ALUMNI Issue 04
edgehill.ac.uk/alumni
Jonathan Pryce From Holywell to Hollywood
Alumni Fund A big thank you
Honorary Fellowships To two outstanding individuals for their contribution to the institution
Alternatively you can update your personal details via the Edge Hill Alumni Network at edgehill.ac.uk/alumni
We’ve got some amazing alumni profiles in this issue, demonstrating the diverse range of careers undertaken by our graduates. A Hollywood movie star, a poet, an artist, a BBC journalist and the UK’s only male, under-25 state nursery teacher are all featured in the magazine. We also focus on employability, following our success in the latest First Destinations Survey, and the contribution our alumni make to improving our students’ career opportunities. Read our features on networking events, graduate support and postgraduate study and see how you could benefit or get involved.
16 ALUMNI PROFILE CATIE OSBORNE
32 STAY CONNECTED 14 ALUMNI PROFILE MARK EDWARDSON
30 LETTERS ALUMNI STORIES AND NEWS 13 ALUMNI PROFILE JAMIE WILSON
If you have any comments, changes to personal details, or wish to be included in future editions, email alumni@edgehill.ac.uk or write to Caroline Mitchell, Alumni Team, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, L39 4QP.
28 UNIVERSITY NEWS CAMPUS LATEST
26 ALUMNI MEMORIES DO YOU REMEMBER? THE SECRET OF SUCCESS
12 ALUMNI PROFILE ALICE LENKIEWICZ
10 ALUMNI SUPPORT
Published by Edge Hill University
Editor: Caroline Mitchell Copywriter: Sophie Wilcockson Photography: Stuart Rayner, Colin McPherson Designer: Mike Ng, Anita Harwood
24 ALUMNI SUPPORT A BIG THANK YOU
08 ALUMNI REUNIONS FRIENDS REUNITED
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
21 JOLLY GOOD FELLOWS
20 STEP BACK IIN TIME
06 VC WELCOME CELEBRATING THE PAST AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
22 NETWORKING WORKS
ALUMNI 18 ALUMNI STUDY RATED PG 03 INTERVIEW WITH JONATHAN PRYCE FROM HOLYWELL TO HOLLYWOOD
Contents
It was fantastic to see so many of you back on campus during last year’s 125th anniversary celebrations. Our first ever Alumni Weekend was a great success with hundreds of alumni returning to their student haunts and rekindling old friendships. Take a look at page 8 for photos of the event and news of other successful reunions.
Our Alumni Network is really starting to gain momentum now, with more and more graduates registering every month. We’re also receiving lots more feedback, contributions and ideas for future Alumni articles – so please keep them coming! We love to hear your stories of Edge Hill days gone by and discover what you’re up to now. See page 26 for some fabulous memories sent in by readers. Thank you from all of us in the Alumni Team for your support over the last year. Enjoy the magazine!
ALUMNI
edgehill.ac.uk/alumni
Welcome to the latest edition of Alumni – the magazine for, and about, former Edge Hill students.
Issue 04
Best wishes,
Jonathan Pryce
Alumni Fund A big thank you
Honorary Fellowships
To two outstanding individuals for their contribution to the institution
COVER STORY JONATHAN PRYCE
From Holywell to Hollywood
Caroline Mitchell Affinity Officer
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
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Interview with: Jonathan Pryce
From Holywell to Hollywood
Jonathan Pryce is widely considered to be one of the UK’s finest living actors. His compelling performances on stage, in musicals and in films have won him many awards including two Tonies and numerous nominations for Emmies, Oliviers and Golden Globes. He kick-started the careers of many actors, including Julie Walters and Bill Nighy, has appeared in more than 40 feature films and is currently filming a biopic about the man who invented the vibrator. So, why is the first question people ask him always: “What was it like working with Madonna?” Alumni spoke to one of Edge Hill’s finest products about life, Liverpool and learning to live with the Madonna question. Alumni: Welcome back to Edge Hill. You were last here in the 1960s. What tempted you to return for this public lecture? Jonathan Pryce: I was flattered to be asked and intrigued to see what the place was like now. When I was at Edge Hill it was so much smaller; you pretty much knew everybody by name. I don’t think you could say that now, although it does still have that sense of community and friendliness about it. That hasn’t changed. A: Do you have fond memories of your time here? JP: I do. I had a great social life and I remember laughing a lot. I was involved in one of Edge Hill’s first ever Rag weeks, which was basically a lot of dressing up. We hardly ever went off campus for a night out. The bar was the centre of college life (another thing that maybe hasn’t changed so much). If we got the munchies at night – not from taking drugs, you understand! Not that kind of munchies! – a load of us would pile into my car and I’d drive to the newly opened service station for egg and chips. That would be considered an exciting night out! A: Is it true you didn’t actually qualify as a teacher? JP: Well, I already had my place at RADA so I was a bit cavalier when it came to taking my final exams. I think I missed one at the end so I didn’t fully qualify. Drama school doesn’t guarantee you a job at the end of it so I don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t made it as an actor. Luckily, I haven’t had to find out. A: What part did Edge Hill play in your later success? JP: There would be no later success without Edge Hill. My tutors, Beryl Smith and Jerry Dawson, were my inspiration
