationally, for the proportion roles and at different career stages to achieve of its academic staff holding a recognised a level of HEA Fellowship . In 2016–17, these teaching qualification . The Higher Education schemes included a Postgraduate Certificate Funding Council for England (HEFCE) in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education commissioned the data, which was collected for newly appointed academic staff (with a from 130 institutions in 2014–15 by the similar qualification in Professional Education Higher Education Statistics Agency . HEFCE for new staff in the Faculty of Health and Social acknowledges that teaching qualifications Care), conversion courses for those with a demonstrate the commitment of staff and their teaching qualification from other educational Gill Miller. Image credit: The Geographical Association. Chris Murphy. organisation to the continual improvement sectors, and an in-house recognition process of students’ experience of higher education, catering for more experienced staff and ‘excellent outcomes’ . The University was praised Department of Clinical Sciences and Nutrition) . and that they have become central to those who support learning in other ways . by the panel for its wide range of activities National and international experts in public universities’ strategies for improving learning The latter scheme is supported by a team of supporting the development of employability health and nutrition were invited to take part in and teaching . All of the University’s staff are Senior University Teaching Fellows in Faculties, skills by students, with around two thirds a four-step consultation process to update the highly trained and experienced in their subject who mentor colleagues in preparing their taking part in a Work Based Learning module . Department of Health’s national nutrition advice, areas and 82% are also qualified teachers . applications . In the 2016–17 academic year, The awards were decided by an independent and to incorporate the global millennium goals Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tim Wheeler, said: 17 staff gained Associate Fellowship of the panel of experts, including academics, students for achieving sustainability into the dietary “This is excellent news for the University . HEA, 57 achieved Fellowship, and eight were and employer representatives . Drawing on habits and practices of the UK population . We pride ourselves on our teaching quality awarded Senior Fellowship . The LTI team also national data, and evidence submitted by and teaching excellence is at the heart of successfully led the reaccreditation of the each university or college, the TEF measures Gill Miller (Senior Lecturer, Geography the institution’s 177-year history . To have it University’s HEA programmes, which will lead excellence in three areas: teaching quality; the and International Development) has been recognised statistically is the icing on the cake ”. to an improved and expanded range of routes learning environment; and the educational and elected as the Junior Vice President of the to all categories of HEA Fellowship in 2017–18 . professional outcomes achieved by students . Geographical Association, which is the The Learning and Teaching Institute (LTI) leading national association for teachers supports all staff involved in teaching or The University was awarded a Silver rating in An invitation to participate as a member of a of the subject . The appointment will mean supporting learning to gain professional the Government’s first Teaching Excellence national committee for the development of a that Gill will serve as Senior Vice President recognition from the Higher Education Framework (TEF), declaring it a high quality UK National Sustainable Nutrition Strategy was in 2018–19, and then President of the Academy (HEA) for their activities . A number provider which allows its students to achieve accepted by Professor Lynne Kennedy (Head, Geographical Association in 2019–20 . Gill

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said: “I am passionate about geography and Health Science Network for the North West its vital, central place in the education of Coast) . Sue is providing academic input our young people . It will be a privilege to to support the regional ‘Q’ programme, contribute to making our vibrant and exciting funded by the Health Foundation, which subject indispensable to learners of all ages ”. has a national ambition to recruit 5,000 improvement fellows across the UK to create Ian White, Domestic Bursar and Director of a national improvement network of health Hospitality and Residential Services, was highly and social care professionals . She is also commended for the UK Leadership Award at assisting with a real time evaluation of the the Educate North Awards . He has worked at Innovation Adoption Accelerator programme the University for over 30 years and has led on on a part-time secondment basis . These early sustainability, launched multiple new catering projects are leading to productive networking outlets, steered several of the University’s across the North West and demonstrating 175th Anniversary year celebrations and the strength of partnership working with the taken over the newly created Hospitality Innovation Agency . and Residential Services Department . The Department of Psychology has been The Catering team celebrated multiple wins at recognised for its commitment to gender Les Barnes and Darren Boddy. Professor Sue Hooton OBE. The University Caterers Organisation (TUCO) equality for staff and students through a Awards, which attracted over 100 competitors . Bronze Athena SWAN Award from the Equality Artisan baker Dave Quinn won gold and best Challenge Unit . Although the University holds in class for his Bread Display and Coffee Shop this Award at an institutional level, Psychology Cake in the Salon Culinaire category, silver is the first department to achieve this status . in the Cookie Challenge and bronze for his Athena SWAN is a national scheme which Afternoon Tea . Chef, Chris Murphy, achieved recognises a commitment to advancing gold in the Campus Speed Cook Challenge, equality and diversity in universities and while Head Chefs, Les Barnes and Darren colleges . To achieve this, a dedicated team of Boddy, won bronze in the Chef’s Challenge, staff and students, led by Dr Suzanne Stewart which was judged by TV chef Brian Turner (Senior Lecturer) and Professor Ros Bramwell CBE . Les Barnes also gained bronze in the Cup (Head, Department of Psychology), collected Cake Challenge and Second Head Chef, Jackie data and reflected on different aspects of Rowlands, received a merit for her Tray Bake . working life relevant to gender equality . The result was the establishment of a new Equality Professor Sue Hooton OBE (Nursing and and Diversity Working Group to oversee the Quality Improvement), is working on a range implementation of the team’s action plan and of initiatives with the Innovation Agency, build improvements to equality and diversity (previously known as the NHS Academic into daily working life . The Department of Psychology Athena SWAN team.

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The North West Cross Institutional Action Dr Lisa Peters (Policy Implementation Officer, of Performing Arts); Outstanding Personal Learning for Women programme is a Academic Quality Support Services), made Academic Tutor/Professional Mentor – Dr Sarah collaborative project involving seven North sporting history when she became the first Evans (Lecturer, Department of Performing Arts); West universities, which was funded by person from Wales to umpire at a World Curling Outstanding Postgraduate Supervisor – Denise the Leadership Foundation for Higher Federation event at the European C Group Meakin (Senior Lecturer, Centre for Work Related Education . This has led to the availability Championships in Andorra . Lisa, who is the Chief Studies); Outstanding Academic Support of a new online resource ‘ACTION: A Good Umpire for the Welsh Curling Association, had Staff – Dr Mandy Urquhart (Senior Lecturer, Autism training for Cheshire Police. Practice Guide to Action Learning in Higher previously umpired in Scotland and England Department of Psychology); Outstanding Non- Education’ . It was developed by a group of but this was her first time at a WCF event . This Academic Support Staff – Sam Moss-McCleave organisational development professionals in follows on from her achievement in 2008, when (Student Wellbeing Adviser, Student Futures); higher education in the North West, including she became the first female to represent Wales Responsible Futures – Green Party Society, Gemma Edwards (Learning and Development in a world curling championships, at the World Bethan Trigg and Kimberly Hoar (Co-Chairs); Business Partner, Human Resources), and Mixed Doubles Championships in . StAR of the Year: Claire Culshaw (Nursing); provides advice, guidance and downloadable Special Recognition: Department of Psychology; resources to help to run institutional or cross- The 2017 Young Enterprise North West and CSU Choice Award: Academic Quality institutional action learning programmes . A Enterprise Ambassador Award at the UK final Support Services . conference was also held in Liverpool to raise was the reward for Connie Hancock (Head, awareness of the initiative . Department for Business and Finance) . This was Fellowship of the American Association of for her work in organising the regional Young Occupational Health Nurses was awarded to An autism support committee was established Enterprise Start Up competition, held at the Helen Kirk, (Visiting Lecturer, Faculty of Health at the Warrington Campus, to raise awareness University for the first time, which attracted and Social Care), in New Orleans . Helen gained of the condition and support students with entries from across Cheshire and Warrington . this recognition for her major international Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) . Pam Moss contributions to occupational health, and it was (Student Support Officer, Student Futures) and Exceptional contributions to University life the first time that the award has been given Jo Sullivan (Lecturer, Department of Social were celebrated at the fifth Above and Beyond to a nurse from outside North America . Helen Work and Interprofessional Education) deliver Awards (AAB) which attracted nominations for is Associate Lead Nurse (Workforce) at Public formal teaching sessions for staff explaining over 200 staff and students . Cherelle Mitchell, Health England, the national agency that leads how ASD impacts individuals and how to CSU President, said: “The AAB Awards recognise on health protection and promotion . support students in a higher education setting . the positive impact that both students and staff They have developed an online resource with (academic and non-academic) have on students’ The A F Pallas Prize was the reward for Dr advice and support for staff who need further learning and the student experience ”. The Dimitra Antonopoulou from the Academy information when working with students with winners were: Most helpful feedback – of for the best work in Mathematical autism, plus a support group for students . Dr Ian Seed (Senior Lecturer, Department of Analysis in the last three years, authored In addition, they have provided training English); Most Inspiring Lecturer – Heidi Spring- by Greek researchers . The award, which for Cheshire Police on supporting autistic Jones (Senior Lecturer, Department of Modern she shares with her academic collaborator, colleagues and worked with members of the Languages); Most Innovative Lecturer – Professor Spyridon Kamvissis from the Dr Dimitra Antonopoulou (left) with Professor Kamvissis. public with ASD . Kristian Rozells (Senior Lecturer, Department University of Crete, was presented at an

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official ceremony in Athens in the presence provides expert advice to support its work on of Academy members and Government food and feed safety . representatives . The prize was for research focusing on a fundamental problem within Professor Francesco (Frank) Michelangeli the theory of partial differential equations . (Department of Biological Sciences), is now the Treasurer and Financial Executive Director Dr Sonya Hill (Lecturer, Department of Biological of the Federation of European Biochemical Sciences) was voted on to the Council of the Societies, as well as being the only UK Primate Society of Great Britain . She is also a representative on the Executive Board . The trustee of the Jane Goodall Institute which Federation is a charity that represents over protects chimpanzees and inspires people to 37,000 scientists and academics, funds conserve the natural world, to improve the lives postdoctoral researchers in Europe and of people, animals and the environment . In enhances molecular bioscience research, this role, she was an invited guest at the Earth knowledge and education through congresses Optimism conference in Cambridge, as part of and workshops . He is also actively involved Earth Day 2017 . with the Biochemical Society and the Royal Society of Biology . Clatterbridge-based Viki Whaley (Senior Connie Hancock (back row, third from right) with Young Enterprise Start Up competition entrants. Lecturer, Department of Public Health and Professor Jason Powell (Department of Social Wellbeing), received the coveted title of Queen’s and Political Studies) is an Honorary Director of Nurse . This accolade is awarded by The Queen’s the Geriatric Respite Care Foundation in Uganda, Nursing Institute ‘in recognition of commitment which has a strong commitment to ageing and to high standards of patient care and continually public policy impact at a global level . improving practice’ . Professor of Ageing and Mental Health, Paul The European Commission’s Scientific Kingston, has been appointed to the Board Committee on Consumer Safety appointed of Skills for Care, to share his expertise at a Professor Qasim Chaudhry (Institute of Food national level . Skills for Care provides practical Science and Innovation) as its Chairman . He tools and support, to help adult social care leads the Luxembourg-based Committee, organisations in England recruit, develop which ensures that consumers in Europe are and lead their workforce . He is also the protected against harmful chemical substances Independent Chair for Adult Safeguarding and in everyday household products . Professor Children’s Safeguarding in Wigan; Independent Chaudhry is a leading expert in the area of Chair for Adult Safeguarding Blackburn with chemical and nanomaterial safety and is a Darwen and the Home Office Expert Advisor member of working groups of the European (Adult Safeguarding) for the Disclosure and Food Safety Authority, based in Italy, where he Barring Service . Professor Frank Michelangeli. Dr Andi Mabhala.

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occasion: “It was amazing to be a part of the Professor Tony Wall launched the International Games . The best part was meeting so many Thriving at Work Research Group with people who have had transplants and to hear the Chartered Institute of Personnel and their stories . It has been truly inspirational ”. Development . The Group, involving experts from business, health and education faculties, Dr Andi Mabhala has achieved membership undertakes research and development work of the UK Faculty of Public Health through to promote resilience, wellbeing and thriving Distinction . This is the standard setting in the workplace . It also launched the first body for specialists in public health and is a annual monitor of resilience management in joint faculty of the three Royal Colleges of the UK, which will act as a national benchmark Physicians (London, Edinburgh and Glasgow) . for workplaces .

Students and staff from the Faculty of Business A report for Mental Health First Aid England and Management were recognised for their was the result of research carried out by research, with prizes sponsored by the Global Karen Cregan (Senior Lecturer, Department Centre for Work Applied Learning (GCWAL) of Business and Finance), Jo Lowndes (Senior Faculty of Business and Management staff and students with their awards. and the Chartered Association of Personnel Lecturer, Department of Mental Health and and Development . Award winners included: Learning Disability) and colleagues . A Whole Dr Andy Lyon (Head, Department for Henry Sidsaph (research student); Terry Smith University Framework for Mental Health is a ready- Marketing, Tourism and Events Management), (Senior Lecturer, Department of Marketing); to-use framework to support student and staff was appointed to the Board of Marketing Vicky Evans (Lecturer, Department of Business wellbeing . It has best practice examples of how Cheshire following a close working and Finance) and team; Karen Cregan (Senior universities and their stakeholders are using relationship on a number of projects and Lecturer, Department of Business and Finance) Mental Health First Aid training to build healthy, initiatives . One of the first outcomes was a and Jo Lowndes (Senior Lecturer, Department supportive environments in which to study, workshop with staff from both organisations, of Mental Health and Learning Disability); work and live . This project arose as part of to examine how the relationship could be Professor Tony Wall (Faculty of Business and discussions with other universities through the strengthened . Management) and Mark Jamieson (research Regional Engagement and Wellbeing Networks student) . The GCWAL International Impact for Higher Education, set up by Karen and other The Westfield Health British Transplant Prize was awarded to Dr Ann Hindley and regional chairs, to allow the sector to share Games in Liverpool was the destination Dr Maeve Marmion (Senior Lecturers, best practice in these topic areas and identify for Tim Brown, Deputy Head of the Department of Marketing, Tourism and Events key areas of concern . Mental Health was one of Department of Marketing, Tourism and Events Management), which recognised their work in these and the resulting framework is now being Management . All 800 athletes had benefited ‘Exploring the Benefits of Tourism Experiences used to develop mandatory training in higher from transplantation and this was the first for Seniors’ . Dr Hindley received free education institutions on a national basis . appearance at the Games for Tim, who had a registration and £1,000 towards attendance at kidney transplant in 2013 . He achieved a silver the Learning for Change and Innovation World Mental Health First Aid England report. in the 50 metre freestyle swim and said of the Congress in Adelaide to present the reasearch .

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Excellence in research and innovation

The University’s vibrant research culture plays a fundamental role in its internal and external activities . The specialist knowledge and expertise of staff and students continues to underpin the links between research, knowledge transfer and business services, which operate on an international scale .

The new Digital Humanities Research Centre (Deepdead)’ is an international, (DHRC) uses digital technology, such as big interdisciplinary project exploring the data analytics, to allow the efficient discovery relationship between long-dead bodies and of patterns in large sets of data . Based in the myths of national or community origin, and Department of Humanities and run by Dr how they reinforce or challenge historical Patricia Murrieta-Flores, the Centre has already narratives in England and Central Europe . seen multiple successful funding bids for national and international research projects . ŸŸ ‘Mapping Intangible Places: Towards the These have involved researchers from the Analysis of Vague and Imaginary Space Faculties of Humanities, Arts and Media, Science in Literature with Spatial and Digital The Digital Humanities Research Centre team. and Engineering, and Social Sciences working Technologies’ is using the DHRC’s recently with high-profile collaborators from around the developed methodology in spatial analysis to Insights from evaluative research led by world . Some of the DHRC’s successful funding identify and analyse the relationship between Professor Elizabeth Harlow (Department of bids include: place and material culture in a variety of Social Work and Interprofessional Education), spaces and thresholds manifested within were harnessed by honorary graduate Sir ŸŸ ‘The Reception of English Saints’ Shrines as literary worlds . John Timpson CBE, when he founded the Tangible Art: A Digital Barometer’ . The Paul Alex Timpson Trust in memory of his late wife . Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art has ŸŸ Arts and Humanities Research Council Professor Harlow’s report on the Centre for funded the first fully searchable, public online funding is allowing the generation of Adoption Support for a regional partnership database of English medieval shrine imagery – maps and 3D visualisations of some well- highlighted the challenges facing adoptive before, during, and after the Reformation . known literary works, in collaboration with parents, and especially the lack of teachers’ . awareness of the emotional needs of adopted ŸŸ The Society of Antiquaries of London has children and their families . This led Sir John to funded a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary pilot ŸŸ The Trans-Atlantic Platform for the Social set up a national working group to explore the project entitled ‘Developing Computational Sciences and Humanities is supporting an needs of looked after and adopted children in Approaches for Historical Graffiti’ . international research team to explore the schools and Professor Harlow was invited to early colonial history of the Americas through participate . The Alex Timpson Trust was then ŸŸ ‘Deploying the Dead: Artefacts and Human a collection of significant 16th-century established to raise awareness of attachment Bodies in Socio-cultural Transformations sources relating to the colonised territories . and how to care for looked after children in Professor Elizabeth Harlow.

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The haemophilia project: University and HCD Economics staff. Members of the Cancer Survivorship Research Team (Dr Brooke Swash, Professor Nick Hulbert-Williams, Dr Melissa Pilkington).

schools, following the couple’s own experiences A Faculty of Health and Social Care team has work-related recurring thoughts and sleep of fostering 90 children and adopting two . been working in collaboration with HCD quantity and quality . Professor Harlow was commissioned to act as a Economics to evaluate the burden of disease consultant for the Trust for one day a week and for haemophilia . The team conducted one of An international team led by researchers from is also a trustee of the charity . The first major the largest studies examining the burden of the Chester Research Unit for the Psychology focus is to explore how effectively attachment haemophilia – an inherited condition that affects of Health (CRUPH) is studying how people theory, and its relevance to the classroom, is the blood’s ability to clot – across five European cope with the psychological effects of cancer . being promoted nationally by Virtual School Union countries . As part of the outputs from The project is a collaboration with academics Headteachers and other charities . The Trust has the research, an exhibition on the research was from Queen’s University, Belfast, University of now provided £750,000 for the University of held at the Warrington Campus, along with Edinburgh, McGill University and University of Oxford’s Rees Centre to evaluate these efforts information on the condition . . The project has been supported by a and Professor Harlow is working closely with the large number of UK and international cancer Centre, the Trust and the University through her Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz and Dr Annie Scudds support charities, who are helping with the role on the steering group . Most importantly, (Senior Lecturers, Department of Pyschology) recruitment of a large number of people affected through all of this work and the dynamism are exploring the use of FitBit® technology by cancer . In a novel approach to participant of Sir John, the message about attachment as a way of encouraging exercise in healthy recruitment, this study is also recruiting patients and how to care for looked after children full-time employees . The aim is to observe the through print and social media (Facebook and Dr Annie Scudds and Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz. in schools is resulting in positive change . beneficial effects of physical exercise on mood, Twitter) in an effort to identify participants

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Dr Christina Stanley. Dr Carolina Font Palma with Faculty of Science and Engineering colleagues. The chocolate cravings and consumption study. who may not be linked in with the mainstream animals could be applied to the work of Dr McLennan also recently collaborated with and Warwick, which analysed people’s chocolate cancer support charities . This is because the wildlife managers and conservationists . Greater Boehringer Ingelheim to produce a booklet on cravings and consumption . This research, led team wants to ensure that everyone has knowledge of the social structure can help to how to use facial expression to assess pain in by Dr Lee Hulbert-Williams, Professor Nick the opportunity to participate in the study . identify the flow of information, or the spread sheep as part of their farm animal wellbeing series . Hulbert-Williams and Dr Kevin Hochard, aimed Participants in this research will be completing of disease and could be used as an indicator of to combine both mindfulness and acceptance questionnaires on a three-monthly basis forthcoming population changes . A scientist, who is focusing her academic career techniques and use a defusion method to over the two-year project period to see what on improving renewable energy, has won an discourage participants from eating chocolates psychological variables predict better wellbeing Animal Behaviour Lecturer, Dr Krista McLennan, award for her research . Dr Carolina Font Palma that they carried for a week . It compared these and quality of life in cancer survivorship . It is has developed a system to measure pain levels, (Lecturer, Chemical Engineering) won the Applied techniques with a distraction control and results hoped that the findings from the study will based on sheep facial expressions, with a high Energy Award for highly cited research and review showed that those who had been part of the establish the best possible way to provide level of accuracy . The Sheep Pain Facial Expression papers published in the journal . Dr Font Palma’s defusion and acceptance interventions groups emotional and psychological support for those Scale was developed while undertaking post- research explores how tar is formed during took fewer chocolates, compared with the diagnosed with different types of cancer . doctoral research at the biomass gasification and greater understanding distraction control group . and the research group has now developed of this process will help to improve renewable Dr Christina Stanley (Lecturer, Department of this system further by using machine learning energy in the future . A research study published in Nature – Scientific Biological Sciences) has been working with a techniques to automate it . This could make Reports – showed that chimpanzees use different group of international scientists exploring how significant improvements to sheep welfare by A team from the Department of Psychology led gestures to communicate with different types the understanding of relationships between allowing remote recognition of sheep in pain . a study with the Universities of Wolverhampton of social partners, just as people communicate

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staff from different trusts could connect and contribute their experiences to the project, the team identified and designed a preceptorship framework representing best practice for the Health Education England website .

Staff from the Department of Clinical Sciences have undertaken a number of research projects in conjunction with external organisations .

ŸŸ Orla Flannery and Dr Sohail Mushtaq (Senior Lecturers) secured £13,500 from the Wellcome Trust to deliver health workshops for Stockport Leisure in the community .

