LIVERPOOL HOPE UNIVERSITY
Graduation 2018
www.hope.ac.uk
LIVERPOOL HOPE UNIVERSITY
Liverpool Hope University
Graduation 2018
Graduation 2018
What’s inside
www.hope.ac.uk
4 Celebrating the Class of 2018
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Graduate success stories
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Honorary Awards
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Beyond Graduation
NSS places Liverpool Hope top 2 in North West
Welcome from Professor Pillay As I watched the Class of 2018 walk down the steps of the Cathedral, applauded by tutors, friends and family, I felt a real sense that the city of Liverpool was celebrating alongside us. Liverpool is a great place for students. Those of you from Liverpool will have experienced the city in a new way during your studies, enjoying its vibrant social life, sport, rich collection of museums and galleries, and its music. Many of you who came from outside the city may have chosen to make Liverpool your home; a place to build a career, to pursue further study, to raise a family. A place where you have been welcomed from your first day in town. At Liverpool Hope, we - like our city - pride ourselves on our warm welcome and strong pastoral care. That’s why it was incredibly heartening to find you named us top 2 in the North West for overall student satisfaction in this year’s National Student Survey. Of the many people I spoke to during Graduation week, I heard again and again how the individual care, support and encouragement of our tutors made a real difference to their lives. Wherever in the world you will go, you go with both a sound education and a real understanding of the need for care and compassion for others. I urge you to seek truth, beauty and goodness in all that you do. It will not be easy. But it will make a difference. Graduation is not the end. It is the beginning of unimaginable new opportunities. I wish you all the very best. Professor Gerald J. Pillay Vice-Chancellor & Rector
Published by Liverpool Hope University, Hope Park, L16 9JD. Tel: 0151 291 3000 Email: goodnews@hope.ac.uk Website: www.hope.ac.uk/goodnews
Liverpool Hope University is celebrating another year of successful results in the National Student Survey. The University achieved an overall student satisfaction rate of 87 per cent, which ranks Liverpool Hope as top 2 in the North West for the second year running. The National Student Survey gathers feedback from final-year undergraduates across the UK, and asks for their opinions on their course and institution. The results are used to improve and help shape universities and their courses for current and prospective students. The news comes after the University’s latest graduate employment figures have risen to 98.1 per cent, ranking Liverpool Hope as top 2 in the UK Universities ranking and 1st in England. Figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), show a 1.7 percentage point rise on 2015/16.
“As an institution of Higher Education we aim to consistently improve the student experience and these strong National Student Survey results reinforce this.” Dr Penny Haughan, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Student Life & Learning, said: “We are pleased to have maintained a high level of overall student satisfaction. As an institution of Higher Education we aim to consistently improve the student experience and these strong National Student Survey results reinforce this.”
Designed in house at Liverpool Hope University. Cover image: Graduates celebrate outside the Metropolitan Cathedral.
The views expressed in the magazine are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent those of Liverpool Hope University. 3
Celebrating the Class of 2018 Friends and family members gathered to witness the Class of 2018 mark the end of their studies during three days of Graduation celebrations.
The festivities began with a series of special ceremonies that marked the presentation of Postgraduate Certificates in Education (PGCE) and Postgraduate Diplomas of Education (PGDE). Held in Hope Chapel, the ceremonies saw Early Years, Primary, Secondary and PGDE students celebrate the end of one chapter and the start of the next.
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and Deputy Chief Academic Officer for the GEMS Global Academic Council. Sir Christopher, who is an alumnus of the University, was conferred with the title Doctor of Education honoris causa, while Dame Colette Bowe, Chairman of the Banking Standards Board, received the degree Doctor of Humane Letters honoris causa.
This was followed by Graduation celebrations held in the City’s iconic Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.
