FREE, please take a copy

DMU is Winter 2015 rated the most-improved university in the UK

We mean business CBI boss Special bond Aston Martin’s Life in a day One session, praises university’s global vision mission for DMU designers 1,000 new stem cell recruits

Dmu World Winter 2015 1 Global | Public Good | Quality | Success | Creativity | Innovation Improving outcomes for our children, young people and families is at the heart of everything we do. The child’s voice matters to us – are you ready to listen to that voice?

Working in social care isn’t an easy We have a staff team committed to option but working for Leicester City improving outcomes for children, Council offers an opportunity to practice young people and their families. in a forward looking organisation. You would be joining a department that This is an exciting time to join has excellent strategic and operational Education and Children’s Services relationships with partners in the in Leicester. Currently we have a statutory and voluntary sector. As a number of social work posts that department we know ourselves well, we want to recruit. Do you want and have a good awareness of our to become part of the ambitious strengths and areas for development. team we have here in Leicester? We recognise that people are our key resource and we actively support We have transformed our services, our team in individual development redesigned them based on the for our team’s development. child’s journey and to secure better integration between early We look forward to talking to you help and statutory services. further about your interest.

For further information please go to: http://www.leicester.gov.uk/your-council-services/jobs-and-careers/ recruitment/education-and-childrens-recruitment/ * Exclusive offer for the DMU World Magazine!

STUDENT PROPERTIES 2015 - 2016 20% OFF on all admin fees on properties reserved by 31st March 2015.* • 1-9 Bedrooms properties • Rents from 55pppw - 99pppw • Properties near DMU and Leicester University • Free Wifi on selected properties • All bills included properties For more information, call our office on0116 275 8888, visit our website www.thelettingsco.co.uk or visit our facebook page ‘The Lettings Co’

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FREE, please take a copy The world beats a MU’s Leicester to arrive very soon. path to DMU’s door International Pathway Karina Basurto, a student DMU is Winter 2015 rated the College (LIPC), from Mexico, on the International most-improved welcomed people from Foundation Certificate in Art and university Contents... Dacross campus and the world at a Design at LIPC said: “There is in the UK lively launch event. a really large diverse group of The college is providing students at this university, with pathways for international students many different cultures. who need additional support to “It is very interactive and fun. I qualify for entry to DMU degree haven’t experienced this type of Higher programmes. environment in other colleges.” and Higher 8 We mean business CBI boss Special bond Aston Martin’s Life in a day One session, There are currently more than 70 More than 100 people attended praises university’s global vision mission for DMU designers 1,000 new stem cell recruits

Dmu World Winter 2015 1 Global | Public Good | Quality | Success | Creativity | Innovation students on pathway programmes, an event to celebrate the early CBI chief’s praise for which will help prepare them for success of the college and DMU World world-class CVs 10 degrees, with a further intake due introduce staff and students. Team Editorial An appointment with the Doctor T: (0116) 201 3863 E: [email protected] It’s DMU Rachael’s Rachael admits she did not DMU photography: Jason Senior, Creating the regularly watch the science fantasy Redpix Photography Razor’s Edge 12 time to shine as she T: 07912 076838 gets prestige job on favourite until after being asked by Titan to draw the strip, but has E: [email protected] Doctor Who comic 18 now immersed herself in box sets, Design & Publishers Spirit of Lifesaving recruitment creativity drive sets new record 16 n exciting new range saying: “I had never really properly Designer: Rowena Wilson of high-profile Doctor watched it, so I watched the Matt T: (01536) 521126 Who comics is on the Smith and David Tennant episodes E: [email protected] shelves – featuring a and what struck me was that it’s Publisher: Lance Publishing Ltd, Astrip drawn by a DMU graduate. just such a positive show. 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Rachael Smith, who took a First “You have to give yourself over to Kettering, NN16 8NL 24 in Fine Art in 2006, is drawing a it a bit and just believe in characters Advertising Aston Martin lays Straight into regular series for the Tenth Doctor who can be so good, who have that down challenge Premiership job Advertising Sales Executives: 22 comics, published by graphic novels almost child-like innocence. Laurence Rowe giant Titan. Her first work, entitled A “I’ve written and drawn each strip T: (01536) 526662 28 Giving our Rose by Any Other Name, appeared myself, working closely with the E: [email protected] Film insider shares students what industry secrets they want in the latest edition of the comic lovely folk at Titan. It’s been a blast.” Kevin Mok which was launched last year. While at DMU, Rachael loved T: (01536) 526 678 Rachael, who also has a successful drawing and making art and although E: [email protected] 30 34 blog, said: “It’s the biggest gig I she started drawing cartoons Printers have had so far and to be part of at university, it was not until she Printed by Lance Print Ltd, Doctor Who is just huge. It will get graduated that she found herself 29/30 Stapledon Road 40 my work in front of such a worldwide doing more and more cartoon work. Orton Southgate Education Secretary Robot audience – I still can’t believe it!” Her first book was The Way We learns the DMU way visions Peterborough Titan was looking for fresh Write and she also created the PE2 6TD independent artists for their comic, popular Vicky Park cartoon, which T: (01733) 396844 which focuses on the Doctor appears weekly in the Leicester E: [email protected] as portrayed by David Tennant. Mercury’s More magazine.

Disclaimer Champion This publication is copyright Lance Publishing rower praises Limited and may not be reproduced or awesome gym 42 transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Publishing Limited. While every care has been Elliott hacks Delighted taken during the preparation of this magazine, it at Spotify Dan has Lance Publishing Limited cannot be held Sound cutting responsible for accuracy of the information summit edge herein or for any consequence arising from it. All images ©De Montfort University unless 9-page otherwise stated. employability feature Rachael Smith 47 44 © Titan Comics 6 Dmu World Winter 2015 See pages Dmu World Winter 2015 7 21-29 dmu.ac.uk

The climb up the league Top learning and research, table reflects an ongoing but the launch of several pursuit of excellence – Higher ground-breaking initiatives Vice-Chancellor transforming the campus, in designed to offer students a Professor Dominic Shellard said: research, and in delivering superb experience and make them “This has been a remarkable year a great student experience. 50 better prepared than ever before to for DMU and this climb up the slot for enter the world of work. league tables reflects the great graduate jobs & higher These have included strides our university has made as employability schemes such as a result of the incredible work and MU is one of the top 50 Pledge to continue recognises transformation in its Frontrunners and DMU Graduate ongoing pursuit of excellence by universities in the country innovating as we enjoy scores for graduate prospects and Champions, the introduction of our students and staff. when it comes to graduates the biggest Good also a significant rise in spend on #DMUglobal, which sends students “Our exceptional employability finding a job, rising a services and facilities in the past overseas as part of their studies, initiatives, transformational student Dmassive 57 places in national rankings University Guide rise year. The university now ranks and the ongoing Square Mile experience and quality courses published by The Sunday Times. of any UK institution 50th in the UK for employability project, which offers student and make DMU a hugely rewarding The figure, in the newspaper’s Good e Montfort University with 69.1 per cent of graduates in staff volunteers the opportunity to place for current students to University Guide 2015, shows how has climbed 32 places professional jobs or postgraduate use their skills to make a difference study and a compelling choice for the university has transformed its in The Times and The study within six months of leaving. in the community. DMU has also potential students too. performance in preparing students for Sunday Times Good DMU’s leap up the table comes been one of the best universities “But we have never been a the competitive job market. DUniversity Guide, taking it to 54th on the back of a highly successful in the country for recruitment this university to rest on our laurels and, Adele Browne, Senior Work position – the biggest rise of any year which has also seen the academic year, with more than as our successful national TV advert Based Learning Manager for DMU, university in Britain. institution climb 10 places in 4,400 new students starting at the says, (see pages 12-15) DMU is not said: “We’re delighted that DMU’s The guide ranked every the Complete University Guide end of September. about surrendering to convention. commitment to our students’ university in the UK according to and named in the UK’s top 40 DMU’s £136 million campus DMU is about learning to succeed. employability has been reflected so criteria such as student satisfaction, universities offering the best transformation project is under We will continue to innovate and clearly in this year’s league table rise. research quality, entry standards, student experience. way and the refurbishment of the create and ensure our students have “Internships, placements, enterprise student-staff ratio, spend on Much of DMU’s success in the Fletcher complex for art, design every opportunity to excel.” and volunteering are part of the fabric facilities and graduate prospects. last academic year has been down and architecture students, has of the DMU student experience, DMU’s league table position to not only high-quality teaching, started. supported by long-established relationships with local, national and international organisations. “Our students have access to high quality, challenging work experience from day one at the university. This is the key to their high-quality employability and graduate success.” DMU is in the top 40 universities in the country for student satisfaction, rising 16 places from 55 to 39 in the Times Higher Education magazine’s 2014 Student Experience Survey. The annual study, the higher education sector’s benchmark of students’ views, was published just a week after DMU leapt 10 places up the table in the UK’s Complete University Guide. Students were asked to rate their university in 21 areas including social life, community atmosphere, accommodation, security and tuition. The top scores for DMU were for its centralised facilities and campus, as well as the quality of the library and its opening hours. DMU is one of just a handful of city centre campuses in the country.

8 Dmu World Winter 2015 Dmu World Winter 2015 9 dmu.ac.uk

Inspired of when you have actually put An advantage from the trip was the knowledge ‘Something these into practice.” she gained in her field of study. new, every day’ in Indore The week was hosted by Daly in the global She said: “I now have an Students from DMU have returned College, a prestigious institution workplace advantage in the global workplace, Students and staff who visited inspired after a fantastic week in the heart of India, and those on with something a little extra to Gambia as part of #DMUglobal packed with cultural activities in the trip were able to experience Students who went to China with offer when applying for jobs.” said the experience has changed Indore, central India. first-hand what it is like to study InternChina learnt Mandarin, visited Himesh Sharma said: “I would their lives. Nadim Chenia, a Business in India by joining classes at the cultural sites, attended sessions describe this trip as the best The DMU party worked on and Management student, said: college’s business school. with Chinese companies and even experience of my life.” community projects and learned “International experiences like this enjoyed some karaoke. about the country’s history and are becoming important factors for Nicolle Chenjera said: “Words culture. employers when they are selecting cannot emphasise just how Health studies student graduates. life-changing and beneficial this Erica Zelesco said: “I strongly “Everyone interviewing for a international experience has been recommend this experience. We graduate job will have a degree, it’s for me.” need to embrace this kind of about identifying the necessary The second year psychology opportunity given by #DMUglobal.” skills you have and giving evidence student said the greatest benefit