ŸŸ Evaluation of the Children’s Health and Monitoring Programme On Track project was funded by Royal Manchester Children’s Centre for Ageing Studies staff with Brightlife Hospital . This has involved Orla Flannery volunteer researchers. Chimpanzee in the Budongo Forest. working with schools, health professionals and parents, to gain their feedback on the resource . differently . Dr Anna Roberts (Visiting Research from a spouse or relative, the Centre is analysing relationships that contribute positively to their Fellow) collected the data on wild chimpanzees these responses to gain a greater understanding mental and physical health . Volunteers who ŸŸ Lecturer, Lizzy Parker, completed a in the Budongo Forest, Uganda for the study of the participants’ experiences and memories of successfully complete the training course become 12-month collaborative project with and collaborated with Senior Lecturer in dementia, as observed in their friends or relatives . active members of the University’s Brightlife Cardiff Metropolitan University . This was a Psychology, Dr Sam Roberts . This study has been funded by the University’s evaluation team . dual centre study investigating the cardio Quality-related Research allocation . metabolic impacts of sit-stand desk work The Centre for Ageing Studies commissioned Health Education England (North West) among contact centre agents in a public the Mass Observation Directory to collect data Staff in the Centre for Ageing Studies have commissioned research from the Faculty of (DVLA) and private () setting . on dementia via a panel of 500 members of developed a bespoke training course for Health and Social Care to review and analyse the The results were presented at the British the public, who respond to written questions volunteers interested in becoming co-researchers preceptorship programmes for newly qualified Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and on a regular basis . The aim is to explore the in the Lottery-funded Brightlife initiative . Brightlife midwives, nurses and healthcare professionals Rehabilitation Exercise Professionals Group public understanding and perception around is a five-year, £5-million project focused on across the region . NHS preceptorship schemes Study Day in Birmingham . dementia, as studies suggest that knowledge reducing social isolation in older people . The are designed to operate as a transitional phase about dementia is relatively poor amongst both University is evaluating Brightlife’s different of up to a year with support and mentoring Novel techniques to establish evidence for best caregivers and the general population . As most approaches, which are aimed at helping people from a preceptor . Following the initial work, practice in the husbandry of the frog laboratory people with dementia remain at home with care aged over 50 years create and maintain social which included two conferences where model Xenopus laevis have been developed by

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Dr Lottie Hosie (Senior Lecturer) and Professor Chaudhry and John Banks and Dr Mebs Surve Tessa Smith (Department of Biological of Swift Analytical Ltd . The Centre’s work is Sciences) within the Amphibian Behaviour aimed at developing and promoting scientific and Endocrinology Group . Despite its use in understanding of the various special dietary research, such as medical genetics, this species needs, necessary methods and tools to ensure has no guidelines around its welfare, largely the authenticity and quality of food products . because the tools for non-invasive assessment The Centre is establishing close links with of welfare did not exist . The Group’s research stakeholders within consumer forums, industry, has shown that amphibians experience stress and regulatory agencies, to facilitate the during transport and simple measures like development and promotion of authentic and altering the background colour of the tanks high quality food and other consumer products can reduce frog stress . for a wider spectrum of society .

The Westminster Centre for Research and The Faculty of Business and Management has Innovation in Veterans’ Wellbeing has been collaborated on projects with colleagues in the established to support the military community, US, Australia, South Africa and Russia and secured through innovative and high quality research, a number of grants . Current research includes: educational provision and community engagement . An example of its work is a study ŸŸ Four Research and Knowledge Transfer grants Westminster Centre for Research and Innovation in Veterans’ Wellbeing – Military Veterans and their Families Wellbeing Symposium. to determine the number of military veterans to investigate manager resilience across registered at four GP practices in Fylde and business, health and educational organisations . Wyre . This is in recognition of the fact that of Sport and Community Engagement, in and professional contexts . The partnership veterans often have particular health issues and ŸŸ Three Research Excellence Framework Quality association with Bury Metropolitan Borough involves higher education institutions and the information will allow services to be tailored Research grants to investigate alternative Council, to understand women’s participation cultural organisations collaborating to enhance to their specific needs . approaches to management education in in sport and physical activity . practice in higher education, and aims to attract Australia; Ageing and Tourism; and Higher emerging researchers into arts-based methods, The new Restricted Diets Research Centre, based Degree Apprenticeships . The Research Centre for Education, Creativity to enhance the potential of their research . It in the Institute of Food Science and Innovation, and the Arts through Practice (RECAP) based seeks to increase the quality and relevance of is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK ŸŸ Three Erasmus+ grants to lead collaborative in the Faculty of Education and Children’s higher education by giving more credence to focusing on the needs of consumer groups with projects in France and the Netherlands, and Services, has been awarded £256,000 for the methods of research and assessment that go specific dietary restrictions . It aims to meet a contribute to the reform of the Russian higher Project ‘Beyond Text’ . This three-year Strategic beyond text through training practitioners and current gap in the food sector relating to the education system . Partnerships Project will see RECAP leading a educators in arts-based research methods . This needs of consumer groups with certain dietary team of partners in Estonia, Finland, Spain and will increase the relevance of higher education restrictions . It offers Research and Development, ŸŸ Four teaching and learning innovation grants . Palestine . The project is primarily concerned to those who may not be able to engage with expert advice, education and training to relevant with introducing new and innovative methods traditional forms of assessment and will give stakeholders and was established through ŸŸ A £25,000 knowledge transfer consultancy into higher education by the use of arts- professionals in other educational contexts a collaboration between Professors Qasim project was completed by the Department based research in a variety of educational greater opportunities to conduct research .

63 The growing skills shortage of domestic central heating systems, following Combined Heat and Photovoltaic (CHPV) in sectors like construction previous University research on advanced system with energy storage . Further research thermal storage . The Renewable Integrated is planned to assess the impact on the and engineering will not and Sustainable Electric Heating System (RISE) National Grid of the integration of electrical be filled unless employers project is being funded by Innovate UK and vehicles with either all-electric hybrid heating led by the Building Research Establishment Ltd systems or hybrid local energy systems . The help more young (BRE), in collaboration with partners including Department is leading international research women into relevant the University, EDF Energy, Glen Dimplex and into Terahertz technologies for scanning Eastbourne Homes . A prototype RISE heating and characterising materials and for use as apprenticeships . Young system was installed in the Prince’s Trust non-invasive sensors in control systems and Women’s Trust is excited House at the BRE Innovation Park in Watford, condition monitoring . It is also highly active in which showed that it is the first commercially the research of multi-antenna communication to be partnering with the and grid sustainable all-electric heating technologies, such as LiFi, that perform University of Chester to system to achieve a better annual running significantly better than WiFi in terms of cost than a gas condensing boiler . Glen communication speeds . give employers a better Dimplex is now working with the University understanding of the team, including Professor John Counsell Professor Chantal Davies (Director, Forum for The Research Centre for Education, Creativity and the Arts (Head of Department), and the other project Research into Equality and Diversity) is working through Practice team with University of Bethlehem colleagues. action they can take partners to commercialise the RISE technology . with Young Women’s Trust to explore how to improve the gender The Department is exploring other hybrid employers can encourage more women into ‘Beyond Text’ will recognise the value of energy technologies as part of its research male-dominated sectors like engineering, IT balance in their workforces . research that is already occurring in professional group’s ‘Intelligent Systems Architecture’ and construction . The research aims to gain contexts and help those outside the academy activities, such as Smart Grids, Internet of a better understanding of current employer Dr Carole Easton OBE, to conduct rigorous and recognised research in Things, Unmanned Airborne Vehicles (UAVs) practice and barriers to recruiting women into Chief Executive, Young Women’s Trust. new and innovative methods . and Robotics . These new technologies are sectors where they are under-represented, resulting in a number of European Regional together with possible solutions, such as open The Department of Chemical Engineering has Development Fund PhD studentships at days and work experience, job application successfully appointed three PhD research Thornton Science Park, which explore machine support and targets for recruiting women positions, through funding from the European learning for industrial control systems, – especially through apprenticeships . The Regional Development Fund, as part of the demand-side energy strategies and schemes, research will lead to the charity providing Faculty of Science and Engineering’s Eco- such as thermal and electrical storage for guidance for employers on how to implement Innovation project . These positions involve commercial and domestic buildings . This these measures, because employers say they collaboration with industrial partners and a extends to the use of energy storage with lack knowledge on what action they can take further three positions are scheduled to follow . hybrid local energy generation systems, such under the current legislation . as combining Combined Heat Power (CHP) The Department of Electronic and Electrical generation with Photovoltaic generation Engineering is working on the electrification at a local scale, to create a fully integrated

64 #MyChesterStory Margaret Hanson

A 27-year break from studying has resulted in a wealth of valuable experience for Margaret Hanson to apply in her groundbreaking PhD research on the life experiences of older men in and Cheshire .

Margaret was born in Liverpool, attended school in then chose to explore this subject further, starting a PhD in Cheshire and studied French and History at Brasenose 2015 in the University’s Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and College, Oxford . She worked at Price Waterhouse and Life Sciences with Professor Kennedy (Head, Department then moved into the public sector as a Community of Clinical Sciences and Nutrition) . Alongside her research, Development Officer with Scope in Cheshire and Margaret now contributes to postgraduate teaching and Merseyside . She worked as a Political Research Assistant at research supervision, while enhancing her skills for the the House of Commons, joined Cheshire County Council benefit of her NHS role . Margaret remains passionate in Social Services, was a Campaigns and Policy Officer with about raising awareness of the needs of this group of men the TUC and a Public Relations Manager at Co-operative and says that “working with my participants is both a real Financial Services . Despite fitting in work around childcare, privilege and a great pleasure” . She hopes to capitalise on she also served as a Councillor for Vale Royal Borough all the knowledge and expertise gained from her varied Council for 11 years and then for a further nine for Flintshire career in her research, and for this to have a lasting impact County Council, including six years of chairing the Social on future social and health policy . Services Committee . She was the Chief Executive of Age Concern in North East Wales for eight years and is currently She said: “I would really love to ensure that in the future the Vice-Chair of Betsi Cadwaldr University NHS Trust . society better meets the needs of older men . Currently, older people’s services are designed predominantly for In 2010, Margaret decided to begin postgraduate study women, delivered by women and used by women . Since with a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH) under the the turn of this century, however, this situation has altered supervision of Professor Lynne Kennedy . After receiving a rapidly with some 560,000 men over 85 in the population distinction for a systematic review on active ageing and of England and Wales . That’s a great number of people its potential impact on the wellbeing of older UK men, whose voices aren’t being heard at the moment and I hope she realised that “the lived experiences of the oldest old my research will contribute to changing this situation ”. men, especially those from working class backgrounds, are completely ignored in the public health literature” . Having returned to work in the NHS and Social Care, Margaret

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Publications

University staff produce many publications in their specialist fields, ranging from writing journal articles, book chapters and whole publications, to editing collected volumes and editions of journals . A selection of their publications follows and includes titles published by the in-house University of Chester Press and Flash: The International Short-Short Story Press .

ŸŸ Professor Saphwan Al-Assaf (Department of edited Lobbying in Europe: Public Affairs and Clinical Sciences and Nutrition), edited The the Lobbying Industry in 28 EU Countries with Radiation Chemistry of Polysaccharides with Professor Alberto Bitoni . Professor Xavier Coqueret, Khairul Zaman, Haji Mohd Dahlan, Dr Murat Sen and Dr Piotr Ulanski . ŸŸ Dr Dawn Llewellyn (Senior Lecturer, Department of Theology and Religious ŸŸ Dr Alec Charles (former Head, Department Studies), edited Religion, Equalities and Professor Howard Williams with The Archaeological Journal. of Media), wrote Political Animals: News of the Inequalities with Dr Sonya Sharma . Natural World . ŸŸ Professor Deborah Wynne (Department of Lecturers, Department of English), edited ŸŸ Dr Sharon Morley and Dr Paul Taylor (Deputy English), edited Charlotte Brontë, Legacies and Funny Bone: Flashing for Comic Relief . ŸŸ Dr Mark Gant (Head, Department of Modern Heads) and Dr Jo Turner (Lecturer, Department Afterlives with Dr Amber Regis . Languages), edited Melodies, Rhythm and of Social and Political Science), edited A University of Chester Press Cognition in Foreign Language Learning with Dr Companion to the History of Crime and Criminal ŸŸ Dr Ian Seed (Senior Lecturer, Department ŸŸ Dr Ian Seed (Senior Lecturer, Department of Maria Carmen Fonseca-Mora . Justice with former colleague Dr Karen Corteen . of English), was longlisted for the Best English), edited Crossings Over: Poetry from the Translated Book Award for Poetry 2017 for Cheshire Prize for Literature 2016 . ŸŸ Professor Elaine Graham (Department of ŸŸ Professor Timo Obergöker (Department of his translation of Pierre Reverdy’s The Thief Theology and Religious Studies), wrote Modern Languages), wrote Prise de possession. of Talant . ŸŸ Graeme White (Emeritus Professor of Local Apologetics without Apology: Speaking of God in Storytelling, culture populaire et colonialisme; History), edited Landscapes Past and Present: a World Troubled by Religion . and co-edited La chanson dans le film français ŸŸ Professor Howard Williams (Department Cheshire and Beyond with alumna, Dr Sharon Varey . et francophone depuis la Nouvelle Vague with Dr of History and Archaeology), edited ŸŸ Dr Simon Grennan (Postdoctoral Fellow, Renaud Lagabrielle . Archaeologists and the Dead: Mortuary ŸŸ Ingimund’s Saga: Viking Wirral, was written by Department of Art and Design), wrote A Archaeology in Contemporary Society with Professor Stephen Harding . Theory of Narrative Drawing . ŸŸ Professor Peter Stokes (former Deputy Dr Melanie Giles . He also finished a six-year Dean), Neil Moore (Senior Lecturer) and period as Editor of The Archaeological Journal ŸŸ The University of Chester Press also assisted ŸŸ Professor Phil Harris (Executive Director, Professor Caroline Rowland (Sub Dean, for the Royal Archaeological Institute . with the publication of Bolesworth and the Business Research Institute), edited The Sage Faculty of Business and Management), edited Barbours: A History of the Bolesworth Estate Handbook of International Corporate and Organizational Management with Dr Simon Flash: The International Short-Short Story Press and the Barbour Family, by Wendy Bawn and Public Affairs with Dr Craig S . Fleisher; and Smith and Peter Scott . ŸŸ Drs Peter Blair and Ashley Chantler (Senior Diana Barbour .

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Newspapers have long been enthralled by accounts of cute, cuddly, strange, dangerous and endangered beasts, and by extraordinary and sometimes apocryphal narratives of natural phenomena. This study explores the incidence of several such stories in the British press: from reports of the ‘ethnic’ conflicts between different spe- Lobbying in Europe cies of squirrel to the tragedy of Cecil the slaughtered Zimbabwean Political Animals lion. It takes in, along the way, the celebrity of Knut the polar bear, Public Affairs and the Lobbying Political Animals the Tamworth Two and the Exmoor Emperor. It surveys the media Industry in 28 EU Countries representation of the natural landscape from the crocodile-infested News of the Natural World reaches of the River Thames out as far as the bleak wastes of the former planet Pluto. In doing so, and in conversation with reporters Edited by Alberto Bitonti and and players in these tales, it investigates the political subtexts and Phil Harris social meanings of such stories, and seeks thereby to reveal the real value of such soft, sentimental and sometimes silly news. • Alec Charles

Alec Charles is Head of Media at the University of Chester and co-convenor of the Political Studies Association’s Media & Politics Group. He has previously taught at universities in Japan, Eastern Europe, Cornwall and Luton, and has worked as a print journalist and made cultural documentaries for BBC Radio 3. He is the author of Interactivity: New Media, Politics & Society, Interactivity 2 and Out of Time: The Deaths & Resurrections of Doctor Who. He is co-editor of The End of Journalism and editor of Media in the Enlarged Europe, Media/Democracy and The End of Journalism 2.

ISBN 978-1-78707-007-3 AleC ChArles

www.peterlang.com PETER LANG

Funny Bone Flashing f r C mic Relief

Edited by Peter Blair and Ashley Chantler

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Staff engagement

The chances for University staff and students to disseminate their research at a local, national and global level means that they are able to make a genuine impact in their field . The following examples give an indication of the scope of public engagement undertaken by staff from across the institution .

Chester Literature Festival Birds – Bringing Science and Conservation ŸŸ Dr Graham Atkin (Senior Lecturer, Department Together’; and with Dr Ellie Devenish-Nelson of English) – ‘Staging Shakespeare’ . (Visiting Lecturer, Department of Biological Sciences), Doug Weidemann and Jason ŸŸ Dr Simon Grennan (Postdoctoral Research Townsend – ‘Red List Status of Forest Endemic Fellow, Department of Art and Design) – ‘The Birds in the Caribbean’ . Extraordinary Significance of January 1871’ . Professorial inaugural lectures ŸŸ Dr Francesca Haig (Visiting Writing ŸŸ Professor Nick Hulbert-Williams (Department Fellow, Department of English) – ‘Writing of Psychology) – ‘“I’m Through with Playing Dystopian Fiction’ . by the Rules of Someone Else’s Game”: Professor Jan Gidman. Professor Nigel John. A Rejection of Mainstream Ideas about ŸŸ Dr Eileen Pollard (Lecturer, Department of Psychological Suffering and a (RE) Discovery by North-West: Locating Islamic Studies in the ŸŸ Dr Kevin Hochard (Lecturer, Department of English) with Mike Poulton – ‘Hilary Mantel of Contextual Behavioural Science’ . Academic Study of Religions’ . Psychology) – ‘”They Mostly Come at Night . and the Road to Wolf Hall’ . Mostly ”. Sleep Disturbances’ Impact on ŸŸ Professor Craig Twist (Department of Sport ŸŸ Professor Emma Rees (Institute of Gender Suicidal Behaviours’ . ŸŸ Raymond Salter (Visiting Lecturer, Department and Exercise Sciences) – ‘From the Lab to Studies) – ‘Who Broke Feminism? The of English) – ‘Shakespeare and Religion’ . the Langtree and Beyond: Translating Sports Obligation of Privilege’ . ŸŸ Dr Lee Hulbert-Williams (Senior Lecturer, Science to Real-World Practice’ . Department of Psychology) – ‘The Stressed ŸŸ Arranged by the Department of Modern Chester Research Unit for the Psychology of Ape: Why Human Beings are so Prone to Stress Languages – ‘New Engagements in French ŸŸ Professor Jan Gidman (Associate Dean, Faculty Health Public Lectures and What to Do About It’ . Literature and Politics’ – Eduard Louis and of Health and Social Care) – ‘Reflections of the ŸŸ Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz (Senior Lecturer, Geoffrey de Lagasnerie . Complexity of Learning in Practice’ . Department of Psychology) – ‘But How Do University Centre Shrewsbury Lecture Series You Feel? Exploring the Potential Motivators ŸŸ Dr Rachael Abbiss (Visiting Lecturer, North American Ornithological Conference ŸŸ Professor Nigel John (Department of and Benefits of Weight Loss’ . Department of History and Archaeology) – (NAOC) Washington DC Computer Sciences) – ‘Bits, Bytes and Blood’ . ‘The Early History of the Other Shrewsbury’ . ŸŸ Dr Howard Nelson (Senior Lecturer, ŸŸ Dr Brooke Swash (Lecturer, Department of Department of Biological Sciences) – ŸŸ Professor Oliver Scharbrodt (Department of Psychology) – ‘Being Human: Exploring the ŸŸ Dr Lucy Andrew (Lecturer, Department of ‘Conservation of Caribbean Forest Endemic Theology and Religious Studies) – ‘Mid-East Impact of Illness and Loss in Modern Healthcare’ . English) – ‘Reading Group Meeting:

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J K Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s ŸŸ Professor Deborah Wynne (Department of Stone: Twenty Years Later’; ‘Breaking the English) – ‘The Story of Silk’ . Mould: Challenging Stereotypes and Celebrating Diversity in Children’s and Young Grosvenor Museum Lunchtime Lecture Series Adult Fiction’ . ŸŸ Dr Meggen Gondek (Head, Department of History and Archaeology) – ‘Not Just ŸŸ Katie Baker (Visiting Lecturer, Department Jewellery: Personal Adornment with Purpose’ . of English) – ‘Rereading Elizabeth Gaskell: Cranford’ . ŸŸ Dr Jennifer Hillman (Lecturer, Department of History and Archaeology) – ‘Saintly Bodies, ŸŸ Professor Claire Griffiths (Department of Sacred Bones: The Cult of Relics in Early Modern Languages) – ‘From Battlefield to Modern Europe’ . Professor Cynthia Burek with PhD student Zainab Hussaini in Edinburgh (second and fourth right). Burkini: A Journey into Franco-African History’ . ŸŸ Dr Katherine Wilson (Senior Lecturer, Institute of Gender Studies ŸŸ Dr Dimitra Antonopoulou (Senior Lecturer, ŸŸ Professor Elizabeth Mason-Whitehead Department of History and Archaeology) – ‘A Research Seminar Series Department of Mathematics) – ‘On Stochastic (Institute of Medicine and Faculty of Health Consumer Revolution?: Households as Urban ŸŸ Dr Rebecca Collins (Deputy Head, Department Dynamics and Sharp Interface Limit For a Class and Social Care) – ‘From Leprosy to Ebola: “Theatres” in the Later Middle Ages’ . of Geography and International Development) of SPDES From Phase Separation Problems’, The Impact of Stigma in Medicine, Health and – ‘“No Sex Please, We’re Naked”: Locating International Workshop on Backward Social Care’ . British Ecological Society – Liverpool Sanctuaries for the Desexualised Nude’ . Stochastic Differential Equations, Stochastic ŸŸ Dr Matt Geary (Lecturer, Department of Partial Differential Equations, their Interplay ŸŸ Dr James Pardoe (Senior Lecturer, Biological Sciences) – ‘Using Point Process ŸŸ Professor Timo Obergöker (Department of and Applications, Edinburgh . Department of History and Archaeology) – Models to Investigate Habitat Use by Hen Modern Languages) – ‘Masculinity and Pop ‘Georgian Shrewsbury: Town of Leisure – ‘A Harrier on the Isle of Mull’ . Culture in 1980s France and Britain’ . ŸŸ Helena Astbury (Alumni and Development Study Day in Memory of Julia Ionides’; and Officer, Corporate Communications) – ‘“Not with Emma-Kate Lanyon – ‘Whose Heritage Is ŸŸ Dr Anna Muir (Lecturer, Department of ŸŸ Dr Jo Turner (Senior Lecturer, Department of Jane ”:. Graphic Animation as Gothic Re- It Anyway?’ . Biological Sciences) – ‘The Potential for Social and Political Science) – ‘“More a Home telling’, Temporal Discombobulations: Time Acclimation and Adaptation in Response than a Refuge”: Battery House, Winchester’ . and Experience in the Gothic conference ŸŸ Dr Tom Pickles (Senior Lecturer, Department to a Changing Climate in a Reef Building and publication, Guildford; Creative of History and Archaeology) – ‘Kingship, Ecosystem Engineer’ . Faculty of Health and Social Showcase and prize winner for photographic Warfare, and Conversion in Early Anglo- Care Seminar Series work, Reimagining Gothic: Gothic Spaces Saxon England’ . ŸŸ Dr Achaz von Hardenberg (Lecturer, ŸŸ Susan Benbow (Visiting Professor of Mental conference, Sheffield . Department of Biological Sciences) – ‘Higher Health and Ageing) – ‘Older People and ŸŸ Professor Alan Wall (Department of English) – Risk of Gastrointestinal Parasite Infection at Domestic Homicide’ . ŸŸ Professor Cynthia Burek (Department of ‘A Writer’s Irony’ . Lower Elevation Suggests Possible Constraints Biological Sciences) – ‘Afghan Women’s in the Distributional Niche of Alpine Marmots’; ŸŸ Dr Gill Buck (Senior Lecturer, Department Barriers to Access Higher Education’ . ŸŸ Professor Chris Walsh (Department of English) and Chair of a session on ‘Parasites, Pathogens of Social Work) – ‘Excelling with Dyslexia International Conference of Graduate Women, – ‘Tolkien and his Work’ . and Wildlife Disease’ . and Dyspraxia’ . Cape Town, South Africa; BBC Radio Wales

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Science Café; and with PhD student Zainab ŸŸ Dr Ann Hindley (Senior Lecturer, Marketing, Hussaini, ‘The Impact of Conflict on Women Tourism and Events Management) – and Girls’, Edinburgh . ‘Exploring the Benefits of Tourism Experiences for Seniors’, Global Centre for Work-Applied ŸŸ Professor Peter Cox (Senior Lecturer, Learning – Learning for Change and Innovation Department of Social and Political Science) – World Congress, Adelaide, Australia . German Environment Agency, public lecture, Mannheim; expert panel member at Science ŸŸ Dr Lottie Hosie (Senior Lecturer, Department Meets Practice: Making Research Relevant, of Biological Sciences) – ‘Refining the and Cycling as a Tool For a More Equitable Laboratory Husbandry of the African Clawed and Inclusive Society, International Velo-City Frog, Xenopus laevis’, International Association Conference, Nijmegen; worked on special of Animal Technicians, London; ‘Marking Time: exhibition ‘Balancing Act: 200 years of the Two- The Importance of Considering Timeframes Wheeler’, Deutsches Museum, ; and When Combining Physiological and keynote speaker, ‘Cycling Cultures: Diversity Behavioural Stress Assessment’, Universities and Change’, World Bicycle Forum, . Federation for Animal Welfare Symposium: Measuring Animal Welfare – Why is it Still So Dr Peter Cox at the World Bicycle Forum in Mexico City. ŸŸ Dr Wendy Dossett (Senior Lecturer, Difficult?, London . Department of Theology and Religious Studies) – ‘“In Return for a Bottle and a ŸŸ Dr Nikos Kavallaris (Senior Lecturer, Hangover We Have Been Given the Keys to Department of Mathematics), with the Kingdom”: Reflections on the Language Athanasios A . Pantelous – ‘Optimal Portfolio of Salvation in Twelve Step Recovery’, Chester and Consumption Allocation: Under a Theological Society, Chester . Disappointment Aversion Type Utility Function’, Quantitative Finance and Risk ŸŸ Professor Basma Ellahi (Department of Social Analysis conference, Corfu, . Work and Interprofessional Education) – ‘Exploring the Health Status of Older Persons ŸŸ Dr Elizabeth Kealy-Morris (Lecturer, in Sub-Saharan Africa’, Africa Nutritional Department of Art and Design) – ‘The Artist’s Epidemiology Conference, Marrakech, Morocco . Book: Making as Embodied Knowledge of the Practice and the Self’, public exhibition at the ŸŸ Professor Alan Finnegan (Department of Kingsway Campus . Public Health and Wellbeing) – ‘Nurses in Conflict’, Third International Nurse ŸŸ Professor Andy Lovell (Department of Education Today Lecture, Enhancing Mental Health and Learning Disability) Nursing Through Educational Research – Keynote speaker at the National Dr Elizabeth Kealy-Morris. (ENTER) Conference, Edinburgh . Autistic Society workshop – ‘Reducing

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the use of Restrictive Practices and or Somewhere Else’, 3rd Visualising the Physical Interventions’, Manchester . Home Conference, ; ‘Merz Sites: Project Space and Research-based Practice’, ŸŸ Dr Fotini Karakatsani (Lecturer, Department Merz North 4 Symposium, York . of Mathematics) – ‘On the Error Control for Fully Discrete Approximations of ŸŸ Dr Paul Skillen (Programme Leader, the Time-Dependent Stokes Equation’, Education Studies) – interviewer for Foundations of Computational Mathematics second series of Scouse Pop on Made in Conference, Barcelona, Spain . Liverpool TV; Scouse Pop talk, to Göttingen University students, Liverpool . ŸŸ Dr Julie Kirkham (Lecturer, Department of Psychology) – ‘Pretence and Creativity ŸŸ Dr Jon Talbot (Senior Lecturer, Centre for During Childhood and Beyond’, Centre for Work Related Studies) – keynote address Research on Play in Education, Development ‘Past, Present and Future: Integrating and Learning (PEDAL), Cambridge . Prior, Current and Future Oriented Experiential Learning into a Personalized ŸŸ Professor Frank Michelangeli (Department Curriculum’, Annual Conference of the of Biological Sciences) – meeting organiser National Institute on the Assessment Dr Julie Kirkham. Dr Jon Talbot. and presented four lectures, Federation of of Adult Learning, Atlantic City, USA . European Biochemical Societies Molecular Life Science Workshop, Riga, Latvia . ŸŸ Professor George Turner (Department of Biological Sciences) – ‘Adaptive ŸŸ Dr Simon Oliver (Lecturer, Department of Radiation and Conservation’, Chester . Biological Sciences) – ‘Pelagic Thresher Sharks (Alopias pelagicus) Risk Travelling Across ŸŸ Dr Achaz von Hardenberg (Lecturer, Borders to Use a Grass-Roots Conservation Department of Biological Sciences) – Area in the Philippines’, International Marine ‘The Links between Parasites, Behaviour Conservation Congress, St John’s’, Canada . Life History Variation and Genetics in Mountain Mammals, Using Causal ŸŸ Simon Pringle (Visiting Professor, Department Inference Methods for Ecological Research’, of Geography and International Development) Biosciences Seminar Series, Swansea . – ‘Sustainability, Innovation and the Evolution Towards a More Circular Economy’, Chester . ŸŸ Professor Howard Williams (Department of History and Archaeology) – ‘Cremation ŸŸ Dr Cian Quayle (Programme Leader, and the Archaeology of Death’ (as part Department of Art and Design) – ‘The of Dying Matters Week), Denbighshire Aesthetics of Distance – Home and Away Memorial Park and Crematorium, St Asaph . Dr Paul Skillen (right) on the Scouse Pop set.

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Conferences

The University hosts a range of networking events that bring together significant numbers of visitors, staff and students to share their academic and professional expertise .

‘Connect and Thrive’ was the theme of the Five-hundred delegates attended the Annual annual two-week Diversity Festival, which Conference for the Higher Education Careers included a keynote speech by Paralympian and and Employability Professionals – ‘Strategy in Commonwealth Games Medallist Jade Jones . Action: Innovate, Influence, Impress’ . This was Other events included ‘Be the Best You Can Be’, held by the Association of Graduate Careers hosted by Dr Lorraine Dacre-Pool (Chartered Advisory Services (AGCAS) and focused on Psychologist and Principal Lecturer, University of the work of careers professionals in shaping Central ); a public speaking masterclass student experience and influencing the by Victoria Pritchard (Voice Coach and Actress); strategies of universities around employment . a ‘Developing Your Research Career’ event, One of the workshops featured the University’s plus further seminars, lectures, workshops and innovative Venture entrepreneurship conferences on topics such as addressing the BME programme, which benefits from the expertise attainment gap; gender; crime; racism in football; of many of the region’s entrepreneurs . Jade Jones. Talking Bodies international conference. disabled people and employment; Gypsy, Roma and Traveller awareness; African dancing; An audience with Warrington Wolves was held drumming; and Zimbabwean Harmonies . at the Warrington Campus with the theme: ‘A Community Business – Adding Economic, The third Talking Bodies international conference Social and Wellbeing Value to the Town’ . The on identity, sexuality and representation was speakers included Steven Broomhead (Non- hosted by the Institute of Gender Studies Executive Chairman of Warrington Wolves and attracted delegates and speakers from Rugby Super League Football Club), Karl all over the world . This biennial conference Fitzpatrick (Chief Executive Officer) and Tony creates a dialogue on varied topics surrounding Smith (Head of Coaching and Rugby), together ‘the body’ between scholars, practitioners, with some first team players . researchers and postgraduate students from a wide range of disciplines . These include art, The Royal Historical Society (RHS) Symposium performance, art history, social history, history 2017 – ‘Putting History in its Place: Historic of science, medical humanities, literary criticism, Landscapes and Environments’, was organised theology, (eco)feminism, political theory, by the Department of History of Archaeology . medicine and jurisprudence . In addition to the Symposium, which Warrington Wolves.

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provided a forum for scholars to consider the relationship between historical change and historic landscapes and environments, there was a visit by seven representatives from the RHS to the Department and a roundtable of papers by historians from the University .

The Engaging Communities in Archaeology The Westminster Centre for Veterans’ Health and Sarah Vince Cain at the conference was run by Department of History Wellbeing team. Healthy Futures workshop. and Archaeology students at the Grosvenor Museum and was open to the public . Topics included appraisals and critiques of community archaeology projects and assessments of new strategies for engaging people in archaeological ideas . Guest speakers were Dr Lorna Richardson (Umeå University, Sweden) and Dr Mike Heyworth MBE (Director of the Council for British Archaeology) . The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Conference. The Westminster Centre for Research and Archaeology students presenting their finds to the public in Chester. Richard Bloxam-Rose. Innovation in Veterans’ Health and Wellbeing hosted the Military Veterans and their Families primary, secondary and special education to hear Maths) Society and arranged for a number of process and they presented on a wide variety of Wellbeing Symposium, which attracted over about projects, programmes and interventions cybersecurity experts to speak at the event, topics, many investigating the impacts of various 100 veterans, their families and those working to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for such as Detective Superintendent Jon Betts, situations on counsellors . with the armed forces . Speakers included students in schools across the North West . The Head of Criminal Justice and Custody at Professor Peter Carter OBE; the North West Healthy Futures project has been developed by Cheshire Constabulary; Taz Wake, Cybersecurity Experts on rural issues from across the country – Brigade Deputy Commander Colonel Phil the University of Chester and Health Education and Risk Consultant at Halkyn Consulting Ltd; including policy makers, practitioners and Harrison; Medical Dean, Brigadier Robin England . Changes have included physical and James Simpson, Cybersecurity Consultant academics – attended a seminar exploring Simpson; and Chris Matheson, MP for Chester, activity, nutrition, sexual health, employability and Director at Secti Ltd . all aspects of rural life in England . The event plus presentations on how Warrington Wolves and life skills, fitness and physical health, mental was organised by the Rural Services Network, and Everton Football Club work with the health, drugs, alcohol and bullying . The University co-hosted the prestigious 23rd hosted by the Department of Geography and veteran population . Issues explored at the event Annual Research Conference of the British International Development and welcomed included healthcare, law and opportunities Cybersecurity student, Richard Bloxam-Rose, Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy members of the Royal Geographical Society through sport . organised a Cybersecurity Conference at (BACP) – Research and Reflective Practice for the with the Institute of British Geographers . Thornton Science Park . Richard is President Counselling Profession . Eleven of the University’s Speakers included Professor John Shepherd A Healthy Futures workshop was an opportunity (Computer Science) of the University’s postgraduate students and graduates were among (Birkbeck College, ); Ian for head teachers, teachers and other staff from STEM (Science Technology Engineering and those taking part in a competitive peer-review Baker (Small Woods Association); Jeremy Pickles

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Simon Thacker (Lead Consultant Psychiatrist, Royal Derby Hospital); Jacob West (National Lead, Primary Care and Acute Systems); and Dr Wendy Burn (Royal College of Psychiatrists) .

Students from three faculties worked with The National Rapid Assessment Interface and Discharge Rural Services Network Seminar. Network Event. Nutrition Society’s Student Conference organisers. members of the Nutrition Society’s student section to organise the first Nutrition Society Student Conference . This event offered support and advice to nutrition students and topics included sports nutrition and animal nutrition, plus networking sessions, and the chance to ask a careers panel about their nutrition career path . Keynote speakers were Dr Louis Levy (Head of Nutrition Science, Public Health England) and Professor Alan Jackson (University of Southampton) .

Branding conference delegates. Delegates at the Chester Forum. Business leaders and academics from the region joined counterparts from China (East Riding of Yorkshire Council) and Lois Alliance and Brightlife Team . Brightlife is a Big The fifth National RAID (Rapid Assessment to discuss the economy at the Chester Mansfield (University of ) . Lottery funded project led by Age UK Cheshire Interface and Discharge) Network event was Forum . Sessions included a review of the that seeks to address social isolation and hosted by the Faculty of Health and Social economy, politics, international economy A symposium on branding and reputation loneliness among older adults . Presentations Care, to give practitioners the chance to and partnerships with China; reflections on management was held jointly by the University were given by members of the research team and share their experiences of this service . RAID developing business and entrepreneurship of Chester Business School with the Manchester volunteer co-researchers and the early findings teams are specialist multidisciplinary staff in in China and the UK: exports, investments, Business School . Twenty academics from 12 suggest the intervention has contributed to a acute care hospitals . They support excellent tourism trends and issues; and an open panel countries attended the conference to debate drop in loneliness among the participants and physical and mental health and aim to work session to explore potential collaboration topics such as the measurement of brand image, that improvements could be made in targeting together to share best practice, find solutions and sharing experiences in developing personal branding and how manufacturers the right people and the type and range of to common problems, strengthen links business . The Forum was established as part should compete with retail brands . activities provided . Working in partnership with between liaison mental health services and of the UK and China Business: The Marco Brightlife, the Centre for Ageing Studies also facilitate collaborative working on research Polo Initiative and Belt Road Initiative, to In order to share the findings to date from the held a half-day workshop, ‘Ageing: Myths and and innovation projects . Speakers included aid dialogue on key issues that impact on local evaluation, the Centre for Ageing Studies Misconceptions’, which provided interactive Dr Peter Byrne (Homerton University Hospital trade and public affairs communication held a half-day feedback session for members of sessions on perceptions of ageing and sessions on NHS Trust); Professor Allan House (Professor between Europe and China, and is focused the Brightlife Partnership Board, Older People’s dementia, capacity, and alcohol use . of Liaison Psychiatry, ); Dr on improving links between the two .

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Eminent guests

Public lectures from visiting experts provide the University community and the wider public with opportunities to learn from their knowledge and experience, and are an integral part of the stimulating academic environment at the institution . The following selection lists some of these individuals who visited the University .

Annual Haygarth Lecture ŸŸ Councillor Faisal Rashid (133rd Mayor ŸŸ Professor Paul Lincoln OBE (Chief Executive of and first citizen of Warrington) – ‘The the UK Health Forum, Member of the Royal Importance of Economic Development: College of Physicians, Association of Directors Making a Difference in Every Part of the of Public Health and Professorial Fellow to Community’ . the Royal Society for Public Health) – ‘Non Communicable Diseases – A Preventable ŸŸ Dave Thompson MBE, DL, MBA (Founder Catastrophe’ . and Chair of Warrington Disability Partnership) – ‘Disability Equality Matters: Annual Professor Glyn Turton Lecture A Look at One Man’s 27 Year Journey as a Ian McMillan. Councillor Faisal Rashid. ŸŸ Ian McMillan (poet, writer and broadcaster, Patient, Service Influencer and Policy Maker’ . ‘The Bard of Barnsley’) – ‘Talking Myself Home’ . Institute of Gender Studies Research Address at Founders’ Day Service Seminar Series ŸŸ The Rev Dr Jeremy Law (Dean of Chapel and ŸŸ Dr Kristin Aune (Senior Research Fellow, Chaplain, Canterbury Christ Church University) . Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations, ) – ‘Representation of Warrington Campus Religion on the British Feminist Webzine ŸŸ Philip Cox (Chief Executive, Cheshire and “The F Word”’ . Dave Thompson MBE, DL, MBA. Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership) – ‘Growing the Cheshire and Warrington ŸŸ Dr Jenny Slater (Senior Lecturer, Department Economy (Almost) a Year After the of Education, Sheffield Hallam University) – Referendum’ . ‘School Toilets, “Development” and Queer Disabled Bodies’ . ŸŸ David Keane (Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire) – ‘Police and Crime Plan for Cheshire’ . Department of Geography and Development Studies ŸŸ Dr Louise Minchin (BBC Breakfast presenter and ŸŸ Duncan Green (Senior Strategic Adviser, honorary graduate) – ‘Dare to Tri’ . Oxfam) – How Change Happens book launch . Dr Louise Minchin. Duncan Green.

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– ‘The Use of Occupancy Models in Great ŸŸ Professor Alex Scott-Samuel (Senior Clinical ŸŸ Dr Tom Butler (Lecturer in Food Science, Crested Newt Population Management’ . Lecturer in Public Health, University Manchester Metropolitan University) – ‘From of Liverpool and Visiting Professor) – Pharma to Fork: The Role of Nutrition in Heart ŸŸ Dr Meryl Gelling (Wild Conservation Research Unit ‘International Policy Perspective of Health Failure Management’ . (WildCRU), University of Oxford) – ‘Trichomonas Impact Assessment’ . sp . infection in Water Voles and Current Findings ŸŸ Helen Grealish (Health Promotion Research on Streamside Vegetation Management’s Impact ŸŸ Asmait Yohannes (Vice-Chair of Nursing, Icahn Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway) – on Habitat Use by Water Voles’ . School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, ‘How Does Academic Research Influence Policy in New York) – ‘Executive Leadership and US a Small Western Democracy? Empirical Evidence ŸŸ Dr Gonzalez-Suarez (Lecturer in Ecological Healthcare Systems’ . for the Translation of Research into Policy’ . Modelling, ) – ‘Conservation in the Anthropocene: Species Department of Biological Sciences ŸŸ Informed-Sport and Don MacLaren (Emeritus Traits, Human Impacts, and Uncertain Futures’ . ŸŸ Dr Karina Wright (Lecturer, Orthopaedics and Professor of Sports Nutrition, Liverpool Tissue Engineering, ; and John Moores University) – ‘Nutrition X: Safe ŸŸ Dr Jonathan Green (Senior Lecturer in Marine Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Supplementation in Sport’ . Biology, ) – ‘How Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oswestry) Tracking Seabirds is Important for Conservation’ . – ‘Autologous Stem Cells, Chondrocytes, Or ŸŸ Modi Mwatsama (Director of Policy and Professor Mark Miodownik the Two (ASCOT): A Phase II Clinical Trial for Global Health, UK Health Forum) – ‘Public ŸŸ Dr Diogo Veríssimo (David H Smith Conservation the Treatment of Cartilage Injury’ . Health Priorities for a Future Food and ŸŸ Stephen Twigg MP, (Liverpool West Derby and Research Fellow, Johns Hopkins University) – Farming System: The Government’s Proposed member of the Commons Sub-committee on ‘Identifying and Measuring Conservation Success’ . Department of Social and Political Science Sustainable Healthy Eating Strategy’ . the Independent Commission for Aid Impact) ŸŸ Emily Crowley (Deputy Director, Student – ‘International Development: The Way Ahead Faculty of Health and Social Care – Sharing Action for Refugees) – ‘Volunteering with the North Wales & North West Urological Research for the UK’ . Public Health Seminars National Network of Student Groups Working Centre (NW2URC) ŸŸ Dr Kate Arden (Director of Public Health, to Improve the Lives of Refugees in the UK’ . ŸŸ Vaughan Gething AM (Welsh Health Minister), Faculty of Science and Engineering Wigan Council) – ‘The Role of Public Health in visited the NW2URC for an overview of current Christmas Lecture Local Government and National Policy’ . Animal Behaviour and Welfare Research Group clinical research . ŸŸ Professor Mark Miodownik (Director of ŸŸ Marco Smolla (Department of Computational the Institute of Making, University College ŸŸ Professor Paul Cosford CBE (Director, Public and Evolutionary Biology, University Faculty of Health and Social Care Seminar Series London) – ‘Materials for the 21st Century’ . Health England and Visiting Professor) – of Manchester) – ‘Evolution of Culture ŸŸ Helen Leyland (Research Facilitator, Cheshire ‘Leading Strategies Dealing with Health Through Social Learning’ . and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Chester Theological Society Inequalities and Health Improvement’ . Trust) – ‘Alcohol Use in the Over 65s: Is ŸŸ Professor Joan Taylor (King’s College London) Department of Clinical Sciences and Mental Health a Contributory Factor?’ . – ‘The Essenes in the Ancient Literary Sources’ . ŸŸ Nick Phin (Deputy Director, National Infection Nutrition Research Seminars Service, Public Health England and Visiting ŸŸ Dr Bartek Buczkowski (Senior Lecturer in Nutrition, ŸŸ David Seedhouse (Professor of Values Based Conservation Biology Research Group Professor) – ‘Leading Public Health England’s Manchester Metropolitan University) – ‘Are All Practice, ) – ŸŸ Paul Furnborough (North East Wales Wildlife) Response to the Zika Virus’ . Carbs Equal? The Story of Sourdough Bread’ . ‘A Theory of Everything for the NHS’ .