See if you can spot yourself on pictures from this summer’s Graduation celebrations: www.flickr.com/photos/liverpoolhopeuniversity/albums
Two honorary degrees were presented at this summer’s ceremonies, the first to Sir Christopher Stone, who is Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education (MENASA)
For links to photographs and DVD purchases, visit: www.hope.ac.uk/graduation
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Graduate success stories
Sean lands globetrotting career The future looks bright for Media & Communication graduate Sean McCamphill, as he prepares to travel the world with his new career. Taking inspiration from the current political climate, Sean focused his dissertation on the relationship between US President Donald Trump and the media – achieving a First Class degree. With academic success behind him, Sean is hoping to achieve the same level of accomplishment in his career. He has already secured a full-time position on a graduate employment scheme. He said: “I’m working for a firm that supplies IT systems for hedge funds. The company’s main office is in Belfast, but I’m currently based in London, and will be spending time in New York, Hong Kong and Singapore in the next few months.” Originally from Northern Ireland, Sean applied to Liverpool Hope without knowing much about the University, but sure in the knowledge he wanted to study in Liverpool. 6
He said: “I came to an Open Day and met with the subject tutors, which really helped me to make my decision. I enjoyed the idea of living on a smaller campus and in a close-knit community, as it was what I was used to back home. I think it is key to come and see the place, and get a feel for where you’ll be studying.” Despite enjoying IT at A level, Sean pushed himself to try a different focus for his degree, choosing Media and Communication. With Liverpool Hope offering ‘the best option’ for the course, Sean took a chance and never looked back. “The highlight of my time at university would have to be my First Class degree, it is my biggest achievement,” said Sean.
A fresh start brings success For Accounting & Finance and Business Management graduate Samyah Dahouchi, moving to Hope after spending a year at a different university saw her go from strength to strength. “Graduating today feels completely surreal, as I never thought this day would come,” said Samyah. “After feeling lost and unsure university was for me, I decided to try Hope, and it was the best decision I ever made. “The help and support here is amazing, and from the moment I applied and received advice on the best course for me, I’ve had a brilliant experience.” After completing the first year of an Accounting and Finance degree at a different university in the city, Samyah was encouraged to look at whether Liverpool Hope could be a better fit. “My friend told me about the University and suggested I speak to the admissions team about applying. The process was really straightforward and based on my grades, I was
advised to consider a combined honours course. It was the best advice I could’ve been given, as I ended up enjoying the Business Management side of the course the most. “I’ve loved my time here and never felt lost in a crowd. The smaller university environment was definitely what I needed, and I like the close relationship you have with academics and other students. The one-to-one support was brilliant and really helped me to get to graduation. “The Student Development and Well-being team have been amazing, and helped me to believe I could do this. I’m planning to enjoy the moment and have a bit of a break after graduation, before deciding what I want to do next. I still can’t quite believe I’m a graduate!”
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Graduate success stories
More than a feeling Liverpool Hope proves to be the perfect fit for Sam. A gut feeling swayed Sam Eubel into picking Liverpool Hope for his undergraduate degree, and the Tourism Management graduate has never looked back. “I got that feeling when I came for an Open Day that Hope was the right university for me, and returning for an Applicant Day confirmed it was my first choice. I’d looked at courses across the country – from Huddersfield, to Northampton and Chester – but I made the right choice with Hope,” said Sam. “I’m from a small town in Essex, so coming to Liverpool where everything is on your doorstep, has been great. I love the city and settled in quick – I think if you’re going to go
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to university, it’s good to push yourself out of your comfort zone, so that your grow as a person.
“I think if you’re going to go to university, it’s good to push yourself out of your comfort zone, so that your grow as a person.” “My tutors have been great, speaking to you on a level and wanting the best for you by helping whenever they can. I’m now working in a solicitors, getting as much experience as possible.”
Work experience opens new doors
What our graduates said “I loved the Malta fieldtrip that we went on as part of our project work, and as my course was quite small it meant we were really close. I’ve made some lasting friendships and had a great time at Hope.” Zoe Hayes Environmental Science BA (QTS) “I’m originally from Belfast, but Hope’s teaching reputation and the fact I’m a Liverpool Football Club fan brought me here. My highlight has definitely been the mates I’ve made. I’m planning to stay in the city and will be working at Rudston Primary School, just down the road from the University.” Ben Thomas Primary Teaching with History BA (QTS)
Topic diversity and work experience set Business Management and Marketing graduate Amy Yong on the path to her dream career. Amy said: “The highlight of my time at Hope has got to be gaining a placement at Crowne Plaza Liverpool as a Social Media Coordinator. The placement was made available to our class during second year, and I was chosen to be a part of a social media team with a few other students. I worked for Crowne Plaza until the end of my degree, and have come away with a fantastic reference, and skills and experience that have enhanced my C.V. “I enjoyed being able to study many different topics through the course, which gave me an insight into different potential job roles for myself in these areas. I also enjoyed the guest lectures, which provided us with industry knowledge from experts in the field. “I’m now lucky enough to be working within the University’s External Relations department as a Graduate Advocate. This involves passing on my experience of Liverpool Hope University to prospective students in schools and colleges. “I’ve already started the role, and I’m getting stuck in and have become a part of the team. This role will provide me with professional experience in the field of work in which I wish to have a career.”
