Student Success Meet some of our high achievers

Beacon of Excellence Lecturer recognised with torch relay spot

Bright Future Plans for the City Centre Campus

Settling In Making the most of your first few weeks

#gobcu

WELCOME #gobcuWELCOME #gobcu

I came to university to study BSc Television Technology and Production; during my time here I have worked in many part-time jobs at the University, including as a student accommodation assistant, working in the Employment Zone in Student Services and an assistant in the accommodation office.

I also got very involved with the Students’ Union, and within my first week I had started a new drama society which grew to provide students with the opportunity totake part in drama, dance, singing, aerobicsand cheerleading. I also set up the student TV station, Tiger TV. I was then elected two years in a row as the President of the Students’ Union so took two sabbaticalyears away from my studies to do this. As President, my role was to represent the opinions of students to the University management and externally, which

involved me presenting to audiences all over the country.

When my presidency ended I got a job as the Student Communications Officer at the University, looking at improving the way we communicate with our students and working with the Students’ Union and different departments and services to build the community at the University. I am really pleased I decided to get involved when I came here. It has given me the opportunity to develop new skills which really help when looking for a job and has allowed me to meet so many people and make a lot of friends.

When I talk to final year students, many of them who haven’t got as involved in extracurricular activities really wish they had taken advantage of all the opportunitiesavailable. From joining a society or sports team and volunteering to taking part in the free training sessions offered by student services and the library or getting a part-time job at the University, there is something for everyone here.

Welcome We know that choosing which University to study at is a huge decision. If you’ve chosen Birmingham City University, here’s why you’ve made a good choice - and if you are late into the application, or if you are looking for somewhere to study at a higher level in future, here are some of the reasons you may want to study with us.

• One of the UK’s top 10 universities for • our spending on facilities (Complete • University Guide 2013) with £180 million • being invested over the next few years.

• 29th of 123 universities for the most • students in graduate-level jobs • (Sunday Times University Guide 2012).

• We work with companies like Apple, • Cisco, Cartier and the BBC to develop • cutting-edge curriculums and to • collaborate on course projects.

• We provide the opportunity to gain industry • experience through work placements, • mentoring schemes, overseas study • visits and sandwich courses.

• A student satisfaction rating of 80 per • cent – with 87 per cent of our students • agreeing that staff were good at • explaining things and 84 per cent saying • staff were enthusiastic about what • they taught.

• Times Higher Education award winner • for Outstanding Support for Students • (2010), in recognition of our Student • Academic Partners scheme, where • students work with staff to find ways to • enhance how their courses are taught.

We’re dedicated to putting students at the heart of everything we do, to give them the best opportunities for future success.

If you need further help or advice about your application at any time, please contact us using the details on the back cover of this magazine.

Why choose Birmingham City University?

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Contents

KEEP UP TO DATE

For the latest news and information relating to Birmingham City University, you can follow us on Twitter @MyBCU, using the hashtag #gobcu for information particularly relating to new starters.

If you have any queries relating to starting at the University this year, you can tweet us your question, using the same hashtag, andwe will aim to respond to you as quickly as possible.

www.bcu.ac.uk

03 Welcome04-07 News08-09 Business10 Law11 Social Sciences12-13 Health14 Education15 English16 Computing17 Engineering18 Media Technology19 Media Communications20 Architecture21 Built Environment22-23 Art and Design24 BSA25 Conservatoire

26-27 Preparing to arrive

Tom ThompsonStudent Communications Officer

Don’t live to regret it! Sign up for things, get involved and make the most of your time while you are here.

03

Faculty of Health - Seacole Building

School of Jewellery

Inspirational trainingLecturer carries OlympictorchMak Sharma, head of our School of Computing, Telecommunications and Networks, was selected asone of 8,000 inspirational people who carried the torch as it journeyed across the UK. He took the flame throughTrafford, Manchester, on 24 June, on its way to the Olympic Stadium in London for the start of the Games.

He was nominated by IT giant Cisco in recognition of his years of dedication to inspiring students, particularly in the field of employer engagement. Students benefit from his longstanding relationshipswith some of the biggest names in IT, most notably our partnership with Ciscoitself which has seen manyof our graduates go on to secure employment with the software giant over the past 10 years.

He said: “I’m honoured thatthe Olympic Committeehas selected me as a torch bearer for my hardwork with thousands ofComputer Networkingstudents over the last decade and I am thankful to Cisco for nominating me and recognising the impact my team and I have had.”

Leading contendersComposition department members pen Cultural Olympiad pieces

Members of the Composition department at Birmingham Conservatoire invited the public to join them to celebrate the innovative and fun works composed for New Music 20x12. The UK-wide commissioning project from PRS for Music Foundation formed part of the Cultural Olympiad – a nationwide programme of cultural events to accompany the Olympic Games.

Of the 20 pieces commissioned for New Music 20x12, four have come

from our composition staff – ‘Ping!’ by Head of Department Dr Joe Cutler,‘The Voyage’ by Assistant Head of Department Dr Michael Wolters, and ‘Five Rings Triples’ and ‘Twenty-Seven Heavens’, by tutors Howard Skempton and Richard Causton respectively.

To mark the launch of the pieces in May, the Conservatoire presented a day of musical fun and games in the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter, with three of the works performed live, alongside the screening of a film on the inspiration behind ‘Twenty-Seven Heavens’.

David Saint, Acting Principal at Birmingham Conservatoire, said:

“The New Music 20x12 commissions were hotly contested and we are proud that four of the 20 have been won by our staff.”

The Conservatoire also partnered withlocal arts venue mac Birmingham to present the UK premiere of Walden, the latest work by contemporary German composer Heiner Goebbels, as part of the Cultural Olympiad’s London 2012 Festival.

When you watch the medal ceremonies at this year’s Olympic Games, you will be seeing the culmination of many months’ work by a former Birmingham City University student.

Dennie Wilson has built a successful career as a choreographer since graduating from the University’s Birmingham Institute of Art and Design (BIAD), devising opening, closing and medalceremonies for a wide range of sporting events which made her the natural choice as VictoriesCeremonies Producer – Athletics (Games Time) for the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

This vital position will see her being responsible for the successful delivery of all victory ceremoniesfor athletics at the Olympic Stadium, together with medal and venue management, and press and broadcast liaison.

She said: “This truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity – it’s not often that people in the arts get the opportunity to represent their country in the same way that sports people do so I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of such a magnificent event.”

NEWS #gobcu

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Enhanced technique‘Vibrating suit’ helps athletes advance

A pioneering ‘vibrating suit’ created by experts at the University, could help athletes and other sports stars to enhance their performance, by providing live information on their physical technique, allowing them to make real-time adjustments.

The project is being led by a cross- disciplinary team including Professor Gregory Sporton from Birmingham Institute of Art and Design (BIAD), senior academic at the Faculty of Health Stephen Wanless and PhD student Jonathan Green.

Professor Sporton said: “The suit is designed to give wearers feedback about where their body is in space. This data, much more simple to acquire and treat in real time than more complexmotion capture systems, is then used to give the wearer feedback in real time about their movement.”

The device has recently been tested by rising star and Olympic hopeful Mimi Cesar, the UK’s third-ranking rhythmic gymnast, and her coaching staff immediately recognised the suit’s potential in giving UK athletes a competitive advantage.

Check the change in your pocket at the moment and you may well find one of the special coins that have been produced to commemorate London 2012 – two of which were designed by our graduates.