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ŸŸ Dr Jane Traies (Research Associate, Faculty of Health and Social Care ) – ‘Older Lesbian Historical Society Lives in the UK: Redressing an ŸŸ Dr Claire Chatterton (Staff Tutor, Open Imbalance in LGBT Ageing Studies’ . University in the North West) – ‘“It Turned Us Yellow All Over”: Health Care ŸŸ Professor Martin Vernon (National Clinical Provision for Munition Workers During Director for Older People and Integrated Care, the First World War’ (to celebrate the ‘From Street to Salon, Solo!’. NHS England) – ‘Frailty: Why it is Important?’ . refurbishment of the Riverside Museum); ‘Nursing Men Following Facial Injury World Social Work Day – ‘Promoting and Surgery During the First World War Community and Environmental Sustainability’ Rekindling the Desire to Live?’ (joint ŸŸ Siobhan Maclean (Social Work Trainer and events with the Royal College of Nursing’s Consultant in Social Care and Social Work, History of Nursing Society, RCN HoNS) . Honorary Secretary of the International Federation of Social Workers, European ŸŸ Professor Paul Horan (Trinity College region) – ‘Journeying Towards a Sustainable Dublin), ‘Irish Nursing Narratives 1914–1921: Social Work Professional Identity’ . Caring for Soldiers of the Crown and the Harp in War and Rebellion’ (joint event ‘The Best of Both Worlds: A Busker’s ’. ‘Farucchio Peru is Extraordinaire’. ŸŸ Participants also attended a variety of sessions with the Westminster Centre for Research hosted by staff and students and there was and Innovation in Veterans’ Wellbeing) . a musical theatre production from Liverpool drama group ‘New Centre Stage’ . ŸŸ Dame Betty Kershaw (Professor Emeritus, , Fellow of the Royal Performing Arts, Kingsway Campus College of Nursing and former President) – ŸŸ Fallen Angels Dance Theatre – ‘Upon Awakening’ . ‘“The Northern Powerhouse”: Cotton Town Nurses Who Shaped the Profession’ ŸŸ Ollie Crick – ‘From Street to Salon, Solo!’ . (joint event with the RCN HoNS) .

ŸŸ Alison Matthews and Leo Burtin – ‘The Best of ŸŸ Dr Niall McCrae (Lecturer, King’s College Both Worlds: A Busker’s Opera’ . London) – ‘Irish Days, Mauritian Nights: The Experiences of Nurses from Overseas in ŸŸ Teatro Pomodoro – ‘Farucchio Peru is British Mental Hospitals, 1940s to 1990s’ . Extraordinaire’ . ŸŸ Dr Alison O’Donnell (Lecturer, University ŸŸ Lucho Guzman – ‘Ceniza (Ashes)’ . of Dundee) – ‘The Craiglockhart War Hospital: The Men, The Women and the ŸŸ Judita Vivas – ‘Seven Petticoats’ . Hydra’ (joint event with the RCN HoNS) . Dr Claire Chatterton with Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Adrian Lee.

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Investment in facilities

The Estates and Facilities team has carried out a programme of continuing improvements to the University’s seven campuses, including the unveiling of the prestigious Energy Centre at Thornton Science Park, and has received recognition for its key role in reducing the carbon footprint of the University . In addition, the proposed Chester Medical School could expand the community health and clinical teaching facilities for the city of Chester and its surrounding areas .

The Energy Centre at Thornton Science Park Designed to promote growth and acceleration is a nationally significant facility, primarily in the development and exploitation of aimed at supporting and enabling energy technologies for the energy market, the Energy research, innovation, technology development Centre provides a flexible place, where industry and demonstration, in order to meet the and academia comes together to innovate, growth needs of the sector . The development develop and demonstrate new intelligent energy was part-funded by the Cheshire and technologies . Further improvements at Thornton Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership, Science Park include the creation of a new drop- The Energy Centre. which contributed £6 .8 million from its Local off and pick-up point with bus stops, shelters Growth Fund, alongside £8 million invested and a new turnstile system for £190,000 and the from the University, to create a facility for the refurbishment of Building 38 (the Sutton Building, development, testing and demonstration of which houses Learning Resources) for £100,000 . current and future energy technologies . Three new Biology laboratories have been The building includes four industrial test bays created on the Parkgate Road Campus for the to accommodate large units and equipment, a Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Life Sciences suite of equipment including an intelligent multi at a cost of £750,000 . These can accommodate vector micro grid (multiple energy sources and 126 students for teaching and research and iPad storage units connected to the same local power Minis have been installed into each workbench so grid), purpose-built industrial space, a coffee that students can search for information, collect shop, a boardroom with video-conferencing and record data and lecturers can screencast facilities, office and laboratory space and room their PC to the iPads . Other work on the Parkgate for plant or technology installation . Examples of Road Campus included major refurbishments the technologies for testing and development of Catherine, Margaret and Alexandra Halls, the include new types of photovoltaic solar cells, NoWFOOD Centre and the swimming pool, thermal systems based on stored and pumped together with new road surfacing and drainage, heat and advances in low power motor drives . representing an outlay of £273,000 . Industrial test bays in The Energy Centre.

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Biology laboratories. The proposed Chester Medical School building.

Tower Gallery at Warrington saw its first public commitment to providing a sustainable art exhibitions, with the work of Phil Barton and environment for students and staff . James Lavott, and the facility also hosts the work of students and holds film screenings . The need to address the lack of a specialist training facility for doctors in Cheshire, Wirral and Working closely with the Sustainability Shropshire has led to the planning stages of a Unit, the Estates and Facilities team purpose-built facility on Parkgate Road for the Phil Barton’s Nature Rearranged exhibition. installed LED lighting at a cost of £500,000, new Chester Medical School . It would consist of which has resulted in better teaching and a 12,000 square metre, state-of-the-art building Across the other campuses, the improvements learning environments and a reduction of with cutting-edge facilities, including four lecture included the upgrading of the dance studios 60% in energy usage . Together with the theatres, an anatomy and dissection room with at the Kingsway Campus, the Phase 2 implementation of other environmental 3D virtual tables, a clinic with consulting rooms refurbishment of the Guildhall at Shrewsbury measures, this has resulted in shortlisting to provide medical services for older people, six for £120,000, work on the windows of the in three categories for the Environmental science laboratories, a library and an IT suite . This Martin Building at Warrington for £250,000 and Association of University and College’s Green facility would allow the expansion of training for improvements to seminar spaces, common Gown Awards and winning the Educate the region’s health and social care workers, help rooms and the Students’ Union Building for North Award for Environmental Sustainability . to alleviate staffing shortages and expand the James Lavott’s exhibition. £500,000 . The North West Media Centre’s new This demonstrates the University’s ongoing medical facilities for the local community .

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Commitment to sustainability

A whole host of awards has been forthcoming for green initiatives, as students and staff work together to embed sustainability across the University’s campuses, community, cultures and curriculum .

The University joined 48 other UK universities a recyclable ‘eco takeout box’, to avoid in pledging its commitment to avoid containers going to landfill . The judges said: investment in fossil fuel industries . Professor “Chester won because of the Eco-Box project, Tim Wheeler, Vice-Chancellor, stated, “We think supported by an excellent holistic sustainable it is important that efforts are made to stay food approach ”. within the parameters of 1 .5–2 degrees limit of global warming, as signed by 195 countries at In the Research and Development Student the Paris Climate Change agreement in 2015 . category, Alex Lerczak was highly commended We have therefore decided to confirm our for his MSc project, which investigated the commitment to the Fossil Free Declaration perceptions of staff and students about how and, in doing so, our aspiration to be a part of sustainability is embedded in the curriculum . the transition to a low carbon economy ”. His research was instrumental in introducing a Ian White with the Green Gown award and an ‘eco takeout box’. period of curriculum change at the University The University celebrated recognition of and he achieved a distinction for his work . its environmental awareness in the higher This has led to a number of student projects education sector’s 2016 Green Gown Awards . and the establishment of a teaching and The University’s Hospitality and Residential research network focused on sustainability . Services team came first in the Food and Drink Student Karen Elliott (BSc Hons, Geography) category, in which it was commended for its was a finalist in the Sustainability Champion wide range of sustainability initiatives . These category for raising awareness about have been undertaken through the key areas sustainable matters and encouraging peers to of food procurement and waste, packaging, think and act more sustainably . She was a key and catering equipment . Residential and volunteer for Green Chester (a University-wide Hospitality Services was recognised for the environmental initiative), gaining over 150 crucial role it plays in contributing to the volunteering hours in the process . institution’s sustainable future and how it seeks to lead by example, such as gaining The University followed up this success with accreditation with the Vegetarian Society nominations in three categories for the 2017 and Coeliac UK . The team has also replaced Green Gown Awards . The Sustainability Unit disposable polystyrene takeout boxes with was shortlisted in the Carbon Reduction Alex Lerczak with his Green Gown award. The Seaborne Library Green Impact team at Veggiefest.

80 The University has gained national recognition for its sustainability initiatives and achieved a 2:1 in the People & Planet University League . This reflects the commitment from across the University to create a collaborative and holistic approach, to deliver positive impacts on the local environment, Jen Strong (NUS) with Shaunagh Smith. The University of Chester’s Christmas Tree at Chester Cathedral. communities and economy . The integration of global vvcategory for its Carbon and Energy Innovation Sustainability Star award at the University’s 2017 from the previous year . The holistic approach to Lab, which was created to implement a co- Green Impact Awards . energy reduction secured a win for the Energy Sustainable Development ordinated approach to energy and carbon and Carbon Lab in the Environmental Industry Goals, and the setting reduction across the institution . The University The Energy and Carbon Lab’s work has resulted category at the Educate North Awards for the was also a finalist in the Food and Drink category in 3,361 tonnes of CO2 saved since 2014–15, the third consecutive year . of ambitious targets, for its work in putting sustainability at the heart equivalent to 950 car journeys around the earth . aim to ensure that the of everything it does and its holistic approach to This has been achieved by upgrading more The Sustainability Unit decorated the encouraging and advocating the environmental than 11,000 light fittings with more efficient University’s contribution to the Christmas Tree environment is protected and health benefits of vegetarian and veganism . LEDs and making adjustments to the Building Festival at Chester Cathedral and the theme for future generations . Shaunagh Smith, an Administrative Assistant Energy Management System, to improve control was repurposing and upcycling . Staff and in the Estates and Facilities Department, was and efficiency . In addition, solar panels installed students from across the University transformed Tamara Hunt, also shortlisted in the Sustainability Champion throughout 2015–16 have generated 639 MWh objects into decorations; including snowmen Sustainability Officer. (staff) category for her volunteering work for of electricity over the duration of the project . An from light bulbs and Christmas trees fashioned the Sustainability Unit, including at evening energy survey was carried out and a Christmas out of old book papers . A dozen messages on and weekend events . In addition to her work at shutdown campaign promoted in order to how to have a more sustainable Christmas were the University she supports local community encourage staff and students to switch off hung from the tree, inspired by the Twelve Days projects and youth groups and won the equipment . This resulted in a reduction of 20% of Christmas .

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during their Work Based Learning placements to develop ideas to engage fellow students in tackling the issue of climate change . Working with the University’s Green Chester initiative, this placement aimed to increase environmental knowledge and action among new students . The students developed climate change resources, which are now available across the University .

Green Impact teams secured NUS funding of nearly £1,000 for projects to promote sustainability to staff and students and create a positive impact in their local environment . Examples of the activities funded were:

ŸŸ The Strategic Economic Development Directorate purchased bird feeders, Warrington Biodiversity Workshop. pedometers and a charity donation jar for its Green Impact events and campaigns . Green Chester collaborated with the Warrington vegetarianism and veganism as effective ways to Grounds and Gardens team to encourage reduce carbon footprints . The event encouraged ŸŸ The Department of Geography and more biodiversity across the campuses with people to take responsibility for what they eat International Development bought 70 reusable the Warrington Biodiversity Workshop . Using and reduce the environmental impact of food water bottles to give away to staff and students funding provided by the NUS Green Impact through seasonal and local eating . during a Bring Your Own Bottle campaign . initiative, they purchased natural materials to make an insect hotel in the Forest School, plus The Department of Social and Political Science ŸŸ The Learning and Information Services team some smaller versions for other campuses . Bird hosts a collection point for students and at the Queen’s Park Campus established a boxes were also installed to attract species such staff to make donations to the Cheshire West wellbeing area in the library for students to as wrens, wagtails and sparrows . Food Bank . This followed presentations at the take a break and enjoy free fruit and water, Sociology Festival, which raised awareness particularly during exam periods . Staff and students sampled a wide range of of the urgent problem of food poverty vegan and vegetarian food at the first Veggiefest . experienced by families in the local area . ŸŸ The Students’ Union at Warrington ran a Hosted by the Green Impact team from the successful ‘Bee the Future’ initiative by visiting Seaborne Library, with support from Catering Dr Ann Hindley (Senior Lecturer in Marketing, a local primary school to help children to Services and the Sustainability Unit, the event Tourism and Events Management), worked plant ‘bee-friendly’ seedlings, which were Veggiefest 2017. saw businesses and departments promoting with a team of seven research assistants then returned to Campus for planting .

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Seventeen Green Impact teams of staff were were recognised for their excellent work honoured by the Sustainability Unit at the in Environmental Policy and a 100% score University’s Green Tie Awards . These were held in Education for Sustainable Development at the Queen’s Park Campus and a range of reflects the institution’s and Chester Student special Green Impact prizes were awarded after Union’s commitment to the externally assessed student-led audits had evaluated their actions . Responsible Futures accreditation . This is an Recipients included the Seaborne and Queen’s NUS programme that provides a structured Park Libraries, Warrington Grounds and Gardens framework of criteria to encourage action team, Residential and Hospitality Services, the on embedding sustainability into formal and Strategic Economic Development Directorate, informal learning . For example, the Sustainability Samantha Stewart, Lisa Peters, Sarah Alderson, Unit encourages students to develop Yvonne Ankers and Shaunagh Smith . Stalls at the sustainability knowledge and skills through event included Veggiefest, the Waste Not Want coursework, dissertations and voluntary work, Not campaign and the University allotment, and by creating opportunities with academic while donations were collected for the West and professional services departments . The Cheshire Foodbank . improvement in policy and strategy has been achieved by outlining specific, measurable The procurement of goods and services targets for areas within the Sustainability accounts for around half of the University’s Strategy . These include: water; biodiversity; Student auditors at the Green Tie Awards. carbon footprint . As a result, the University procurement, construction and refurbishment; signed up to the NETpositive Supplier and transport and community, as part of the Engagement Tool, to encourage and enable revision of the institution’s Carbon Management suppliers to create bespoke action plans to Plan . A score of 50% for Carbon Reduction improve their performance on sustainability . was awarded for the previous year because of The Procurement and Sustainability teams have the big investment in LED lighting and solar encouraged 800 of the University’s suppliers panels, the change to a green electricity tariff, to participate and 80% have completed their plus improvements to data and monitoring action plans . These documents now form an and reporting . The green tariff change and integral part of the review of contracts for the PV solar electricity generation meant that the largest suppliers . Energy Sources score improved from 13% to 48 .3%, while ethical investment also improved The University achieved first-class honours from 13% to 45% following the People and classification and was ranked 21st out of 154 Planet Fossil Free declaration . All of this action universities in the 10th annual People and to minimise the University’s impact on the Planet University League – the UK’s only environment has resulted in the University comprehensive and independent green climbing up the national rankings to 21st place ranking of universities . Students and staff and gaining the top classification . Solar panels at the Parkgate Road Campus.

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A community focus

@lydiarebekka run .lana .run @_emmaheaton_ beth .pittaway @thetinapay Chester is so beautiful #yesterday #lazysunday Volunteering for the RSPB at Burton Mere My favourite picture from today #wildlife So proud to help organise Accelerate: The Pitch The end of #mychesterstory #chester #uoc #mychesterstory #uniofchester #MyChesterStory #UoChester #documentaryphotography #mychesterstory 2017! Everyone did so well and the event ran #oldclock #chesterwalls #goneforastroll #finalyear #chesterzoo #photography #monkey #zoo smoothly #thepitch2017 #unijob #venture Annual Review 2017 A community focus

Outreach activities

The University’s Outreach team works closely with students, teachers and careers advisers to extend the participation of under-represented groups in higher education, through activities designed to raise the aspirations of students, and increase their awareness of the benefits of a university education .

The Outreach team offers a variety of activity delivered by institutions as part of their informative and enjoyable events that are individual Office for Fair Access agreements, and tailored to the needs of schools, colleges and to boost the numbers of students progressing their prospective students . More than 4,600 into higher education from these targeted, prospective students were hosted as part of 79 under-represented groups . This project was events by the Outreach Team at the University initiated by David Cameron to increase the campuses and their 177 off-campus visits number of young people from disadvantaged connected with a further 9,300 prospective backgrounds entering higher education by students . The on-campus primary activity 2020, and the scope has since been expanded . included 21 campus visits, which involved The University is also a member of the ‘Shaping over 50 local primary schools and 1,733 pupils . Futures’ Merseyside Collaborative Outreach Pupils from Sir William Stanier School, Crewe. These focused on assisting the pupils in their Programme, which works with higher education transition into secondary school, while also partners across Merseyside . Science syllabus . Students learned how to introducing the concept of higher education carry out an acid–base titration technique, to and instilling the importance of attainment for The Outreach team, supported by colleagues determine the unknown concentration of an their future aspirations . across the University, has been involved in a acid solution and used complex equipment research project with the Equality Challenge that is not practical in a school setting . Dawn The University is currently a member of multiple Unit entitled ‘Increasing Diversity: Recruiting Johnson (Head of Science, Sandymoor School), networks, which are delivering the four-year Students from Underrepresented Groups’ . This said: “The students have had a fantastic time Higher Education Funding Council (HEFCE) research explores the issue of how to diversify in world class, cutting-edge facilities and it has National Collaborative Outreach Programme . As the student intake in line with the University’s been a really valuable experience ”. part of the involvement in the Higher Horizons+ Equality and Diversity Charter . The following network (including higher education partners examples show some of the outreach activities More than 75 girls from schools and colleges across Cheshire, Staffordshire and Shropshire), hosted at the University in 2016–17 . across the North West and Midlands celebrated the University is hosting a hub of staff, which International Women’s Day with a STEM is aiming to meet the objectives of this project Years 10 and 11 pupils from Sandymoor School (Science, Technology, Engineering and within target wards in the local area . The project in Runcorn used the Chemical Engineering Mathematics) day at Thornton Science Park . aims to provide additional outreach activity to labs at Thornton Science Park to complete The Faculty of Science and Engineering hosted these wards in order to complement existing mandatory practical work in the new GCSE the event to show them what can be achieved Criw Celf arts group from Powys.

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students . The winning team consisted of four teams were Technichs, from St Nicholas Catholic girls from both The King’s School and Upton- High School, Hartford, for its car accessories by-Chester High School . kit; and Memoreads, from Christleton High School, for a child’s language learning book . A series of STEM workshops organised by the Both companies gained commercial contracts Faculty of Science and Engineering and the for their products showing the high quality of Royal Air Force resulted in 280 young people the entries . Young Enterprise is the UK’s leading from the North West visiting Thornton Science charity that empowers young people to harness Park . Years 8 and 9 pupils, together with RAF their personal and business skills through cadets, learnt how to build and fly a computer connecting schools, colleges and universities controlled airship and participated in a and the world of work, and Lisa Conway (Senior simulated cyber-intelligence and digital forensics Lecturer, Department of Business and Finance) operation, to bring cyber-criminals to justice . is Chair of the Cheshire and Warrington Board of the charity . The Faculty of Business and Management hosted two taster events with Years 11 and 12 Department of Art and Design staff shared their students from local schools at the Queen’s Park expertise with the next generation of visual Campus and gave the visitors experience of artists at a workshop held at the Kingsway School students with the Skybolt rocket. Business, Finance, Marketing, Tourism and Events Campus . In conjunction with the Criw Celf Management . Students from eight schools arts group, this was to generate interest in art by women in science, and activities included rocket engines, which helped students to enjoyed a Dragon’s Den style challenge, learnt and design amongst school pupils from North building a simple computer controlled airship understand the complexities and challenges of about brand image and found out what kind of Powys . The group is funded by the Arts Council and taking part in a cyber-intelligence and reaching space . entrepreneur they are . of Wales, and supported by Powys County digital forensics operation . Council, in order to provide opportunities Around 100 school pupils from Cheshire, The Faculty of Business and Management for young people aged between 12 and 18, Seventy children from four high schools – Warrington and North Wales took part in hosted the Cheshire, Warrington and Merseyside who have been identified as being able and Winsford Academy, Sandymoor School, Whitby the Cheshire Challenge at Thornton Science final of The Company Programme, the popular talented in the visual arts . The participants High School and St Margaret’s Church of Park . Mixed school teams from 10 schools Young Enterprise schools competition at come together around seven times a year England Academy, Liverpool – became rocket undertook a series of practical applied-science the Queen’s Park Campus . Young Enterprise to work with professional artists and visit scientists for the day at Thornton Science or technology-related challenges, led by helps young people to develop a wide range exhibitions, university fine art departments and Park . Faculty of Science and Engineering members of a team of students, including some of employability skills and this initiative artists’ studios, as part of a national initiative to staff teamed up with Starchaser Industries to from the Faculty of Science and Engineering . encouraged school teams of entrepreneurs nurture young talent . Dr Jeremy Turner (Senior provide the unique one-day science workshop The activities included a robot challenge, an aged 15–17 to set up a business/company with Lecturer) said: “This is a great opportunity for the for the children in Years 8 and 9, where they E-FIT challenge, an electric car challenge and support from volunteer mentors . Teams had to University to support and generate interest in designed, built and launched their own model a brain diagnostic challenge . The prizes were submit a company report, set up and run a trade the visual arts amongst children, who are in the rocket . Starchaser’s Rocket Propulsion Lab gave presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, stand for the judging panel and then present process of making important decisions about demonstrations on how it had developed David Briggs MBE, KStJ, who also gave a talk to to the judges and dignitaries . The winning their future education and possible direction ”.