to go into acting and got me involved in various local theatre groups, including the Unity in Liverpool. I also made my stage debut while at Edge Hill. Kirkby College, the nearby girls’ teacher training college, needed male actors for their production of Romeo and Juliet. My tutors asked me if I wanted to do it so I reluctantly ran to the auditions and got the part of Benvolio. I wasn’t interested in acting really, just the fringe benefits! A: You studied art at college. What made you switch to teaching? JP: I hate to say it but teaching was a bit of a fall-back career for me. I’d been applying for diploma courses in art but you had to have five O-levels. I hadn’t been the best student at Holywell Grammar School so my folder would always come back with a note saying they liked my work but I didn’t have the necessary qualifications. I desperately wanted to move away from home and a friend mentioned Edge Hill, so I went to college, got an A-level and that got me in. There’s an irony – I didn’t have enough O-levels to study art but apparently I did have enough to teach it! A: Were your parents supportive of your decision? Was there ever any pressure to go into the family business? [Pryce’s parents owned a shop] JP: No, there was never any pressure to go into the family business. As long as I was making positive choices my parents were supportive. It wasn’t unusual among my peer group to go off to college anyway. I have this ‘working class boy made good’ tag, but we weren’t really working class. My father was a miner and when he met my mother they ran a shop. We were what they called the ‘shopkeeper class’ – neither one thing nor the other. A: When did you discover you had a talent for acting? JP: I had never done any acting beyond small parts in school plays before I went to Edge Hill. I found out after I got there that I had to take a subsidiary course. I didn’t know what to choose but I was told the drama course was easiest and involved the least amount of work. I thought, “that’s the course for me!” A: How different is today’s Drama Department from when you were here? JP: The Drama Department was me, one girl about my age and an older lady so we were quite limited in our choice of productions! There was quite a thriving theatre group though, with students from other courses. The facilities now are way beyond what we could have dreamed of back then. The Performing Arts centre is amazing – I would love to have had that when I was studying.
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
A: What did you make of today’s Drama students? JP: I really enjoyed meeting the students and seeing some of their work in progress. I was very impressed by them. What I liked most was their capacity to work together, to explore themselves as a group. It was very heartening to see their commitment and enthusiasm for the subject. A: You’re famously credited with giving many great actors their first break when you were at the helm of the Everyman in Liverpool. Did you have any idea they (and you) would go on to have so much success? JP: I knew they were a talented bunch because I auditioned them all! My Everyman company included Bill Nighy, Pete Postlethwaite, Matthew Kelly, Anthony Sher, Alison Steadman, Julie Walters (that was her first acting job), Bernard Hill, Trevor Eve – the list goes on. Even those who are not household names today are still working in the theatre. It was a very intense, talented group but the focus was on the work, not the individuals. A: Are you still in touch with any of those actors? JP: Oh yes. I regularly ask them to do things for a children’s charity that I support – to remind them that they owe me! I’ve auctioned Bill Nighy off twice now! I don’t often work with them these days but I did Pirates of the Caribbean with Bill recently. It was very funny because his character is all CGI so he had to do his scenes dressed in a tight, grey jumpsuit with yellow dots all over his face and body. The scene was a very poignant moment where he tells me my daughter is dead, but every time I looked at him I couldn’t stop laughing. Bill was really going for it as well with big actions and this silly voice, even though you wouldn’t actually see him in the final movie. It was impossible to get through it! A: You’ve played so many roles – do you have a favourite character? JP: I don’t have a favourite character, or even a favourite type of role, but I do tend to play either villains or poets these days! I’ve done some serious roles, but I like light relief as well. I like to mix it up so I might take a role that doesn’t tick all the boxes but offers something new to try. I’m not proud of everything I’ve done but I try to see something good in every role. A: You’ve achieved so much – do you still have any unfulfilled ambitions? JP: I wish I could get over my fear of painting because I’d like to do that again in some way. When I was at art school I was always very self-critical. The piece never turned out how I wanted it. I would look at my friends’ work and always prefer theirs. That’s why I was attracted to acting.
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I didn’t have to look at my work in the early days in theatre, and when I went into films and TV I could choose not to look at myself. With painting you can’t even hide behind a big beard! A: Finally does the ubiquitous Madonna question annoy you? [Pryce co-starred with Madonna in Evita] JP: Not really. But people want me to say she was awkward when, in fact, she was very co-operative. She worked hard because she really wanted the film to be successful. I’ve never seen so many people employed to do one person’s hair and make-up though. And we had to be flown onto the set because the roads were full of paparazzi – it’s the only time I’ve had to travel to work by helicopter! That, and having dinner with the Argentinean President, made working on Evita quite a memorable experience.