Jonathan Olliffe, a BA and MA graduatefrom the School of Jewellery, won a nationalcompetition to design one of 29 different 50p coins commemorating different sports which are taking place during the Olympics and Paralympics. His entry – featuring gymnastics and aquatics – was picked from nearly 30,000 entries

He said: “To have the opportunity as a designer to collaborate with a company as prestigious as the Royal Mint is a truly one-off experience and knowing that the two coins I have designed will be part ofcollections nationwide makes it very special.”

The official commemorative £5 coin has also been designed by one of our graduates – Birmingham School of Architecture’s Saiman Miah. His design was selected following a Royal Mint competition to create a design celebrating the capital’s role as host city of London 2012, which incorporated the Olympic and Paralympic Games logos.

On the moneyCommemorative London 2012 coins designed by our graduates

Show stopperFormer student oversees Olympic medal ceremonies

Jonathan (top) and Saiman with their designs

The device has recently been tested by rising star and Olympic hopeful Mimi Cesar

NEWS #gobcu

Major campus expansion in the pipelinePay a visit to any of our sites and you can see how much we’ve already invested in our fantastic facilities – with more exciting developments planned over the next few years.

A flagship extension of our City Centre Campus is our latest ambitious venture, housing cutting-edge art and design resources and a state-of-the-art Media Centre. The £61 million building is currently taking shape alongside our existing facilities at Millennium Point in Birmingham’s Eastside – one of the largest regeneration zones in the UK – ready to welcome its first students in September 2013.

We are committed to a second phase of the development, consolidating more of the University’steaching onto a single flagship site right in the heart of Birmingham. As well as additional teaching space, this will also incorporate a new library, IT, social and support facilities, as well as specialist studios and workshops.

Also in the pipeline are plans for a new city centre home for Birmingham Conservatoire and a new international college at our Bournville campus, to the south of the city, bringing our total spending on our buildings and facilities in the next few years to around £180 million.

Little wonder that we’ve been named by the Complete University Guide as one of the UK’s top 10 institutions for spending on facilities in both 2012 and 2013.

Are you a budding designer or inventor? Would you like the chanceto sell your ideas directly to the public? Recession-busting young entrepreneurs from Birmingham City University got the chance to do just that after the University opened its own shop in the city’s prestigious Mailbox shopping and entertainment complex.

Ten students and graduates came together during May to launch Birmingham CityUniversity’s first Entrepreneur Store, with more traders being introduced as the month went on.

The ambitious entrepreneurs all shared the same vision – that Birmingham, with

its reputation for design and innovation, was the perfect home for an alternative retail venture, selling a range of creative products and accessories from the arts, lifestyle, fashion and homeware sectors, and includes everything from kitsch handbags to vintage trinkets.

“We are facing tough economic challenges but our enterprising students, graduates andproject partners see this as an opportunity,”said Beverley Nielsen, Director of EmployerEngagement at the University.

“We are delighted that The Mailbox is fully backing the Birmingham Made Me store – and recognise that they are helping the next generation of designers who we expect to be soon selling their future brands in flagship stores across the region, the UK and beyond.”

NewEntrepreneurs Recession-busting young entrepreneursopen their own flagship store

NEWS #gobcu

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Meet our new Vice-ChancellorAs a new arrival at the university this autumn you won’t be alone – we will also be welcoming a new Vice-Chancellor during the course of the coming year.

Professor Cliff Allan, currently Deputy Vice- Chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University, has been appointed to the top role, replacing Professor David Tidmarsh, who will be retiring in January after six years in the post.

A long and successful career in Higher Education has seen Professor Allan in a number of senior leadership roles. He joined Sheffield Hallam in 2010, where he has been responsible for the development of the University’s academic portfolio and international strategy, overseeing the management of HR, Marketing and Student and Learning Services.

Speaking about the appointment, Professor Allan said: “I am both honoured and excited to have been appointed as Birmingham City University’s next Vice-Chancellor.

“On visiting the University, I have been particularly impressed by the spirit of partnership between staff and students, which has already received national acclaim.“

Design Expo

This spring also saw the University promote the Midlands’ manufacturing and design talent during the Birmingham Made Me Design EXPO, also at The Mailbox. The EXPO – the first event of its kind to be held in Birmingham for over 100 years – was intended to increase collaboration between higher education and design and manufacturingcommunities, providingnew opportunities forour students to work with some of the leadingcompanies in their field.

An artist’s impression of the new building

Another view of the city centre building

University students and staff at the launch

NEWS #gobcu

INVESTMENTTotal investment planned over the next few years

£180 MILLION

He has helped others to find funding, support, training and mentoring. It’s been a great experience; one which has given him the aspiration to create a business of his own in the future. But first, he wants to progress his studies then take the skills he has learnt into the workplace to hone them further.

“You get a lot from your course; the lecturers are really enthusiastic and helpful,” he says. “But there is much more to offer at the University if you take the chance and this gives you a really well-rounded experience.”

Alistair undertook a placement year as part ofhis four-year course, which he was able to spendat the University’s Centre for Enhancement of Learning and Teaching. His role included research into the National Student Satisfaction Survey, including surveys and focus groups.

“It was fantastic and I gained a lot from it,” he says.

Alistair has also enjoyed the social side of University life. “Birmingham is awesome for any student. There is everything you could want to do here,” he says.

A passion for fashionWhen Lily Pebbles began her fashion, lifestyle and beauty blog as part of a Digital Marketing module, she had no idea how many doors would open up for her.

Now, she has an online marketing job, attends regular press launches for new products, collaborates with brands such as Forever 21 and was nominated for a Marie-Claire blog award.

“When I tell people I started my blog as part of my course they’re always so surprised and ask what course I took,” says Lily. “I think it’s so great that we were asked to create a blog and be a part of something so exciting and up and coming. It was a class that could have easily been full of students secretly checking Facebook on the lab computers, but we were all so engaged and encouraged to use social media, that it really worked.”

Lily would love to one day write her blog as a full-time job but enjoys her role at GLOSSYBOX, a beauty product website, and seizes every opportunity.

“One of the most enjoyable events I’ve been to was a press event for Jemma Kidd’s make-up range. It was in a gorgeous bar in London; we got to meet her and she talked us through her new products sharing her make-up artist tips,” she says.

Lily has also returned to the University as a guest speaker to encourage and inspire other marketing students.

08 09

TOP TIPGive everything you’ve got, take every opportunity you can get and enjoy it! Universityis a unique experience you won’t ever get again.

Read Lily’s blog at www.whatIhearttoday.com or follow her on Twitter: @lilypebblesVisit www.bcuentrepreneurs.com for more

BUSINESS #gobcu

TOP TIPGet involved – both in your course and activities outside of that. Don’t just sit at the back or stay in your room.

Promoting Entrepreneurship

BUSINESS #gobcu

As Chairman of the University’s Student Entrepreneurship Society, Alistair Narnor has been able to learn about starting up a businesswhile advising others.

Apprentice star gives advice

Former finalist of The Apprentice, Ruth Badger, was giving advice on how to succeed in the boardroom to students from across the Midlands at a free event hosted by BirminghamCity University earlier this year. The meeting was arranged to encourageyoung people from secondary schools and colleges across the West Midlands to consider a career in business.

Students inspire others

Students Uzair Delair and Jacqueline Chiratidzo Maya are helping to raise the aspirations of young people in Birmingham, by going into schools tospeak to students and parents about the opportunities on offer to them, and the advantages of education.This has been organised as part of the Uprising Leadership Programme, designed to help future leaders to make a difference in society.

Real-world experience

Students studying the Digital Marketing module recently had the chance to work on real-world briefs in a session with national marketingagency Golley Slater and their client Marston’s. As well as helping all those who took part to build up their workplace experience, winners were also selected and offered internships over the summer of 2012 within both companies.