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Educational partnerships

The University’s close relationship with other key educational institutions in the region, especially University Centre Reaseheath and University Centre Shrewsbury, means that a higher proportion of people in surrounding communities can gain access to a distinctive higher education experience, tailored to their needs .

The Faculty of Education and Children’s Services Undergraduates can study on a range of high is collaborating with on quality agricultural, food production, veterinary the development of the BA (Hons) Early Years and animal-based courses, which have been Practice Top-Up and with Wirral Metropolitan designed in consultation with industry to College on the development of the BA (Hons) ensure that graduates have the academic Early Years Childcare courses . The Faculty has knowledge and practical skills that employers continued to develop its schools partnership need . Over £50 million has been invested into across the region for both core and School technical training resources at Reaseheath, Direct provision, thus supporting the flow of including an industry leading food centre, a newly qualified teachers into the profession . In unique horticultural centre for plant production University Centre Reaseheath’s Team Africa. response to the Welsh Government’s educational and research, an equestrian centre, an animal reforms, there have been some exciting centre and a zoo . A further £31 million will be and Ecology or Zoo Management, were able initiatives taking place across North Wales in invested over the next four years to increase the to support the work of professionals during collaboration with 20 nominated lead schools . on-site halls of residence and extend the Higher practical sessions . Team Africa visited South Education Centre . Other future projects include Africa for an educational visit to Balule Game an agri-technology centre and a sports centre, Reserve, where they enjoyed game drives to complement the existing high-tech gym and and walks, wildlife sightings and assignments 3G rugby pitch . The following examples show from rangers . They spent a further week at some of the highlights for higher education Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre University Centre Reaseheath students at Reaseheath . working closely with native species . Team Peru University Centre Reaseheath is part of a leading learnt about ecology and conservation in the specialist institution based in , Cheshire Animal Science Amazon and visited Cusco, the Inca . and is home to the University of Chester’s Faculty Three groups of Animal Science undergraduates Team Zoo visited three in the Netherlands of Agriculture and Veterinary Science. Set within encountered animals and built up their and each offered different insights into animal 300 hectares of farm, parkland and woodlands, knowledge of their management in the husbandry, enclosure design, zoo education students can enjoy this tranquil and rural setting wild and in captivity through international and the conservation role of modern zoos . while making the most of the cutting-edge, study tours . The students, studying Animal Highlights included a tour of the endangered industry-standard facilities. Behaviour and Welfare, Wildlife Conservation reptile breeding facility at Rotterdam Zoo, James Shora.

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conference is a great opportunity for them, and in Equine Science from Reaseheath . Another a tremendous addition to their CV ”. Reaseheath graduate, Charlotte Woolley, won the internship in 2014 and has gone on to study Reaseheath Animal Management student, Sam for a PhD in Neurobiology at the Royal (Dick) Stringwell, was invited to present the findings of School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh, while his dissertation research at the British and Irish James Rayner, Course Manager at the Equestrian Association of Zoos and Aquariums Terrestrial Centre, is also a former recipient and was able Invertebrate Working Group (TIWG) Conference to benefit from a further year’s BEF placement at Longleat . Sam compared the prevalence at MAREC . of invertebrates in international zoos, which helped TIWG committee members to evaluate Horticulture the impact of their invertebrate collections Reaseheath undergraduates designed and on public opinion . He also considered what created a show garden for a special educational bird, mammal and invertebrate species were needs school which won a silver medal at the most common in zoo collections worldwide . RHS Flower Show Tatton Park . ‘From a Different Sam said: “This was a wonderful opportunity Angle’ will be relocated at Sandside Lodge, to network with zoo professionals and to gain Ulverston, Cumbria, when the construction further knowledge of the cutting-edge research of a new replacement school has been Equine Science students with Professor Graham Suggett. being conducted in the industry ”. completed by Seddon, the construction company and sponsor of the show garden . viewing manatees at the Royal Burgers’ Zoo and Equine Science Eight undergraduates studying for a BSc in attending a talk at the European Zoo Association BSc Equine Science undergraduate Rhiannon Landscape Management or a Foundation HQ at Artis Zoo . Elsmore has become the fourth Reaseheath Degree in Garden and Landscape Design were student to have been awarded a prestigious led by Lecturer in Landscape Architecture, Four Animal Management undergraduates internship . The annual award is made jointly Craig Bailey, and supported by Reaseheath’s presented their projects at the annual British by the BEF (British Equestrian Federation) and Horticultural Department . ‘From a Different and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums the Virginia Tech Middleburg Agricultural Angle’ is designed to offer a safe, usable Research Conference in Edinburgh . For example, Research and Extension Center (MAREC) . The outdoor space suitable for young people with Zoo Management student, James Shora, UK winner spends a three-month internship in special needs, featuring raised beds, sensory observed how the coati (a South American the USA at MAREC, the world’s leading equine planting, colour therapy and a shaded seating carnivore) at was less likely breeding and research centre . Rhiannon won area . Ed Wootton, Regional Director of Seddon to fight over whole food than chopped food . the internship jointly with Harper Adams Construction said: “We were delighted to work The presentation of his findings reversed the University student, Connie Dale, while another in partnership with a leading specialist college standard practice and could influence the way Reaseheath student, Faye McTigue, was runner- such as Reaseheath, to produce a garden which captive coatis are fed in the future . Dissertation up . Rhiannon and Connie will follow last year’s is built for purpose and will hopefully deliver Supervisor, James Brereton, said: “The fact that winners, Michelle Hand and Zoe Greenwood, pleasure to pupils at the new Sandside Lodge RHS Flower Show garden at Tatton Park. the undergraduates presented at a leading who both graduated with first-class honours for many years to come ”.

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The show garden team at the 2017 Shrewsbury Flower Show. University Centre Shrewsbury’s show garden.

outset on high quality teaching and research, interests through their academic studies, together Across the institution, a priority has been fostering entrepreneurship and making a with extra-curricular options and personal welfare participation in local schemes and partnerships positive impact across Shropshire and beyond . support . The new programmes on offer include to enhance the region’s prospects . As In 2016–17 the institution welcomed its second a BA in Events and Festivals Management, a BSc part of this community involvement, UCS intake of undergraduates, its third cohort in Medical Science and an MA in Military History . has strengthened its relationships with University Centre Shrewsbury of postgraduates and its first international Students represented UCS at civic events, joined organisations such as: Team Shrewsbury, University Centre Shrewsbury (UCS) has continued students; work commenced on the new local clubs and groups and supported local and the community action group for the to establish itself as a unique institution that offers a student accommodation; innovative courses national causes with fundraising activities . Among town; Shrewsbury Town Centre Residents’ range of distinctive courses and a rounded student were established; a range of insightful events these were a shoebox campaign for Shrewsbury Association; the Marches Growth Hub, which experience in this vibrant and historic town. were held; and further links created within Ark, a drop-in centre for homeless and vulnerable offers businesses a single point of access to the community . people; a charity quiz, cake sales and a raffle information and guidance; and Shropshire Founded through the groundbreaking for Children in Need; and a rowing challenge Chamber of Commerce . UCS has signed a partnership between Shropshire Council and UCS students benefit from a personalised for Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury, to raise Memorandum of Understanding with the newly the University, UCS has been focused from the experience that is tailored to their needs and money for adaptive rowing equipment . formed Shrewsbury Colleges Group, and with

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University Centre Shrewsbury student, Emily Kulik Jones. The Guildhall building, the learning and research base.

Fairness Respect Equality Shropshire (FRESh), The institution’s own public events, which are In addition to lecture theatres and seminar Professor Anna Sutton, Provost of UCS, said: a society that promotes equality and diversity open to everyone and free wherever possible, rooms, the Guildhall offers laboratories, a café, “Thank you to everyone who has supported in the region . In addition, UCS has signed the were held at the learning and research base at library and 24-hour computer facilities, and is us in our development . We are looking Armed Forces Covenant with the Ministry of the Guildhall in Frankwell Quay and the iconic close to high quality student accommodation ahead to the coming academic years with Defence, formalising its support of the Armed 16th-century Rowley’s House . Audiences at Mardol House in the bustling, medieval great enthusiasm, whether it’s seeing our Forces Community, which has an extensive heard about diverse topics, ranging from town centre . The footprint of the institution is new students settle into university and presence across Shropshire . In recognition the Practical Pathways Conference, which also growing, as the construction of further, community life, welcoming the public to more of all of this work, UCS was presented with a aimed to provide participants with practical purpose-built accommodation has started events, breathing new life into The Tannery Silver Award in the Community category of and immediate ways of tackling mental at the nearby Tannery site . This moderate site with the construction of new student the 2017 Shrewsbury Mayor’s Awards . UCS has health issues in children and adolescents, to expansion is consistent with the long-term accommodation, expanding the courses we also contributed to key local events, including a seminar exploring the complex relationship aspiration for UCS to grow steadily and offer or sharing our research ”. exhibiting a show garden at the prestigious between man and mountain, featuring Dr proportionately over the next five to 10 Shrewsbury Flower Show and winning a second Rob Casserley, who has climbed Mount years, to the point where it can become an consecutive gold medal . Everest eight times . independent University .

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Engaging with business

The University continues to expand its engagement activity through the strengthening of links with businesses, the provision of business support and students gaining valuable industry experience with regional, national and international partners . Highlights include the opening of the multi-million pound ‘Energy Centre at Thornton’, multiple ministerial visits, the support of 65 companies at Thornton Science Park, Riverside Innovation Centre and the NoWFOOD Centre, the 554 staff employed within these businesses across the three sites and the 46 students engaging with these commercial tenants .

The University is delivering business expertise and support to over 34 SMEs and entrepreneurs through the Cheshire and Warrington Business Growth Programme, a European Regional Development Fund initiative designed to The Commercial Operations Directorate support business growth . The activities include offers a unique business opportunity for masterclasses, workshops and one-to-one expert business support, together with the support across the sites . Over 80 SMEs and collaboration between business and relevant entrepreneurs have received support from the The opening of the Energy Centre at Thornton with the Rt Hon Jake Berry MP. academic departments . The Directorate University through this tailored scheme . operates from three key commercial sites: including ABB, which has deployed a state- automation and SMART Cities . The collaboration Thornton Science Park (TSP) – a high-tech site The Energy Centre at Thornton is a state-of- of-the-art microgrid control system for the includes ABB delivering industrial lectures, near equipped for innovative the-art facility, designed to promote growth Campus, which is a UK first . The Energy Centre joint research and development, the provision and growing businesses in the energy, and acceleration in the development and at Thornton has four tenants on site from the of equipment and technical consultancy, environmental, automotive and advanced exploitation of technologies for the energy energy sector who benefit from the high tech joint technology events, ABB’s input to the manufacturing sectors; Riverside Innovation market . The Centre was opened by the Rt facilities, business expertise support and the curriculum and student placements . Ian Funnell, Centre (RIC) – based at the Riverside Campus Hon Jake Berry MP, Minister for the Northern ability to engage and collaborate with the UK Managing Director of ABB said: “I am excited in Chester city centre, which offers start-up Powerhouse and Local Growth, and attended Faculty of Science and Engineering . by the potential of our collaboration with the business office space and professional meeting by those who had played a key part in its University of Chester . Our country’s energy facilities; and the North West Food Research foundation . Formerly known as the Intelligent ABB’s five-year partnership with the University systems are transforming, yet it remains vital Development Centre (NoWFOOD) – located Energy Systems Demonstrator, the project involves the Departments of Electronic and for them to deliver cost effective, resilient and at the Parkgate Road Campus in Chester, was funded by Cheshire & Warrington Local Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, low carbon heat and power . We will be working which provides a centre of excellence for food Enterprise Partnership (Local Growth Funds) and Mechanical Engineering and Natural Sciences alongside the University to develop the new science and technology for producers across the University . It has attracted attention from through the Thornton Energy Research Institute, technologies and people needed, not only to the region . large, multinational, energy-related companies, alongside ABB’s teams in energy, industrial keep pace with the energy transformation, but

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company said: “I couldn’t praise the support all the support they have received . Miles said: received highly enough . It is unprecedented ”. “Without the NoWFOOD Centre our business just wouldn’t exist today . A year ago we were A multi-million pound eco-innovation dreamers with an idea . Today we are a micro- programme, aimed at boosting businesses business selling a range of food products in in Cheshire and Warrington, was launched multiple shops across Cheshire ”. at Thornton Science Park . Eco-Innovation Cheshire and Warrington connects businesses The RIC continues to provide business and universities to achieve business growth incubation space and expert business and innovation through funded Research growth support to over 20 businesses . It and Development (R&D) . Small and Medium has been designed to nurture and develop Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Cheshire and start-up companies by providing them with Warrington area will have unique access to opportunities to network with on-site specialist the resource, excellence and expertise of the staff and organisations . Alongside the business University of Chester and Lancaster University . It support to commercial tenants, the RIC also has provides SMEs with the opportunity to be part facilities for external clients, including bespoke of a structured programme of collaborative meeting facilities . The Rt Hon Damian Green R&D interventions and activities and supports MP visited to learn more about the work that is SMEs to innovate and commercialise new being done to support small local businesses low carbon products and services . The aim at the RIC and to hear first hand from a student Catherine Richardson, The Literacy Company. Linda Neill, The Literacy Company. is to accelerate a transition towards a low placed within one of the companies on a carbon economy in all sectors, and to involve Work Based Learning summer placement . An also to lead it . Thornton’s location, both close to Bio, a research and development firm which businesses that innovate in a wide range of example of a successful company based at our UK headquarters and in the centre of a very specialises in the development of disruptive, product, process and service areas . the RIC is The Literacy Company, which works energy intensive region, makes the University an high-output, bioprocessed, renewable energy closely with schools to improve standards in ideal partner for us ”. producing technologies . Its main goal is to The NoWFOOD Centre provides a hub of English and to enhance the curriculum . Co-

reverse the process of rising atmospheric CO2 excellence for food producers across the founders Linda Neill and Catherine Richardson The Thornton campus continues to attract to produce a zero-carbon energy future . The region, supporting them with business growth started the company, having taught English at interest from businesses within the energy, company received official government support through tenant incubation spaces as well as local schools and they identified a gap in the environmental, automotive and advanced from the Department of Business, Energy and bookable production kitchens and sensory and market . As a result, the business has received manufacturing sectors, with almost 40 Industrial Strategy and had one member of analytical testing facilities . Just Thai Kitchen is advice from the Commercial Operations team companies located there . This has generated staff when it relocated to TSP in 2016 . Following a Cheshire-based business that specialises in and other businesses on topics such as HR, further interest from the Government, with ongoing support from the Commercial creating authentic Thai ready meals and was graphic design and promotional products . a visit from the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Operations team, there are now five members the Centre’s first commercial client . Nooch and Four and a half years later, the company now The Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP, keen to learn of staff and it received a nomination for The Miles Tufft were able to scale up production employs two members of staff, two sub- more about the innovative work being being People’s Choice Award, organised by Pitch at and have developed the concern into a contractors and four associate consultants . It delivered on site . An example of this is Blue Sky Palace . Nick Bartlett, Technology Director at the growing and profitable micro-business with has also seen a 123% growth in turnover since

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ŸŸ Laser Quantum Ltd – Cheshire Business The University of Chester Business School Exporter of the Year, sponsored by ESL Fuels is integrating Principles of Responsible and West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber Management Education (PRME) into its of Commerce . education programmes . PRME is a voluntary engagement platform for business schools ŸŸ Steven Pendergast, Bluestones Investment and management education-related Group – Cheshire Business Leaders institutions, which was established by the Award for the Outstanding Cheshire and United Nations to transform management Warrington Entrepreneur of the Year . education, research and thought leadership on a global basis . Key goals are to embed ŸŸ Philip McEvoy (Operations Director at responsible management into the curriculum, Argent Oil) – Outstanding Cheshire and reduce energy consumption and deliver Warrington Business Leader Award . carbon literacy training to all students . This initiative also provides the opportunity for ŸŸ Heat Trace – Best Company Award, collaborations with other UN PRME members sponsored by Barlows (UK) Ltd . worldwide . The High Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise – Cheshire Scaffolds Ltd. ŸŸ Lucy Brown, Emilia Hoyle and James The Business School has launched the moving to the RIC, and works with schools ŸŸ Direct Food Ingredients – High Sheriff’s Sydenham – joint winners of the International Professional Faculty for Banking, across numerous local authorities including Award for Enterprise, sponsored by Apprenticeship Awards, sponsored by Accounting and Finance to play an important Birmingham, London, Bolton and Staffordshire . Cheshire & Warrington Local Enterprise Barlows (UK) Ltd . and strategic role in developing Banking, Catherine Richardson said: “The RIC is a Partnership, LDF and O2 . Accounting and Finance programmes . This great base for meeting clients, networking ŸŸ Chester Zoo for its Islands at Chester Zoo is an elite group of progressive and proactive with other companies and having an expert ŸŸ The Ice Cream Farm – Mornflake Oats project – Special Enterprising Project of the business leaders and the exclusive partnership on hand who can direct us to appropriate Award for Innovation . Year Award . has been established to advise on a range business support ”. of undergraduate and postgraduate courses ŸŸ Kawneer (UK) Ltd – High Sheriff’s Award Kathy Cowell, the High Sheriff of Cheshire, in these fields . The group includes business More than 300 guests gathered at Chester for Responsible Business Practice, said: “It was a delight to host these business leaders from: Handelsbanken; Virgin Money; Racecourse to celebrate the achievements of sponsored by Your Housing Group . awards and to see the range of companies RSM UK; Santander UK plc; MBNA, M&S Bank; businesses from across the county . The High who entered – we had entries from a range of Ellis and Co; Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise was hosted by ŸŸ Barlows (UK) Ltd – Roberts Bakery Family businesses who are geographically dispersed KPMG . The role of the business leaders is to the High Sheriff of Cheshire, Kathy Cowell, and Business Award of Excellence . across the county and of varying sizes . Despite give guest lectures; collaborate with academics the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tim Wheeler . The the differences there were some clear recurring to shape the curriculum to ensure that future guest speaker was New York Times best-selling ŸŸ Cheshire Scaffolds Ltd – Award for themes among the companies, such as workforce development needs are met; provide author, consultant, educator, broadcaster, Training, Development and Opportunity standards, quality, total focus on the customer current case studies to give exposure to ‘real former NBA star, and elite psychologist, John for Young People, sponsored by Chess and and passion and it was lovely to celebrate world’ problems and mentor students as they Amaechi OBE . The winners were: Click Consult . these businesses ”. progress through their courses .

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Beyond our boundaries

The University plays a significant role in the region through bringing in approximately £400 million, hosting numerous public events, supporting cultural projects, such as the new Storyhouse, and its students and staff contributing to a wealth of community activities .