VC welcome:
Celebrating the past and looking to the future There is no doubt that the coming year is going to bring challenges, not just for Edge Hill but across the higher education sector. With higher tuition fees and public spending cuts, the sector is under greater scrutiny than ever before and universities are having to be more resourceful to compete in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
That’s why it was quite refreshing – and extremely timely – to be able to take a step back from the current challenges and focus on celebrating Edge Hill’s past achievements and our future ambitions during our 125th anniversary year. Appropriately, the year began and ended in Liverpool, the original home of Edge Hill College and a city with which we still have many connections today. A civic reception and dinner at Liverpool Town Hall kicked off an exciting, year-long programme of events that included public lectures, conferences, exhibitions and performances. It was a pleasure to welcome back two of our most famous alumni, actor Jonathan Pryce and broadcaster Stuart Maconie, who entertained capacity audiences with their tales of life in Ormskirk and beyond. We also made literary history when two Poets Laureate – former US laureate Billy Collins and current UK incumbent Carol Ann Duffy – performed together for the first time at Edge Hill. Our first Alumni Reunion Weekend brought hundreds of you back to the campus, many for the first time in decades. From the many I spoke to at that event, one thing came across very strongly – a shared sense of pride in being an Edge Hill alumnus and of being associated with an institution that is clearly going places. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported our celebrations during the year. I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. Our anniversary year concluded with a very special honour for Edge Hill University – the freedom of the City of Liverpool – a privilege we share with John Lennon and Nelson Mandela, among others. I don’t know if this means I am now entitled to graze sheep on Bold Street, but I am delighted that Edge Hill has been formally recognised for the ongoing contribution it makes to Liverpool and the city region.
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Our capital programme has continued apace this year with improvements totalling close to £20 million. Recent additions to the campus include a third sports hall, improved facilities for sports therapy, new accommodation for the Facilities Management team and our latest hi-spec halls of residence, Graduates Court. The £15 million Student Hub, which connects the campus’s new and old architecture, is also due for completion in September 2011.
The investment in our campus is essential to keep pace with the University’s growth. Applications to study at Edge Hill rose again last year, allowing us to recruit more high calibre students than ever, and in 2010 we accepted 4,500 new fulltime undergraduates. We also recorded a substantial growth in turnover, generating a record surplus which can be ploughed straight back into learning and teaching facilities. Once again we have performed extremely well in external league tables and surveys. Our students voted us top in the North West for overall satisfaction in the latest National Student Survey, and we were placed second only to Oxford nationally for students’ personal development. The employability of our students was also confirmed by the Higher Education Statistics Agency in the 2009/10 first destinations survey. Edge Hill was ranked second in England with 95.5% of our students in work or further study within six months of graduating. So it’s been another positive year for Edge Hill. We’re attracting more students and producing more graduates with better degrees than ever before. Our retention rates were significantly above the national benchmark and our students among the most satisfied and most employable in the country. It’s impossible to predict what the coming year will bring but, whatever happens, we remain fully committed to the continuing development of our infrastructure to support growth and enhance the student experience. Dr John Cater
Alumni reunions:
Friends reunited The University is throwing open its doors again this summer, and inviting our former students to get reacquainted with the campus – and each other – at our Alumni Catch-Up Day on Saturday 2nd July 2011. The whole campus will be open, giving you plenty of opportunity to see the latest developments, chat to current students and revisit your favourite haunts, before enjoying afternoon tea with old friends. There will also be an exhibition of Edge Hill memories and memorabilia, which coincides with the publication of Edge Hill’s new history book, A Vision of Learning: Edge Hill University, 1885–2010. See page 20 for more details. If you would like to organise a reunion to coincide with the Alumni Catch-Up Day, just give the Alumni Team a call. We can put you in touch with your fellow graduates and recommend local hotels and restaurants so you can make a weekend of it! You can even stay on campus in one of our fantastic, new halls of residence – but be quick, only limited places are available. To attend the event all we ask for is a £5 donation to the Alumni Fund. Please register your interest by emailing Caroline Mitchell, Affinity Officer, on alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
Anniversary antics More than 150 former students were reunited on campus during our first ever Alumni Reunion Weekend. The fun-packed event, which took place in July last year to celebrate Edge Hill’s 125-year anniversary, attracted alumni of all ages – from the Class of 1947 to last year’s graduates – to reminisce about their student days and to look forward to Edge Hill’s exciting future. Guests enjoyed guided tours of the campus by current students, a disco and band in Hale Hall, and a barbeque in the quad – a real treat for those who remember when it was off-limits to students! On the last day, the campus took on a carnival atmosphere as more than 3,000 Edge Hill staff and their families joined alumni for an activity-filled festival featuring donkey rides, salsa lessons and circus workshops. You can view photos of the Reunion Weekend by logging on to the Alumni Network: edgehill.ac.uk/alumni
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
Five decades of friendliness Dave Wilson’s first memory of Edge Hill was of a slow, lonely walk up the drive towards the imposing façade of the main building and into a new world. Fifty years on Dave, and some of the fellow students he came to regard as his “precious Edge Hill family” met again on the same drive to celebrate their halfcentury reunion.
“Our amble into Ormskirk allowed us to seek out our remaining familiar places. One of them – the Roper’s Arms on Wigan Road which, in bygone days was one of the town’s more ‘robust’ hostelries – acquired a magnetic quality and we were once more led astray. The young hostess was a treasure and delighted in hearing our reminiscences of the glorious sunshine days of our youth.
Despite the intervening years, Dave was delighted to find the friendly, welcoming atmosphere, for which Edge Hill was renowned, still very much part of its appeal.
The reunion allowed us to admire Edge Hill’s new facilities while remaining respectful of what the old place meant to us. I suppose in some way we were representing absent friends who had been our family half a century ago.”