Emily Cooper is passionate about higher education and inspires others through volunteering and mentoring work.

The psychology student encouragesYear 12 students, who may be the first in their family to consider university, to follow their dreams.

“I tell them that I understand A-Levels are hard but that it’s worth it,” Emily says. “At universityyou can focus on one subject that really interests you and there is also so much beyond the academic side that you will find there, too.”

Motivating others is also at the heart of her academic interests; she is particularly interested in business psychology and what drives people to work hard and perform well.

Emily is also her Course Representative, listening to the views of around 100 students and feeding back to lecturers and Faculty directors on everything from the course handbook to timetabling, achieving good communication and positive results. And she beat over 2,000 applicants nationally to be one of

10 shortlisted for Social Sciences Undergraduate of the Year.

“I went to an assessment centre and got fantastic feedback, as wellas going to an amazing awardsdinner in Canary Wharf,” she says.“If you’re really motivated and gofor opportunities, it will pay off.”

Her enthusiasm, hard work and commitment have led to awards and opportunities, which have given her a great foundation for future success.

Sophie graduated in 2011 with a First Class Honours degree in Criminology. She was then awarded the Howard League Bursary, from the charitable penal reform organisation, and is now studying towards her Masters in Criminology, under the guidance of leading Criminologist Professor David Wilson.

She has also taken over the Howard League Society at the University, attracting increased funding, recruiting over 150 new members and organising events and speakers, including ex-convicts such as reformed offender Noel ‘Razor’ Smith.

But that’s just the start. Alongside her studies Sophie has managed several roles including, Student Liaison Officer, Aimhigher Associate, Senior Student Ambassador, Support Worker, Student Representative and committee member for the national Student Learning and Teaching Network.

In addition, she is chair of the Birmingham branch of the New Bridge befriending organisation,writing to and visiting prisoners, and a member of the Warwickshire Youth Offender Panel which

works to help young offenders understand the consequences of their actions.

There is no doubting Sophie’s strong work ethic. “When I was studying my undergraduate course I had five part-time jobs. The knowledge I learnt through my volunteering roles definitely helped me achieve a First Class degree and I enjoy what I do.”

Ex-inmate shares experiences

As a student, you’ll get the chance to meet and explore the psyches of criminalsas well as debate the causes of crime through a regular programme of guest speakers, seminars and prison visits. Most recently, our Criminology students have been learning from the experiences of ex-prisoner Frankie Owens, who was invited to speak about his new book ‘The Little Book of Prison: A Beginners’ Guide’, which he wrote during a six-month spell behind bars.

Students take placement chance

Students on our Public Sociology course get the opportunity to develop their practical skills by working in the UK or overseas for one semester. Among recent graduates, Kirsty Bradley worked at the Refugee Council Resettlement team in Hull, Inderveer Chonk was a mentor in a Secondary School and Samera Shane worked at the charity Brushstrokes, where she carried out a research project into awareness of asylum seekers and refugees.

Investigating UK’s worst killers

You may have seen the University’s Professor David Wilson – one of the country’s top criminologists – in his latest TV series during June. Killers Behind Bars on Channel 5 looked into the crimes committed by some of the UK’s most notorious killers and investigated whether they may have been responsible for further unsolved murders.

LAW #gobcu

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Jennifer spent eight weeks on placement in Houston, Texas, where she has had the chance to work on a wide range of cases from marijuana possession to murder, and from the District Court to the Federal Court. She was given responsibility straight away, negotiating with prosecutors on behalf of clients and getting ten years taken off one person’s sentence.

Our Centre for American Legal Studies runs the largest student internship programme to the USA of its kind, placing students in Federal and State Public Defender offices, private attorney offices, University Law Schools, and law projects.She said: “This has honestly been one of the best

experiences of my life; I cannot believe I have had the opportunity to do it.

“A lot of the work I have done ties in with what I studied – issues such as faulty forensics, eyewitness misidentifications and faulty chains of custody. We also had the opportunity to view some conversations about post-conviction exonerations which used DNA retesting, which was really interesting as it was something we had studied in depth.”

Jennifer has also spent time on placement with a solicitors firm and is looking forward to two mini-pupillages and a placement with the

Murder Squad of the Metropolitan Police. After graduation, she plans to sit her Bar Professional Training Course and become a barrister specialising in criminal law.

“I’m truly glad that I came to Birmingham City University – it was honestly one of the best decisions I ever made,” Jennifer added. “I have loved studying here and I think the US Internship Scheme is a wonderful opportunity for any student.”

Like many of our students, Jennifer McGraw took advantage of the opportunity to gain real-life work experience relevant to her course – in her case, gaining an international insight by working for an attorney in the USA.

TOP TIPI was advised by my personal tutor to join the Birmingham Law Society, which was the best advice ever as it has helped me to make some great contacts.

TOP TIPBuild your network. If you have a good contact network, it is much easier to discover future careers and learn about new opportunities.

www.bcu.ac.uk/law

Award for volunteering

Final Year LLB student Athina Ouranidou was runner-up in the LawWorks and Attorney General Student Awards 2012. The awards celebrate the best pro bono (voluntary) activities undertaken by students and law schools and the positive impact those activities have. Athina is a mature student from Greece and was previously a dress designer before changing course to study law. She maintains a passion for art which she incorporates into her pro bono work.

Society membership scheme

Birmingham City University has teamed up with Birmingham Law Society in a new venture that will see our students automatically enrolled as student members of the organisation – the largest local law society in the country. It is the first time that any university has provided all of its students with membership, and reflects the importance that we attach to students being connected to the local legal profession.

A moot point

For our Law students, Mooting presents an opportunity to develop legal practice skills and take part in networking opportunities with legal professionals. It comprises two pairs of student ‘advocates’, who take on the role of barristers, arguing a fictitious legal appeal case in front of a ‘judge’ – normally a lecturer, practising lawyer or judge from the Midland circuit. Our own internal mooting competitions take place in our two replica courtrooms.

SOCIAL SCIENCES #gobcu

Grabbing opportunities with both hands

www.bcu.ac.uk/elss/school-of-social-sciences

From the moment she started her Criminology degree, Sophie Rowe was determined to take advantage of everything on offer at the University.

An inspiration to others

TOP TIPHone your revision techniquesbefore university and during your first year; it will really benefit you later on.

Gaining a global perspective

TOP TIPDon’t fret about exams – the knowledge comes thick and fast, but the staff will make sure you are prepared.

TOP TIPChoose Birmingham City University for the fantastic preparation it gives you for your professional career. Don’t underestimate how much university experience positively influences your character for the rest of your life.

Praise for lecturer

A nursing lecturer from Birmingham City University has received nationalrecognition for his outstanding dedication to the health service. Stefan Cash, a senior lecturer in Child Health, was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Nurse title for his commitment to patient values and improving practice, including the development of a pre- hospital Paediatric Assessment course for ambulance staff.

Student’s stadium bow

A student swapped her uniform for a tracksuit and trainers when she took part in the National Lottery’s Olympic Park Run, becoming one of the first people to cross the finish line at the new Olympic Stadium. Tracey Ireland is in her second year of a Nursing diploma at Birmingham City University while working as an auxiliary nurse atBirmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

Spreading the word

Experts from the University recently teamed up with city radio station Free Radio to host a health awareness event in the city centre. Visitors could practice CPR on our mannequin, find out their blood pressure, and find out how to check for signs of cancer. There was also advice on nutrition and eating well, as well as the chance to learn more about a career in health.