The establishment of Storyhouse, Chester’s A number of Master’s degree programmes are new £37 million theatre, library, restaurant and being developed and delivered in conjunction cinema, has resulted in the joint creation of a with Storyhouse, such as the MA in Drama, the new role of Senior Lead for Cultural Education MRes in Storytelling and the MA in Creative and Research . This is to liaise between Practices in Education . Alongside these Storyhouse and the University, to ensure that developments, numerous other projects the best of learning and research is shared and and engagements have evolved during the developed between the institutions . Leading partnership and strengthened this beneficial in all areas of higher education decision- and powerful synergy of ideals between Nick Ponsillo, Director of the Philip Barker Centre (PBCCL). Chester Student Community Guide. making at Storyhouse, the role ensures Storyhouse and the University (see page 103 for that the collaboration develops innovative, further details) . University, maintaining student learning at the ŸŸ Students moving into private sector arts-based practices for consulting the public leading edge of practice and complementing accommodation in Chester are directed to the and community groups on the programming The new outward facing Philip Barker Centre the work of RECAP . Funded by the Philip Barker Chester Student Community Guide and the of learning activities and social, cultural and for Creative Learning (PBCCL) centre is Charity over a five-year period, the PBCCL University hosted Welcome to the City talks educational events at Storyhouse . An example exploring the role, use and understanding of builds on the long-standing partnership for new residential students . These are given of these activities is an arts-based evaluative creativity, creative learning and practice over between the Philip Barker Charity and the by local community champion Matt Baker, report being compiled by the University’s the course of people’s lives . The PBCCL was Faculty of Education and Children’s Services, police liaison representatives and CSU and Research into Education, Creativity and Arts established in 2016 in response to the decline most notably with the celebration of the are designed to give new students a positive through Practice (RECAP) centre into the in creative learning approaches with young University’s 175th Anniversary . message of welcome, promote a positive Storyhouse Young Leaders Programme . Further people and the opportunity for a greater student experience, share some student developments have also seen the co-creation involvement of creative practice through the The Student Futures Community Liaison team safety messages and help new students of credit and non-credit bearing programmes, arts in the health system . The Centre operates works hard to promote positive engagement understand their responsibilities as members modules, and continuous professional in collaboration with the cultural sector, between its students and the local community, of the wider community . development from Levels 4–8, for students delivering innovative approaches, principally in collaboration with Chester Students’ Union and school teachers . As a result, a single Work within the areas of education, health and (CSU) . The following examples show some of ŸŸ University staff work closely with local Based Learning module has been established social care, to develop practice, disseminate the ways in which students are educated about residents’ associations . For example, Louise in the Department of English, which brings evidence and to be an advocate for change . their responsibilities to the local community Collins (Community Liaison Manager) second-year students and the Fallen Angels The learning from these collaborations feeds and the collaborative work that takes place regularly attends meetings of the Garden dance company together in ‘Chester Re:Told’ . into the development of courses across the between the University and local residents . Quarter Residents’ and Traders’ Association

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and worked with them on an innovative community . For example, a cheese and wine enjoy a special meal prepared by award-winning Evans . They write and perform theatre which Welcome Festival, designed to introduce evening was organised jointly by the Ultimate chefs . These included: a Valentine’s Day meal, explores many complex life issues through students to the mixed community and its Frisbee Team, CSU and the Community a Sunday lunch and a Christmas meal at the their company, Haylo Theatre . In particular, they members and businesses, including a street Liaison Manager at a Garden Quarter Senate House Dining Rooms on the Parkgate target difficult subjects in the health, social care party, tours of the area and a GQ’s Got retirement residence and also an afternoon Road Campus; and a Mother’s Day meal and and education sectors through bespoke theatre Talent Competition . tea at a local care home . a Christmas meal at the De Gaulle Brasserie, performances and workshops . They performed Churchill House at the Queen’s Park Campus . their play ‘Over the Garden Fence’ as part of ŸŸ The Community Liaison Manager is part ŸŸ The University works with Chester Civic Ian White (Domestic Bursar and Director of the Women of the World (WOW) festival at of a working group led by CH1ChesterBID Trust on Heritage Open Days, when the local Hospitality and Residential Services), said: “We Storyhouse . Hayley and Louise’s play encourages (the Business Improvement District for community can visit sites, such as the iconic take a real pride in what we do and the feedback audience engagement and conversation around Chester) which is preparing a Purple Flag Chapel on the Parkgate Road Campus and we’ve had from everyone who’s attended the dementia and highlights the importance of accreditation bid for the night-time and the University of Chester Riverside Museum, pop-up restaurants has been phenomenal ”. the individual behind the illness . Hayley said: evening economy in Chester . Purple Flag and plans to open further locations of “Professionals, mental health care services, carers is a positive initiative that indicates an historical interest . Some of the first actors to perform at Chester’s and families have seen our plays as a tool to entertaining, diverse, safe and enjoyable new Storyhouse were Drama and Theatre bring people together and discuss prevalent night out throughout the UK and Ireland and ŸŸ The Community Liaison Manager engages Studies graduates, Hayley Riley and Louise and complex issues ”. is now being extended internationally . with partners on community projects, such as Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Waste ŸŸ The University takes part in a collaborative Not Want Not Campaign . The Campaign working group to share good practice with promoted better use of the Recycle First the local providers of purpose-built student service and proved to be very successful, accommodation . winning awards for its efforts to encourage students to donate items they would ŸŸ The University and Community Liaison normally throw out to local charities before Committee consists of representatives from they leave for the summer break . Cheshire West and Chester Council, the local police force, residents’ associations, CSU The University of Chester Business School held sabbaticals and relevant members of staff its annual carol service in the historic Churchill from the University . The Committee is a very Building at the Queen’s Park Campus . Everyone proactive and positive forum for discussing from the local community in was community engagement with the University . invited to enjoy spiced, mulled wine and apple juice and mince pies after an uplifting service of ŸŸ The Community Liaison Manager welcomes carols, readings and music by Deva Brass . enquiries from local organisations for engagement with students and works with A series of pop-up restaurants was held by both the Volunteer Co-ordinator and CSU Residential and Hospitality Services, to welcome to encourage students to engage with the local residents to two Chester campuses to Community clean-up. Haylo Theatre.

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The leading poet, writer and broadcaster Ian and I came to see Ian McMillan more than The Westminster Centre for Research and Partnership to improve engagement with McMillan presented the county’s finest poets anything! I feel overwhelmed ”. The best entries Innovation in Veterans’ Wellbeing hosted a Cheshire’s veterans . with their awards at the Cheshire Prize for from the Cheshire Prize for Literature were workshop for committee members of the Literature evening . The first prize of £2,000 was celebrated at the anthology launch for Crossings Cheshire Armed Forces Covenant Partnership . An unexpected rediscovery by Llangollen presented to Cheryl Pearson, for her poem Over: Poetry from the Cheshire Prize for Literature Representatives from Cheshire West and Museum of a fragment of medieval effigial ‘The Cartographer’s Daughter’ and she had 2016. The selected poems, including those by Chester, East Cheshire, Halton and Warrington grave-slab, perhaps commemorating Abbot her winning entry read out by Ian McMillan . the winners and runners-up, were gathered Councils were joined by attendees from the Hywel of the Cistercian religious house of Three runners-up received £250 and they together in Crossings Over, edited by Dr Ian Ministry of Defence, The Royal British Legion, Valle Crucis Abbey, has led to a high-profile were: Helen Kay for her poem ‘Dad: Latin at Seed (Programme Leader in Creative Writing) . Defence Medical Services, Ex-Forces Action peer-reviewed article by the University’s the Village School, 1969’; Joy Winkler with Each writer was presented with a copy of the Network, Cheshire Police, Warrington, Cheshire Professor Howard Williams (Department ‘Shakkei – Borrowed Scenery’ and John Paul anthology by the High Sheriff of Cheshire, Sarah and Wirral Clinical Commissioning Groups, of History and Archaeology) . Gillian Smith, Davies, for his poem ‘The Darkroom’ . Cheryl Callander Beckett, and Dr Seed read out the Cheshire Fire and the Department for Work the Manager of Llangollen Museum, had Pearson, who was also celebrating having her winning poem by Cheryl Pearson . He said: “It and Pensions . The workshop addressed issues identified the significance of the find first book accepted for publication, said: “It feels has been a great privilege to edit the anthology such as Education and Working Together, and secured it on temporary loan to the fabulous to win and was very unexpected . I Crossings Over, and an honour to work with all and the event helped to provide additional Museum for local people to see . Together knew there would be so many amazing entries the poets involved ”. information and structure in assisting the with Gillian, local historian David Crane and

The Cheshire Prize for Literature prize winners. The Cheshire Prize for Literature anthology launch.

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archaeologist and artist, Dr Aaron Watson, Archaeology) hosted an event at Chester Professor Williams led new research exploring Catholic High School . Together with Dr Mike the significance of the monument, which Bird from the Faculty of Education, they was published in the Royal Archaeological encouraged trainee teachers to use a range Institute’s The Archaeological Journal and of source materials in teaching the history of disseminated through social media, blog the First World War to school pupils . Other posts and public talks . The slab is not only Diverse Narratives activities included an the first-ever known effigial slab of a Welsh exhibition with Handforth Parish Council in medieval abbot and bearing the abbot’s Handforth Library on internment in the First name, it is also a rare example of an abbot World War and, in collaboration with Tata shown in mass vestments, uniquely holding a Chemicals and local historian, Alan Lowe, the book and paten . His expression is also rare: he dedication of new graves for two Belgian is smiling rather than the more usual sombre refugee boys who died in Northwich during expression, raising the question of whether the conflict . this reflects his personality rather than merely a stylised image . The slab therefore sheds Professor Stewart Ainsworth (Department new light on mortuary and commemorative of History and Archaeology and former practice in Wales in the Middle Ages . The Time Team presenter) is using Chester student, Rowena Young (left), in York. enCompass Collective. research is a fascinating example of how knowledge from the discovery of Chester’s liaison with local people and a local museum, Roman amphitheatre almost 90 years ago to Dance with Drama and Theatre Studies The Department of Sport and Community following a chance rediscovery of a unique help him and a team from the University of graduates, Josh Slater and Eleanor Russell, set Engagement conducted an evaluation of artefact, can lead to exciting new research of York start the process of finding York’s lost up their contemporary dance theatre company, a Sport England-funded external project, international significance which benefits the amphitheatre . Professor Ainsworth was part enCompass Collective, four years ago having sponsored by Bury Metropolitan Borough local community . of an English Heritage team involved in the been awarded £2,000 by Santander Universities Council (MBC) . The work focused on the Chester Amphitheatre project in 2004–05 as part of the Venture programme . They have experience of women and girls who did not Teachers and advisors events have been and is helping to discover whether The King’s now been based at the Kingsway Campus in remain engaged in sporting activities and delivered across the Chester, Shrewsbury Manor could be the site of the legionary Chester for four years and run regular weekly those providing them . Bury MBC piloted and Warrington sites, in order to provide amphitheatre . He presented the evidence contemporary dance technique classes at various different interventions for this ‘I Will If useful information, advice and guidance to gathered from Chester and how this might discounted rates for students . They also perform You Will’ project and the Department utilised colleagues working within local schools and translate to York, at a public lecture with full length professional shows and audition new different methods of enquiry to enable Bury to colleges . For example, staff in the Department Tim Sutherland as part of the Eboracum performers at Kingsway Campus . Josh, who is understand some of the reasons why women of Theology and Religious Studies organised Roman Festival . A Chester Archaeology also a Visiting Lecturer at the University and is lapsed from the project . The work was utilised teacher training days throughout the year student, Rowena Young, was also involved in studying for an MRes in Arts and Media, said: as part of the final project evaluation report on the A level Religious Education syllabus . surveying the area in front of King’s Manor for “All of our dancers are graduates from Chester provided by other consultants for Sport England . As part of the Diverse Narratives project, Dr evidence of the amphitheatre using Ground over the last four years . We believe in guiding Tim Grady (Reader) and Dr Hannah Ewence Penetrating Radar . She said: “It was a brilliant graduates and emerging artists to support the A student won the opportunity to have her (Senior Lecturer, Department of History and project to be a part of ”. ecology of dance and theatre in the region ”. artwork displayed at The Beatles Story Museum

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Horizons: 200 years of Trowelblazing Women’ – a national touring exhibition celebrating women in science . The concept is a creative collaboration between photographer Leonora Saunders and “TrowelBlazers”, run by three archaeologists and one palaeobiologist . The women were chosen for their pioneering work in the field of archaeology, palaeontology and geology and Cynthia was photographed as Dr Catherine Raisin, who was one of the first women to become a Fellow of the Geological Society and the second woman to receive a Doctor of Science qualification . Professor Burek is a Director of the British Federation of Women Graduates, Chair of the International Fellowships Committee at the Graduate Women’s International conference, Director of The Edwards family at the dedication of the Elgan Edwards Building. Lawrence Allen with Chris Millward and Tom Hignett. the UNESCO recognised GeoMôn (Anglesey) Geopark, and is involved with the Heritage in Liverpool as part of Armed Forces Day . Julie at an event attended by judges, barristers, dance performances choreographed by Bettina Lottery Funded project Saltscape in Cheshire . Cassels is enrolled on the University’s Artists’ academics and family members . Judge Edwards (MA in Dance), and a prose piece written by Access to Art Colleges (AA2A) scheme, which was the UK’s longest serving circuit judge and Alan Moore (author of Watchmen) . Alan wrote Part of Chester’s Forum Shopping provides placements for practising visual artists presided over some of Chester’s highest profile ‘The Mirror of Love’ in 1988 to protest against Centre became a pop-up art gallery for and designers in higher and further education cases . He also sat on the University’s Governing the government’s Clause 28, which banned Art and Media MRes work by Technical institutions across England . The competition Council and played a large role in establishing the promotion of homosexuality by UK local Demonstrators, Chris Millward and Tom was run by the Chester Military Museum and the Law School . His wife, Carol Edwards, said: authorities . Gary said: “The aim is to celebrate Hignett . Chris’s project, ‘Everyday Aesthetics’, offered the opportunity to redesign a military “The dedication ceremony was a very special our progress as a society in the UK in issues focused on audience engagement with jacket from the Museum’s collection with occasion for the whole family, and we are of equality, gender identity, freedoms and modern art exhibitions through curating full creative licensing . For her garment, Julie thrilled that an annual prize is to be awarded in personal choices ”. Bettina and Gary hope to the work of six artists who observe their replaced the lining with photographs of all the his name ”. stage the piece at universities and for it to tour surroundings and record their own visual medal ribbons held in the Museum digitally as a fully-funded professional production . They experiences through the camera lens . Tom’s printed on to fabric, and also incorporated QR Two former students, Gary Lloyd and Bettina concluded: “Working with both Music and exhibition focused on digital art and how codes to interpret and explain the historical Carpi, hosted a live contemporary dance Dance students here has been incredibly useful items can be viewed in a different way and relevance of Cheshire army uniforms . theatre event with 17 dance performers for us .” “change when they are digitised” . Forum and six musicians from the Department of Shopping Centre Manager, Lawrence Allen, The University of Chester Law School Building Performing Arts . ‘The Mirror of Love’ featured Professor Cynthia Burek was chosen to said: “Chris and Tom’s pop-up gallery was very was dedicated to the late Judge Elgan Edwards music composed by Gary (Combined Studies), feature as one of 14 case studies in ‘Raising well received by our shoppers ”.

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The Kingsway Solstice was a free, public Parkgate Road and Warrington Campuses and festival-in-a-day, featuring students, staff and across Cheshire and the North West . She said: resident theatre companies showcasing their “What a fantastic event and a huge thanks work for the festive season . The performances to the University of Chester for all the help included: ‘Untangling Christmas’ by graduate and support ”. Georgia Swarbrick, a Physical company Performing Pathways; ‘Kingfisher’ Education student, said: “I found out about the by student and poet David Longworth; The opportunity to become involved with Total ‘Kingsway Cake-Off’ provided by students Gymnastics through an email from my tutor Isobell Rowett and Ben Lanchin; ‘Site Stories’ and have now been an academy coach for just by Drama and Performing Arts students; ‘The under a year ”. Heist’ by graduate company Quintus, led by student and writer Rhodri Hales; Student ‘Band The University operates a cardiac rehabilitation Performances’; ‘Dr Timothy Jones – Christmas programme at the Parkgate Road Campus, 101’ by student Toby Jones; ‘Ruby Ring – A Ghost which is used by approximately 80 patients a Story’ by Master’s student Sam Minshall; ‘Chance week from the local community . A further 60 – The Kingsway Players’ by a student theatre members of the public have participated in company; ‘Dario Fo – A Tribute’ by students 12-week courses of walking netball or Jay Giblin and Alex Deane; ‘Cross Currents walking football . Beth Tweddle MBE and the Total Gymnastics Academies’ gymnasts. Dance Evening’ by Dance students; ‘Slideshow Shakespeare – The Winter’s Tale’ by Master’s First World War memorials around Cheshire achieving Grade II listing status for many of Two new fitness tests designed by Professor student Richard Wiseman from Uproot Theatre and further afield have had their future these war memorials . This will help to protect Kevin Sykes (Emeritus Professor of Occupational Company; and ‘A Slice of Shakespeare’ by Dr assured thanks to students at the University . and to preserve these important sites of Health and Workplace Fitness) have been Shelley Piasecka (Senior Lecturer) and Dr Sarah History undergraduates worked in partnership memory for future generations ”. developed as alternatives to the Multi Stage Evans (Lecturer, Department of Performing Arts) . with the charity Civic Voice, to research First Fitness Test (MSFT) . The Chester Treadmill Police World War memorials in their home areas Elizabeth Parker (Lecturer, Department Walk Test and the Chester Treadmill Police The University hosted the first regional Total and secured listed status for 20 monuments, of Clinical Sciences and Nutrition) is a Run Test will give forces two alternative fitness Gymnastics Academies (TGA) Championships, with more expected to follow . Dr Tim Grady contributing member of the Active Cheshire tests, carried out on treadmills, as an aerobic giving the next generation of aspiring gymnasts (Reader in Modern History) explained: “The Physical Activity Task Force . Active Cheshire is alternative for those officers deemed medically the chance to showcase their skills in front of war memorials project was part of the the lead body for sport and physical activity unsuited to the twists, turns, stops and starts of Britain’s most successful female gymnast, Beth centenary commemorations of the First World in Cheshire and Warrington and has set up a the recognised MSFT . The tests were validated Tweddle MBE . Around 160 children, aged four War and we ran it in partnership with Civic Physical Activity Task Force (PATF), bringing by Dr Michael Morris and colleagues from the and upwards, took part in the event and Beth Voice, which has been awarded government together leaders in education, business, Department of Clinical Sciences and Nutrition helped to hand out medals to the children . funding to help preserve the thousands of community, health and sport . PATF aims and endorsed by the College of Policing . Beth, who is an honorary graduate and Director memorials across the country . Very few of to work towards Cheshire and Warrington Professor Sykes said: “The original Chester Step of TGA, set up the business to inspire and these memorial sites are currently ‘listed’ on becoming the most physically active sub- Test was devised by myself for the UK Fire educate people of all ages and abilities about the National Heritage List for England . Civic region in the country, by mapping out current Service back in the nineties . I am delighted gymnastics . Classes are held weekly at the Voice is aiming to reverse these oversights by provisions to inform future movement . that we have been able to design similar tests

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African Primate Conservation Action, Birdlife through an after school Handball club . The International, Scottish Natural Heritage and the pupils play at the Warrington Campus and RSPB . A PhD student who is carrying out research the club has been managed effectively over on the critically endangered Grenada dove two half terms by a third-year student on the in the Department of Biological Sciences, has Applied Sports Coaching module . While staff been selected as one of only 20 PhD students are there to support and offer professional for the British Ecological Ambassador scheme . advice, the club has provided an integrated The ambassadors attend local schools to deliver approach to the development of student lessons and develop outreach activities linked to sports coaches, with Level 6 students the school curriculum, in order to encourage and providing active mentor support to Levels 4 inspire pupils to consider future study and careers and 5 students acting in lead delivery roles . in ecological science . As testament to the hard work of students, the club is now in its fourth year and The Department of Sport and Community provision will be expanded to cover Rugby Engagement continues to work closely with League as well as Handball . Warrington Wolves, and especially the club’s Charitable Foundation . A number of students Trainee detectives are among the members of Department of Sport and Community Engagement students. supported the community team in the delivery the Police force benefiting from an Immersive of Rugby League coaching sessions to both Learning Experience at the Institute of Policing to help ensure that Police officers continue universities in Sydney and , was a primary and secondary school children . A final on the Warrington Campus . Over the past to meet, or exceed, the necessary fitness guest speaker at Flinders Centre for Innovation year BSc Sports Coaching student conducted his four years, the training facility, which is run in standards required ”. in Cancer in Adelaide, visited the Victorian research dissertation with the Academy Team partnership with Cheshire Police, has trained Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Melbourne to investigate the effectiveness of the coach– in excess of 300 police officers and staff . By Professor Nick Hulbert-Williams and Dr Lee and ran an introductory ACT training course for athlete relationship . Students also benefited using projected images and sound systems, Hulbert-Williams have been working with a staff at Sydney Children’s Hospital . from learning from talks by Warrington Wolves the Hydra training facility, which features range of cancer care organisations, including staff, such as Tony Smith (Head of Coaching) five syndicate rooms, a control room and CanTeen (the Australian Organisation for Dr Matt Geary and MRes student Rachel Davies and Phil Jones (Head of Youth) . plenary room, allows officers to experience Teenagers and Young Adults affected by secured funding from the British Dragonfly challenging situations close to real life, as they cancer) and Maggie’s Cancer Centres, to provide Society for an MRes project, in partnership with Staff and students from the same tackle incidents and investigations without Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cheshire Wildlife Trust . This is to investigate Department worked closely with pupils of leaving the classroom . Trainee detectives from Enhanced Communications Skills Training for habitat associations of white-faced darter Christ Church CofE Primary School as part Cheshire Police used the facility to take part use with people affected by cancer and their dragonflies in Delamere Forest . Members of of a continued commitment to engage with in a three-day intensive exercise at the end of families . This builds on Professor Hulbert- the Conservation Biology Research Group have the Warrington community through sport . their seven-week detective training course . DC Williams’s research, which demonstrates the also been working with Cheshire Wildlife Trust Having gained their Handball coaching Robert Scott from Cheshire Police, who is also a value of ACT in improving wellbeing and to support natterjack toad conservation at Red qualification, which is embedded into a Hydra Facilitator, said: “I’ve been a detective for psychological adjustment in this population . Rocks Nature Reserve . Other research links Sports Coaching Level 4 module, students years and there’s nothing better than this from Nick also visited research colleagues at include the Wildlife Conservation Society, West went on to practise and develop their skills a training perspective . It’s a fantastic facility ”.

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Institute of Policing team. University of Chester Riverside Museum.