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dominic Shellard and John Not just another Harvard a new musical set to take Broadway Cridland, head of the Confederation of British Industry, by storm - it was all part of a at the #DMUglobal destinations board on campus day in the office… experience placement for #DMUglobal student Esther Famosa, a recent DMU will Never Flo Tudgay. that the idea of #DMUglobal, graduate in international business be forgotten Fashion Design student Flo CBI chief’s praise for to give students a competitive and globalisation, helped DMU’s graduate. spent six weeks in America on global edge, was conceived by regional office in New Delhi. Esther said: “The majority of Mingling with Gary Barlow, learning an internship with the American world-class CVs DMU’s Vice-Chancellor Professor She said: “This global employers have wanted to know from the costume designer of Repertory Theatre in Harvard Dominic Shellard. internship has given me a clearer why I did this internship, because Slumdog Millionaire and working on University, Massachusetts. The Voice of business to thousands of students. Professor Shellard’s vision to understanding of another culture. they have been surprised to see internship was supported by says #DMUglobal Mr Cridland said: “DMU’s push equip graduates with a range of Building This is the kind of experience that this international experience on #DMUglobal. offers ‘head start’ to broaden their students’ overseas global skills is now a reality with new skills interests potential employers.” my CV. World view Flo worked behind the scenes in experience and equipping them an exciting programme supported in Gambia Committed to the best student “With regards to my career, ‘will impress the costume design department on he head of Britain’s with the skills that employers are by British Airways and which experience, #DMUglobal is helping this has given me an edge, employers’ Finding Neverland, a musical based business community has looking for, will give these young harnesses DMU’s worldwide A DMU graduate has put his to ensure that DMU students are which will help me stand out on the life of Peter Pan author JM praised the CV-boosting people a head start when they network of industry and education degree in to practice in The better equipped to meet the needs when compared to other Fashion students from DMU Barrie and his relationship with the experiences offered leave university. partners. Gambia with #DMUglobal. of global employers when they candidates, in any job role.” had the opportunity to explore family who inspired the story. Tto DMU students through its “In a global economy, the ability Professor Shellard said: “We Daniel Sturrock (pictured), a Hong Kong in a field trip through innovative #DMUglobal programme. to recruit talented graduates with are fiercely proud of #DMUglobal recent Architecture graduate, #DMUglobal. John Cridland CBE is head of the an international outlook and foreign and believe it will give our helped with the construction of a New skills They were given the chance Vital new Confederation of British Industry language skills will be vital to students a real advantage in community development centre to participate in workshops (CBI), the organisation known as ambitious British businesses eager today’s ever more competitive in Manduar village, using skills made in China and attend field studies, which washrooms the voice of UK business. to export to new, dynamic markets graduate jobs market. gained while studying with DMU. DMU students have experienced allowed them to gain a greater DMU’s Square Mile programme Mr Cridland visited DMU to across the world.” “To have the support of a He said: “The experience daily life in Chinese companies, understanding of the Chinese will help an Indian community build deliver a guest lecture to third year The CBI represents more than leading business figure such as with #DMUglobal has made my as interns in Zhuhai, thanks to fashion industry. vital washrooms for local schools, business students and unveil the 190,000 members of the British John is a significant endorsement. decision to go into international #DMUglobal. Student Lowri Edwards said: as part of #DMUglobal. #DMUglobal destinations board on business community and Mr I believe it underlines the development more certain.” Christopher Okon, a marketing “Employers value and appreciate A lack of toilet facilities in campus. Cridland lobbies on their behalf in importance of this programme.” Daniel had the opportunity to management student who spent Healing graduates with international schools is one of the reasons girls #DMUglobal is set to become the UK and overseas. help with drawings, surveys and eight weeks with Recycling Times hands experience.” drop out of education in India. the most comprehensive In 2012, a study commissioned planning for the centre and said: “It Media, said: “I have learnt new skills overseas Following a visit by DMU’s international experience by the CBI showed 55% of UK was rewarding to be a part of this that can enhance my employability Professor Vice-Chancellor Dominic programme available at any UK businesses were dissatisfied with fantastic project, enhancing my and it has given me a taste of how Students on DMU’s Nursing hospital including the emergency Shellard, students volunteering university. It will offer students the graduates’ foreign language skills In a global economy, the existing design skills with hands- business and people operate. degree are taking part in department, clinical medicine, with Square Mile’s Homework Club chance to experience other cultures and 47% were dissatisfied with ability to recruit talented on experience and benefitting my “The company gave me placements in Brazil, Finland, mental health and surgery. will work on fundraising projects in and enhance their employability their level of cultural awareness. graduates with an future career path in international autonomy, responsibility over major Philippines, Ireland, Sweden and Natasha said: “We have Leicester schools to support the by exposing them to business Earlier this year, a CBI survey international outlook and development. projects and supported me all the Thailand. mentors who work with us and washroom initiative in Indore. practices around the world. found two-thirds of its members “foreign language skills “I’ve demonstrated to future way through. I had the chance to Two students, Natasha Akbar teach us about what is happening Students will also have the The board, in DMU’s Hawthorn identified a need for employees to will be vital employers that I’m able to think get out into the market and apply and Elizabeth King, went to throughout the day, and we have opportunity to visit India in the next Square, will advertise opportunities have foreign language skills. John Cridland outside the box and adapt to new what I have learnt, putting it into Santa Maria, Brazil, observing student buddies who come with us academic year to help with the on campus and overseas available It was against this background surroundings and people very well.” practice.” different areas within a Brazilian to help with the Portuguese.” construction of these toilets.

” Dmu World Winter 2015 11 dmu.ac.uk

We’re living in turbulent and testing times. The world is standing on a A cut above “razor’s edge.

Creating DMU’s Razor’s Edge advert meant ” going to the best to capture the uncoventional

MU’s stunning and lecture areas, as well as taking television advertising shots of the campus and home Dare to find an alternative campaign was city Leicester from the top of the that makes our hearts produced and directed 22-storey Summit accommodation beat that little bit harder. Dby the company behind the Oscar- block, on the edge of the city Inside Edge#2 winning blockbuster Gravity – and centre campus. “ set them a dynamic challenge: Mel Fowler, director of marketing Plane... #DMUglobal is our squeezing 144 years of higher at DMU, said: “We were working with exciting new programme which ” education teaching and learning the best and it really showed. Cubo aims to provide the majority into 30 seconds. and Framestore were professional of students with valuable Marketing experts Cubo and to the last and it was exciting for international experiences. film company Framestore worked our marketing and communications with the university’s Marketing teams to work with them. Shanghai... We held a dazzling We’re our own worst and Communications Department “The amount of footage they Fashion Week in collaboration enemy if we walk the to draw up a storyboard, narrative shot was phenomenal. With skilled with Shanghai University of path that’s worn thin. and shooting schedule for the editing and a great narrative, they Engineering Science. “ advert and then spent time on were able to condense it all into a campus capturing the ideal shots truly spectacular 30-second advert Stocks... DMU Square Mile to show off the university and its which reflects how dynamic and organised a fantastic project, ” surroundings at their best. which taught schoolchildren about It included time in laboratories Continued on pages 14-15 the fundamentals of the stock market.

Cells… DMU’s Square Mile Architectural design... DMU’s programme won a Guardian award Leicester School of Architecture for its fantastic collaboration with is renowned for the quality the Rik Basra Leukaemia Campaign. of its courses and producing Inside Edge#1 exceptionally talented graduates. Microchip... DMU has its finger Circuit board… DMU is at on the pulse of developments in Game art... DMU’s Leicester information technology. the forefront of research into Media School enables students cyberspace and Cyber Security. to hone their practical skills in Electron microscope… Our industry-standard facilities. Faculty of Health and Life Sciences’ Stadium… DMU is very proud of state-of-the-art electron microscope strong sports partnerships. Music and sound recording... Then together we’ll make is used for forensic studies. The industry-standard music great strides for the good Eye… The Faculty of Art, Design facilities in DMU’s Performing Arts of all. Robot… DMU’s Centre for and Humanities focuses on Computational Intelligence has a Centre for Excellence building providing an inspiring environment. enable our Music, Technology and “ range of innovative robots. Performance students to create Brain… Professor Bernd Stahl is CAD car… We are a key partner in the next fresh sounds. ” part of the EU’s flagship Human the My Electric Avenue project. Brain Project to build a virtual brain. Shoe design... DMU also has BMW wind tunnel… We have many strong industry links with top Earth… DMU is a truly global established business links with top brands such as Kurt Geiger and university. employers. Clarks.

12 Dmu World Winter 2015 Dmu World Winter 2015 13 dmu.ac.uk

Continued from pages 12-13 enabled us to push the boundaries and create something truly special.” innovative DMU is. Framestore’s London office was “No other university in the UK has hired to produce and direct DMU’s produced anything like it before. television advert because of the “We are delighted with the result. company’s global reputation for It is truly ground-breaking and will producing stunning moving images, create a real buzz of excitement content, design and digital for the among an audience of creative, advertising, entertainment and film talented people who may be industries. considering coming to study at Framestore has 900 staff spread DMU.” across four bases, in London, New Cubo developed the original York, Los Angeles and Montreal, strategy and idea behind the ad and has been responsible not just This is not about and wrote the script. Its team also for the special effects in Gravity, but surrendering to selected Framestore as production the latest Tom Cruise sci-fi thriller convention. partner. Edge of Tomorrow. Trevor Chambers, executive The company has also produced Speaking our “ creative director of Cubo, said: “The adverts for famous brands such language opportunity to create a TV ad for as M&Ms, McDonalds and Sky such a trailblazing university as Television, starring David Beckham ctor Merv Lukeba ” DMU was great for Cubo. and Idris Elba, and directed music (pictured) was brought in “The script was key for us. We videos for acts as diverse as Nichole to deliver the voiceover wanted to create something that Scherzinger and Arcade Fire. for DMU’s TV ad, to was unexpected, out of category Framestore, who says it makes Aensure the words gripped the and didn’t follow the conventions “the impossible possible”, was given audience as much as the visuals. of standard university advertising, the DMU contract by marketing Merv represented talent, creativity something that would hopefully stir company Cubo, after learning how and youth, which meant he could something in people. DMU was determined to push the deliver the all-important lines “We chose to partner with boundaries and create something perfectly to a passionate audience Framestore on production. Their that would stand head and of potential students considering experience, particularly in post- shoulders above other university coming to study at DMU. production techniques, really marketing campaigns. Merv’s acting credits range from TV series such as The Bill and Lewis, Lens… DMU’s Leicester Media to West End stage productions. His School helps students focus on breakthrough role came when cast This is learning developing industry-level media as lead in Channel 4’s hit drama to succeed. production skills. series Skins. His performance as Thomas drew critical acclaim and Baby… Our School of Midwifery ‘gave Skins its soul back’. “ and Nursing has more than 50 The campaign also needed a Inside Edge#3 years’ experience in providing soundtrack that would instantly grab ” students with the most up-to-date the audience and entice them to take Fashion design… Students theory, and industry-level practical on board our reputation for pushing on our Fashion, Textiles and experience. the boundaries. Accessories and Contour Fashion The marketing team plumped for courses make the trends of the Dancers… The School of Arts is Raleigh Ritchie’s track Stronger than future. renowned for its excellent Dance, Ever, following a survey in which a Drama Studies and Performing choice of singles was played to our Catwalk… Our School of Fashion Arts courses. Students benefit core audience of potential students and Textiles has strong links with from the industry-standard studio aged between 17 and 18. top fashion houses. and theatre facilities. The choice proved to be a sound one, as the song Stronger than Ever Photography (retail lab)… Artificial pancreas…DMU subsequently made it into the UK This is De Montfort DMU’s School of Design is Professor Joan Taylor’s artificial Top 40 and the YouTube video for renowned for its superb Design pancreas could revolutionise the the song has had 1.4 million hits, all University Leicester. Crafts and Product and Furniture lives of people with diabetes and before the TV advertising campaign Design courses. save the NHS billions of pounds. started in full. 14 Dmu World Winter 2015 “ ” Dmu World Winter 2015 15 dmu.ac.uk

Emile Heskey and Rik Basra at the DMU Square Mile-hosted event

anyone, even the strongest and just blown away by the response Lifesaving recruitment drive fittest people, and he is still being from our students and staff who DMU midwife Laura treated for it now. have shown yet again that DMU is a It’s fantastic to see honoured for best care “I went to an event in Nottingham force for public good.” so many students sets new record and that was where I met Rik. He Registration stations were set up signing up. It has A midwife who graduated from Laura stayed after her 12-hour gave a speech about his battle with at DMU’s Campus Centre, Leicester touched people. DMU has won a top NHS award. night shift ended to support Jodie, 1,000 extra people sign-up event ever held in the UK. everyone comes together.” leukaemia and it touched me. He Railway Station, Gallowtree Gate, “Emile Heskey Laura Coulson won the Caring at her husband and mum. Jodie signed up to stem cell Ex-England ace Emile Heskey Emile Heskey came to the asked me to turn up at this event and Clock Tower, Humberstone Gate, its Best accolade at a gala event in described Laura as “a complete register in a day came to DMU’s Campus Centre to Campus Centre to meet volunteers just be here. How could I say no? Highcross Shopping Centre, Leicester’s Athena venue to reward credit to the department, a very back the event, which saw queues and those signing up. “It’s fantastic to see so many Jubilee Square and Loughborough Since then he and his family have NHS employees who go the extra thoughtful and considerate person record 1,000 people of students formed steadily through In 2012, close friend and former students signing up. You never University. campaigned tirelessly to recruit” mile to help patients. who deserves recognition.” have been recruited the day to sign up. By 6pm, 1,020 Aston Villa teammate, Stiliyan know at these events how it’s going Medical Science student Amir more donors, particularly from She was nominated by a Laura, who graduated from to the UK stem cell potential lifesavers aged 16-30 had Petrov, was diagnosed with acute to be perceived but it has touched Mahmood ran the city centre ethnic minority backgrounds, to mum, Jodie Holyoak, who Laura DMU in September 2012, was register in just one day, joined the Anthony Nolan register. leukaemia. people.” operation which recruited an the register. DMU Vice-Chancellor supported during a particularly named University Hospitals of Athanks to an amazing campaign. The 1,000th person to sign Emile, who posed for David Hollis, Operations amazing 300 people. He said: “I’m Professor Dominic Shellard, difficult delivery. Jodie’s experience Leicester NHS Trust overall winner The Rik Basra Leukaemia up was Psychology student Josh photos with students Manager of DMU Square just so happy that we have done it!” Leicestershire Police Chief Simon started as a normal delivery, but from its thousands of staff across Campaign and DMU Square Mile Munotengwa. He said: “I really and chatted to Mile, which uses the skills of Some 160 students from DMU, Cole, Suleman Nagdi from the unexpectedly escalated into an Leicestershire. ran #RACETO1000 to try to break didn’t expect to be number 1,000. volunteers, said: “What staff and students to help the Leicester and Loughborough Federation of Muslim Organisations emergency caesarean. As she She said: “It’s amazing. It’s so nice the record for the single largest It’s a very good cause and I’m happened to Stiliyan community, said: volunteered during the day to help and Deputy Mayor of Leicester, went into shock, Laura explained to know someone recognises what delighted they have hit their target.” shows that it could “We were people fill in forms, take saliva Rory Palmer, also came to the everything to her to keep her calm. you do. I’m so thankful. It’s really nice A thrilled Rik Basra, himself a happen to samples and spread the word about Campus Centre to cheer on the Jodie said: “Laura was extremely to know that people think you made leukaemia survivor, said: “We have the event. record-breaking attempt. caring as I was acting hysterically. a difference.” got fabulous partners in the DMU Student radio station Demon FM She showed so much empathy and Tina Harris, lead midwife for We were just blown Square Mile team, we had amazing broadcasted live from the event and almost felt my pain with me, showing education at DMU, said: “I was away by the response volunteers that came from Demon Media filmed it. me that she understood and cared.” delighted to hear that Laura has from our students and previous events, fellow patients, Police officer Rik’s life was saved DMU Laura stayed by Jodie’s side won an award for her care of a staff. DMU is a force and literally people who came by a bone marrow transplant from SQUARE throughout and explained everything woman and her family as a midwife “for public good off the street to help out. This an anonymous donor found through that was happening to her during at University Hospitals of Leicester David Hollis shows just what can be achieved if the Anthony Nolan register in 2011. MILE the delivery. NHS Trust.” 16 Dmu World Winter 2015 ” Dmu World Winter 2015 17 dmu.ac.uk