Now Deputy Director of Nursing at UniversityHospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, he also returns to his place of study as a visiting lecturer and has seen vast changes,with up to 500 students now on a nursing course at Birmingham City University.

“I was able to experience a great University and a great city,” he says. “Ever since I qualified I have worked as a visiting lecturerand more recently as a professor so I have been involved as a student, academic and clinician.

“Staff really take responsibility for your career and development beyond your initial degree.”

Mark took up his nursing career straight after graduating but also furthered his

studies with a Postgraduate Diploma and PhD at the University, researching communication between doctors and nurses in acute hospital settings.

“Now that nurses have developed new skills and knowledge, there is more collaboration. They are able to influence doctors and make decisions for patients independently,” he says.

This is an important aspect of his role today, where he oversees around 3,000 nurses and midwives, and care is given in a 1,200 bed Midlands teaching hospital.

“The leadership challenges of running a university hospital are huge, but hugely rewarding,” he says.

Nursing student Vicky O’Connor put hertraining into action in a real life emergency– and ended up with an unexpected award.

As a student rep, offering advice and support to others, she had gone into the University accommodation office for her regular update on any relevant issues, when another student rushed in and said she thought her grandfather was having a stroke.

Vicky ran out to the car park where she found the man unconscious and performed a full assessment, realising he had suffered a cardiac arrest.

She performed CPR before the ambulancearrived, with paramedics taking over. Thanksto Vicky’s resuscitation, they got a pulse; they were impressed with her quick-thinking and put her forward for a West Midlands Ambulance Service Chief Officer’s Commendation Award.

“I couldn’t believe it when I won the award. I was just doing my job and didn’t expect recognition,” she says.

Vicky had previously served in the Territorial Army, working with Queen Alexandra nurses, and found them incredibly inspiring.

“I thought that if the Armed Forces use Birmingham City University to train their nurses, then this would be the only University for me.”

She hopes to become a health visitor withthe Soldiers, Seamen, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA). To do so, she will undertake a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (HV/SN) Postgraduate course,staying with Birmingham City University.

HEALTH #gobcu

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www.bcu.ac.uk/health

Since qualifying as a paramedic, he has split his time between working on ambulances in the UK, and as a medic on armed anti-piracy ships in the Indian Ocean.

Already working as an ambulance technician, Andy came to the University to move up to the next stage of his career, and become a paramedic.

Benefiting from the expert tuition and placement opportunities, he has been able to build an exciting and varied career since he graduated.

He said: “The course took me from a technician to paramedic and at no time did I feel I was unable to meet the criteria.

“Doors have been opened to just about every walk of life and employment – entry to the NHS, private providers of health services and the option to work abroad, as the paramedic qualification is highly regarded worldwide.”

Former paramedic science student Andy McLachlan is doing his bit to keep shipping safe from the threat of piracy by providing medical back-up on the patrol boats in some of the world’s most dangerous waters.

Helping keep the seas safe

HEALTH #gobcu

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When Professor Mark Radford undertook his degree course in 1991, he was one of just 15 nursing students in his year.

www.bcu.ac.uk/health

Former student returns as Professor

Putting training to good use

TOP TIPWork hard, play hard.

TOP TIPMake the most of Freshers’ Week – get to know as many people as possible and find out about societies.

Our commitment to ensuring you get the best possible experience extends to involving students in finding ways to further improve our teaching and learning.

Sophie Hibbs, who has just completed her English Literature with Language degree on which she gained a 2.1, got involved with the Student Academic Partners (SAP) scheme, which teams students and staff up to work on specific projects.

Sophie worked alongside Head of English David Roberts on finding ways to enhance our student communication using the iCity intranet pages, and create a clearer division between Moodle pages (for learning) and iCity (for information).

As well as gathering students’ opinions, Sophie was also responsible for presenting her findings to academic staff, and then making the agreed changes.

She said: “I was based in the Faculty office so I regularly spoke to other students in person and I also used my own experience to determine what information I would want to see and where I would expect to find it. I had weekly meetings with David Roberts to update him on progress, then I had one big meeting with the whole department which was quite nerve-racking, speaking in front of everyone who’d ever taught me, but it was a great experience and I was so glad I was able to show them what they’d made me capable of doing. I was then trained how to use iCity, so I could do most of the updates myself.”

Sophie was attracted to Birmingham City University by the wide range of options and modules available, which proved crucial when she changed her mind about the course she wanted to study. Now she is considering returning to study for a Master’s next year.

She added: “Initially I thought I only wanted to study literature, not language, because of my experiences at school, but because the lecturers here were so passionate about what they taught, I decided that I wanted to learn more about language as well and was able to change from a straight literature degree to literature with language.

“My time at the University has been great – all of the staff from the lecturers to the administrators are all supportive, helpful and very friendly; the resources are plentiful and up-to-date; and since we’re all based in the same building, you’re always surrounded by like-minded people.”

EDUCATION #gobcu

TOP TIPBe open-minded. I wasn’t and I ended up taking the wrong course for me as a result – fortunately I was able to change it.

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Using experience to inspire othersKapil Kapur is studying to become a primaryschool teacher and has taken on a role as a mentor while undertaking his degree.

He goes into a secondary school to encourage Year 11 students to progress to higher education and also mentors first year Education students at the University on their teaching practice.

It’s a role he finds very rewarding and has increased his passion to teach, particularly as he has seen at first hand the impact that teachers can make.

Kapil says, “The pupils don’t see me as a teacher; I am more on their level. I enjoy it very much, the satisfaction is brilliant and the role is very flexible as well, which is ideal to fit around studies.

“It has been great to secure a job that is relevant to my future career. The University has been really good for that and is also helping us to find jobs after we graduate.

“The course has been challenging, informative and thorough and the staff are very dedicated; they are always there for us.”

Kapil also works at Open Days and admissions events, giving information to parents and potential students about university life and what the course is like.

www.bcu.ac.uk/elss/school-of-education

ENGLISH #gobcu

Improving the learning experience

Writer shares expertise

Stage, radio and TV writer Naylah Ahmed recently visited us to speak to students about how to make a career out of writing. She has been making a living as a writer since the 1990s and her career provides a great example of how English can be used commercially. Naylah is currently working on a new co-written stage play for Birmingham’s REP theatre, and shared her experiences of working collaboratively.

Student’s inside track

Wondering what it’s like to be a student in the School of English? One of our second year students, Danielle Cotton, has started a blog about just that, called ‘BCU English Delight’. It covers her experiences as an English student, as well as how her studies interact with life outside of and beyond university.

Check out bcuschoolofenglish.blogspot.co.uk.

Visit twitter.com/BCUEnglish15

Spanish lessons

A group of Spanish students recently spent time at the School of Education as part of an exchange scheme with the University of Cordoba. Our students will get the chance to visit Spain later this year, where they will teach in Spanish primary schools, giving them the chance to improve their language skills as well as building their knowledge and understanding of different cultures.

Conference visit

Student Lucy Whalley gained a greater insight into her intended profession when she successfully secured funding from the Higher Education Academy to attend this year’s Association of Teachers of Mathematics Confer-ence. The event gave her the chance to meet with others involved in the teaching of mathematics and hear about some of the latest developments in the profession.

Former student wins award

A former student who completed his teacher training at the University has been judged one of the ‘rising stars’ of his profession after receivingthe Outstanding Newcomerto Design and Technology Award from the Design andTechnology Association (DATA). Andrew Hartshorncurrently works at LangleySchool in Solihull, where he specialises in Food Technology. He is always keen to try new and excitingstrategies, and incorporatenew technologies into his teaching.