Policing courses have been offered at the a BSc in Community Policing and Criminal Home’ exhibition . Visitors ranged from tourists Riverside Museum), at which visitors had the Warrington Campus since 2008 and over 1,000 Investigation; and a Certificate of Knowledge from all over the world, local residents, pre- opportunity to view the refurbished display and students have gained their qualifications at the in Policing . Work is underway on developing a booked community groups, families visiting the permanent collection . The Museum was site . The Institute of Policing is led by Geoff Elvey, Higher Level Degree Apprenticeship for police on University Open Days and groups of established by a small group of volunteers from who is also the Chair of the Higher Education constables, a Level 6 top-up for officers who hold students from different faculties as part of the Faculty of Health and Social Care Historical Forum for Police Learning and Development foundation degrees, and an in-service degree their respective courses . The ‘First World War: Society, which aims to unite individuals with and sits on the College of Policing’s Police programme that will seek to accredit previous Returning Home’ exhibition was refurbished an interest in medicine, nursing, midwifery Education Qualifications Framework Board . This experiential learning and offer opportunities through the generous support of the Heritage and social work across the University and the Board has been consulting and working with to gain academic qualifications . The Institute is Lottery Fund and Big Heritage (a social wider community . Professor Elizabeth Mason- the community and the police service over also investigating a move towards postgraduate enterprise founded by alumnus, Dean Paton, to Whitehead (Institute of Medicine and Faculty proposals to recognise, accredit and promote policing education, where the key postgraduate engage museums, schools and communities of Health and Social Care) said: “Our successful the professionalism of people working within themes would display a move towards cyber- with the past) . The exhibition portrays what collaboration with Big Heritage on the ‘First policing in the UK . Among those proposals is the crime and strategic leadership . a soldier invalided back from the Front would World War: Returning Home’ exhibition marks establishment of a qualifications framework for have found on his return to Cheshire and a significant turning point in the Museum’s policing, through working in partnership with The University of Chester Riverside Museum the re-opening was celebrated with a talk nine-year history . Our dedicated volunteers the Higher Education sector, to set minimum welcomed over 1,000 visitors to the Riverside on munition workers by Dr Claire Chatterton have worked closely with Big Heritage staff to education levels by level of practice or rank . Campus to see its collection of curiosities from (Staff Tutor at the in the North enhance the exhibition, which presents the First The Institute currently offers a Foundation the worlds of medicine, nursing, midwifery and West, Chair of the Royal College of Nursing’s World War to the people of Chester and beyond Degree in Policing, Law, and Investigation; social work, and the ‘First World War: Returning History of Nursing Society and volunteer at the in a unique and special way ”.

102 #MyChesterStory Si Poole

Si Poole’s educational journey has included studying for multiple degrees, primary school teaching, educating teachers, championing the arts in the curriculum and now a key liaison role between the University and Chester’s innovative new theatre, cinema and library – Storyhouse .

Having grown up in rural Cheshire, Si studied English Society of Arts and Fellowship of the Chartered College Literature and Language and was living in Germany of Preceptors (also known as the College of Teachers) . He when he made the decision to return to Cheshire for his is currently studying for a Doctorate in Education which PGCE because of his desire to teach and the University’s explores the craft of songwriting, particularly through a reputation for teacher education . He followed on from psychogeographer’s lens . He said: “I chose this area as it this course with a further Master’s degree in Folklore brings together all of my passions and my love of the rural and Cultural Tradition before taking a break to tour with landscape of Cheshire – my home ”. In the University, he his band, the loose kites . He came back to Chester to is Programme Leader for the Master’s degree in Creative do another PGCE in Singing in the Curriculum and then Practice in Education and is heavily involved with the work taught every year group in primary schools and music of the Research into Education, Creativity and Arts through performance to students at . Practice centre, both in the UK and overseas .

A natural progression was to move into teaching at the Si’s appointment in 2017 as Senior Lead in Cultural University and his decision was influenced by his passion Education and Research means, among other for the arts and culture . In primary schools, he saw arts responsibilities, that he is the liaison person between all of become increasingly marginalised and resolved to the University’s faculties and departments and Storyhouse . become an advocate for the arts and culture in teaching . This combines many elements from his educational Si explained: “I could ensure 30 children in my care got a journey, his creativity and passions and connection to the good arts and culture education, or I could try and inspire local community . He said: “I’m still pinching myself every 100 teachers-to-be to carry the same . If I inspired only morning . It’s my dream job . I can’t deny it is probably the half of the teachers that would be 1,500 children receiving toughest role I’ve ever had, but it’s incredibly rewarding positive arts and cultural experiences ”. and a humbling honour to be involved with such a momentous happening for Chester and Cheshire ”. During his time working at the University, Si has gained numerous fellowships too, including Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, Fellowship of the Royal

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Global connections

The University has extended its worldwide network of contacts through accepting students from 130 countries, the fostering of partnerships with overseas institutions, interaction with international visitors and the activities of staff and students travelling abroad for research .

Highlights from the International Office include: ŸŸ A successful first US Federal Aid compliance audit was conducted by the USA ŸŸ Shortlisting in the International Category at Department of Education . The extension of the WhatUni? Student Choice Awards 2017 . the US Federal Loans license was granted for three additional years so that more ŸŸ Almost 400 new full-time full-fee paying American students can be welcomed . international students enrolled across all academic levels, faculties and sites . ŸŸ The appointment of a University MBA graduate as the in-country exclusive International students. Pengefei Wang. ŸŸ The first international students enrolled representative in India has resulted in at University Centre Shrewsbury, with a threefold increase in Indian students Drama Education and Co-Director of the The University’s growing links with China were numbers to increase in the future . enrolling, compared with the previous year . Centre for Research into Creativity, Education further strengthened through the work of a and the Arts through Practice (RECAP), visiting scholar . Pengefei Wang is from the ŸŸ The first cohort of 26 international students ŸŸ Outbound Study Abroad students have been a Distinguished Teaching Fellow and a Technology Transfer Centre at Suzhou Institute enrolled on to the new foundation level placed at 15 different destinations including National Teaching Fellow . The staging of #60 of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics (SINANO), provision . Japan, Australia and Taiwan . Pre-texts worldwide forms part of the major Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) . This is EU-funded international project at RECAP one of the top advanced science academic ŸŸ In partnership with the Institutional ŸŸ The 2017 International Prospectus was called ‘Beyond Text’ . This is based on the institutions in China . CAS awarded her a Compliance Team, UK Visas and published in Mandarin for the first time . premise that research should be accessible scholarship to support her development and Immigration performance saw Tier-4 to the wider public in forms that include, research at the Business Research Institute, student visa rejections below 5%, an ŸŸ Many international students have but go beyond written text . Allan said: under the supervision of Professor Phil Harris enrolment rate of 97% and a course participated in Work Based Learning, such as “The #60 Pre-texts Tour is founded on my and Dr Wing Lam . She liaised with colleagues completion rate of 92% . Lora Misikova at Moneysupermarket .com . practice-based research into drama as a way across the University, helped a number of of asking ‘How can we best live together?’ regional businesses, including EA Technology ŸŸ The MSc Food Science and Innovation joint Professor Allan Owens has embarked upon a Drama pre-texts provide an opportunity for at Capenhurst, in supporting their collaborative programme application with Shandong year-long #60 Pre-texts Tour, which includes people to come together to learn, to make, work in China and visited a number of university Agricultural University was approved for destinations in the UK, Austria, Denmark, to express, to think creatively and so perhaps research centres and businesses across the delivery by the China Ministry of Education Estonia, Finland, Japan, Hungary, Palestine, – to understand differently ”. UK . Pengefei said: “I greatly enjoyed my time and the first cohort is due in 2019 . Spain and Sweden . Allan is a Professor of in Chester and the University has provided

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problems from Fractional Calculus, which has a growing number of applications within Materials Science and Medicine .

Further international links were fostered by the Department of Mathematics: Dr Nikos Kavallaris hosted a research visit by Professor Takashi Suzuki, Osaka University; Dr Dimitra Antonopoulou hosted research visits by Professor Israel Michael Sigal, University of Toronto and Professor Spyridon Kamvissis, University of Crete; Dr Joe Gildea hosted Professor Steven Dougherty, University of Scranton, USA; Dr Yubin Yan hosted Yanzhi Liu (Assistant Professor at Luliang University, PR China) in order for them and Dr Jason Ferry journey in Canada by Dr Cian Quayle. Sharon Smith. Roberts to collaborate on research; and Dr Nikos Kavallaris visited the Center for major support for my personal development communities of practice are established by the “The University of Chester is a leader in the field Interdisciplinary Research, Bielefeld, Germany and work . I have learnt a great deal from LRTT programme . She said: “I have loved being and Chester’s experience will inspire colleagues to collaborate with Professor Michael Rockner sharing experiences and observing advanced a teacher and have always believed that high in Japan ”. and Dr H . Hatzikirou . best practice in the UK, and will aid future quality teaching and learning gives students the collaboration and initiatives between our two best possible chances to succeed . This has been The Department of Mathematics hosted a Dr Cian Quayle (Senior Lecturer, Department countries in any way I can ”. an opportunity to help students in challenging year’s research visit by Dr Fabio Rodrigues, as of Art and Design) received Quality-related contexts and really make a difference ”. part of the prestigious Ciência sem Fronteiras Research funding from his Department for a A doctoral student was awarded a fellowship (Science without Borders) Brazilian scholarship field trip to Vancouver, to research the life of place on a scheme that sends teachers to An overseas education research officer from programme, which allows Brazilian students to the author, Malcolm Lowry . Cian’s research and developing countries to pass their expertise the Japanese government visited the University study at top universities worldwide . Fabio is a practice retrace Lowry’s footsteps and life in on to others . Sharon Smith is studying for a to research the institution’s approach to Work graduate of the State University of Campinas Vancouver and the significance of its environs Doctorate in Education and travelled to Uganda Based Learning in higher education . Yasumasa (UNICAMP) in Brazil, where he graduated and surrounding landscape in his writing . with Limited Resource Teacher Training (LRTT), Shinohara is a Senior Specialist in the Overseas with a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and an The visit involved filming and photography a charitable organisation that enables teachers Education Research Unit, part of the Lifelong MSc and PhD in Applied Mathematics . Fabio in Vancouver and research at the University from the UK to travel to developing countries Learning Policy Bureau at the Japanese worked with Professor Neville Ford (Pro-Vice- of British Columbia Special Collections and to provide much-needed teacher training . Ministry of Education in . His role involves Chancellor, Academic, and Director of the Malcolm Lowry Archive . This research was Sharon conducted research on the impact and monitoring UK Higher Education and advising University’s Mathematical Sciences Research); presented at ‘Under the Volcano, 70 Years On: influences on pedagogy in an environment colleagues within the Japanese government on Dr Jason Roberts (Head of Mathematics); and A Malcolm Lowry Conference’ hosted by the where resources are limited, and how global educational policy and practice . Yasumasa said: PhD student, Neil Osborne, and they explored Bluecoat and Liverpool John Moores University .

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In Health and Social Care: A Guide to Practice for Fund, to work on the planning of the design of Students and Support Workers . experiments for a recently installed microturbine

and its integration with a planned CO2 capture ŸŸ Professor Bernadette Melnyk and Dr Jackie plant . Some of the results were presented at Hoying visited from The Ohio State University the Ninth International Conference on Applied to deliver the COPE (Creating Opportunities Energy in Cardiff . for Personal Empowerment) programme . This is an evidence-based train-the-trainer The University has recently extended academic programme for school teachers and opportunities for research collaborations and academic staff and was developed to support student exchanges . Two further Memoranda children in schools, to enhance the teacher’s of Understanding have been signed with understanding and extend their knowledge the University of the South, Sewanee, in base of specific health and wellbeing Tennessee and Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, strategies . A pilot study with local schools Pennsylvania . Both mark the beginning of new Signing the Memorandum of Understanding with the University of the South, Sewanee. using the programme is to be implemented collaborations between Chester and these two and the project has the potential to enhance American institutions, as the University seeks to International activity from the Faculty of Health Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and a links with The Ohio State University and the foster and open up more academic possibilities, and Social Care has included the following: community-based placement with Cheshire international research in the Faculty . not only for undergraduate students and and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust . research purposes, but also in the recruitment ŸŸ A Memorandum of Understanding was set Dr Michelle Mattison, in collaboration with of doctoral students . Vice-Chancellor, Professor up by Professor Alan Finnegan (Faculty of ŸŸ Research Assistant, Iclal Sena Gezer, from Professor Penny Cooper (University of London), Tim Wheeler, said: “This is a very exciting Health and Social Care), with South Florida Hacettepe University in (), the Department of Justice, New South Wales opportunity for the University to build on and University . This aims to improve staff and visited through the Erasmus scheme to Police Force and the Judicial Institute (New develop its international reputation in research . student exchanges, research and teaching work with Basma Ellahi (Professor of Public South Wales, Australia), undertook research and We are really looking forward to being able opportunities . Health Nutrition) . This resulted from a 10-year delivered training to over 400 justice system to welcome more US students to Chester and relationship between Basma and the Nutrition practitioners, in order to implement the first to enable staff to enhance research through ŸŸ Five students from India commenced the MSc and Dietetics department at Hacettepe . pilot intermediary scheme of its kind in Australia collaborations and exchanges with world- Professional Nursing at Warrington in a joint for victims of child sexual abuse . leading academic colleagues in America ”. initiative with Warringon and Halton Hospitals ŸŸ Australian reablement expert Dr Ricki Smith NHS Trust . was the recipient of a Churchill Fellowship Dr Carolina Font Palma visited the National The Department of Biological Sciences from the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust and Institute of Electricity and Clean Energy international activities include: ŸŸ Two Pre-Registration Nursing students visited to work with Valerie Ebrahimi (Senior (INEEL) in Mexico to work with Dr Zdzislaw from Tamk University of Applied Sciences, Lecturer, Social Work and Interprofessional Mazur and Dr Abigail Gonzalez Díaz from the ŸŸ Dr Matt Geary, from the Conservation Biology Finland, visited for a work placement as part Education); Dr Hazel Chapman (Senior Turbomachinery group . Carolina (Senior Lecturer Research Group, went to the Dominican of the Erasmus+ student mobility exchange . Lecturer, Department of Acute Adult Care) and in Chemical Engineering) benefited from the UK Republic to discuss developing a research Tiina Käki and Anni Kosonen undertook a Tim Mann (former Head, Social Work) on the Carbon Capture and Storage Research Centre project on the Hispaniolan Amazon parrot ward-based placement with the Countess of first book on reablement: Reablement Services (UKCCSRC) International Research Collaboration (Amazonus ventralis), as well as other

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Hispaniolan endemics, with Professor Stuart project aims to examine the role of additional Marsden (Manchester Metropolitan University) . immune-related genes, including KIR3DL2 .

ŸŸ PhD student Susan Wiper travelled to Rwanda ŸŸ Animal Behaviour graduate, Fay Taylor, now for her research titled ‘The Social System and works with the Durrell Conservation Academy Behaviour of the Golden Monkey (Cercopithecus in Mauritius, having discovered her passion mitis kandti) . Dr Alison Fletcher (Reader) is for bat conservation while studying there . collaborating with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund She carried out a project on the virtually International and Karisoke Research Center, in unknown insectivorous Mauritian free-tailed order to support Susan’s PhD study . bat, which has now been classed as endemic to Mauritius and classified as Endangered, ŸŸ Professor Cynthia Burek supervised an following her research . undergraduate student on Desert Watch in Lanzarote to monitor birds in this Global The visit of Dr Brad Hastings, Dean of the School Family affected by leprosy at Naini leprosy colony. Image credit: The Leprosy Mission. Biosphere . The student’s research on bird of Social Sciences and Humanities at Mount Fay Taylor with a bat. behaviour and different substrates spans Ida College in Massachusetts, has resulted in two UNESCO designations and Cynthia and greater co-operation between the institutions . through the dissemination of results, refinement The Department of Sport and Community her student gave a presentation on the Dr Meriel D’Artrey (Head) and colleagues in the of the methodology and another visit, the scope Engagement is involved in a 30-month, results to visitors from the Horizon 2020 Department of Social and Political Science (SPS) will be extended . In the meantime, Elizabeth EU funded project entitled ‘From Human Brain Project . hosted his visit and it has resulted in the first is using the work of The Leprosy Mission in Strategy to Action (S2A): Supporting the Study Abroad placement for SPS students . SPS conference papers, teaching, research, doctoral Professionalisation of Sport Organisations ŸŸ Level 5 Field Ecologists visited Coto Donana, and the Faculty of Social Science are engaged supervision and publications . through the Definition of Work-Based southern Spain, to gain practice in a range in ongoing dialogue over the development and Competencies and the Development of Fit- of ecological techniques, including mammal furtherance of work with the College . The University has expanded its provision For-Purpose Training For Sport Administrators’ . and vegetation surveys and behavioural through the international Mountbatten The project is focused on the skills needed by sampling of wild horses, deer and waterfowl . The award of a Barbara and Eddie Askew Institute with the new Postgraduate Certificate sport administrators who have a crucial role Bursary from The Leprosy Mission (TLM) allowed in International Business recruiting significant in the delivery of sport in paid and voluntary ŸŸ MSc Wildlife Conservation students travelled Professor Elizabeth Mason-Whitehead (Institute numbers in London and New York . The students middle management roles in local, regional, to Suriname to gain further insights into of Medicine and Faculty of Health and Social undertake Work Based experiential learning at national and European sport organisations wildlife conservation in South America . Care), to investigate the impact of stigma on the leading asset management firms in Manhattan across Europe . There are 12 European partners lives of patients and staff of TLM Hospital, Naini, and the City of London and the course is involved and the Department’s role is to write ŸŸ Dr Geraldine O’Connor (Lecturer) went to India and the communities of the Allahabad designed to complement the existing MA in the curriculum for sport administrators in the National Cancer Institute in Maryland, district . A visual methodology instrument for Entrepreneurial Leadership in Global Business . Europe, following previous work phases of USA, to work on samples from patients with assessing stigma was developed with TLM in The partnership is managed by the Centre for auditing and understanding the European Ankylosing Spondylitis . This inflammatory Delhi, James George and the CREATE team in Work Related Studies and uses the University’s sport and leisure industry more effectively . arthritis is very strongly associated with Naini . Using this approach to such research is Work Based and Integrative Studies (WBIS) the presence of the HLA-B27 gene and the a relatively new concept and it is hoped that accreditation framework .

107 Annual Review 2017 A community focus

Honorary graduates & Ravenscroft. Ede credit: Image

The impressive graduation ceremonies in Chester Cathedral are enhanced by honouring the contributions of prominent figures in local, national and international contexts .

Professor Dame Carol Black DBE Doctor of Science

Professor Dame Carol Black DBE, FRCP, FMedSci is Principal and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Newnham College Cambridge . Her other positions include Expert Adviser on Health and Work to NHS England and Public Health England and member of the Bevan Commission on Health in Wales, UK Active and the West Midlands Mental Health Commission . She co- chaired an independent Government review on British sickness absence, resulting in the national Fit for Work Service . Dame Carol is a past-President of the Royal College of Physicians, the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges and the British Lung Foundation, and past-Chair of the Nuffield Trust . She established a centre for the research and treatment of connective tissue diseases at the Royal Free Hospital and is a trustee for the National Portrait Gallery, the Work Foundation and Uppingham School .

108 Annual Review 2017 A community focus Image credit: Ede & Ravenscroft. Ede credit: Image

Lieutenant General Professor Professor Sir Cary L Cooper CBE Professor Janet Hemingway CBE Roderick Hunt MBE Sir Edmund Burton KBE Doctor of Science Doctor of Science Doctor of Letters Doctor of Science Professor Sir Cary L Cooper CBE, FAcSS is the Professor Janet Hemingway, CBE, BSc, PhD, DSc, Educated at Chester College (now the Sir Edmund Burton KBE, MA retired from a 38- 50th Anniversary Professor of Organisational FRS, FMedSci, FRCP, FRES (Hon), FAAM, Foreign University), Rod Hunt graduated in 1959 in year military career in 2000 . His service included Psychology and Health at the Alliance Associate National Academy of Sciences USA, Divinity and English . He completed the ACEd the appointments of Military Attaché, British Manchester Business School . He is the author/ HonFFPH, initially trained as a geneticist and is course run by the (then) Oxford University Embassy Washington; Commandant of the Royal editor of over 120 books, has written over 400 currently Professor of Insect Molecular Biology Institute of Education, submitting a study on Military College of Science and Deputy Chief of articles for academic journals and is a frequent and Director of the Liverpool School of Tropical Educational Provision for the Disadvantaged in Defence Staff (Systems) . He undertook reviews media contributor . Among other positions, he Medicine . She has worked for 38 years on the California . He was a teacher for 19 years before of GCHQ’s New Accommodation Programme is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society biochemistry and molecular biology of specific becoming a full-time writer in 1979 . To date and of the UK’s Information Security . Other and Royal Society of Medicine, President of the enzyme systems associated with xenobiotic he has written over 600 books, nearly 500 of responsibilities include Executive Chairman of British Academy of Management, Companion of resistance . Professor Hemingway has been these for Oxford Reading Tree, which have been the UK Police IT Organisation, Chairman of the the Chartered Management Institute and Fellow Principal Investigator on projects of more than translated into over 15 different languages . He Information Assurance Advisory Council and the of the (American) Academy of Management . £60 million and is a Fellow of the Academy of has also written for children’s television and Advisory Council of the Trustworthy Software Sir Cary has been an adviser to two UN Medical Sciences, Royal College of Physicians, schools radio broadcasting . Rod and illustrator Foundation . Sir Edmund has been running The agencies, published a major report for the EU’s American Academy of Microbiology and Royal Alex Brychta received the prestigious British Philip Barker Charity with his family for 25 years . European Foundation for the Improvement of Society, as well as being elected as a Foreign Educational Suppliers Association Outstanding This has made grants of over £1 .5 million to local Living and Work Conditions and was a special Associate to the US National Academy of Achievement Award and he was the inaugural charities, including the funding of Manchester adviser to the House of Commons Defence Scientists . She was awarded Commander of the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Camerata Orchestra’s Outreach Education Committee on its Duty of Care enquiry . British Empire (CBE) for services to the Control Award from Renaissance Learning UK in 2015 . Team’s activities with the Faculty of Education He received a CBE for his contribution to of Tropical Disease Vectors and Honorary He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and and Children’s Services, and the University’s new occupational health and a knighthood for his Fellow by the Faculty of Public Health and Royal of the English Association and was awarded an Philip Barker Centre for Creative Learning . services to the social sciences . College of Physicians . MBE in 2008 .