In the spirit of One-offs sold alongside high street brands creativity tudents from DMU by the fashion students. raised funds to put Aylin Kiral, who ran the shop DMU Contour Fashion students their fashion designs alongside fellow third year fashion showcased their collections in church on the London catwalk design student Jonathan Neal and Sby selling their unique clothing fashion design lecturer Caroline ashion fans packed into to grow as designers, where we try in a pop-up shop at the heart of Jackson, said: “It is a challenge a Leicester church as different ideas. Leicester’s busiest shopping area. but it is really important for us to third year DMU Contour “What people were seeing here They opened up the fashion raise funds so that we can go to Fashion students was the projects we have done shop on the top floor of the Graduate Fashion Week. Fshowcased their latest collections. to explore ideas and find our own Highcross shopping centre “It is the most important event All Saints Church was the styles.” More than 200 people were alongside famous high street for us as designers because it is venue for Contour Catwalk, which at the event, which saw 38 students stores such as Zara, Topshop and where you can show your work to showed the students’ work off to show off 80 garments. Lipsy. It featured one-off designs the world, make good contacts and stunning effect. Lingerie, shapewear, swimwear, and customised clothing created secure a job in the industry.” All proceeds from ticket sales bras, bikini, underwear and went toward the students’ fund to sleepwear designs were sent down help pay for their show at this year’s the aisle of the church to cheers Quartet are winners Graduate Fashion Week. DMU’s and applause. with big world brand Contour Fashion made history in DMU’s internationally-renowned 2012 when it became the first such Contour Fashion course produces nnovative lingerie designs lingerie collection for women over course to take part. graduates who are specialists conceived by students from 45 with a specific fit and features Event organisers Elissa Grainger in design, pattern cutting and DMU’s renowned Contour suited for that market. and Christel Asplund were delighted technical excellence. Fashion courses have won Emily Storer took the £500 first with the support for the night. Icompetitions run by one of the prize in the Berlei Sport 3/3 Brand “It’s been months in the planning world’s biggest brands. Stretch Project to incorporate but we are so pleased with the The third year Contour Fashion the latest technology of stretch response,” said Elissa. “To see the It’s been brilliant. and Design students have materials with compression wear designs in the church has been We get to grow scooped the top prizes in three or running gear into a set of incredible.” as designers, try All Saints Church was the concept and design challenges sportswear. Christel said: “It’s been brilliant. different ideas venue for Contour Catwalk set by Berlei. Contour Fashion programme The second year is where we get “Christel Asplund Ellie Balwako won the £500 leader Gillian Proctor said: “DMU prize for the Berlei Sport 2/3 has a longstanding and respectful Innovation Project to design an relationship with the Berlei team ” innovative sports bra concept with who have consistently nurtured specific features to provide the and encouraged fashion forward best of support and comfort. creative solutions from the student Nicole Wright and Sarah cohort. Hardstaff each earned £250 as “Few brands can be as generous joint winners of the Berlei Lingerie with their time and vision for the 1/3 Brand Positioning Project to potential of new product ranges create a contemporary feminine and value their creative worth.”

From left, winners Ellie Balwako , Emily Storer, Nicole Wright and Sarah Hardstaff.

18 Dmu World Winter 2015 Dmu World Winter 2015 19 Once upon a time... 9-page …getting a degree was enough, The End. Today, if you want to be a success story, employability getting the job you want in a tough market means being equipped with the real-world feature skills, experiences and attitudes big-name employers demand.

From chapter one at DMU, our students are creating their futures. That’s our top priority – and it’s working. Our graduates go on to exciting roles with global names and DMU is one the top 50 universities in the country when it comes to graduates finding jobs, according to the Sunday Times league tables.

Across the following pages, you’ll read about our recent success stories – inspiring individuals like Textile Design graduate Abbie Tacey, already boss of her own business creating trendy T-shirts after successfully applying for a grant from the university, and Media Production graduate Leanne Allen, in a dream job at Radio 1.

You’ll also see how our lead on partnerships, internships, volunteering, placements, and DMU schemes like Graduate Champions, Square Mile and Frontrunners, have put recent graduates where they want to be: at the start of an exciting adventure.

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learn at DMU can take them. – without compromising on Aston Martin’s Toby Fox, and engineers from the luxury. The company chose DMU iconic British marque, the last word because of the emphasis placed on in style for car lovers around the technical design aspects, coupled DMU graduate world, arrived in a Rapide S to set a with its reputation for creativity and competition. industry-aligned teaching. strengthens Students of on Interior Design, The students will work on the Textile Design, Design Crafts and project during a week-long boot special bond Fashion Textiles and Accessories camp. The three best will be judged were invited to see the £150,000 by DMU staff and will be invited to Design challenge shows students car – and sit inside it – to get a feel present their work at Aston Martin’s for the top-quality materials and HQ in Warwickshire. where skills can take them. John Cridland finish which the company uses. Toby said: “We’ll be looking for DMU Product Design company’s latest stunning models to The student brief is to redesign their ideas on how to communicate graduate now working campus as he threw down a design the interior of the vehicle while the concept of lightweight and CBI boss shares new with Aston Martin challenge for today’s students - and staying true to its core of sporty in luxury materials. meaning of working world brought one of the showed them where the skills they lightweight and sports elements “We brought the car on to A Students told ‘you Mr Cridland said he believed that will work for global medium-sized companies would Toby Fox and the £150,000 businesses’ – and be the ones driving growth, spoke Aston Martin. The car, used to creative angle should about the importance of the United inspire designers here, made an Kingdom and said creativity was impact with students on campus. provide edge vital for today’s graduates. He said he wanted to see MU students were arts subjects given the same urged to prepare importance as science, maths, themselves for a technology and engineering. “I’m global future by the really excited by the potential for Dboss of Britain’s biggest business more multi-disciplined studies organisation when he made a producing people who are able to special visit to campus. bridge the gap between science John Cridland CBE, Director and the arts.” General of the Confederation of DMU places a huge emphasis on British Industry (CBI) gave the creativity and innovation across all advice as he outlined his vision of subjects, including business. the future for UK business. Students said the lecture had Mr Cridland explained what he given them plenty to think about. believed were the key business Postgraduate student Anso Mtyaka trends and spoke about the said it had ‘opened his mind’, adding: ‘fundamental change’ in the “Being a student doing International global market since the economic Business and Entrepreneurship, the crisis of 2008. things he spoke about were very He spoke of the rise of Eastern relevant to me.” campus to give the students the economies and how companies Johanna Rodall, Sharon Wollams context. We’re excited to see what were increasingly global in their and Ruqiya Ali, who all study they come up with.” outlook, pointing to the example Advertising and Public Relations, Students said they were thrilled of Jaguar Land Rover – owned by were among the audience. “I by the opportunity to work with an Indian company, with British liked the fact he said employers Aston Martin during their studies. workers, enjoying huge success in were looking for well-rounded Idil Abdi, a second year Textile the Chinese market – as ‘a brilliant graduates,” said Johanna. Design student, said: “It’s an honour example of globalisation in action’. “The lecture has made me think to design for Aston Martin. It’s a He told DMU students: “To more about what I want to do,” It’s an honour very famous international brand and those of you who have aims to added Ruqiya. to design for this is so exciting for us.” work in the UK, I would be hugely Business and Management Aston Martin. It’s Charlotte Spencer said: “It’s surprised if you get through your student Adam Gravely said: “It was a very famous, exciting to be part of this. It’s a working lives without working for an excellent opportunity to hear international“ brand privilege to have the opportunity a company owned by a Chinese, about the opinions of business. It Idil Abdi to design for such an iconic, luxury Indian or other new economy was great that DMU gave us the brand.” base.” chance.” 22 Dmu World Winter 2015 ” Dmu World Winter 2015 23 dmu.ac.uk

Leicester City have taken on Jiteche Quessou full time – Olympic dream and he could not be happier comes true thanks to DMU

the CIES International many MA in Management, Law field trips and Humanities of Sport (the “Fifa we had, which Master”). included visits to Old which A keen player of Gaelic football Trafford, the San Siro, negotiates the and hurling, he wanted to take his FIFA, UEFA, the IOC and broadcasting rights and love of Sport to the next level by many, many more. sponsorship for the Olympics. working in the industry. ‘I would recommend the FIFA “I cannot wait to start,” he said. He said: “When I decided it was Master to anyone who wants to graduate of an “It will be a fantastic experience time, I spoke to a number of people work in sport, in particular with an acclaimed sports to be able to work on some of in the sports industry and the FIFA international federation. The course management course, the largest and most important Master was consistently mentioned is highly regarded in the sports partly run at DMU, has sponsorship and broadcasting as one of the best sports master’s industry and students are given the Alanded a dream job working for the contracts involving some of the courses out there. opportunity to learn from some of International Olympic Committee. biggest companies in the world.” “I particularly enjoyed the the leading experts in their fields. Colm Ó Méalóid, 28, will be Colm was a qualified corporate humanities module at DMU as I The FIFA Master also has a very based at Lausanne in Switzerland, lawyer with Irish law firm Matheson learned about how sport developed strong alumni association, who are I think it is brilliant providing legal support to the TV when he decided to fulfil his and why certain sports are governed very supportive and will do as much Newcomer that DMU offers and marketing services legal team, ambition to work in sport and study in different ways. I also enjoyed the as they can with careers.” opportunities like this even after you have goes straight into “ graduated Jiteche Quessou Leah communicates relevant to their chosen degree and team were exceptionally helpful. Premiership line-up the career path they wish to follow, The group session we had before she means business while business people have free our internships started was very access to some of the brightest and informative, helpful and most of all now been taken on full-time and a week for the six weeks, and the ” graduate from DMU best young talent in the UK today. engaging. Every query and problem Jiteche’s internship ‘could not be happier’. He urged university will pay the Living Wage has started a full-time Leah said: “If it was not for DMU’s I had, they would get back to me leads to full-time role other graduates to join the scheme of £7.65 an hour. It means there is job after impressing Graduate Champions scheme I promptly and always solved any at Leicester City and businesses to get involved. no cost to businesses who take on the bosses who took would probably be at home trying issues I had. Jiteche said: “It feels amazing. If the graduates. Aher on for an internship under one to find the right job. With their help I “I would most certainly DMU graduate has there is one thing students should Jiteche said: “I would urge any of the university’s ground-breaking managed to gain a full-time job recommend the scheme to anyone taken up a full-time realise it is this; that your degree is students and graduates to sign-up employment schemes. “I made a good impression and that needs experience within the job with Leicester important but what also matters is now for the scheme. Experience Leah McDougall (pictured) I am so pleased. It has helped field they are studying and to City Football Club your experience in the workplace. counts for so much now in the studied Media and Communication work 18.5 hours a week. me decide what I want to do as a any student that is unsure what Aafter impressing them during “If you have the opportunity to workplace and I think it is brilliant with Film Studies (Joint Honours) For DMU graduates, these graduate, which is to build a career they want to do as a career after an internship organised by the prove you can work hard and do your that DMU offers opportunities like and enjoyed a six-week internship placements bring sought-after in public relations, with social media university. The DMU Graduate pioneering DMU Graduate job well then you will be more likely this even after you have graduated. in the communications sector as opportunities to gain valuable insight in particular. Champions scheme has seriously Champions scheme. to get a full-time post. Now I have “I want to say thanks so much part of DMU Graduate Champions. into graduate-level work that is “The DMU Graduate Champions changed my life.” Jiteche Quessou, who graduated a full-time job I can look forward to to DMU. I was able to work for the She is now enjoying working as with a BA (Hons) in Graphic getting a driving licence, going on scheme and hold down my other a Public Relations and Marketing Design, took up an internship with holidays and being able to manage part-time job which was great. Assistant at Leicester’s Asra the club at their King Power home things financially. It is great.” “I feel so proud to work for Housing Group who decided to last autumn, during the first DMU DMU Graduate Champions offers Leicester City. When you work offer her a full-time role. Graduate Champions internships. recent graduates the chance to take here you realise how much the The innovative scheme offers Leicester City extended Jiteche’s up a paid, six-week internship with club means to the city. It is full of recent graduates the chance to internship with the club and he has a leading UK business to enhance good people and there is a lovely take up an internship with a leading their CV and help them stand atmosphere. It can be stressful at UK business to enhance their CV out from the crowd in a furiously times as we work to deadlines but and help them stand out from the competitive jobs market. everyone helps out and supports crowd in a furiously competitive Each graduate is contracted and each other to make sure we meet jobs market. The champions are Graduate Champions offers recent graduates the chance to take up an internship with a leading UK business to enhance their CV paid by DMU to work 18.5 hours them.” paid the living wage by DMU and