“I did my undergraduate at Hope in Philosophy, Ethics & Religion, and decided to stay on for my PGCE year. The course has been tiring, but rewarding, and I’ve had a great support system through the group on my course.” Rebecca Hollis PGCE Secondary Religious Education (QTS) “Getting a First has been my greatest achievement, along with getting through to the Young Enterprise regional finals. Being nominated and winning at the business awards in second and third year was also a highlight!” Joshua Pierce Business Management and Special Educational Needs 9
Honorary Awards Graduation provides an opportunity for the University to recognise remarkable individuals through Honorary Awards. These are conferred on individuals whose contribution to their field has earned them a national or international reputation, and who have contributed to the University’s values and mission. Sir Christopher Stone and Dame Colette Bowe were this summer’s recipients. 10
Sir Christopher Stone The Class of 2018 heard from the inspiring Sir Christopher Stone, who delivered a rousing speech.
First appointed as a Principal in the UK in 1995, Sir Christopher went on to lead a number of schools, and has provided leadership, guidance and training for principals and ministers in Vietnam, Singapore, Australia, Finland and Scotland on behalf of the British Council. He has been asked to provide support and guidance to successive UK governments, bringing him into regular contact with several British Prime Ministers.
Dame Colette Bowe The final day of Graduation saw Dame Colette Bowe, Chairman of the Banking Standards Board, conferred with the degree Doctor of Humane Letters honoris causa.
Speaking after receiving his honorary degree of Doctor of Education honoris causa at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, Sir Christopher encouraged the new graduates to put more into the world than they take out.
Educated by the Sisters of Notre Dame at the grammar school in Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, Dame Colette studied Economics at London University, from which she holds a BSc, MSc and PhD.
He said: “It is by giving that we receive the most joy and most benefit. We are remembered by those around us for the good things we do, and how we make life better for others. Take every chance you have and live your life to the full.
“It is by giving that we receive the most joy and most benefit. We are remembered by those around us for the good things we do, and how we make life better for others.” “I am simultaneously humbled and delighted to be awarded an Honorary doctorate by my alma mater Liverpool Hope University. It is such an honour and ranks as one of my proudest moments. I love Liverpool and I am genuinely impressed by the development, action and intent of Liverpool Hope. The University has gone from strength to strength and will leave a legacy that future generations will continue to benefit from.” Sir Christopher, who received a knighthood in 2013 in recognition of his outstanding service to education, joined GEMS Education as the Chief Education Officer – (MENASA) and Deputy Chief Academic Officer for the GEMS Global Academic Council in November 2015. He is responsible for overseeing the quality of teaching, learning and curricula across 51 GEMS schools in the UAE, serving 120,000 children and 8,000 staff. He is widely recognised as having made outstanding contributions to education in a number of international settings. Prior to joining GEMS Education, he was Chief Executive Officer of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership – a multi academy trust in the UK, which he led from 2009 - 2015.
She went on to become chairman of Electra Private Equity plc and Ofcom, as well as serving on and chairing a number of boards. Dame Colette said: “I had the great benefit of being educated, between the ages of 5 and 18, by the Sisters of Notre Dame, who provided me with a superb and rounded education, which has been the basis of everything I have done in my life. “I am delighted to be honoured by an institution whose history springs in part from those Sisters’ commitment to the education of women. I accept this honour on behalf of the women of my generation, my sister and my friends, who had the good fortune to be educated by the Sisters, and I dedicate it to the memory of Sister Margaret Taylor and Sister Sybil Boddington.”
“I accept this honour on behalf of the women of my generation, my sister and my friends.” As well as acting as Chairman of the Banking Standards Board, Dame Colette is a Visiting Fellow of Nuffield College, Oxford, and Chairman of the Tablet Trust.
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Hope takes centre stage for Drama graduate The opportunity to collaborate and work with peers at all levels drew David Alexander to Liverpool Hope’s Drama course. David said: “I wanted to be close to home, but also ensure I was joining a course that was highly rated. Attending the Open Day was key for me, as I think it’s important to get a feel for a place and have the chance to meet your tutors.