“In this day and age, and especially in huge complexes like the modern Edge Hill, it’s probably inevitable that many residents and visitors remain strangers to each other,” said Dave. “But at no point during our visit did we feel like ‘unwelcome unknowns’. “In fact, we were received with smiles at every turn – from the security officer to the students who bent over backwards to lead us to our intended destinations. There was no dismissive arm-waving or pointing, just cheery and helpful assistance from everyone we met. We felt an overwhelming sense of friendship and affection throughout the day. “The unscheduled, and much appreciated, appearance of the Vice-Chancellor at dinner really made us feel special and made a wonderful day even more memorable,” he added. And the warmth didn’t fade once they ventured off campus.
“I would like to thank everyone who helped to make our reunion such a memorable occasion and I hope Edge Hill’s future is as bright as our past.”
Want a get-together but can’t get it together? We can help you find your old friends, plan your visit and even organise a guided tour of the campus. If you can’t make the Alumni Catch-Up Day, or want to mark your own academic anniversary, the Alumni Team is on hand to help throughout the year. Contact Caroline Mitchell on 01695 584861 or email alumni@edgehill.ac.uk
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Alumni support:
The secret of our success Gloomy predictions on jobs may dominate the news but Edge Hill University graduates are in big demand from employers. Results published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency put Edge Hill second in England for graduate employment in the First Destinations Survey, beaten only by the University of Surrey. In a table based solely on honours graduates, Edge Hill took fourth place, behind only Surrey, Cambridge and King's College, London. So what’s the secret? Hard work and top quality programmes – supported by a network of former students willing and able to help those about to enter the job market.
Jon Barnes is an Edge Hill English graduate now based in Hong Kong and offering placements to Edge Hill undergraduates with ELC (HK) Ltd. Jon is an English Programme Developer with ELC (HK) and says that it’s a win-win situation. He says: “We organise English Summer Camps for local Hong Kong students in order to incorporate fun into English learning. To provide the most authentic English environment for our students, we invite native English teachers from the UK, Australia, Canada and the US to come and get involved.
Jon Barnes is an Edge Hill English graduate offering placements to Edge Hill undergraduates with ELC (HK) Ltd.
Programme Developer and says that it’s a win-win situation.
now based in Hong Kong and
Jon is an English
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
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Andrew Van Schaick is a BSc (Hons) Business and Management graduate who now works for Sellafield Ltd as a commercial trainee. In March he returned to the Ormskirk Campus and spoke to a group of current students about the do's and don'ts of finding work.
“This year, we have begun to open the door to undergraduate students and teachers in training to give invaluable international teaching experiences for Edge Hill students. From ELC's point of view, we have the chance to work with young, enthusiastic students who are willing to develop new approaches to English learning under the instruction of some of our more experienced staff. Having seasoned teachers is always a must, but the benefits of student trainees means our new teachers are often more open to instruction and more eager to put their all into our programmes. “In recent years we have found that many professional teachers have little time during the summer to join us, due to well deserved holidays and family time, but Edge Hill students are looking for an opportunity such as this and are willing to give us as much of their free time as possible. “ELC (HK) Ltd offers them an unforgettable experience in a wonderful city. As well as teaching some of the brightest students, having great fun and earning invaluable experience, our teachers have the chance to explore another world. The placement offers the chance for students to embellish their CVs with a hands-on teaching experience in another country, which will surely impress future employers.”
Jon isn’t the only one to offer support to undergraduates. Andrew Van Schaick is a BSc (Hons) Business and Management graduate who now works for Sellafield Ltd as a commercial trainee. In March he returned to the Ormskirk Campus and spoke to a group of current students about the ‘dos and don’ts’ of finding work. He said: “I was very fortunate to be asked to present to the first year students about my university days at Edge Hill and my experience of finding a job after graduation. “I made the mistake of applying for jobs too late. I didn’t apply during university, as I thought I would just waltz into a job and, as a result, I had a bit of a stressful time, but I was fortunate enough to get onto a commercial graduate scheme at Sellafield Ltd. “The point I tried to get across was that you have got to start working hard and using all the support and resources available to you from the word go; you have to make it happen yourself. Learn from my mistakes! “It was good being back. I can’t believe how much the place has grown. I have read lots of positive articles about the University so it was good to see, and something I think all the staff should be proud of.” If you would like to support current students in succeeding in the graduate job market through offering work placements in your company, advertising job vacancies or giving inspirational careers talks, contact the Alumni Team on alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
Alumni profile:
Alice Lenkiewicz Artist and editor, Alice Lenkiewicz, says that her time at Edge Hill University not only influenced her work, but has helped shape the person she is today. She describes her studies as “the start of a fascinating journey”. “After going along to an open day I never considered looking at any other university because the place, the programme and the people felt right. Completing my English and Art BA at Edge Hill and continuing on a Masters in Writing Studies was like being offered a pot of gold. I welcomed the opportunity and I feel I was lucky to have been taught by inspirational tutors such as Robert Sheppard. We were introduced to totally new things that encouraged us to discuss matters in new and innovative ways. Tutors were not afraid to challenge or to push the boundaries and, as a result, I learnt a lot about my own identity and what I really liked, not just what I was supposed to like. My confidence in my own interests grew and I think that by the end of my time at Edge Hill I was a more liberated person. I have always been interested in writing and currently gain a lot of satisfaction from publishing other people’s work. My magazine Neon Highway is very important to
The Joanne Leadbetter Prize is given in memory of a promising nursing student at Edge Hill University who died in 1995. Joanne's family donated money to start the award that would commemorate her life and help recognise exemplary work from students during their placements.