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Abbie Tacey Vision for sound brings success DMU ‘crucial’ throughout our time at DMU. as innovative “DMU was crucial in starting us on this path. The degree introduced music technology us to programming, so that we graduates turn could create our own software and, hobby into business most importantly, to instrument building and basic electronics, pair of innovative music which helped us to develop technology graduates our electronic instruments, the has turned what was backbone of the business.” complex than anything they had once just a hobby into a They did everything themselves, done before. Manufactured to Asuccessful start-up business. from design and prototyping to professional standards, it has sold Jim Frize and Kat Pattison manufacture and marketing, and all over the world, including Mexico The degree introduced us graduated from DMU in 2009 in 2010 won the prestigious Shell and Malaysia. to programming, so that and now run Sonodrome, a limited LiveWire small business award. Jim, 32, and Kat, 28, firmly we could create our own company which makes electronic “In the early days we were very believe in sharing their software software, to instrument instruments, acts as a development hands-on with the manufacture of codes and hardware designs for “building and basic consultancy and runs music these products,” said Kat. “We had free use and have branched into electronics, the backbone workshops. to be, because of lack of funding creating custom gadgets and of the business’ After graduating with BA Hons and equipment. The printed circuit running workshops. They were also Kat Pattison Music Technology and Innovation boards for our electronic instrument hiring out their own Digital Graffiti degrees, the duo relocated to the kits were all handcrafted at this Wall, a screen on which to ‘spray’ facing social and economic north east to set up their business. point. infrared light to create artwork. difficulties. Kat said: “We initially worked “Later we took some time out They also branched into In 2011 they moved back ” on the design and development to develop a more sophisticated being commissioned by various to Leicester, became a limited of our own electronic instruments, electronic instrument, a standalone government services and charities company and Jim returned to DMU primarily hardware but also digital electronic synthesizer called to work with families in crisis, to study for his PhD, a move aimed to the Premier League. Around software, something we had been the Ronin 802.” helping with support sessions and at expanding their niche expertise The future 20,000 of the T-shirts were sold at I don’t think people introduced to and focused on The Ronin 802 was much more therapy for families and children to grow their business. City’s Megastore. realise how much help She has now set her sights on there is still available from fits perfectly running a successful T-shirt printing DMU when they graduate Volunteering the skills of staff and students to almost something for everyone. all I was asked about was my business after securing a £2,500 Abbie Tacey help the community. Jason was “All of the opportunities can involvement in Fox’s Lair and my DMU’s ‘great advice’ helps Abbie set grant from DMU’s Enterprise Inc “ provides part of a team hired by student boost their employability and offer Square Mile work. It does give you up pop-culture T-shirt business initiative. and now I have a bursary which vital edge accommodation company CityBlock them a break from their course and an edge because these days simply Abbie scours the internet, social has allowed me to set up my own to analyse ways in which they could if you take my example of DMU having a degree is not enough.” MU Textile Design 2013, Abbie has gained vital work media, films, TV and pop music to business and there are always” A DMU graduate has landed his forge ahead in the student market. BusinessWorks, you never know graduate Abbie Tacey experience with Leicester City’s come up with slogans which she people at DMU to listen to you and dream job - and credits DMU’s Jason did marketing analysis and where getting involved with DMU has set up her own retail arm under the pioneering DMU will emblazon across T-shirts aimed offer advice. Square Mile project in helping him the team presented to managers Square Mile may take you. business creating Graduate Champions scheme, which at 17-to-25-year-olds. “It is really tough when you leave impress his new bosses. who travelled to Leicester to “To be able to put down six Dtrendy T-shirts emblazoned with sees the university offer recent Each T-shirt has a limited run of university. It is a very competitive Jason Martin is now a digital hear their report. As a result the months marketing experience on slogans from the world of pop graduates the chance to take up 100 copies before they are taken jobs market out there but the uni is account executive with Silverdisc, company has cut its contract my application set me apart from culture after successfully applying paid internships with leading UK out of circulation and replaced with there to help.” a major marketing company which length and gained new insight into others who graduate with just a for a grant from the university. businesses. a new slogan, meaning her T-shirts Abbie believes she has found a has worked with global names such students’ views. degree. For me, it landed me a Since being awarded a BA (Hons) The Foxes were so impressed are always on trend. gap in the market and is confident as HarperCollins and Barclays. He said: “I recommend students graduate job and is kick-starting my in Textile Design Printed Textiles in with Abbie that she is now working Abbie said: “I don’t think people her business will be a success. He says that taking part in the take part in Square Mile because in life after university.” for them, producing designs for all of realise how much help there is still She added: “I do a lot of Square Mile’s BusinessWorks this job market, you can’t afford to After graduating from his the Premier League club’s clothing available from DMU when they research. I ask what it is that people programme, which lets students just do a degree. Employers want Business and Management degree, ranges, including childrenswear and graduate. There is so much great want, get good feedback and then work to real briefs set by business so much more. Jason took part in DMU Graduate It is a very competitive the highly popular lifestyle range advice, internships and grants go for it. I am aiming the T-shirts at clients, was a key factor in helping “But you shouldn’t feel forced Champions working with PR jobs market out there but Fox and Crop. available and I have just tried to young, fashionable, funky people him land the job. into volunteering - it should be agency We Are Epic. the uni is there to help Abbie created the design for a take advantage of all of them. who want to wear something that is It is just one of several something you enjoy. That’s why He said: “I’m a big fan of all the Abbie Tacey T-shirt celebrating City’s promotion “I joined DMU Graduate a bit ‘out there’ and follow trends on volunteering programmes run by Square Mile’s projects are great, as opportunities that DMU has to “ from the Sky Bet Championship Champions, which got me a job, social media.” the Square Mile project, which uses they are so broad now that there’s offer. When I went to the interview, 26 Dmu World Winter 2015 ” Dmu World Winter 2015 27 dmu.ac.uk

A skill-set local viewers and is attracting an Sporty Sam audience of 189,000 a week on its Oliver made up by cosmetics role Year-long role for television Freeview and Virgin Media channels. Spending time in America working operates. Reporting to Head of kick-starts spells success Hollie steps A TV station which gives DMU Its team includes DMU students for a giant cosmetics company has Operations and the manager of new life into role with students with industry-standard aiming for careers in music and been a CV-boosting experience for Operations Analysis, Oliver has With its futuristic, stylish buildings, A student on DMU’s prestigious work opportunities has been creative technologies who are on a DMU student. been working on projects across on-site fitness centre and journalism course has spent a year music legend nominated for two national awards. courses at a custom-designed Oliver Fogden, a Business and the company. renowned archives, working in gaining vital work experience with a Chic’s Le Freak is an all-time disco Notts TV launched this year facility in Nottingham run by DMU’s Management student spent six His role has included Adidas’ state-of-the-art HQ is every successful PR agency. classic and a DMU student has to provide local programming for partner the Confetti Institute. months in San Francisco and lined conference calls, dealing with sports fan’s dream – a dream that’s Jacob Jarvis, 21, is currently been helping promote its re-release. up another six-month placement in international clients, product come true for one master’s student. enjoying a year-long work Media and Communications student Connecticut. He has been working launches and data collection. Sam Martin, on the MA Sports experience placement at Orange Hollie Copas met and worked Success teams at offices across the Midlands for high-end skincare brand Oliver said the placement had History and Culture course at Juice Communications, based in with music legend Nile Rodgers built on DMU to get an insight into the industry. Perricone MD, gaining an insight given him the chance to experience DMU, is based in the iconic World Brixworth, Northamptonshire. (pictured) and chart-toppers DMU is committed to providing into how the international company a different working culture. of Sports building. The agency was launched in Rudimental, who remixed the classic. partnership students with experiences that The heritage team, which December 2012 by experienced Hollie was recruited as part of a Marketing students at DMU gained enhance their employability and includes footwear engineers, journalists Oliver Jelley and Daniel work experience programme called pick up expert tips from marketing first-hand business experience this programme, which is now textile designers, historians and Owens and now boasts a number GoThinkBig, launched by 02 and mentors. with one of the country’s leading in its second year, is arranged museum curators, are responsible of high profile clients including a Bauer media. Young people aged She said: “It’s a tough industry to house builders. through the university’s renowned for documenting and digitising national pharmaceutical company 16-24 were invited to apply for a break into, so to get the call telling Josh Malone, Lucy King, Mazia Work-Based Learning Units which the collection and making it and businesses in the healthcare, host of jobs – and Hollie landed a me I’ve got the job was amazing.” Muchhala and Shelley Gibbs organise placements. accessible to all. Sam, originally retail and food and drink sectors. social media manager’s job. Nile Rodgers said: “Hollie has were among 21 interns taken on Marzia Muchhala, who is from Wolverhampton, studied the Jacob said: “It’s brilliant to have She tweeted from Rudimental’s spent a lot of time crafting her nationally by Barratt Homes and studying business and marketing, MA by distance learning. been given this opportunity.” Twitter account which has 264,000 talents through work experience David Wilson Homes. They worked said: “It’s really interesting getting followers and got the chance to and this showed in her application.” alongside experienced marketing to know the ins and outs.” Design work takes Lee back to school DMU support seals Radio 1 job Designer Lee Clarke had the time studies and career, paid for and run DMU graduate Leanne Allen, Leanne studied at DMU for her Clips from Fernandez’s films of his life working with primary by DMU. who has a Master’s in Media undergraduate degree in Media were shown to illustrate as she pupils to help them create a Lee had already enjoyed working Production, is now working at Production and decided to stay on explained approaches to the craft new sign for their school using on other DMU employability the cutting-edge Visualisation to complete her master’s. of acting and offered advice on What they can learn advanced techniques he had schemes, such as Frontrunners, department at Radio 1, which is During the second and third choices along the career path, here is how the picked up from DMU. and spent a year in Germany on the at the vanguard of bringing new year of her undergraduate course including further training, getting world they want to Lee took up the internship at Erasmus programme, which offers audiences to the station. she worked at the BBC Training an agent and identifying the right enter works. Stokes Wood Primary School, in undergraduates the opportunity to She is part of a team which Studios in Wood Norton, giving her roles. Student Harriet Diggory, in “Karina Fernandez New Parks, Leicester, as part of work and study overseas. looks for creative, dynamic ways vital experience which has boosted the last year of her Drama Studies the pioneering DMU Graduate Lee said: “It was great fun. The to turn radio listeners into viewers her CV. (BA Hons) course and hoping to want to enter works.” Champions scheme. DMU Graduate Champions scheme of the station’s YouTube channel, She said: “My study with go on to an MA in the subject, DMU is committed to improving Lee graduated with a BA in has given me the chance to look at which has one million subscribers. DMU definitely gave me a good was offered advice on audition the employability of students by” Product Design this summer and teaching as well as freelance design She was offered the job within grounding in a wide range of media speeches she said was ‘invaluable’. giving them the skills to succeed signed up right away to DMU work. It has helped me boost my CV, hours of her interview. production areas,.” Insider offers Harriet said: “It’s a competitive in the competitive graduate jobs Graduate Champions, which offers create good contacts and gain really world but it’s very niche, too, in market. Employability Week is six-week internships relevant to important work experience.” vital insight a way – you need to develop the chance to broaden personal Splevings graduated from DMU’s into work in film something special to stand out. The development and build skills for Legal Practice course which offers advice I got was great.” future careers. Ready for what’s in store the crucial vocational training Actress Karina takes key Fernandez, who plays Miss Normal timetabled classes following completion of a law role in Employability Week Coggins in the biopic of JMW are replaced with employability Students who spent a year working giant Marks & Spencer to high-end degree. Turner, also shared some of the activities within each faculty and with some of the biggest names in fashion range Brora, from organising They are now paralegals at mbitious DMU Mike Leigh’s Mr Turner and Brit fascinating improvisation and events include top tips on how the fashion world have described the press launches to working abroad Nelsons, working in the company’s students working hit Pride, visited DMU to offer development techniques used to get into different industries experience as “amazing”. for sports giant Puma, the students Leicester office based at New towards careers in the industry insight to, and answer by director Leigh to develop his including accountancy, the legal The Fashion Buying with got to work at the sharp end of the Vital launch Walk. Martha, who works in the competitive worlds of questions from, an audience characters and script and said she profession and the print and film Marketing cohort each took a fashion world. Hannah Marshall in legal world employment department, and Acinema, theatre and performance of Drama Studies, Dance, Film was happy to engage with DMU businesses. DMU is one of the top year out of studies to spend worked for Brora Cashmere, a luxury Emma, who works in family law, got expert insider advice from a and Performing Arts students students honing their ‘impulse, 50 universities in the country when in industry – part of DMU’s brand which counts Nigella Lawson Two graduates of DMU’s Leicester praised the “open door” policy of distinguished actress in an Oscar- in a special session organised passion and natural talent’ with the it comes to graduates finding a commitment to providing real-world among its devotees. Institute of Legal Practice are DMU law lecturers and the first- tipped film as part of Employability by the Drama department in discipline study brings. job, rising a massive 57 places in experience which will enhance their She said: “I was working straight carving out a career with one of the class facilities at the Hugh Aston Week. DMU’s Faculty of Art, Design and She added: “What they can national rankings published by The employability. away. region’s biggest law firms. building which includes a law library Karina Fernandez, seen in both Humanities (pictured above). learn here is how the world they Sunday Times. From working in high street “It was a great experience.” Emma Sharp and Martha and mock courtroom.