“There were lots of opportunities for students to collaborate on different causes, which is a big part of why I came here.” “It was great to see what the Drama tutors are passionate about and hear them talk about the subject with enthusiasm. The integrated approach at the Creative Campus also 12
really appealed to me. Everyone knows each other and you’re constantly supported, whether by the tutors or other students. “There were lots of opportunities for students to collaborate on different causes, which is a big part of why I came here. You don’t seem to get that elsewhere quite the same and I enjoyed the University’s approach to shared inspiration. “I’m planning to have a year off from studying and put some of my learning in to practice, through creative and artistic festivals. I want to take some time to work on my craft and the direction I want to take it. I might come back and do a Masters next year.”
#Classof2018 Social media was full of tweets and posts from our staff and graduates, as they celebrated Graduation.
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Fine Art graduate lands exhibit opportunity As she prepares to showcase her work at a special exhibition in Liverpool’s Corke Gallery, Fine Art graduate Jade Allot looks back on her time at Hope. “Being taught by tutors who are themselves artists and have specialisms they’re passionate about was a great experience,” said Jade. “They were able to share advice and arrange for artists to visit the campus and look at our work.
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“I think it’s very important to get the opinion of those working in the field and the networking opportunities were unlike anything you would get elsewhere.
“One of the highlights has to be the trip we went on in first year to Berlin, Germany, where we mixed with second year students and got to see the City’s art. The final year degree show was also a highlight. The feeling when you see your work on the wall and the fact the event attracts critics and reviewers is amazing. It was as a result of the degree show that I was awarded my exhibition opportunity at Corke Gallery.
“The University has great connections with Tate Liverpool and FACT, as well as independent galleries, which opens up doors and helps guide you during your degree.
“I’m busy preparing for that at the moment, and also getting ready to start a PGCE Secondary course in Fine Art, so I can teach in schools.”
Double celebration for Cathyline
What our graduates said “I chose Hope as not many universities offered the combined honours option that I wanted. It’s a broad course, which should open up lots of options for future careers. Moving away from my home in Blackpool took some adjustment - I’m an only child so living with other people was a bit of a challenge at first!” Nicole Tanner History and Sociology BA
“The course has been really great and I’m confident I did the right thing. My second placement at Carmel College was really great and I enjoyed the group trip to Plas Caerdeon. I came out with a Distinction and I’m planning to go into teaching History.”
Graduation day was a double celebration for Cathyline Mbugua, as she marked her youngest daughter’s birthday and the end of three years of study. “My daughter was two months old when I started my Social Policy and Special Educational Needs course, and today she turns three,” said Cathyline, who was joined by her family for the special occasion. Birthday celebrations are on hold until the weekend, so we could all be here for the Graduation ceremony. “I visited all the universities in the local area and felt the most comfortable with Hope. I have support needs, so speaking with the Student Development and Well-being team was important for me, and I found the support at Liverpool Hope to be very good. The attitude of the staff and lecturers was also a factor in my decision. “Open Days are a good opportunity to speak with other students about their experiences, and I’m happy that I made the right choice in coming to Hope. So much so, I’m planning to have a year’s break, before returning to do an MA in Social Work.”
Adam Sherlock PGDE in Further and PostCompulsory Education
“Liverpool is a great city, so when I saw the joint honours course was offered at Hope, my decision was made – it was the best of both worlds. I didn’t know the city that well, and moved from Leicester to study, but I’d recommend it to anyone.” Zoe Allen Education and History BA
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Top of the class
Reservations about adjusting to university life and academic expectations didn’t hold back award-winning student Tom Whittle, who came out with a First Class degree. As well as picking up the Best Performing Student in Marketing and Media & Communication award, Tom landed a paid placement with DeWinter PR and Marketing firm in Liverpool. Tom said: “I was worried about transitioning to university and taking written assessments and exams. However, the support from the academics was great and they helped to prepare me for academic writing. I was also concerned with studying two subjects that I hadn’t previously studied. However, the subjects where taught from an introductory perspective giving me the background and basis knowledge needed.
“The four-week placement gave me valuable on-the-job experience of working in an industry I’m very interested in.” “The four-week placement gave me valuable on-the-job experience of working in an industry I’m very interested in. I also enjoyed the practical assessments as Hope, such as working on a radio show for Media, and group presentations in Marketing when creating a new product for children. My greatest achievement at Hope has to be receiving a First Class grade in each assessment and exam, for both subjects.”