Having always been interested in cars, Kerrie Davis started off working at a local dealership, but decided her real interest was on the technical side, and so enrolled on our BSc (Hons) Motorsport Technology course.

ENGINEERING #gobcuCOMPUTING #gobcu

TOP TIPDon’t look at university as just an extension of your education but as a tool for opportunities in life. Work hard, have fun and jump at any extra opportunities available to you, whether that is qualifications, trips or social gatherings as these are the keys that open the doors later in life.

Celebrating technology

We hosted a celebration of technology last month, with the second annual Birmingham TechFest, with students, staff and industry partners highlighting the importance of developing knowledge and creativity skills to thrive within the technology, engineering and science industries. A highlight was the UK Micromouse competition, an annual event in which robotic ‘mice’ compete to solve a maze and complete other tasks – including drag racing, robot football and robot sumo.

Inspiring games

Our popular Gamer Camp for aspiring computer game developers is launching a new course designed to prepare individuals to be the next generation of video games entrepreneurs. Gamer Camp: Biz is designed to combine managerial and business know- how with a comprehensive and realistic understanding of the game development process.

Search engine with people power

Could you design a search engine to beat Google? Two students from the School of Computing, Telecom-munications and Networks thought so. SEENVO (SEarch ENgine VOting) was developed by Justin Popa and Joshua Tromans-Jones, under the guidance of senior lecturer Stuart Hutchinson. It enriches the traditional listings of websites that search engines produce with other valuable information such as human rankings/voting, social interaction and opinions.

www.twitter.com/bcuracing

While engineering may traditionally be seen as a male-dominated profession, Kerrie is well used to holding her own in such environments as manager of the BCU Racing team for last year’s Formula Student contest, where teams competed to design and build a single-seat racing car from scratch.

She now works for West Midlands-based automotive engineer GKN Driveline – the world’s leading supplier of automotive driveline components and systems – following a successful placement with the firm as part of her course.

Kerrie said: “At first the other students were a bit surprised to find a woman on the course but they soon realised I was interested in the same things as

them – cars. There was a bit of banter between us, but as I was the team manager for BCU Racing I could boss them about a bit!

“During my year in industry I worked with the global engineering team at GKN Driveline Birmingham, working as an Application Engineer on the heavy dutyLand Rover products. The experience proved invaluableto me in many ways – I learned so many new skills and developed existing ones, gained confidence in my ability as an engineer and met many interesting people who helped me throughout the year.”

“Prior to completing my year in industry placement I was offered a permanent job with GKN Driveline and am now working as a Trainee Application Engineer and looking forward to the challenges ahead!”

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Gaining a competitive edge

www.bcu.ac.uk/tee/ctn

The career relevance of James Farmer’s BSc in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) gave him a competitive edge when it came to securing a position after graduation.

James now works as an Infrastructure Engineer for Lockheed Martin, a leader in systems integration, working on major programmes across the aerospace, defence and civil sectors, and finds that the skills he learned relate directly to his new role.

“My degree was highly focused on networking and infrastructure set up and support,” he says. “This, and the availability of extra qualifications such as the Microsoft MTA certifications subsidised by the University, helped me get my job. The infrastructure module I took focused on Microsoft Windows operating systems and server features which are used by large companies in all areas, including Lockheed.”

While at the University, James participated in the European Programme for Sustainable ICT in Academic Education (EPSIAE) project in Amsterdam.

This gave him confidence, through public speaking and presenting, to undertake the interview with Lockheed. With a strong push on organisationsbecoming more sustainable, the scheme also enabled him to help resolve problems with energy and materials waste.

“Lockheed were interested to hear about the trip and how sustainability was integrated within all industries. They showed a great interest in how companies such as Microsoft and Cisco are advancing in the area.”

Wheels in motion for a successful career

Energy of the future

Birmingham City University is spearheading the development of the ‘green’ energy sources of the future. It is a significant partner in the £12.3 million Europe-wide EnAlgae project, which aims to investigate the potential of algae as a sustainable fuel source. Our experts are helping to develop tools to analyse whether the growing process is both environmentally sustainable and commercially viable.

Recognising achievement

TV presenter Arti Halai recently helped celebrate the outstanding work of students in our Faculty of Technology, Engineering and the Environment (TEE) as they gained awards and recognition from blue chip organisations such as the BBC, Microsoft UK and Jaguar Land Rover, in front of a packed house of staff, students, friends, and family.

TOP TIPI would recommend the year in industry scheme to anyone as a really good way to gain real world experience and increase the chance of future employment.

Starting off in local radio, Sue also enjoyed a glimpse into the world of showbusiness when she got the opportunity to work on Jonathan Ross’s film review show for BBC1.

She said: “I did work experience at BBC Radio Lancashire several times throughout my course and then when I graduated, I asked them for a job, saying I would do anything. They initially gave me a three-week contract and I ended up staying for nine years!

“I also completed two secondments working onBBC Film with Jonathan Ross as researcher and assistant producer – filming, interviewingand cutting programme packages. It was a great experience and completely different to radio – at BBC Lancashire I’d just get the morning to prepare a three-hour programme that was going out that afternoon, whereas in

TV, I’d have a week to produce a three-minute feature. I got to go to film premieres, film festivals, interview celebrities – it was for a fairly short time but it was a wonderful insight into a completely different world.” She now works as an online producer at BBC Radio Dorset, and says her time at Birmingham City University still has a big influence on her work today.

She added: “I found the University very friendly and welcoming, but what particularly attracted me was the amount of hands-on experience the course offered. I was very impressed with the standard of the equipment they had there and the split between theory and practical was about 50-50 right from the start. The lecturers were just brilliant – they were real mentors and friends and they pushed us hard, but for the right reasons.”

MEDIA TECHNOLOGY #gobcu

Making MusicLike many of our courses, our BSc (Hons) Music Technology gives students as much hands-on experience as possible, and that insight has certainly proved useful to graduate Richard Siddall-Jones, who is now building a successful career promoting EMI’s digital music interests.

Straight after graduating, he joined Universal Media Group on a temporary contract, before securing his current role, as Digital Development Manager at EMI, four months later. This followed a successful 12-month internship at the firm, secured as part of his course.

He said: “As well as being a fantastic experience, it was incredibly beneficial. I learnt great amounts about the music industry. I returned to finish my final year with a much greater perspective of the industry and plenty of ideas to base my dissertation on.”

His responsibilities now include co-ordinating artist campaigns, managing digital content with partners such as iTunes and Spotify, and sharing commercial best practice with EMI staff around the world.

He also runs his own hobby-orientated record label called DryCry Records. Richard oversees all aspects of the label, which has been active for 18 months and has released three EPs and two LPs.

Richard hopes to continue working in the industry, either in digital music or step into a creative area such as A&R.

TOP TIPNot only can education improve your chances of employment, employment can improve your education. Hands on experience in your field, paid or not, looks great on your CV and gives your university work a depth that cannot be achieved from research alone.

www.bcu.ac.uk/courses/music-technology

Film goes on show

At Birmingham City University, you will be taught by lecturers with their finger on the pulse of the latest developments in your sub-ject. Valentina Ippolito, a lecturer on our Film Production and Technology course, still works as a filmmaker and has recently produced a film about the ‘hidden world’ of cinema, which was shown at this year’s London International Documentary Festival.

Learning from the best

Budding filmmakers from the University were able to gain an insight into how to perfect their art when a special screening of BAFTA-nominated shorts took place. The screening featured short pieces in the live action and animation BAFTA categories, and was followed by a question and answer session where filmmakers answered students’ queries about their projects and the ideas behind them.