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All said 3 4 5 & done DMU and De Montfort Students’ Union (DSU) are committed to giving students an amazing experience. Here are just 12 recent improvements the partnership provided after Fix it? there to solve any course-related Course we can problems and lobby lecturers getting feedback from across campus… and programme leaders. They With 583 Course Reps now have managed to make some recruited, DMU is ensuring that significant changes including Thursday Thursday lunch-time in the Venue. 1 students have more representation reinstating cancelled modules and sounds good Completely free to attend, the 2 than ever before. The reps are moving assessment deadlines. Featuring live music from up- sessions are a fantastic way to and-coming artists and bands, listen to the latest live music. All Fully booked the Coffee House Sessions sessions are filmed, interviewed DMU has already increased Printing money are hosted by Demon Media and live-streamed by Demon spending on books by more than Printing can be a costly aspect A longer shelf life way through to the end of May, and DSU and take place every Media. 45% as a result of feedback of student life and DMU wants to Students asked for improved including the Easter holiday. and plans to invest £140,000 give students every opportunity access to the library - now the DMU library spaces offered on e-books to boost the huge to make the most of the printing Kimberlin Library is open on Friday nearly 13,000 hours of opening in it more user-friendly. Updated collection of print material already facilities we offer. Due to the and Saturday nights and is fully the 2013-14 academic year. That’s 6 daily, it is tablet and Smartphone available. An additional £25,000 positive response we received open 24:7 during term time, all the 7.5 million study-seat hours... friendly with an intuitive display so is being invested by the university from offering £5 printing credit that it is much easier to find the to support an expanded ‘student- to final year students last year, information students need; plus led purchase’ service – if we’ve from January we have doubled A pleasing site students can now buy tickets for got a gap in our collections, the amount to £10, making things The new DSU website is now union nights out and day trips, students can help fill it by making that bit easier for our graduating up and running, with a number sports and societies directly suggestions. students. Clubbing together to choose from, ranging from of changes designed to make through the website. creative writing to salsa dance, With more than 110 societies and politics to pole fitness. There’s even 39 different sports clubs available a Harry Potter society! New ball, please to join, at DSU there is more DSU has also introduced an 11 12 The university and DSU came opportunity than ever before to exciting new sports initiative Campus 7 together to present DMU’s get involved and make your time 330 which involves short fitness first Winter Ball at the stunning at DMU something to remember. sessions designed to fit in with the 9 Athena Leicester. Ticket There’s a wide variety of societies student lifestyle. Many are free! prices included a free coach shuttle service, a sparkling drink on arrival, winter treats, entertainment and free after- Student mentor Matters party. programme Getting personal of taste DSU wants to ensure students In order to ensure that transition Students expect the best from Pass & go 8 receive the best possible support to student life is as smooth the food provided on campus, Recent research has shown during their time at DMU, so we as possible, DMU provides all so the DSU has a new lunch that public transport users are have set up a new initiative called undergraduate students with a menu available now from the happier than those who drive, MyUniPal. Through MyUniPal, Personal Tutor who is there to Venue every weekday. As part so DMU has free passes for freshers are able to access discuss any issues or questions of the university’s £136 million the Leicestershire Park and support whenever it’s needed: about university life. In response refurbishment, a food court will Ride service which are now no matter if you just want a quick to feedback, this service has been be incorporated within the new on offer to students. The Park chat or something more in depth, restructured with new guidelines Fletcher Complex which will be and Ride services are a fast it is covered. DSU UniPals are to make sure each and every the centrepiece of the campus and environmentally friendly recruited from our second and student receives consistent, redevelopment. Planned for way to arrive at DMU in a more 10 third year students, so they’re reliable access to their personal completion in 2016, our students contented frame of mind. perfectly placed to advise. tutor whenever it’s needed. will soon be spoilt for choice.

30 Dmu World Winter 2015 Dmu World Winter 2015 31 To advertise in the next issue of this publication

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how interactive it is and that it takes From top:, Nao, bought and in everything you say.” programmed by DMU, made a great Ben Cook The robot can respond impression on visitors during DMU’s Robot visions intelligently to questions and annual Hackathon. commands. When children asked Newcomer ‘Nao’ Bought and programmed by “We want to help stimulate it if it could do t’ai chi, it began to welcomes visitors to DMU, the robot, currently named interest in, and encourage students demonstrate a sequence mimicking Nao, was the focus of a computer to want to learn, computer science the martial art. campus – and could programming session for children and programming, a field which is Gautam Devaraju is a first become virtual parent in Leicestershire and from further becoming increasingly sought after year Computer Security student to autistic children afield. by employers.” from India and a volunteer with Dr Samad Ahmadi, who heads Aidan Mackay, aged 12 from DMU Square Mile, the university’s new state-of-the- up the university’s ViRAL research the Isle of Coll, in Oban, Scotland, community initiative which helped art robot welcomed group in the Faculty of Technology, travelled more than two days to to organise the children’s session. schoolchildren and said: “It is a very exciting way of see the robot. He said: “Being He said: “The robot is really visitors to campus as learning programming, incredibly here is really good fun. The most brilliant. Each person who interacts Apart of DMU’s annual Hackathon. dynamic and interactive. impressive thing about the robot is with the robot will learn how to approach problems through a step- There’s no stopping our by-step and logical process.” While the robot is helping to commitment to innovation inspire the next generation of DMU is already He said: “Last year I lost three coders, research is under way at days of studying because of the DMU, looking into using the robot as well known for its snow. If it snows this year I could use a virtual parent for autistic children. excellent disability the trike. As well as getting out in The robot can be programmed provision – and now snow, it’s really good at getting up with different prompts and it is it has a world-first and down kerbs and can be used hoped that this will encourage on multi-terrain surfaces, including tasks, identified by parents, to be MU has become the grass, stones and so on. I was carried out by children at specific first university in the very surprised at how easy it was times of the day. world to offer disabled to use. It felt a lot lighter than my Mark Charlton, Square Mile students the chance to wheelchair.” manager, said: “It’s brilliant to Duse an all-terrain wheelchair. Ben was 12 when he caught a see young people engaging with The award-winning Mountain common cold virus, which was the technology, and great that DMU Trike – described by The Guardian catalyst for his Transverse Myelitis staff and students are so passionate as “The Bear Grylls of the – where his white blood cells, which about sharing their skills and wheelchair world” – has already normally protect your body, turned knowledge to benefit others.” taken its users up Snowdon, around against themselves and started The event held for children was the Peak District and across Africa. attacking his spinal cord. It took him part of the HALE 2014 Hackathon, Its inventor Tim Morgan famously two years to learn to walk again but a joint initiative run by DMU’s ViRAL turned down an offer from Dragons’ he then suffered eight more attacks research group, DMU Square Mile, Den to invest in the product after which left him completely paralysed. Leicestershire County Council and the millionaire investors wanted too It took him until 2011 to regain the University of Leicester. Each large a share in the business. proper use of his arms and he now year volunteer computer scientists Since then the company has uses a wheelchair. help solve challenges faced by gone from strength to strength Ben said: “It looks like a tank different community groups, such and has won an army of fans but when I sat in it, it was easy to as those with autism. who are able to go off-road manoeuvre. After my first use of it, I by controlling the wheels with was quickly able to use the trike and levers. A single wheel at the it was really comfortable, especially back ensures stability and the the back area which you might need engineered suspension ensures if, for example, you use it to go up a users do not tip over. Disabled mountain. We want to help stimulate students at DMU are able to use “Thanks to this trike, it’s nice to interest in, and encourage the wheelchair for free by hiring it have the option to take part in more students to want to learn out via The Student Gateway. university projects. It will open up Student Thomas Dell and computer science and DMU student Ben Cook, a doors for various projects that go Nao; the robot was the focus “programming, a field which second year ICT student, has tried on around the university and means of a computer programming is becoming increasingly out the trike and loves it. they are not limited.” session for children sought after by employers Dr Samad Ahmadi 34 Dmu World Winter 2015 ” Dmu World Winter 2015 35 dmu.ac.uk