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Broadening horizons
Lisa Dobbins, who studied PGCE Primary (QTS), decided to take a chance on moving away from her home in Ireland to study at Liverpool Hope. She said: “I’d heard that Hope’s Education courses were very successful and chose the University over others after visiting the campus and getting a home-from-home feel. “I completed my undergraduate degree at Ulster University and wanted to open myself up to plenty of opportunities, so applied to do my PGCE year at several universities in England. I got a nice sense of the community at Hope when I visited, and have found the support from lecturers outstanding. “Throughout my course, I had regular contact with my tutors, whether through emails offering advice, or after-school meetings. “Although I’m nervous to start my first teaching role in September, I feel fully prepared thanks to the teaching, support and advice from my tutors. I’m excited to stay in Liverpool and will be working at Auckland College – an independent school for children aged 3 -18 – as a Year five teacher.”
A home from home For Telford native Louise O’Keeffe, moving away from home and learning to live independently is one of the best things to come out of going to university. Louise, who studied Primary Teaching with Special Educational Needs BA (QTS), heard about Liverpool Hope through a friend, and was sold on the University after visiting the campus. She said: “The joint honours pathway appealed to me, and after looking around at different options, I decided on Hope. “I love Liverpool - it’s a really great city - and I’m planning to stay here now I’ve finished. I’d definitely recommend moving away from home for university, it helps you to learn a lot about yourself and take bigger steps. “I’ve met a lot of new people and really enjoyed the placements I’ve done as part of my course – they were very enriching. Looking back, Freshers of course was one of the highlights!”
Liverpool Hope Alumni As a member of the Hope Alumni community, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: Library access, regular alumni bulletins (with news about the University, networking opportunities and free public events) and various discounts. Visit www.hope.ac.uk/alumni to make sure you are taking advantage of all the services and benefits on offer. If you have an offer that you would like to promote to Liverpool Hope alumni please get in touch.
Alumni, staff and student quiz nights: Now a firm fixture in the Hope calendar, these quiz nights take place once a term and are a great way to catch up with fellow alumni and staff. Held in Our Place, there are cash prizes on offer for the winning teams. Look out for dates in the alumni bulletin and on the alumni website www.hope.ac.uk/alumni
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Beyond Graduation
Your relationship with Hope doesn’t end when you graduate. We are here to offer you career support, celebrate your success and help you stay in touch with friends and tutors. As a Liverpool Hope graduate, we want you to have the best possible chance to embark on stimulating, rewarding and successful careers. Latest figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) show that 98.1 per cent of graduates were in employment or further education six months after graduation in 2017. This places Liverpool Hope University top 2 in the UK universities ranking and 1st in England.
Employability As a Hope graduate you still have access to all of our careers and employability services, which includes Careers Express and Careers Appointments. Careers Express is a drop-in service in The Employability Hub, based in the Hope Park Gateway Building. You can speak to a Careers Adviser without needing to book, and slots usually last around 15 minutes – perfect for quick queries and signposting (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 10:30am - 12:30pm). You can also book a 45-minute in-depth career advice and planning session. If you don’t live locally, don’t worry, as telephone and Skype appointments are available. To book, just contact careers@hope.ac.uk.
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Careers Fairs and workshops You have access to our programme of employability workshops and careers fairs throughout the academic year. Each event has a different focus and is designed to help you launch and develop in your new graduate career. Book your place at our events via My Events on My Careers Centre.
Graduate jobs e-bulletins Our team send a weekly graduate jobs bulletin straight to your inbox with the latest jobs, opportunities and events to support you in your graduate career.
The Blog You can find tips and advice written by Hope’s expert Careers & Employability team on all things careers on our blog at www.liverpoolhopecareers.com. Stay Connected with us on social media. You’ll find us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter with all the latest graduate jobs, opportunities and events.
My Careers Centre
@hopeunicareers
This free resource gives you access to career tutorials, 1,500+ employer insight videos, a CV builder and a powerful job search engine. Just contact careers@hope. ac.uk to get your graduate login and then you can access it via the Hope website.
@hopeunicareers @hopeunicareers
POSTGRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Congratulations on completing your undergraduate studies. Now is the time to look to the future and make decisions on the next steps in your life. There are many benefits to postgraduate study such as enhanced career prospects, and an opportunity to change direction to enter a new career following your research passion. Our postgraduate programmes lead to awards including MA, MSc, PGCE, PGDE, PgDip and PgCert, and International MBA. As a reward for academic excellence, we offer Liverpool Hope Postgraduate Scholarships of up to ÂŁ1,000 (Terms and conditions apply) for students who achieve a 1st or 2.1 in their undergraduate degree.
For further information on courses, entry requirements and how to apply, please contact External Relations: t: 0151 291 3111 e: enquiry@hope.ac.uk or visit www.hope.ac.uk/postgraduate
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