me, and has recently been accepted by EBSCO’s publishing portal, which means it has a wider audience than ever and is available to students in American universities for the first time. Art also plays a major role in my life. I have sold many paintings over the years and built up a small collector’s base. I recently took part in a recycling exhibition for Wirral Climate Week at Pacific Road Arts Centre and I am looking to expand my own exhibition space, The Toxteth Art Gallery. There are always compromises to be made when it comes to being creative; the tension between doing what you love and earning a living is not easy. I would love to have the time to work towards exhibiting my work further, perhaps in London or abroad. I feel strongly that everyone should have the opportunity to study. I see my time at Edge Hill as an important investment in my life that helped shape my career and ambitions.” To find out more about Alice’s work, visit: alenkiewicz.com toxtethartgallery.wordpress.com
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
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Alumni profile:
Jamie Wilson As the country’s only under-25 male teacher in state nursery education, Jamie Wilson is used to being in the minority. However, being a man in a predominantly female world has never fazed him and he is keen to encourage other bright, young, male teachers to follow in his footsteps. “I wanted to study at Edge Hill primarily because of its excellent reputation, which I’d heard about from friends and tutors. My cohort was only the second to undertake the course, but it really lived up to my expectations. What impressed me was that everyone was accommodated, whether you had extensive experience of working with early years children or had come straight from A-levels, like me. The course really prepared you for the world of work. An array of opportunities to learn the theory and then put it into practice in the classroom was key throughout the course. This practical, hands-on learning was the best possible foundation I could have had for my career. After graduating in 2008, I joined Everton Nursery School and Family Centre in Liverpool as a Nursery Teacher. After qualifying as an NQT, I took on the supporting role of Special Educational Needs Coordinator and this proved to be a valuable leadership stepping-stone. In February this year, the Acting Deputy Headteacher post became available and I successfully applied for it. As a result, I now lead a team of 17, including four teachers and 13 Early Childhood Educators, with line management responsibilities for everyone. Being a male in a female-dominated environment has never been an issue for me. The female staff took me on board straight away because they understand that we need a more even gender balance in Early Years education. Although I’m the only male teacher, we do have two male site managers and a male ICT co-ordinator, so I’m not the only guy in the school. I also play a role in a national campaign to get more quality male teachers into Early Years and Primary education. Research suggests that male role models are especially important for children in this age range. I first got involved in the campaign in 2007 and it does seem to
be having some influence. There are two male students coming on to the course at Edge Hill this year, for example. I never forget what I gained at Edge Hill and continue to be involved as a member of the interview panel for students coming on to the course that I took. This enables me to keep in the loop at the University and give something back.”
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
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Alumni profile:
Mark Edwardson During his 20 years as a BBC journalist Mark Edwardson has covered the civil war in Bosnia, interviewed Tony Blair when he was prime minister and worked alongside the SAS – but he still regards his years at Edge Hill as the best of his life. “My experience at Edge Hill was tremendously fulfilling and I really, really enjoyed myself. Those three years were a period of awakening, with great teachers and great academic values. If either of my kids expressed an interest in studying at Edge Hill, I’d get them in the car and drive over there straight away. For me, university was all about growing up quickly and being given the freedom to run my own life for the first time. You were treated like an adult at Edge Hill and the attitude was ‘this is your task, go ahead and do it’, which brought out the best in me. I believe the selfreliance, determination and sense of responsibility I gained at Edge Hill provided a solid foundation for my career. I was the first member of my immediate family to go to university but I never felt isolated at Edge Hill. The teaching staff offered more than guidance, they offered inspiration as individuals – and this is something I continue to emulate whenever I have a student or trainee working alongside me.
After graduating, I took a postgraduate radio and TV journalism course at Lancashire Polytechnic before joining the BBC. In the 15 years I’ve worked there I’ve been a TV reporter, a producer and a breakfast radio show presenter in Manchester and Stoke, among many other things. Doing lots of things you enjoy is the best thing about working for the BBC. Just recently, I produced the Budget day lunchtime bulletin for North West Today, which involved handling a presenter, five reporters, plus the technical team live on air and getting it all into a 15-minute programme. It was very difficult and I had to keep my eye on everything, but it gave me a tremendous buzz. I’m happy doing what I’m doing right now, though one of my ambitions is to replace Huw Edwards when he goes on to even bigger things. There are also huge opportunities at MediaCity in Salford – and not just for current BBC staff – because there will be hundreds of new people needed to work on the site when the phased transfer from London is completed in the spring of 2012. Hopefully, some of those will be fellow Edge Hill alumni. The media is very competitive and getting into the industry can be tough. Any little bit of help you can get along the way is vital. I am delighted to be giving a lecture to Media students in September to share my knowledge and experiences of working in the industry and meet the media professionals of the future.” Mark currently produces and presents the late weekday and weekend bulletins for BBC North West Tonight.