Inspirational effort honoured the people in that community. An artist in Leila Houston, a DMU MA Leila is a self-employed artist who Research with a The community dwellers can now residence at graduate who works with is passionate about creating art and access clean water right in their DMU has won a photography, sound and installation, promoting the arts to students. She real-world impact village, as opposed to the 170m national competition won the public vote to find Artist has worked on two pieces while at they used to walk to collect water in round-up to find the best artists of the Year with the AA2AArtists DMU as artist in residence and been the bush from the borehole.” inspiring students today. Access to Art Colleges programme. a visiting lecturer at DMU. The Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development has many research students from overseas, German help of a DMU academic. DMU Professor of European Louisa’s royal some studying at DMU and At the outbreak of the First History, Panikos Panayi, worked others in their own country on the internees World War, all German men living with Manx National Heritage on theme rules international PhD programme. remembered in Britain aged 17 to 55 were a major conference telling the A DMU student has won a Dr Andy Wright, who supervises considered potential spies and the stories of those who lived there, prestigious fashion competition in Seth, Mobolaji and others, said: The lives of German internees in Government decided to place them the effects on their families her first year of study. ‘It can be very challenging for the Isle of Man during the First in camps, the largest of which was and how it affected Isle of Man Louisa Haywood, who is studying them. In some countries, internet World War were revisited with the on the island. residents. on DMU’s internationally-renowned connections are poor, there are Contour Fashion course, won the frequent power cuts and they don’t important design contest run by the have local access to university Lascivious lingerie company, itself libraries and other support. English Vice-Chancellor’s Learning founded by former DMU Contour is usually not their first language. from the best Fashion student Chloe Hamblin. “But the university provides a honorary LGBT role Entrants had to design a four PhD studies expensive to run and cause noise has enabled me to pursue my PhD lot of support online, and coming MU Vice-Chancellor calls from people wanting help. Aspiring fashion designers at DMU to six piece collection, all in black, providing clean water and serious air pollution. programme overseas in the comfort over to the UK each year is very Professor Dominic Professor Shellard said: “I learned from the best when they for autumn and winter next year. Mobolaji Onasanya, based in of my home country. I also have the beneficial. Most PhDs are very Shellard has become am deeply honoured to become won a place at a prestigious course Louisa based her designs around and solar power Lagos, Nigeria, is investigating opportunity to travel abroad every theoretical, so it’s great to be the first honorary the first honorary president of led by fashion designer Katharine the English Monarchy and the MU research students what makes for a successful solar year to meet my supervisors face involved with these in Africa, which Dpresident of Leicester’s Lesbian Leicester Lesbian Gay Bisexual Hamnett. English rose. are helping to provide energy scheme, which can provide to face. can help to make a real difference Gay Bisexual Transgender centre and Transgender centre. Three DMU fashion students, clean water and off-grid power for lighting, schools and “Furthermore, my research to lives in developing countries, (LGBT). “The dedicated volunteers, Samantha Dixon, Amy Jordan and solar power to rural clinics, and also to pump water from project has contributed to the helping to provide water and power The organisation in Wellington staff and board members not Francesca Phipps, were among just Dvillages in Nigeria and Ghana. a safe borehole source. development of Kporta and which we take completely for Street, Leicester, provides vital only provide a voice to these 12 selected from the UK for the The work is part of their His investigations in three improved standard of living for granted.” advice and support for people communities in every aspect of workshop, which was held at the Leading on international PhD studies with villages have found that many of from LGBT communities facing city life, but also give essential Hay Festival in Hay-on-Wye. DMU’s Institute of Energy and the problems are not technical, social isolation, exclusion and support to thousands of people The workshop, called Just reading in the Sustainable Development. but to do with maintenance skills, discrimination. who can often be at their most Fashion, was on sustainability workplace DMU’s growing reputation for finance and local politics. He Last year, the LGBT centre dealt vulnerable, purely on the grounds and each of the students was applied research with real-world said: “Research of this nature with 5,026 walk-in visits and 5,100 of their sexuality.” challenged to create new pieces DMU has been named the benefits has been confirmed with has been quite challenging but from sustainably-sourced textiles number one workplace in the UK the publication of the REF 2014 equally revealing. DMU has put an DMU academic brings magic and end-of-line fabrics. for the national Reading Agency’s results. Almost 60% of DMU’s articulate system in place to make Six Book Challenge which has research activities were judged to the study a rewarding experience.” to UK theatre spectacular helped transform hundreds of be world-leading or internationally In Ghana, Seth T.K. Dzokoto A DMU academic has played a major Directed by Damian Cruden, The Fine response people’s lives by encouraging excellent. (Find out more at dmu. – who is also the local priest – role in bringing the children’s classic Railway Children was first seen them to get stuck into a book. ac.uk/research) is researching water needs in The Railway Children to life. at the National Railway Museum to appeal Andrew Jennison, who works Around 600 million people live Ziope, Kpetoe and surrounding Dr Craig Vear, a researcher in in York before transferring to Fine Art students helped transform as a Post and Porterage Officer without electricity in sub-Saharan communities in the Agotime-Ziope Music Technology and Innovation, Waterloo Station, where it played the bedroom of a poorly toddler, at DMU, has been responsible for Africa, while about 330 million district. as well as Performance and Digital two critically acclaimed sell-out home from hospital for the first time. running the Reading Agency’s Six have no access to clean water He has helped fund a 0.5 kW Media, at DMU, was responsible seasons and won the 2011 Olivier Taran Gokani, born prematurely, Book Challenge on campus since supplies. This has large negative solar system which pumps water for the sound design of the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment. developed pseudomonas, an 2 011. effects on health, education, labour into a large storage tank in the Award-winning production which ran Craig’s sounds also made an infection which can be deadly. During that time he has productivity and general quality of centre of Kporta village from a in London for Christmas. impact, with him receiving his own He had an operation to help his encouraged more than 500 life. In rural areas, villagers, mainly borehole 170m away when the sun The Railway Children, based Olivier Award nomination and a breathing and after major treatment members of staff to pledge women and children, often spend is shining. The villagers helped to on the book by E Nesbit, was nomination for a Canadian DORA at Leicester Royal Infirmary was to pick six reads, record their hours a day collecting water from build the system, and held a big performed in a purpose-built 1,000- award. finally allowed home months later. observations in a diary and earn a rivers and boreholes. celebration when it was completed. seat theatre next to King’s Cross Every chug of the steam train, Taran loves Disney’s Finding certificate. Manual pumps are hard work The District Chief Executive M.K. station, with a real railway track sound of the whistle, gust of wind Nemo, so a team of Fine Art He was recently awarded to operate, and often broken. Only Adzaho commissioned the system. and platforms, and featured a live and birdsong in the production was students decorated his bedroom a British Empire Medal for his affluent families can afford diesel Seth said: “The International 60-tonne locomotive. down to Craig’s sound creations. with characters from the film. commitment. generators for electricity, which are PhD programme being run by DMU

36 Dmu World Winter 2015 Dmu World Winter 2015 37 dmu.ac.uk Political

groups, came up with digital DMU the document and ideas from the world democracy suggestions and voted DMU Policy Commission during on which was the best proposal. expertise the three-day meeting of Labour’s The winning group of Nuran informs 100 198-member National Policy Forum. DMU leads world be invited to participate. Clicking with Balande and Safiyya Bhamji, of TV debate Ideas He also presented it to Gloria austerity probe Prof Davies said: “Our study will young voters Regent College, Tom Bolton, of De Piero MP, Labour’s Shadow tell politicians and activists much Ashby School and Liam Slater- Politics students from DMU took Minister for Women and Equalities. Academics from around the world about how collaboration works as Inspired sixth formers thought up McGill, of Wyggeston & QEI part in a TV debate on English DMU students, aided by academics led by Professor Jonathan Davies, a way of governing and contesting ways to use digital technology to College, concluded a phone app devolution while one of their of the Political and Constitutional continue to from the university’s Department of DMU’s Politics and Public Policy austerity. We are not trying to ‘sell’ engage their peers in democracy would engage young people in next lecturers provide expert comment Reform Select Committee, which impress of Politics and Public Policy, spent department, are scrutinising the collaboration, or suggest those thanks to a think tank session at year’s General Election. for the show. has DMU politics lecturer Professor six months coming up with 100 way in which different countries suffering from cuts and wanting DMU. Liam, 17, said: “We were talking Third year politics student Colin Copus as an advisor, Heather One of the leading politicians policy ideas they would like political have introduced austerity policies to resist them should collaborate. The students, from Leicester about having an app that can Natalie Smith, second year Rhys Wheeler, MP for South Derbyshire in Leicester has taken a policy parties to adopt. – and how the voices of citizens are Our primary objective is to schools and colleges, took part in relate to young people so that Pennington-Jones and first years and David Parsons of UKIP. document created by DMU students In a first for any UK university, heard in shaping public spending. understand whether, and if so how, a 90-minute workshop involving they can get involved in politics. Hannah Rowe and David Smalley Natalie, who is researching to a meeting in which Labour’s top students took their policy document The major study is the first of collaboration contributes to public discussions, group work and At election time you could type in were invited to be a part of the voting among young people, said: brass thrashed out policy ideas for to a reception at the House of its kind and will include analysing governance in austere times. presentations. your postcode and see who the audience for the show, More Power “If the East Midlands had more the next General Election. Lords and handed it to highly austerity in Leicester, Montreal, “In gathering and comparing The results were presented to the candidates are for your area, find to the East Midlands?, hosted by powers then people might become Deputy Mayor of Leicester, influential members of the three Baltimore, Dublin, Melbourne, a large body of data we will Government at Westminster during out information about them and BBC East Midlands political editor a bit more engaged with politics. If Councillor Rory Palmer, referred to main parties. Barcelona, and Athens. learn about the changing role of Parliament Week. relevant statistics. John Hess and BBC East Midlands they feel they have more influence Protest groups, collaborators, government under austerity and Led by Dr Clodagh Harrington, “You could see a breakdown of Today anchorwoman Anne Davies. on local issues they will perhaps volunteers, public sector leaders whether governing is becoming senior lecturer in politics at DMU, political issues and whether they Guests included Graham Allen, make sure they go out and vote and and officials and businesses will all more elite-focused.” the sixth formers split into four match up with your views.” MP for Nottingham North and chair have their say.”

whether President Obama was a women would enter politics for the Powerful lame duck after his huge defeat long haul, as she did for 15 years, new plan in the US Primaries, whether the to gain high-ranking positions in amount of money required to make American politics. by professor it as a politician was a hindrance to The most popular suggestion of A DMU politics professor has the “ordinary” American wanting to the night came from Mary, when drafted a new bill which proposes enter congress and Russia’s impact asked if there was room for a giving more powers to local on world politics. third, centrist party to take on the government. They also opened up about the Democrats and Republicans. Professor Colin Copus wrote proudest moments in their political She said: “I love the notion of the Local Independence Bill careers. Brian said his was taking a third party and a centre party. for MP Graham Allen, chair DMU political passion “principled” votes “that required a I like the suggestion of a “let’s of the influential Political and lot of courage”. The first was his just do it, makes sense” party. Constitutional Reform Select impresses Washington pundit stance against America invading Hopefully one day. Maybe you Committee. A respected political journalist with and the leading candidates for Iraq which he warned would could start a branch of Let’s Just It was launched at an event one of the best contact books in the next Presidential campaign destabilise the country. Do It Makes Sense here.” attended by the Mayor of London Washington gave a special guest before taking questions from eager The second was voting against Third year Accounting and Boris Johnson, the Core Cities lecture for third year DMU politics students. an early withdrawal of troops from Finance student Kishan Somani Cabinet and London councils. students. She said: “This generation Iraq “because we had a moral said afterwards: “It was so Prof Copus said: “The idea is Amy Walter is editor of the Cook has never seen another kind of responsibility to the people of Iraq” interesting and amazing to have to give local government freedom Political Report, which analyses candidate. They have always had Influential US pair part Brian and Mary, as they preferred to ensure they were safe following two American politicians here at and independence from central elections and campaigns and is a Clinton and a Bush in their lives. to be called, quickly laid out their the invasion. He was called a DMU.” government control. We could go the must-read for US politicians. Where they were impressed with of Congress to Campus stall saying they were both centrist traitor and unpatriotic as a result of Third year Accounting and from a country with one of the most Named by Washingtonian Obama was not just that he was politicians, unafraid to question both votes. Business student Zena Mshana centralised government controls Magazine as one of the top 50 younger but that he harnessed DMU students quiz DMU’s annual From Congress to their own party lines, who shared Mary’s proudest moment was added: “It was a great experience. in the world to free, powerful and journalists in the capital, she was technology in a way they could honoured guests over Campus event. similar views on US domestic “the fact that I had legislation DMU has gone a step further independent local government.” part of the Emmy-award-winning understand. world issues The students were full of praise and foreign policies, so “if you sent into law by Clinton, Bush and than other universities by getting Significant new financial CNN election night team. “They grew up in a world where for the session, which gave them have come for a World Wrestling Obama as there’s not many people influential politicians from the autonomy has been granted to Amy’s visit was a part of technology is ever-changing and former congressman the chance to put questions to Federation scrap you will be who have achieved that”. US here to discuss international Scotland and Wales which will the university’s commitment they want to know why Government and congresswoman former Republican Congresswoman disappointed”. She was also the first woman relations. I can’t imagine there allow them to reinvest locally- to providing an outstanding is so slow to change.” She said Jeb crossed the Atlantic Mary Bono and ex-Democratic They took questions from a in history to chair the powerful are many universities that offer raised taxes. The bill argues that experience for students. Bush, younger brother of former to discuss the state of Congressman Brian Norton Baird, packed floor, covering everything sub-committee on energy and students the chance to talk to real England’s cities and regions should She outlined the current political president George W. Bush, would AAmerican politics with students in calling it “an incredible experience”. from the continued impact of 9/11, commerce and hoped many more congressmen and women.” also be allowed to retain more tax. climate, Obama’s popularity rating be a strong Republican candidate.