Going global with music career

Former Sound Engineering and Production student Lewis Planter is building a career in one of the world’s most active and vibrant music industries – Jamaica. His time at the University equipped him with not only the technical skills, but inspiration and a business plan too. He has since worked as a producer for big names in the Jamaican music industry, including Protoje and Kabaka Pyramid.

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MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS #gobcu

Building a media career

The work experience many of our students gain as part of their course can offer a great route into employment after graduation. Media and Communication graduate Sue Paz’s work experience with the BBC, which she did alongside her studies, led to a full-time role – and she is still working for the corporation today.

Visit twitter.com/BCUMedia19

School makes top 10

Media courses at Birmingham School of Media are among the best in the UK, having been ranked eighth overall in The Guardian’s University Guide for 2013. The School’s high levels of student satisfaction, with 93 per cent of those questioned stating that they were happy with their course, contributed to its top 10 placing, as well as its track record of producing graduates going on to secure employment on completion of their studies.

Media ethics conference

Former NBA basketball star John Amaechi - one of the first openly gay athletes in professional sport - was among the guest speakers at a conference on kicking prejudice out of sport, hosted jointly by the Council of Europe, the European Federation of Journalists and Birmingham City University. The event brought together journalists, regulators and sportspeople under the Council of Europe’s MARS – Media Against Racism in Sport – banner.

Seventh heaven for PR student

Birmingham City University has once again triumphed in an annualcompetition to find the next generationof PR talent. BA (Hons) Media and Communication: Public Relations student Lucy Hird has just been named as Midlands Student of the Year by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) – the seventh year in a row that the award has been won by one of our students.

TOP TIPMake the most of your lecturers’ knowledge! Because of the success they had achieved in their own careers – including some who had worked for the BBC – they gave us all something to aspire to.

ARCHITECTURE #gobcu

Budding architect gets top placementSecond year BA (Hons) Architecture student, Haiqal Che Zulhikam has beaten off tough competition to secure one of a handful of summer internships with a leading architecture practice.

Haiqal will be working at Sir Norman Foster’s practice, Foster + Partners. The prestigious practice undertakes some of the largest and most complex projects in the world with the aim to create a sustainable built environment at all times.

Along with other applicants from all over Europe and the UK, Haiqal went through a tough four stage appointment process which involved a written application and portfolio, a personal interview and presentation of work, a skills practical test including technical and sketch drawing, modelling, and software skills.

He said: “I also had an interview to test my knowledge of architectural history and contemporary architecture.

This was focused around Malaysia, which is where I am originally from. They were keen to know how I would integrate this knowledge and expertise into the company portfolio.

“It was a really nerve-racking experience and one Iwon’t forget soon, although it was all worth it as I’vewon the internship with them. I can’t wait to get started.”

Haiqal plans to work as an architect after graduation, and hopes that his time at Foster + Partners will lead to a long-term role either there, or at another big-name firm.

www.bcu.ac.uk/biad/architecture

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TOP TIPThe University will provide you with a lot of opportunitiesbut it’s up to you to make the most of them.

TOP TIPStudy something you really enjoy and the rest will follow.

Haiqal Che Zulhikam, Architecture student

University expert backs green living

Our School of Architecture is home to one of the UK’s leading experts in ‘green’ building design. Dr Lubo Jankovic has been leading a team of researchers on monitoring and evaluating the ground-breaking Birmingham Zero Carbon House – a carbon neutral building based on a 170-year-old redbrick Victorian house, which won a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Architecture Award in 2010 and attracted media attention worldwide.

Graduate works on new campus

Former Architecture student Tom Doling has continued his associationwith the University by helping design the new art and media building at our City Centre Campus.Tom Doling works for city firm Associated Architects, which can trace its beginnings directly back tothe University as the three original partners were architectural tutors before deciding to form their own company more than 40 years ago.

BUILT ENVIRONENT #gobcu

Global aim for planning careerWhen Dean Collins spent a few years travelling in Asia, before he came to Birmingham City University, he was inspired by the sprawling high-rise schemes and decided he wanted to become an urban planner.

Now, with a First Class Honours degree and Master’s in Urban Design behind him, as well as strong career experience, he has come full circle and is moving to Hong Kong to pursue his dream.

Dean was 27 when he joined the University and knew he would have to study hard to achieve his goals.

“I was prepared to give my all and put everything into my studies. My experience at the University taught me to think and analyse. You get out what you put in.

“It was great being around like-minded people, both students and lecturers. I know that I have

made lifelong friends through my studies.”

His girlfriend is also a Birmingham City University graduate and planner but they actually met while travelling in Vietnam. They and their young son are now heading to Hong Kong and are excited about their bold move.

“I am taking a gamble but there seem to be a lot of opportunities out there and I have made contact with some firms and received positive responses. It will be an adventure.”

With Dean’s drive and enthusiasm, success surely awaits.

Insight into city farming

How will you use your degree to contribute to a more sustainable world? Students recently got an insight into urban agriculturewhen the ‘Carrot City’ exhibition visited the University. Showcasing projects from around the world, Carrot City sets out to increase interest in locally-grown food and in urban environments, encouraging the use of available spaces such as rooftops and derelict sites for food growth.

Top role for academic

At Birmingham School of the Built Environment, you will learn from specialists who are active in their subject areas and enjoy strong relationships with industrial partners and professional bodies. Course leader in Architectural Technology Paul Laycock is one such expert, having been chosen as one of the UK’s first ‘super-assessors’ for the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, overseeing its professional training programmes.

Students tackle housing brief

Could you design a building that will influenceyour local council’s housing policy? Students from courses across Birmingham School of the Built Environment recently joined forces for a unique final-year project. They were given a challenging brief based on a real objective from Birmingham City Council – to improve the quality of living in Birmingham through the development of eco-friendly housing designs which can be adapted for different sites across the city. www.bcu.ac.uk/tee/bsbe

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ART AND DESIGN #gobcu

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TOP TIPMake the most of the facilities on offer at theUniversity, as they are of a high standard and very affordable.

What better way to put your knowledge to the test than to pit your wits against fellow students in a range of national and international competitions? At Birmingham Institute of Art and Design (BIAD), part of Birmingham City University, we give you plenty of opportunities to demonstrate your talents, getting you noticed by potential employers and industry contacts.

Final year BA (Hons) Interior Design student Su Ping Ong, overcame competition from 50 other universities around the UK to finish runner-up in the Janine Stone Young Interior Designer Award 2012, alongside fellow Birmingham City University student Alson Tan Seng Wai.

As part of the contest, both had to design an apartment for a major city anywhere in the world. Each student received £1,000 to be spent specifically in the Interior Design department at Birmingham Institute of Art and Design (BIAD).

Su said: “The University was very different to the college I’d attended in Malaysia – there were better facilities and I really liked the workshops as I’d not had access to anything like that before. The teaching was great, and we had a lot of visiting lecturers from industry who I learned a lot from. It was a good change; it took some getting used to but I’m very glad I did.

“Our course leader encouraged us to enter this competition and I’m very glad I did as it was a great way to apply what we’d learned to a real-life situation. I’m also very proud that my design has secured £1,000 for the University.”

On graduation, Su plans to return to her native Malaysia to work in the interior design industry, and hopes to work abroad again in the future.

www.bcu.ac.uk/biad/design

ART AND DESIGN #gobcu

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TOP TIPConsulting with others, sharing ideas and experiences, and learning from other people’s mistakes are the best way of ensuring that my knowledge and thinkingwill continue to grow and change.

www.bcu.ac.uk/biad/jewellery

As a student here, you will be given the freedom to bring your own ideas and values to your studies. For Helen Dobson, who studied on our HND Jewellery and Silversmithing course, followed by BA (Hons) Design for Industry, this meant undertaking a commitment to source her materials ethically, setting up her own business while still a student, which she is still running now.