Alumni profile:
Catie Osborn Study Abroad
American graduate Catie Osborn had never written a poem before she reluctantly tried a poetry module as part of her Study Abroad semester at Edge Hill. She is now an internationally renowned ‘slam poet’ who has performed her work live in front of thousands. “I had never heard of Edge Hill before I took part in the Study Abroad programme but my time there has completely changed my life. I was studying Theatre at St Ambrose University, Iowa but I decided to take Creative Writing modules while I was at Edge Hill. I had never enjoyed poetry, I thought it was boring and difficult, but my tutor, Daniele Pantano, introduced me to something called slam poetry and I realised I’d found my niche. I wasn’t sure if I could do it at first because slam poetry is rooted in hip hop and R&B and I was this awkward white girl reading poems about love and hope! But for me, slam poetry was like a combination of stand up comedy and theatre and it gave me the opportunity to speak my mind. Edge Hill is not just a really creative environment to be in, the staff and students are really supportive and accepting, whatever you want to do. If I hadn’t been encouraged the first time I performed one of my poems in class I wouldn’t have had the confidence to apply for the scholarship that led to my big break in poetry – performing at the Kennedy Center in a concert to mark the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy’s inauguration. I submitted a poem, Green, Green Hope, that I thought reflected Kennedy’s ideology. It contains the line “go on, let us take that first step” which is from one of his speeches.
I really didn’t expect to win, let alone perform it myself at the Kennedy Center in front of thousands of people via a live webcast. That was an incredible experience. In slam poetry circles I guess my name is becoming known, but I’m not exactly recognised in the street every day. Although, recently a lovely little old lady did stop me and asked if I could read one of my poems at her church. She even gave me some of her cookies! To be honest, I’m really not bothered about being famous, I just want to enjoy what I do. If reading a poem at the JFK tribute concert means I can command a plate of homemade cookies every now and then, that’s good enough for me.”
A world of learning Edge Hill’s Study Abroad programme gives students from overseas universities the opportunity to study for one semester at Edge Hill while earning full credits from their home institution. While Study Abroad students have traditionally been recruited mostly from the United States and North America, in 2010 10 Korean students took part in the programme for the first time. Edge Hill is currently working with several potential international partner universities to further develop the Study Abroad programme, and to explore other opportunities such as 2+2/1+2 schemes, where students study for one or two years at their home university and then for two more at Edge Hill.
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
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Alumni study:
Rated PG
Edge Hill has a long established reputation for ensuring the region’s healthcare and school workforces stay at the top of their game. Now the University is building its postgraduate provision across all Faculties, to reflect its strategic goals around internationalisation and research, and the changing demands of students, employers and society. Postgraduate (PG) education and continuing professional development (CPD) have always been a major part of the portfolio in the Faculties of Health and, in particular Education. Edge Hill has, for many years, been the UK’s leading provider of CPD for the school workforce, and its MA in Education is the largest of its kind in the country. Both Faculties continue to break new ground with innovative, market-led courses that reflect the changing nature of the public sector. The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) has a growing and vibrant research culture, and is currently experiencing something of a boom in its Masters provision under new Dean, Professor George Talbot. “We have always had high quality, well respected masters programmes in FAS, such as our MA in Creative Writing,” says Professor Talbot, “and we are now focusing on broadening our PG provision to reflect
research strengths within the Faculty and current student demand. We are experiencing major growth in the areas of international law and business, for example, driven in part by overseas interest, particularly from China. An international focus is also at the heart of two new Masters programmes in the Faculty of Health. The development of MSc degrees in International Nursing Studies and International Midwifery Studies has led to new collaborative partnerships in India and China. “Postgraduate provision is playing a big part in the way we engage internationally as a Faculty,” says Kathryn Lowe, Head of Postgraduate Studies and Enterprise in the Faculty of Health. “For example, we are developing links with a college of nursing in China which will have major implications for many of our programmes from pre-registration to postgraduate. This collaboration has already led to one Chinese nurse educator completing a year of her MA at Edge Hill.”
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
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Postgraduate qualifications are not just in demand by foreign students, however. As the graduate job market in the UK becomes ever more competitive, they are becoming increasingly important for home students as well.
“These are very timely programmes given the Government’s ‘Big Society’ idea,” says Professor Talbot. “Whether you agree with it or not, there is no doubt that withdrawing public sector support will inevitably leave a gap that can be filled by the voluntary sector.”
The Faculty of Education has recently introduced a suite of new programmes focusing on inclusive education. It won the national contract to deliver training for the mandatory award for Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs), and also developed a ‘Specialist Dyslexia Training for Teachers’ programme to support the Government’s ‘Every Child Matters’ initiative. Edge Hill was also awarded the contract to provide Mathematics Specialist Teacher (MaST) training for the North West and West Midlands regions.
Professor Bill Bruce, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Academic Portfolio, added: “Edge Hill has an extraordinary capacity to adapt and change, and to continually improve and widen its offer to prospective students.