38 Dmu World Winter 2015 Dmu World Winter 2015 39 dmu.ac.uk Political The Matrix world Education Secretary Martial Arts learns the DMU way Vintage Room Leicester The Secretary of State for more about their courses and Karate and Martial Arts Education paid a special visit to was fascinated by the processes Vintage boutique selling quirky lessons, Leicester and surrounding villages DMU to learn about its links to behind producing work to such fashionable men’s and women’s vintage Britain’s schools and colleges. a high standard. Mrs Morgan’s Karate and martial arts lessons in Nicky Morgan MP took time out visit included talking to Third Year clothing originating from previous eras. Leicester for children, teens and adults from her busy schedule to meet Footwear Design students Alex Situated in the Leicester city centre Our Instructors are eager to see you excel up with DMU Vice-Chancellor Blackman and Patrick Rogers who in all areas of your life. Whether you want Professor Dominic Shellard are working on creating shoes for to have more confidence, want to be fitter before being taken on a tour of their final assessments. or want to meet new, active and motivated people just like you, Karate classes in the campus, meeting students The MP for Loughborough, who Leicester is what you are looking for! and academics from the world- is also Minister for Women and renowned courses in fashion, Equalities, said: “As Education Our fully kitted and matted out Academy textiles, contour fashion, and Secretary I am always interested in Leicester city centre has all you need to reach your martial arts goals footwear and game art. to learn how the students came and our satellite clubs are there for Mrs Morgan spent time talking to find themselves on the courses convenience and community growth! The Secretary of State for Education to students in Heritage House and and where they got their advice and Nicky Morgan spent time talking to students Leicester Media School to learn inspiration from.” 6 Market Place Free trial class available, just call or email Leicester for your FREE no obligation taster session! LE1 5GF Tel: 0116 230 1034 Next generation’s 100 “This initiative should generate As well as transport and jobs, 0116 2626127 some really good ideas,” said Mayor students also called for life skills such Mob: 07789 727672 Sir Peter Soulsby. “The students as applying for jobs, voting and how Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 til 5 ideas for better city life will bring fresh thinking to some to pay taxes to be taught in schools. www.karate-leicester.com Better, wider cycle lanes, an Oyster They will be asking residents, very difficult issues and I’m looking Blessing Norma, of Regent card for the city and creating more businesses, shoppers and fellow forward to seeing what they come College, said: “I don’t believe enough opportunities for young people to students what improvements they up with.” young people are interested in socialise in Leicester were among would like to see in the city. His deputy, Councillor Rory politics. I think if this gets them the first suggestions put forward to The ideas will be collated into Palmer, tweeted: “Great to hear about interested there is so much we can improve the city. policies and presented to councillors 100 ideas for Leicester commission. change.” They were ideas from Year 10 at Leicester City Council in March. Look forward to working with them.” The campaign is being run by students being quizzed by DMU The Mayor and Deputy Mayor of DMU students asked Year 10 DMU’s Department for Politics students and staff who have Leicester have pledged support for pupils from Regent College, St Paul’s, and Public Policy – which has a launched a new campaign called 100 the project and are keen to see the Evington, Charnwood College and reputation for making politics relevant Ideas to Change Leicester. students’ proposals. Lakehurst Academy for their ideas. and involving students in real-world studies. Politics lecturer Alistair Jones said: “Leicester is wonderful but it can be better still and we want to find out how it can be made better.” Adieu Cosay, who studies International Relations, said: “I think it’s a brilliant idea because it can help in terms of getting people into politics, especially at a time when engaging young people in the General Election is crucial.” DMU’s ground-breaking 100 Ideas to Change Britain saw hundreds of students develop policy ideas which were then handed over to politicians at the Houses of Parliament. They will be considered DMU students asked for the party’s manifestos in the Year 10 pupils for their ideas General Election.

40 Dmu World Winter 2015 dmu.ac.uk

Emma Twigg Title-taker Future Maddison leaders hits heights study at A talented DMU student has kicked DMU and punched her way to the top of her sport after being crowned Some 16 parents are working with DMU is working to identify, recruit World, European and British Karate Offering DMU’s Faculty of Health and Life and develop talented people champion. Sciences, including Leicestershire who can become future leaders Performing Arts student help with Partnership NHS Trust, The National of the NHS. Four of the last five Maddison Moore (pictured below), distressing Childbirth Trust and the helpline Chief Executives of the NHS and from Kidderminster, has earned charity Cry-sis, on the project. NHS England are alumni and an unbelievable number of titles issue The first year of study will look DMU’s Department of Corporate to become an undisputed fighting at developing a support package Development, in the Faculty of great. She was named World Coping with a baby who cannot stop offering help through materials such Business and Law, is providing Union Karate-do Federation crying is an issue almost every parent as web pages and phone apps as the Postgraduate Diploma World Champion in the 15-17 age has had to cope with. A two-year well as special NHS staff training and Management of Human Resources category in 2012, is the reigning study, based at DMU, will begin one-to-one consultations offered to to the NHS Graduate Management British Champion in the 18-21s developing routine NHS services to parents. Training Scheme (GMTS), run by age group and International and provide distressed parents with the The second year of study will see the NHS Leadership Academy. Amanda Thompson National Champion. support they need. how feasible it is to offer that level of Amanda Thompson, Head of © Igor Meijer/FISA Maddison claimed the title Persistently crying babies can support through the NHS. the Department of HRM and Head Postgraduate Diploma with DMU. of European Champion at a trigger maternal depression, poor Dr Rosemary Garratt, DMU of the Department of Corporate The HR trainees on the two- hard-fought contest in front of a parent-child relations, a premature Principal Lecturer in Midwifery and Development, said DMU’s year NHS GMTS will attend DMU delighted home crowd in London’s end to breast-feeding, problems with Nursing at the Midwifery Research leadership-focused approach was for module workshops while Docklands. She has also been long-term child development and, Centre, said: “This study has the instrumental in the university being undertaking a planned programme World-class team named Most Entertaining Female in a small number of cases, infant potential to have an impact on a lot awarded the contract. of placements within the NHS. Champion rower sets a target to qualify for the Rio Centre, which ensured her Athlete two years running and Best abuse, yet there are no tried-and- of people which is so important. It is She said: “Our programme They will also participate in praises DMU’s Olympics in 2016. fitness was maintained to world Female Athlete 2014 by Karate tested NHS practices for supporting a prestigious study involving a lot of amplified their leadership action learning sets and a series awesome facilities Emma won her gold medal in the championship standard. England. They are outstanding parents. local partners.” competencies. The NHS of experiential learning events women’s single scull at the 2014 When she is not studying, achievements but Maddison Leadership Academy has alongside fellow graduate trainees DMU student and World Rowing Championships in at weekends Emma is also takes it all in her stride. “It’s a nice designed a Graduate Scheme to of informatics, finance and general world rowing champion Amsterdam. She has previously travelling around Europe to enter collection to have,” she said. Sharing nursing skills develop leaders first and foremost management on the scheme. named Female Rower of represented New Zealand at both competitions. The citation on the She has travelled the world to with Japanese guests as well as HR specialists and the Year by the sport’s the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 FISA website “World Rowing” compete in Hungary, Romania, that’s what our tender delivered. Agoverning body has been handing Olympic Games. states: “Emma Twigg started the Serbia, Ukraine, Belgium, Ireland, DMU welcomed Japanese students resuscitation and nursing seminars. We are pleased that the NHS out her own plaudits – for DMU’s She said she was delighted by 2014 season just as she intended Italy and Brazil. Her outstanding to a special nursing school, sharing “This programme has been a Leadership Academy recognised awesome facilities. the facilities at DMU’s QEII Leisure to finish it. talent didn’t really come up in many UK practice and English language great success for the Japanese the innovative approach to The World Rowing Federation, Centre. Emma said: “The gym is “She beat Kim Crow to the line conversations with the rest of relevant to their profession. nursing students, as well as the teaching and learning adopted FISA, singled out Emma Twigg due awesome. It is such a good facility. at the first World Rowing Cup in her class, until she returned from The students, from Juntendo DMU pre-registration nursing at DMU and the way we to her achievements in 2014, when I did a lot of training on the rowing Sydney, Australia and then took London with her European title. University in Tokyo, took part in a buddies who supported them. approach the development she became the fastest woman machine, spinning two or even three two more World Rowing Cup golds Maddison laughs: “People came two-week programme, Passport This provided a unique dimension of HR professionals to Health single sculler on the planet. times a day. before underlining that she was up to me asking where I had been. to Nursing English, developed to the international experience of all equip them to take on The Kiwi was at DMU “Everything we have talked about indeed the fastest woman single I said “just competing in karate”. by DMU’s Centre for English the students involved.” strategic roles in the studying the International MA in as a group in the FIFA Master has sculler in the world by becoming When I told them about the title Language Learning and Faculty One of the students, Mikiko future”. check Management, Law and Humanities been interesting. There is such a the World Champion. they were quite shocked. I assume of Health and Life Sciences, Imazeki, has an ambition to become The programme of Sport - the ‘FIFA Master’ - broad group of people so we are “This was Twigg’s first senior people look at me and don’t and supported by existing DMU a nursing teacher and said: “It incorporates professional and spent time based in DMU’s going to learn a lot academically World Championship title following consider me a fighter!” students. allowed me to focus on my English exchange events where graduate International Centre for Sports but also learn a lot from our peers. an international career that has The summer school gave the pronunciation, which is beneficial trainees working for major History and Culture, completing It is fascinating.” stretched over a decade and visiting students the opportunity for me and my career, as I want to organisations can meet to share the first of three sections of the The athlete had a key to the included junior and under-23 gold to improve their English language be able to interact confidently and practice and discover innovative prestigious course. Last year Leicester Rowing Club boat house medals in the single.” skills and expand their vocabulary, help others.” ways to solve complex problems. the MA was ranked the No.1 where DMU’s Rowing Society is James Panter, who is the course and to learn about nursing and Andy Thomas, an English The trainees following the postgraduate sports management based and was seen zipping up co-ordinator at De Montfort healthcare provision within the UK. lecturer with DMU, who taught the programme will have opportunities course in the world. and down the River Soar when time University, said: “Everybody Theresa Jackson, a Senior students, said: “Students learnt to interact with HR graduates At the same time as her studies, allowed. connected with the course is Lecturer in Adult Nursing at English related to technical nursing from the Royal Mail, Jaguar Land Emma maintained a training regime She was also delighted with the thrilled that Emma has received DMU, said: “Students took part in experiences and professional Rover and Ford whose graduate to stay in tip-top shape as she facilities at DMU’s QEII Leisure such a prestigious award.” hospital visits, skills workshops for consultation. recruits also undertake the

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one of the country’s oldest livery Honour for companies. shoe head Kevin Guildford has been granted Admission to the Freedom of the The head of DMU’s internationally- Worshipful Company of Cordwainers round-up acclaimed Footwear Design degree – one of the most ancient of the has been given a top honour by London medieval guilds.

The dead tell Just the job, Richard Cooling fears their stories - A student is aiming to help get them the jobs he believes are of power outs digitally hundreds of people back into work out there. A DMU academic who helped with the launch of a new service. As most recruiters now use invent a heating control which The tale of a woman who fell to Richard Narayan describes computer searches to find could save people £200 off their her death watched by 40,000 The Daydreamer Project as a potential candidates, Richard will annual bills believes it could also people when her parachute caught ‘social experiment’ which aims work with jobseekers to ensure end the fear of a national fuel on a plane is one of the sad ends to connect the unemployed with their CV includes key words that shortage. featured in a new cemetery trail employers. He has set himself the the search engines will pick up. Dr Peter Boait, of DMU’s iPhone app created by DMU. goal of getting 200 jobseekers in He said: “Some of these people Institute for Energy and Gruesome deaths is one of the Leicestershire into a job over the haven’t got the right guidance Sustainable Development, fascinating search categories in the next two years. or skills to apply for vacancies. believes the Heista device he app, which uses digital technology Richard, of Rushey Mead, I’m passionate about helping invented with colleague Richard to retell the stories of some of the Leicester, has set up the individuals and I’ve got the skills Snape could solve the problem by 200,000 people buried in the historic scheme as part of his Masters in and experience to understand reducing peak electricity demand Welford Road Cemetery, in Leicester. Marketing Management at DMU’s what is needed. I want to help as by 1.7GW – the equivalent of two The app has been created Leicester Business School. many people as possible. power stations. by computer and app design Using his skills he aims to help “It’s a social experiment which Heista takes the pressure off specialists at DMU’s Digital jobseekers improve their CVs and is due to last a minimum of two the national grid by intelligently Building Heritage Group. work with JobCentre Plus staff to years.” timing electric heating appliances.