She said: “I was aware of the impact that the jewellery industry has on the environment and its workers and, after researching this further, I began altering the way I worked. I started by altering my designs so that they had less of an environmental impact or raised awareness of issues I felt strongly about. Following this, I began to look into what materials were available, such as recycled metals.

“I started my ethical jewellery business, Opulent Ethics, during my final year at University and I have been continuing with this since leaving. I was also part of a group of students to take part in the New Designers show at the Business Design Centre in London. This has since led to my work being displayed in two galleries during Christmas 2011 as well as other on-going projects.”

While ethical jewellery represented a small part of the overall sector, Helen said she was always supported by staff at the University as she put her aims into practice.

She added: “I always had the backing of my tutors and was able to discuss my plans openly and receive constructive feedback. Without their support I would have found my ethical choices much more difficult to bring to fruition.

“I am lucky enough to have been able to spend three years researching and developing my ideas into a business that I am happy with. I will continue to develop the ranges of ethical jewellery that I already have, and am looking to exhibit and sell them in more places.”

Designs on success

The artwork at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital

Students brighten up hospital

A piece of commemorative artwork by a group of creative students from the University has been unveiled at Birmingham’s Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. The stained glass window was created to celebrate the Hospital’s fifth year as a Foundation Trust, and looked back at the life of the Hospital since it was founded in 1907, showcasing archive and modern-day images.

Prize winner

School of Jewellery student Annie Li won first prize in this year’s Charles Green Design competition, where students were asked to design a bespoke pendant or pair of earrings incorporating a selected gemstone donated by the city-based firm. This marked the third year running that students from the School have entered the contest.

A showcase for talent

Talented students from BIAD had their chance to present their work to the public at the latest of our annual graduate shows. Our successes include BIAD textile design graduates Gemma Critchley and Zara Braganca who were recently hailed as part of a ‘new wave’ of British design talent in the style section of the Daily Telegraph newspaper after setting up their own jewellery company called Cabinet.

Design contest triumph

Samuel saw his first orchestral work performed at Bedford Corn Exchange when he was just 16. Last year he became the first composer to create a work for a vertical space when his ‘live music sculpture’, Monument, was performed at the Monument in the City of London.

Such was the success of the performance that he is following it up this year with a double-bill of music created for two iconic London buildingsas part of the 50th City of London Festival – The Monument and Tower Bridge. In total, 30 musicians were set to play along the length of Tower Bridge, as well as up the 311 steps of The Monument on 8 July, allowing the audience to take a musical journey as they move around, experiencing a unique three-dimensional sound.

Samuel said: “I had been looking to do something different with acoustics for quite

some time and on visiting the Monument last year I realised it was the perfect place to develop my ideas. I was concerned that there might be issues with the unusual spatial dimensions of the building, but I was delighted to find that they were very interested in the idea and worked with me to make it happen. It went so well that I was able to go back on a larger scale to incorporate the bridge this year as well.

“To stand out as a composer you really have to have something a bit different to offer as many people may want to write an orchestral piece but not everyone will get the opportunity. My live music sculpture is an idea that could potentially run and run as we have so many unique architectural spaces in this country, and indeed the world, so hopefully it’s something I can take forward further.”

BSA #gobcu

Earning the critics’ praiseMaking a name for yourself in the acting field is often a challenge but Ian Weichardt has already built the foundations of a successful career since graduating from Birmingham School of Acting (BSA) in 2009.

He is currently starring in ‘Meat’ at Theatre 503 in London – the story of a factory worker who turns vigilante when violence erupts in his local neighbourhood. Ian plays Rob, a local hoodie, as well as portraying Rob’s bereaved mother after his death, providing a dramatic moment when Rob’s killer literally comes face to face with his victim.

Critics have praised his performance with comments including “good observation and taut control” (The Public Reviews), “superb” (My Village) and “an assured stage debut” (Exeunt).

This follows a number of TV roles in hit series including Miss Marple, DCI Banks and Coronation Street, as well as several film parts, with ‘Meat’ marking his return to the sort of stage shows he enjoyed during his time at University.

“I really enjoyed myself at BSA and I learned a lot from start to finish as a person and as an actor. The teaching is of a very high standard and year by year you get better.

“Most of the work we did was stage work, whereas immediately after graduatingI was doing bits of TV, so it’s great to be back on stage as the two are very different. In the theatre you get more chance to rehearse and shape your performance, and when you go on stage, every night is different.”

He added: “Every single moment I’m drawing on my time at BSA – all the skills I had were learned from different teachers – even when I go for auditions I’m constantly thinking about the training I had and what I can take from that.”

TOP TIPMake the most of what you learn in your first year, even if it doesn’t seem relevant at the time, as everything will come together as your course progresses.

TOP TIPStart thinking about your future from day one and involve as many people as possible, as you may want to work with them again in future.

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www.bcu.ac.uk/pme/school-of-acting

www.bcu.ac.uk/pme/conservatoire

Insight into TV

Students from BSA got an insight into working in television when they took part in an event organised by the Screenwriters’ Forum – a body which provides support and networking opportunities to aspiring scriptwriters. As part of the Capital Theatre Festival, our students acted out short drama scripts, which were filmed by fellow students from Birmingham School of Media, helping them to see how television dramas are written and produced.

Student in the spotlight

One of our students is set to go head to head with the best young talent in the country when he competes for the title of ‘Best Actor’ at the 2012 Spotlight Showcase. BA (Hons)Acting student Adam Lawrencewas selected to represent Birmingham School of Acting as one of our most promising students, with the chance of winning a £2,000 top prize and an accolade which could help his future prospects.

CONSERVATOIRE #gobcu

Music in 3DFor an artist, there can be few greater rewards than seeing your work on public show, and for former Conservatoire student Samuel Bordoli, this was due to come true in spectacular fashion with the performance of a double-bill of live music he composed at some of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Ian Weichardt

Samuel (second from left) with some of the musicians from last year’s performance.

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Music group success

On graduation from BirminghamConservatoire, you will be able to apply your skills to a wide range of musical styles, as proved by the success of seven former members who are attracting attention as some of the brightest new talents on the UK folk scene. The Old Dance School began life in 2006, playing gigs at local venues in Birmingham and have since produced three albums, featured on Radio 2 and played with such big-name artists as Graham Coxon and Cerys Matthews.

Students secure funding

Five postgraduate students from Birmingham Conservatoire have been awarded funding to assist with their studies after impressing a panel of eminent musicians with their outstandingtalent. The students have all secured a Postgraduate Performance Award from the Musicians Benevolent Fund, which provides between £1,000 and £5,000 towards learning costs, together with regular professional development opportunities and the chance tobuild relationships in the industry.

Many of our students spend time on placement as part of their course, gaining vital workplace skills as well as building the contacts to help you gain the first position in your chosen industry.

For Community and AppliedTheatre student Ally Damon,her time on placement at local theatre in education company Big Brum resulted in further paid positions later in her studies, providingvaluable experience to help in her future career search.

She said: “I always wanted to do something with the theatre but I didn’t want to perform myself, so I did a lot of research into courses and when I visited BSA, and spoke to the students and staff, I got a really good feeling about the place.

“The course was great – we were going out into the community straight away and getting more hands-on experience than I expected. Every module involved us

getting out and doing, not just learning; for example, we put on a show of A Midsummer Night’s Dream for early years pupils, which is obviously a massive challenge but it went really well.