109 Annual Review 2017 A community focus Image credit: Ede & Ravenscroft. Ede credit: Image

Professor Michael Jones Robin Jones Brian Kerr OBE Sir David Lees Doctor of Business Administration Master of Laws Master of Business Administration Doctor of Business Administration

Professor Mike Jones worked in human Solicitor Robin Jones was born and raised in Brian joined the Civil Service at 16, was Sir David Lees was a 2nd Lieutenant in the resources for over 20 years before joining Chester and educated at the King’s School in promoted to Bombardier (Corporal) during his Royal Artillery and then joined Binder Hamlyn the Pilkington Group as Group Management the city . He studied Law at the University of National Service, returned to the Civil Service, & Co as an Articled Clerk . He became a Fellow Development Manager . He then became Liverpool and, following qualification in 1970, he and worked at an engineering firm . He joined of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, was Managing Director of its subsidiary leadership began his career in commercial and commercial the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority Chief Accountant at Handley Page Limited business, which led to a Visiting Fellowship property law at Wayman-Hales in White Friars, and left after 37 years as Employee Relations and Finance Director for Handley Page at Manchester Business School and Lancaster Chester . He progressed to become Senior Director of British Nuclear Fuels Limited . Aircraft Limited . Sir David joined the GKN University School of Management . He Partner at Wayman-Hales before it was taken Brian was a Saughall Parish Councillor for Group as Group Finance Executive and served was Director General of the Association of over by Hill Dickinson . He became Managing over 40 years (12 as Chairman), Ward Member as Chairman and Chief Executive . Other MBAs, established the global MBA degree Partner at Hill Dickinson and this was then for Saughall on Chester City Council for 12 positions included Chairman of Tate and Lyle accreditation service and is an international taken over by Knights in 2013 . Knights is the first years, on the Executive Board of the Cheshire plc and the Court of the Bank of England . expert on the degree . Other positions include: private equity backed commercial law firm in Association of Local Councils, Cheshire Sir David was appointed a Knight Bachelor, Director and Professor of the Foundation for the UK and Robin acted as consultant until his Association Council Member of the National received the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Management Education; Visiting Professor retirement . He was also a former President of Association of Local Councils and Chair and Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany at the University of Chester Business School; the Law Society for Cheshire and North Wales . Vice-President of the National Association . and the ICAEW Award for Outstanding various Government committees; Regional He married Carolyn Jones in 1971 and they Other positions include Chief Executive Officer Achievement . He is a Deputy Lieutenant of Director of Age UK; Chartered Fellow of have two children and grandchildren . Robin is and Deputy Chairman for Chester Aid to the Shropshire, Honorary Patron of Shrewsbury the Chartered Institute of Personnel and a keen cricketer, golfer and Liverpool supporter Homeless and Chair of Cheshire Community Town FC and Chairman of the Advisory Board Development; member of the Worshipful and is an ambassador for the oncology unit at Council . Brian received an OBE for services to for the University Centre Shrewsbury . Company of Marketers; and Freeman of the City Clatterbridge Cancer Centre . local government . of London .

110 Annual Review 2017 A community focus Image credit: Ede & Ravenscroft. Ede credit: Image & Ravenscroft. Ede credit: Image & Ravenscroft. Ede credit: Image

Stephen Morgan CBE Amanda Wakeley OBE Helen Willetts Rob Wotton Doctor of Business Administration Doctor of Fine Art Doctor of Science Doctor of Science

Born in Liverpool, Steve Morgan is the founder Amanda Wakeley is an iconic London-based Helen Willetts was born in Chester and grew Rob Wotton studied Health and Community of Redrow plc, which he started at the age of luxury fashion label, which captures the up in Colwyn Bay on the North Wales coast . Studies at the former Chester College from 1987 21 with the aid of a £5,000 loan from his father . essence of Amanda’s European lifestyle She first became interested in meteorology to 1990 and became Students’ Union President Under his leadership, Redrow became one of and is reflected in her aesthetic vision of whilst studying A level Geography at Eirias from 1990 to 1991, during a sabbatical year . He the UK’s most successful homebuilders and a clean lines, impeccable cut, fit and effortless High School . In 1993, she graduated from the then went on to London College of Printing FSTE 250 Company . Steve is also Chairman of glamour . The collection comprises a strong , with a first-class and gained a postgraduate qualification in the Bridgemere Group of Companies, which has and rapidly growing presence in daywear, honours degree in Physics . In 1994, Helen Radio and Television Journalism . Rob became significant land and commercial development spanning flawless tailoring, luxury sportswear, began a five-month forecaster training course the Sports Editor of the multi award-winning interests in the UK and Europe . In 2001 Steve sumptuous cashmeres and an expanding line at the Met Office College . In 1994 she moved Capital Gold Sports team, covering football founded The Morgan Foundation, a charity of statement accessories and fine jewellery . to Cardiff Weather Centre and from April 1995 nationally and internationally, before moving which is one of the largest providers of funding Best known for her glamorous evening, she appeared as a forecaster on BBC television to Sky Sports . He has been a presenter for Sky for children’s and family charities across the cocktail and striking bridal dresses, these and radio in Wales . In October 1997, having Sports since 1998 and during that time he has North West and North Wales . The Foundation styles underpin every seasonal collection . successfully completed her final training, fronted an array of live action from La Liga has donated over £32 million and was the Since 1996, Amanda has co-chaired the Helen transferred to the BBC Weather Centre to Football League and from Non-League to main funder for Wolves Aid and Wolves in the committee for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, in London . Helen’s main sporting interest is NASCAR Speedway . The constant thread of his Community . In 1992 Steve, who is a Fellow of raising substantial sums for vital breast cancer badminton, having played internationally for time with the company has been in front of the the Chartered Institute of Builders, was awarded research . In 2010 Amanda was awarded an OBE Wales . She was awarded the Television and cameras on , the 24-hour sports an OBE for his services to the construction for her services to the fashion industry . She has Radio Industry Club award for Best TV Weather news channel . As one of the founder presenters industry; this was followed in 2016 by a CBE for also won numerous accolades, including three Presenter in 2006 and enjoys walking, cycling of this channel, Rob has delivered breaking his philanthropic services . British Fashion Awards . and travelling . news ever since it went to air in 1998 .

111 Annual Review 2017 A community focus

The alumni community

Whether alumni are new graduates, or studied or worked at the University many years ago, they form part of this network, which helps former students and staff to keep in touch with the institution, and the many people who have contributed to its longevity and success .

The Alumni and Development Team has A Media Production (TV) with Advertising engaged with alumni worldwide through student, Bwalya Mutale, has gone on to make digital communications, such as social media her mark in the competitive world of TV platforms, making it easier for more people production, after studying at the Warrington to share their memories . The new blog is Campus . Shortly after graduation, with the populated with alumni stories and information help of a media placement scheme, Bwalya to connect the community between each issue was successful in securing a year at Lime of the annual alumni magazine, The Cestrian . Pictures – the production company behind Hollyoaks, Evermoor, The Only Way Is Essex and The Annual Alumni Reunion was hosted on the Geordie Shore . Now, after being employed Chris Smith [left] and Tom Hardy. Parkgate Road Campus and was an opportunity there for six years, Bwalya is working as a Script for generations of former students to gather, Supervisor and her duties include following share memories and enjoy the events held every storyline in the script and checking for by the Alumni and Development team . For continuity and errors . example, Dr Stan France, former Lecturer and Secretary of the Alumni Association, gave a Elsie Road, a unique mobile bar business, was guided tour, explaining how the institution set up by Chris Smith (Events Management and has evolved since its foundation in 1839 . Drama) in 2014, with his friend Tom Hardy . After The Alumni Executive Committee formed a his studies, Chris worked in a managerial role in Working Group to discuss alumni relations, a Chester bar, while Tom worked as a craftsman ongoing projects and progress on initiatives building teardrop caravans . They decided to from the Executive Committee meetings . Ethan combine their professions and run a cocktail Wade, a recent alumnus, was welcomed on to bar from a mobile caravan . The venture has the Committee to give a fresh perspective on taken Elsie Road to events across the country, alumni relations . The Alumni and Development including a garden party for Amanda Holden, Team is now working towards filling in the gaps large festivals, corporate events and the switch in the class photo display in the Old College on of Christmas lights . The duo are expanding corridor, which currently includes pictures from the company through organising their own 1892 to 1992 . events and travelling to mainland Europe . Bwalya Mutale. Alumni on the climbing wall at the Annual Reunion.

112 Annual Review 2017 A community focus

An award-winning Mental Health Nurse, James Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and Based Learning placement with GB . In Locke, is committed to helping patients with STEM ambassador . addition to his work with GB Boxing, Dr Edd mental health illnesses, after graduating from Thomson (Lecturer in Sports Biomechanics and the Pre-Registration Mental Health Nursing While most people enjoyed Christmas with Performance Analysis; BSc Sport and Exercise Programme . James was a member of both their families, Rachel Quinn spent hers helping Sciences, 2009; PhD, 2015), has been appointed the Pre-Registration Nursing Committee and refugees in Dunkirk’s refugee camp . Rachel as a ‘consultant mentor’ to GB Paralympic the Programme Planning Team, where he graduated in 2006 and now teaches at Chorlton Swimming and is now working with another represented students at meetings with staff and High School in Manchester . To raise money for former Chester student, Matt Milligan (BSc gave feedback on how the course was delivered . the trip, Rachel ran a ‘Choose Love’ campaign Sport and Exercise Sciences, 2013; MSc, Sports He achieved the Chester Volunteering Gold at her school which raised over £1,200 through Sciences – Sports Biomechanics, 2015), through Award and The Chester Difference Excellence sponsored events, wristband and badge sales, this new role . Award for his commitment to making a positive a barefoot walk and a concert and raffle . On difference to mental health nursing, and was Boxing Day, Rachel and her mum, Sue, drove A former PE and Mathematics student has chosen to meet HRH Prince Edward, Earl of a van of supplies down to the French port to become the Vice-Chancellor of Staffordshire Wessex, when he visited the University . As help those living in shocking conditions . She University . Professor Liz Barnes decided to a qualified Mental Health Nurse, he hopes said: “They were really lovely people . They are study in Chester because of an enjoyable to support future students with their work just ordinary people trying to get away from Open Day, met her husband at the then James Locke. placements and undertake a Master’s degree . something terrible to make a better life for their College and participated in many sporting families ”. Rachel said of the experience: “It was activities during her time as a student . She Dr Jason Roberts, who gained his three degrees extremely heart-warming to work as a whole opted to teach both subjects in the Midlands from the University and is now the Head of the school for such a great cause” and described the before gaining a Master’s degree at Sheffield Department of Mathematics, has been elected refugees as “truly inspirational” . University and entering higher education as a as Fellow of one of the most prestigious UK Lecturer in Physiology at . mathematics bodies . Jason studied for a BSc A succession of Sport and Exercise Sciences Professor Barnes stayed there for 23 years, in Mathematics and Computer Science and graduates have made their mark in preparing was the first University Teaching Fellow, then an MSc and PhD in Mathematics . He Team GB competitors for success . Chris developed technology enhanced learning gained and taught Connelly (BSc Sport and Exercise Sciences, 2012; and internationalisation and was Dean of in secondary schools for five years, before MSc Sports Sciences – Performance Analysis, Social Sciences and Law . She became Deputy returning to teach at the University, working his 2013) was promoted from Analyst to Senior Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Vice-Chancellor way up to Head of Department . Jason received Analyst within GB Boxing . His Analyst position at the and then moved his Fellowship of the Institute of Mathematics has been filled by Jessica Smith (MSc Sports to Sheffield Hallam University as Deputy and Applications (IMA) in recognition of his Sciences – Sports Biomechanics, 2017) . Two Vice-Chancellor . Her latest appointment at work as a mathematician and educator . Because 2017 BSc Sport and Exercise Sciences graduates, makes her one of a the IMA accredits UK Mathematics degrees, he Daniel Ward and James Latham, travelled to growing number of female vice-chancellors at is now eligible to act as an assessor and is also a international boxing tournaments in Germany British universities . Chartered Mathematician, Chartered Scientist, and Macedonia, providing performance analysis Professor Liz Barnes. member of the London Mathematical Society, support, following their successful Work

113 114 Senior Staff Members of the University Council Financial Results

@uocClinSciNutr @abbietennant @uochesterpress @jonlingwood @ChesterAlumni Our campus always looks stunning at the change Reading about psychotherapy and emotions in Launch of Landscapes Past and Present and 30th Spring has definitely sprung at @uochester #TBT Our Alumni Garden in the sunlight this of seasons #autumn #UniversityofChester the sunshine #summersday #reading #beautiful anniversary of Chester Society for Landscape #Warrington campus . Grounds staff have worked morning - behind you can see Beswick building, #campus #mychesterstory #relaxing History @uochester @UoCHistory #chester their @GreenChester formerly the practice school in the early 20C Annual Review 2017 Senior Staff and Members of the University Council

Senior Staff and Members of the University Council

Senior Management Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Provost (Thornton) Education and Children’s Services Social Science

Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Nick Avis Professor Anna Sutton Professor David Balsamo BSc (Reading), PhD (Sheffield) Cert Ed, BEd, MEd (Wales), FRSA BA (Middlesex), MSc (London), MSc (Oxon), DSocSci Canon Professor Timothy Wheeler DL (Bristol), CQSW BA, PhD (Wales), FE Teachers’ Cert, CPsychol, CSci, AFPBsS, FSS, FRSA, MCIPR, MIOSH, MIIRSM, CCMI Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Provost Health and Social Care (Warrington) Deans of Support Departments Professor Annette McIntosh-Scott Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost Professor Annette McIntosh-Scott BSc, PhD (Edinburgh Napier), Dip CNE (Queen Margaret, Academic Quality and Enhancement (Shrewsbury) BSc, PhD (Edinburgh Napier), Dip CNE (Queen Margaret, Edinburgh), Cert Ed (Jordanhill College, Glasgow), RN, Dr Karen Willis Edinburgh), Cert Ed (Jordanhill College, Glasgow), RN, SCM, RCNT, RNT, FHEA Professor Anna Sutton BA (Dunelm), PGCE (Manchester Metropolitan), SCM, RCNT, RNT, FHEA Cert Ed, BEd, MEd (Wales), FRSA MA (Open), EdD (Bristol) Humanities Chief Financial Officer and Bursar Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor, University Professor Robert Warner – until 28-2-2017 Chapel Secretary and Director of Legal Services Mr Richard Waddington BA, MA (York), MA (Oxon), PhD (King’s College, The Rev Canon Dr Peter Jenner BA (Newcastle), MBA (Chester), ACMA London), FRSA Mr Adrian Lee MA, PhD (Cantab), Dip Theo (Nottingham), DPS (St John’s MA (Oxon), LLM (Staffordshire) College, Nottingham) Executive Deans of Faculties Dr Brendan O’Sullivan – from 1-3-17 GMus (Huddersfield), PGCE (Manchester Metropolitan), Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Arts and Media Postgraduate and Knowledge Transfer MA (Liverpool), FHEA Development and the Student Experience) Dr Brendan O’Sullivan Professor Neville Ford Dr Chris Haslam GMus (Huddersfield), PGCE (Manchester Metropolitan), MA (Oxon), MSc (Manchester), PhD (Liverpool), FIMA, FHEA Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and BSc (Newcastle), PhD (Southampton), DMS (Open) MA (Liverpool), FHEA Life Sciences Student Support and Guidance Dr Chris Haslam Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise) and Business and Management BSc (Newcastle), PhD (Southampton), DMS (Open) The Rev Dr Lesley Cooke (Professor Emerita) – Principal of Professor Ruth Ashford – until 2-9-2016 to 30-4-2017 Meredydd David OBE – from 1-12-2017 BEd (Manchester Metropolitan), PhD (Lancaster), FCIM, Cert Ed, BEd (Cantab), MA, PhD (Leeds), Dip Theo (Cardiff), Science and Engineering HND (Welsh Agricultural College), MPhil (Aberystwyth) MCIPR, Chartered Marketer, FHEA AFBPsS, FHEA Professor Nick Avis BSc (Reading), PhD (Sheffield) Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Clare Schofield – from 6-9-2016 BA, PhD (Manchester Metropolitan University), FHEA Professor Neville Ford MA (Oxon), MSc (Manchester), PhD (Liverpool), FIMA, FHEA

116 Annual Review 2017 Senior Staff and Members of the University Council

Directors of Professional Services Departments Corporate Communications Registrar Members of the University Council 2016−17

(Senior Executive) Jayne Dodgson Jonathan Moores President – The Rt Rev the Lord Bishop of Chester, Commercial Operations and Chief Executive, BA (London) BSc (Imperial College), MSc (Dundee), ARCS Dr Peter Forster Thornton Research Properties Ltd Deputy President – Canon Dr Jeff Turnbull Secretary to the University Council – Adrian Lee Paul Vernon Domestic Bursar and Director of Hospitality Research and Knowledge Transfer BSc (Manchester) and Residential Services Dr Elizabeth A Christopher Christine Allen BEM Ian White BSc (Dunelm), BSc (Open), PhD (Dunelm), MRSC Francis Ball (Senior Executive) MIH Colin Daniels Human Resources Meredydd David – from 1-12-2016 Student Futures Dr Martin Degg Julie Dagnall Estates and Facilities Sean Dunkin John Evans BA, MA (Liverpool John Moores), FCIPD Peter Hay – to 30-4-2017 BSc (Sheffield), PhD (Wales), PGCE [HE} (Bolton), FHEA Professor John Fisher BSc, MSc (University of the West of England), MRICS, Jeannie France-Hayhurst – from 1-9-2016 (Senior Executive) MCIOB, MBIFM, MRSPH Professor Dean Garratt – to 31-3-2017 Strategic Projects Office Karen Howell – from 1-9-2016 Nick Jenkins Charles Woodcock International Centre The Very Rev Professor Gordon McPhate BA, BSc (Lancaster), PGCE (Keele) Jonathan Pritchard Dr Anna Mackenzie – from 20-9-2016 LLB (Keele), LPC () Cathy Maddaford (Executive) Cherelle Mitchell – Chester Students’ Union President Business Research Institute David Munt Learning and Information Services Marion Needham – to 31-8-2016 Professor Phil Harris and Chief Information Officer Sandra Rudd BA (York), PhD (Manchester Metropolitan), CertEd, Brian Fitzpatrick Dr Liane Smith Chartered Marketer, FAMS, FCIM, FIPR, FRSA, HFAMS BSc, MBA (Open) Margaret Steward Professor Anna Sutton Careers and Employability Emily Thrane – from 1-9-2016 to 30-6-2017 Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions Sandra Verity Dr Kate Daubney – to 31-1-2017 Richard Bengree Canon Professor Tim Wheeler DL, Vice-Chancellor BSc (Leeds), MA (York), PhD, PGCLTHE (Leeds) BA (Lancaster), MA (Liverpool John Moores)

117 Annual Review 2017 Financial Results

Financial Results –Year ended 31 July, 2017

Income Expenditure

Tuition fees and education contracts 93,664,000 Staff costs 68,221,000

Funding body grants 10,338,000 Other operating expenses 35,743,000

Research grants and contracts 894,000 Depreciation 7,111,000

Other income 15,938,000 Interest and other finance costs 2,577,000

Investment income 421,000

Total income before endowments 121,255,000 Total expenditure 113,652,000 and donations Surplus for the year 7,614,000 Donations and endowments 11,000

Total income 121,266,000

118 Credits

Editorial: Corporate Communications

Design: Graphics, Learning and Information Services

Photographs: Media Services, Learning and Information Services; University of Chester staff and students, unless otherwise stated .

© University of Chester 2018

To obtain this information in large print, audio, electronic or another alternative format – please call 01244 511450 or email [email protected] ISSION SINCE R M 183 OU 9 AA A inity n ot of y iniiu

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A @lmbarr64 @josh .pearson101 @emily_clarke_x

ouss ccount to tm Last Fencing session of the year University Of Chester Riverside Campus veterinary microbiology . . agar plates galore . . #MyChesterStory #uocfencing #uocsociety Riverside Campus looking perfect with such pretty colours !! #uni #microbiology #sunnyday #mychesterstory #riverside #spring #daffodils #mychesterstory #chester #uni #bioveterinary A

@lukejacksonphotography @andyrowntree @thetinapay Me with my exhibition at the degree show . Very Thornton Science Park “What feels like the end is often the beginning ”. happy to have completed my degree, now onto There are some gems about in @uochester #mychesterstory the next project! #filmphotography #thorntonsciencepark @uochester

Facebook “f” Logo CMYK / .eps Facebook “f” Logo CMYK / .eps Facebook com/uochester.

Twitter com/uochester. #MyChesterStory

YouTube .com/uochester “It is truly an honour to receive this honorary doctorate from the University of Chester . My four years spent at Instagram com/uochester. Chester were among the happiest in my life . While it is over 25 years since I left, the memories and the spirit of Parkgate Road, Chester CH1 4BJ Tel: 01244 511000 • Fax: 01244 511300 the institution have never left me ”. Email: enquiries@chester .ac .uk Dr Rob Wotton, Health and Community Studies (1987–1990), Chester www .chester .ac .uk/annual-review Students’ Union President (1990–1991) and Sky Sports News presenter

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