Big name Lucky Dan’s scissors Leading the behind new- have cutting edge way on cyber look DMU MU is known for its at a London pub. Dan – who now security academic rigour and has his trophy at his desk in the The threat of cyber-attacks on World-leading construction excellent student Campus Centre – took the trophy the huge computers controlling Think Print company Balfour Beatty has been experience, but now with a winning hand of scissors our power grids came under named as the developer for DMU Dit has a new boast – it is home against opponent Rene Marston’s the spotlight at an international Lance Print is an established printers based Leicester’s dramatic transformation to the UK Rock, Paper, Scissors paper. conference held in Austria and in Huntingdon near Cambridge. At Lance we of its campus. champion. He said: “It was just a organised by Helge Janicke, combine skill, experience & knowledge to Balfour Beatty will offer Daniel Tinkler, who is peer spontaneous decision to enter. head of the Software Technology provide a complete professional service. amazing opportunities for students mentoring co-ordinator at De I honestly never thought I’d win. Research Laboratory at DMU. to be involved in the project, Montfort University Students’ I would love to say it’s down to Last year, DMU hosted We aim to fill our clients with confidence in gaining them incredible work Union, took the title after beating skill… but honestly, luck played a the inaugural international the knowledge that any work undertaken experience to help them prepare to 128 competitors at the finals, held big part in it.” Symposium for Industrial Control by us, will be completed to the enter the world of work. Systems and Cyber Security highest possible standard. The company has been awarded Research. Helge said: “Cyber the £42 million contract to security is paramount for the Call Today: transform the Fletcher complex and protection of our national create striking new buildings for infrastructures. This conference the world-renowned schools of Art, is a great opportunity for the Architecture and Design. international research community (01733) The work will also lead to the to get together and share the creation of the Jonathan KS Choi newest ideas and developments Creative and Cultural Centre. in this rapidly growing field of 396844 research.” www.lanceprint.co.uk 44 Dmu World Winter 2015 dmu.ac.uk

in 2016 and improve the student The war Partnership DMU bond shows others the way experience. at home, day by day brings An innovative approach to The Times highlighted more ago. DMU secured a £90 million This investment came via a 30- investment taken by DMU has been moves by English universities to investment in order to transform year bond, a form of loan the paper Two journalism John Dilley, Director of the kidney hope recognised as leading the way in raise finance for major investment the campus to make it one of the predicted will create a high-flying round-up lecturers at DMU Leicester Centre for Journalism DMU has signed a partnership higher education. in the way DMU did two years best in the country when complete elite of universities. have embarked on a research at DMU, and his colleague, David which is set to revolutionise the project to examine how the Great Penman, are focusing on two treatment of chronic kidney disease Lucky Kat War was reported in the local press small weekly titles which have in Abu Dhabi. Art of Suleman is Joel’s design is and how well informed readers were been published in their Derbyshire The agreement with Seha Dialysis the nation the key to everything stays sharp kept on the progress of the conflict. communities for over 100 years. Service and Fatima College of Health the real deal A swordswoman will further Sciences marks a direct approach Eight DMU graduates were An entrepreneur based in A DMU student has won a £500 The competition brief – to sharpen her mind into to improving management of this among 70 chosen from across DMU’s Innovation Centre was cash prize in the Young Mobile design a mobile phone of the postgraduate studies after winning incurable disease, one of the biggest the country to take part in the UK the star of a reality TV series. Phone Designer of the Year award. future– was explored in a number £70,000 on a National Lottery Entering the Shobhna Patel, who did Graphic healthcare problems in the UAE. Young Artists Festival. Suleman Sacranie, whose Joel Mann, a Product Design of ways by applicants, with the scratch card. artistic fold Design BA (Hons) and graduated As part of DMU’s international The event, in Leicester, business MadaboutDeals is student, was praised by judges in five finalists generating a wide DMU Fine Art student Kat in 2012, displayed her work at Orso commitment, the partnership showcased applied arts, literature, run from the centre, featured in the contest which aims to promote range of concepts. Entitled Smart Mountain plans to be a teacher, Intricate paper sculptures delicately Major, a contemporary art gallery in marks the start of a new MSc in moving image, music, performance Million Dollar Intern, on Watch. the talent of the UK’s young Lock, Joel’s design is a device that but first wants to do a Master’s displayed in glass bottles were central London. Her work includes Renal Nursing in Abu Dhabi from and visual art. Suleman and five other designers. combines a wallet, keys and phone. in Fine Art. She said the money among the works created by a DMU poetry and scenes made out of cut September 2014. Nurses will now The DMU students were successful young business has been invaluable in helping her graduate shown at a London gallery. paper. have the opportunity to see their selected following a national call people went undercover into a relax about bursaries and instead skills recognised at a master’s level, to take part. variety of companies facing a Digging Leicester City Council and DMU concentrate on finding the perfect graduating with a DMU degree. bleak future. Posing as interns, deeper – was launched to measure and course. they had five days to assess improve digital literacy skills for staff First she is planning to Fresh talent Unwrapping the business and two days to into digital across the city. celebrate with her friends in the in the room save it. A pioneering project to give Now a survey of teachers and DMU fencing society. a favourite Exploring dark minimising harm. Suleman’s task was to help teachers and staff more confidence support staff has shown a rise in The Young Furniture Maker of the Fish and chips are the country’s side of light Martin Morgan-Taylor, principal established family firm Havens, in using the latest technology is confidence and digital skills across Year has been named – and he is a original fast food - and DMU’s lecturer at DMU’s School of Law near Southend-on-Sea, to win paying dividends. Leicester’s 23 secondary and SEN Accolade graduate of DMU. Professor of European History, orld experts came and the conference organiser, back custom. The Digilit Leicester project – a schools, which are attended by more Alex Stewart, who graduated Panikos Panayi, has unwrapped the together at DMU to said: “The issue is not one of knowledge exchange between than 20,000 students aged 11-16. to hang on with a First Class Honours in history of one of the nation’s most present their latest switching off all of the lights, but the wall Product and Furniture Design, was popular takeaways. research on the dark rather of lighting where needed, A design graduate from DMU has granted the award by The Furniture Fish & Chips: A History looks Wside of using artificial light at night. when needed, at a level needed, won the star prize in a prestigious Makers’ Company, the industry’s at the social history and culture Emerging research shows that using the right type of light. Shining contest to find the UK’s finest leading charity and patron, for his surrounding the popular dish. artificial light at night can seriously “To get this right we must fully example of wallpaper designers. contribution to the development It uncovers complex issues of harm human and animal health, understand the negative as well The CAMAC wallpaper exhibition of their Young Furniture Makers class and identity and is a book that hinder safety and security, waste as the positive side of light at teamwork is held during the London Design group and its growth in membership tells the story of Britain’s working energy which can contribute to night. Dr Andrew Wright, of DMU’s Festival and is a showcase for the throughout the year. class and industrial heritage. global warming and block out the “The flat-screen televisions and Institute of Energy and newest, freshest ideas in this multi- Meanwhile second-year Product Prof Panayi said: “We think of it night time stars, losing our identity smartphone screens that we have Sustainable Development, is million-pound industry. and Furniture Design student as being British as can be, but it’s with the night. only been using for a few years, part of the team behind the UK’s Elliott hacks it at Nina Willsher, who graduated Agnete Linikaite was awarded first actually from Jewish families and During the three-day conference, also give off a lot of blue rich light first purpose-built, fully-solar- with First Class Honours in Textile prize by two different partnerships; Greek Cypriot families. The origin of experts suggested solutions to at night. powered home, on the market Spotify sound summit Design specialising in Mixed Media, one presented by furniture makers fish and chips is that cold fish used protect and enhance the benefits “Research links this type of light with a price tag of £1.2 million. n aspiring hip-hop at the 24-hour event. He said: “A won the Zoffany Placement Prize Crofts & Assinder and DMU, to be a Jewish dish eaten cold. that light at night can offer, while at night to serious human illness.” The five-bedroom Solar music producer hackathon is where you get a lot of and will now spend time working at and another sponsored by fellow “It was the birth of the railways House, built in Great Glen used the specialist enthusiasts together and the idea their head office. furniture makers Willis & Gambier. which made fish and chips famous.” by Caplin Homes, has programming is to make something original in 24 been designed to exceed Askills learned at DMU to win a hours. You then all sit together and the requirements of the prestigious Midihack contest at show something which you’ve made. government’s 2016 zero-carbon Spotify’s Swedish HQ. “It’s an intense experience. Keeping company with top 200 target, and the house collects Elliott Murray (pictured) fused I couldn’t believe it when I was Academics at DMU’s Leicester Dr David Russell, examined returns links with companies throughout enough solar energy to provide computer programming with one of the winners.” DMU’s Business School have compiled the at Companies House to compile Leicestershire and Rutland through heating and hot water, and music sampling at the event, Music, Technology and Innovation must-see list of Leicestershire’s top the list for the Leicester Mercury’s student placements, bespoke around twice the electricity hosted by the music-streaming Research Centre is renowned for 200 companies. business team. It is the third courses or Knowledge Transfer needed to run the system. giant at its Stockholm HQ. The teaching creative coding for music Experts from DMU’s Department annual report produced by DMU’s Partnerships, where academics are Music, Technology and Innovation alongside audio production and of Accounting and Finance, led by Business School, which has close teamed with businesses. student was one of 150 delegates systems skills.

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Akshay and The Mighty Creatives Akshay’s big idea For young entrepreneur and DMU graduate The result is The Underground Theatre Company, Akshay’s thriving social business, Akshay Sharma, performing comes easy. initiated at the age of 19. He now delivers workshops in schools, youth clubs Akshay, from Birstall, Leicester has always and at corporate events, using rap and beat-box to tackle serious messages. known he wanted to make a living from his creativity – he just wasn’t sure how. “If young people are being entertained at the same time as being educated, the message that is being delivered becomes more memorable,” says Akshay. That’s where The Mighty Creatives (TMC) You can visit Akshay’s website at www.undergroundtheatreco.com comes in. The Mighty Creatives is the young people’s creative development agency for the Supporting the next generation East Midlands. Our programmes and partnerships The Bank of TMC offers tailored support for young people aged prepare children and young people for a lifetime 16-25, who live or work in Leicester city, Oadby or Wigston. of leadership, innovation and enterprise. Our creative business consultants share a wealth of expertise, while The Bank of TMC our workshops cover everything from business plans to marketing. Our specialist support programme for young entrepreneurs is called The Bank of TMC. The Bank of TMC enables and inspires young people There’s also access to sources of finance and the Bank of TMC’s own grants, to use their creative skills to bring about positive change, both in their which range from £1,000-£5,000 to help start or grow creative businesses. own lives and in the communities in which they live and work. The Bank of TMC is funded by the European Regional Development Fund We recognise the huge potential in young people and help them (ERDF), RBS Inspiring Youth Enterprise and Leicestershire County Council. to turn their ideas into real, lasting and thriving businesses. The final word from Akshay Your trusted business advisors A year on, Akshay keeps a close relationship with The Mighty “For me, the easy part was coming up with the creative idea, the hard Creatives. “The funding from the Bank of TMC acted as the bridge part was figuring out how to earn a living from it,” explains Akshay. between the ideas in my head and reality,” Akshay explains. “Business terminology “Sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of was a different language the thing that you were so passionate to me. The team at The about in the first place when setting up Mighty Creatives acted a business, but TMC encouraged me to as my trusty translators; I stay motivated and develop my product.” was constantly reminded that I was not alone on Interested? my journey, with regular To find out more or apply, visit business workshops www.themightycreatives.com and one-to-one and click on ‘Bank of TMC’. sessions, delivered by And like Akshay, you too could find professionals in the field.” your creative dream taking shape. You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun...

Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its own residents’ swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle of the town centre but within walking distance (10 minutes to the marina and another 5 to the town centre).

It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD and CD player are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. There is ample car parking space in front of the building. www.algarveestatemanagement.co.uk apt meia PRICES: Nov to Mar £190 Apr & Oct £255 May & Sept £290 June £330 July & Aug £410

To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884 Apartments can also be booked very competitively at [email protected]