“In my second year, I did a six-week placement with Big Brum Theatre in Education where I helped with the marketing and administration. I had an amazing time and learned so much and after about six months, they invited me back to work for another five weeks which was paid this time, and then again in the third year.”

Having just graduated with a first in her chosen subject, Ally now plans to build on the knowledge and experience she has gained by securing a full-time role in community theatre.

TOP TIPEverybody is in the same boat as you so throw yourself into it in the first few weeks; speak to as many people as you can, do as many activities as possible and just be yourself.

Placement leads to paid role

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Did you know that, according to research, the most important factors predicting foodselection among university students istaste, cost, nutrition, convenience, pleasureand weight control, in that order? The average university student will, however, put on a stone in weight during their first year!

The transition to independent living is an important event when it comes to eating habits and making your own food decisions.Students often have poor eating habits, with a 2004 study revealing that only 7.3 per cent of university students ate five or more servings of fruit and vegetables daily, and it’s easy for poor dietary habits to continue into later life.

As trainee food technology teachers we are keen to promote healthy eating and suggest some basic rules:

• Make time for meals – eating healthily • may seem intimidating, but it doesn’t • have to be difficult. All of the dining • areas on campus provide plenty of • nutritious options – if you don’t eat at • mealtimes you are more likely to snack • on high calorie foods.

• Choose healthy portable snacks such • as fruit, granola/cereal bars and

• healthy sandwiches when you are on the go. Remember grilled or baked

• foods are better than fried, whole grain • (brown bread, brown rice and brown • pasta) is better than white. Low fat or • soya milks are better than whole milk • drinks, select baked potatoes over chips, • limit your intake of fizzy drinks and opt • for fruits rather than sweetened desserts. • Portion size is also an issue – select • smaller sizes and go back for more if • you’re still hungry.

• Stay fit by walking and exercising – • walk when you can and join a club so • that you meet others and burn off calories.

What if you can’t cook? Help is on hand. Watch out for information in Freshers’ Week about cookery classes that will teach you basic skills and recipes so that healthy meals are not a challenge. Finally, think in moderation. We are not saying don’t eat fatty, salty, sugary or alcoholic things but we are saying be sensible. Good luck!

Written by Alex Henshall, Laura Munro, Kate Tromans, Vicki Garner, Carmell Branch, Clare McMahon and Rachael Whittaker (PGCE secondary design and technology: food technology students).

Mentors on hand to help you settle in We know that when you start University, there is a lot to think about in your first few weeks and for many of our students this will be their first experience of living independently. That’s why, as a first year student, you will be offered the support of your own ‘mentor’ – an existing student who is able to offer help and advice on any issues you may encounter.

Our online peer mentoring scheme helps you to gain support from experienced students as you settle into life at the University. This could include help with accessing any support you need – either on or off-campus – advice on your work, study and social life balance, or explaining any unfamiliar University processes and procedures.

Employment Zone officer Sharon Farrow said: “We know that, for some students, the first few weeks at university may seem a little daunting with so much to familiarise yourself with and, by offering this support, we aim to make the process a little easier.

“All of our student mentors were in the same position themselves not long ago, so they can relate to any concerns you may have, and draw on their own experiences to answer your questions.”

Taking part also benefits the experienced students who play the role of mentors, as they are given the opportunity to gain new skills such as leadership and communication – just what future employers are looking for. Who knows, after benefiting from the scheme this autumn, you could become a mentor yourself in years to come!

Offering the supportyou needDo you have a disability, specific learning difficulty (like dyslexia), long-term health condition or mental health difficulty?

The Disability and Mental Health advisers at Birmingham City University offer:• A confidential appointment and

drop-in service;• Screening, full assessment and

support for students with dyslexia and other learning difficulties;

• Advice and guidance to your Faculty about the specific adjustments you will need for exams, assessments, teaching sessions and course materials and information;

• Advice on and support with applicationsfor Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs) or other funds;

• Advice for unfunded disabled students (such as international students) on funding disability support;

• Study support workers, such as note-takers, mentors or study skills support;

• Advice about enabling equipment and software;

• Information about campus accessibility, car parking and individual support requirements;

• Advice, information and support if you have concerns about your own or someone else’s mental health and wellbeing; and

• Suggestions about resources such as counselling, informal support networks, statutory mental health services helplines

The definition of disability is very wide – if you are not sure whether you have a disability which could entitle you to support, please contact our Pre-Entry Disability Adviser Karen Darcy on karen.darcy@bcu.ac.uk.

You can find out more at www.bcu.ac.uk/disability-support - and don’t forget about our Disabled Students’ Welcome Day, on Friday 14 September 2012!

Develop a work/study/

life balance

Stay in control, maintain

your health and wellbeing and

ensure life doesn’t get on top

of you.

www.bcu.ac.uk/student-info/

health-and-wellbeing

Receive support for your disability

Get information about Disabled Students’

Allowance funding, extra time in exams

or how to get screened for dyslexia. (see

next page for more details)www.bcu.ac.uk/disability-support

Register with a doctorAs soon as possible, register with the University’s healthcare provider or with a GP in your area.

www.bcu.ac.uk/student-info/doctor

Sort out your finances

Apply for your student funding

early. If you do experience difficulties,

talk to us about emergency funding and

hardship funds.

www.bcu.ac.uk/student-info/finance-

and-money-matters

Team up with a

student mentor

Being mentored by another student

is a great way to learn the ropes

at university, settle into university

living and make friends for life.

www.bcu.ac.uk/mentoring

Get work experience

Find a part-time job to supple-

ment your income

and enhance your CV.

www.bcu.ac.uk/student-info/

careers-and-job-prospects

Last-minuteadviceEach August, we match students who are still looking for a place to study with the last few spaces available, through our Clearing hotline.

Clearing is designed to help those who wish to attend University but do not yet have a place confirmed. There are a number of reasons why you may opt to use Clearing:• You have changed your mind about the course you wish to • study and asked your previous firm choice to release you • into Clearing• You do not currently have any offers – either because you • were not made any or because you declined all the offers • you received• You did not achieve the grades you needed to get a place on • your firm or insurance choice course• You applied late (after 30 June) and have gone straight • into Clearing.

You can also ask to be considered for a place at Birmingham City University if you have previously accepted a place elsewhere but have now met or exceeded the conditions of that offer – this is known as Adjustment.

Clearing this year will start on Thursday 16 August and further information will be posted on our website at that time.

I know there’s a lot to think about in your first few weeks at university. Fortunately, there’s lots of support on hand to help you settle in. Here are some of the most important things to remember when you first arrive.

PREPARING TO ARRIVE #gobcu

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Tom’sTop Tips

Tom Thompson is our Student Communications Officer and a former president of the Students’ Union.

PREPARING TO ARRIVE #gobcu

Does cooking leave you cold?Help is at handfrom our students

How to contact us

Birmingham City UniversityCity North CampusPerry BarrBirminghamB42 2SU

T: +44 (0)121 331 5000E: mainreception@bcu.ac.ukF: +44 (0)121 331 7994W: www.bcu.ac.uk

For UK/EU Course EnquiriesT: +44 (0)121 331 5595W: www.bcu.ac.uk/enquiries

For international Course EnquiriesT: +44 (0)121 331 6714E: bcuinternational@enquiries.uk.comF: +44 (0)121 331 6314W:www.bcu.ac.uk/international

For UK/EU applicant enquiries T: +44 (0)121 331 6295E: admissions@bcu.ac.uk

For International applicant enquiriesT: +44 (0)121 331 5389E: international.admissions@bcu.ac.uk

bcu.ac.uk