“Inclusive education is a key issue for Government and for schools, pupils and parents, and our new programmes reflect that,” says Anita Walton, Assistant Head of Professional Development in the Faculty of Education. “We also offer a Special Educational Needs pathway through our MA in Education. “All of our postgraduate courses have an impact on pupil learning and aim to drive change and improvement in educational practice. This is why we are introducing a new, practice-based MA in Education in September 2011, allowing students to develop as researchers in practice and demonstrate the impact of their studies on learner outcomes and achievements. For us, it is all about creating outstanding teachers and outstanding schools through advanced scholarship applied to practice.” The Faculty of Health, too, is responding to current public sector issues and challenges with the introduction of three new postgraduate certificates designed for highlevel, strategic health professionals. “In the current funding climate, many people want to improve their academic understanding and research skills, but can’t commit the time or money to a full Masters programme,” says Kathryn Lowe. “The postgraduate certificate offers them a shorter, more cost effective professional development opportunity that also gains them credits towards a Masters in the future.” The Faculty of Arts and Sciences is also strengthening its portfolio of public sector-oriented postgraduate programmes. A new Masters in Public Administration has proved attractive to an international mix of students, including 20 senior civil servants from China. The Faculty also offers an MA in Equality and Diversity Management and one of the only MA courses in Voluntary and Third Sector Management in the country.
“The University is looking to build on its current postgraduate taught provision and develop a broader portfolio of research-based Masters programmes. This will enhance our already vibrant research community and raise our profile, both nationally and internationally, as a centre of growing research excellence.”
New for 2011 Faculty of Arts and Sciences • MPA Public Administration • LLM International Business and Commercial Law • LLM International, Criminal, Humanitarian and Human Rights Law • LLM Research • MA Creative Therapies • MA Popular Culture Faculty of Health • MSc International Nursing Studies • MSc International Midwifery Studies • PG Certificate in Advanced Clinical Practice • PG Certificate in Public Health • PG Certificate in Mental Health Law and Ethics Faculty of Education • MA Education (practice-based research) • MA Clinical Education If you studied at Edge Hill as an undergraduate you could be eligible for a reduction of up to 20% in postgraduate course fees. Visit edgehill.ac.uk/study/fees/ reducedfees for more information.
Learning A Visiony of 1885–2010 ersit Edge Hill Univ
omery and Mark by Fiona Montg
Flinn
Step back in time
Did you know that during WWII Edge Hill was requisitioned by the Army for use as a military hospital and students evacuated to Bingley? Or that the first male students weren’t accepted until 1959? Or that legendary Manchester band The Smiths played one of their first gigs in the Refectory in the early 80s? All these facts, and many, many more, can be found in a stunning new coffee table book, A Vision of Learning: Edge Hill University 1885-2010, which charts the progress of the University from women-only teacher training college to award-winning modern university.
The hardback book, written by former Edge Hill academic Fiona Montgomery and retired Pro Vice-Chancellor Mark Flinn, was produced to commemorate Edge Hill’s 125th anniversary. It tells the story of an ambitious institution realising its vision despite numerous challenges, and is a tribute to all the staff, students and alumni that make up the unique Edge Hill community. Lavishly illustrated and full of fascinating facts, anecdotes and memorabilia, the book is a must for anyone with fond memories of their time at Edge Hill. You might even spot yourself in it. A Vision of Learning: Edge Hill University 18852010 is available to alumni at the reduced price of £20 through Blackwell, visit www.blackwell.co.uk
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
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Jolly good fellows Edge Hill University marked its 125th anniversary by awarding Honorary Fellowships to Ken Millins and Anne Laing, two individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the institution over many years.
Pioneering Principal As the first male principal at Edge Hill, Ken Millins CBE fought tirelessly to keep the institution open during the 1970s when sweeping higher education reforms threatened many institutions with closure. Speaking of his award, Ken, aged 93, said: “I am honoured and humbled by this award, as well as being thrilled to receive it. I had many happy years at Edge Hill, and I’m so proud of what it’s become – an awardwinning University with over 24,000 students.” Born in Middlesex, Ken attended Reading and Lille universities. After serving in the Second World War, he became an educationalist and among his varied jobs was teaching delinquent boys and working for the Foreign Office to assess the impact of Nazism on the German teacher training system. He became familiar with Edge Hill as a government inspector and later embraced his role as the first male principal, which brought him closer to his beloved Liverpool Football Club, where he was an Anfield regular for 13 years. Ken was responsible for significantly broadening Edge Hill’s range of courses. He initiated a 30-year relationship with Lancaster University, which began awarding Edge Hill BA (Hons) degrees, laying the foundations for eventual University status in 2006. He now lives in West London with his wife, Susanne.
Guild ‘rock’ Anne Laing has been chairperson of the Edge Hill College Guild – the University’s oldest surviving alumni group – since 1985. During this time she has worked unstintingly to ensure the group stays in touch. As well as general administration and managing the official reunion, she opens her own home every summer to all remaining members for an informal get-together. Commenting on her award, Anne said: “To receive this honour is very touching but the real reward for my years of service is the love and appreciation of the members and the opportunity to touch people’s lives that have been a privilege to share.” The Guild was formed in 1896 to help members experiencing difficulty, promote sociability and strengthen the ties between the institution and its former students. Although it is now an informal body rather than a formal structure, all members remain loyal to Edge Hill and carry out a vital ambassadorial role. After graduating, Anne began teaching in Bredbury, near Stockport. Later, she specialised in teaching pupils with physical and learning disabilities and was appointed Deputy Head of Massey Hall Special Residential School in Lancashire in 1953. She continued to teach until her retirement in 1984. “Teaching was my passion, particularly working with pupils who were less able,” added Anne. “Edge Hill always had such an excellent reputation for its teacher training, and this contributed to my good fortune throughout my career.”
Alumni support:
Networking works
You don’t stop needing careers advice once you’ve left university. Even if you’ve got your foot on the first rung of the career ladder, or you fancy trying a completely different ladder, additional advice, information and skills training are vital to prepare you for your next move. Unfortunately, in a recession the staff training and development budget is often one of the first things to be cut in an organisation, and independent careers advice may be hard to find. Edge Hill is committed to supporting graduates throughout their careers and offers a range of events designed to help people who want to progress in their career or business venture. The Alumni Team recently hosted the fourth in its series of Alumni Networking Events supported by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). These informal events are a great way of building contacts and getting career information. As well as offering networking opportunities, they include talks from high-profile speakers, which have included
Martyn Best, Director of North West PR agency, Paver Smith; lawyer and consultant Peter Davies; and Dave McTague and Richard Pontefract from media collective Another Media. The third event in the series saw co-founder of marketing recruitment company Marketing Scout, Helen Dolce-Lund, give fellow graduates advice on the power of social media and how to successfully develop your personal ‘brand’ across social networking sites. “Studying a postgraduate diploma at Edge Hill allowed me to develop my career further,” said Helen, “and I progressed through the ranks at a number of major brands such as Iceland and EasyJet. I then set up my own business as a ‘marketing scout’ and now help companies to find the very best individuals for their marketing needs. After 10 years it is great to come back and support the University, offer career advice and share my experiences with students and alumni.” We are always looking for alumni with interesting careers to speak at our Alumni Networking Events. If you would like to get involved, please contact alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
For recently redundant graduate, Laurie Threadgold, a chance meeting at an Alumni Networking Event was the beginning of a successful career. “I was invited to the event at Edge Hill via an old university friend who I hadn’t seen for a while so I thought it would be a good opportunity to catch up with her. I didn’t expect it to have a genuine impact on my career. The speaker, Peter Davies, was inspirational and could have been speaking directly to me as his talk was all about changing direction and not being afraid to take different career opportunities. During the evening I chatted to a few people, including someone from Edge Hill’s Development Team who knew my friend. She put me in touch with Arvato Government Services, a local authority outsourcing company, who were looking for someone to do an internship. I had spent several years in banking so I thought it would be interesting to work in the public sector. What started out as a three-month internship ended up being a job for nine months. I later went back into banking, as a Business Analyst for Barclays, but I think my experience with Arvato definitely boosted my CV and made me a more rounded candidate in job interviews. I would encourage graduates to go to an Alumni Networking Event because you just never know what connections you might make and where they might take you.” The next Alumni Networking Event is in October and will feature a presentation by Sean Marley, Managing Director of Lime Pictures, the company that produces Hollyoaks and Grange Hill, among others. If you would like to attend the next event, or want to keep up to date with news and events throughout the year, email alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
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Alumni support:
A big thank you We would like to thank everyone who has supported Edge Hill’s Alumni Fund over the past two years. Whether you gave £5, £50 or £500, your generosity has allowed us to help and reward more students than ever before.
We set up the Alumni Fund in 2009 as a way for former students to show their support for Edge Hill, and to help ensure that today’s students have an outstanding learning experience. The Alumni Fund supports two important programmes that make a real difference to students’ lives: the Alumni Excellence Scholarship and the University Hardship Fund.
Alumni Excellence Scholarship Each year, one of our Excellence Scholarships is funded entirely by alumni donations. Excellence Scholarships recognise outstanding commitment, determination and achievement in sport, the creative arts, performing arts and volunteering. The first Alumni Scholarships were awarded last year to six deserving Performing Arts students. One of these was Kennedy Taylor who, aged nine, was diagnosed with Perthes Disease and told she would never dance again. Now, thanks to incredible courage and commitment, she is studying Dance at Edge Hill.
“I always wanted to dance and I wasn't going to let my condition get in the way. It hasn’t been easy but there's no point in feeling sorry for yourself. The scholarship is like a reward for all the pain and hard work over the years — I finally have something to show for it.” Kennedy Taylor, Alumni Scholarship recipient
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
University Hardship Fund The Hardship Fund offers emergency support for students experiencing extreme financial difficulties. These students are often not eligible for external support but are struggling to find the money to cover basic university-related expenses such as travel, books or even rent. The University Hardship Fund gave essential financial support to 39 students last year, helping them to continue their education against the odds.
“As a mature student, doing a full-time degree is a huge financial commitment. I have put everything on hold to fulfil my ambition of becoming a teacher. Without the additional money from the Hardship Fund, I would probably have been forced to leave Edge Hill. I’m 47, so who knows if I would have ever managed to go back again? It really was a lifeline for me.”
Thanks to the generosity of our alumni we can continue to recognise the achievements of our most talented students and offer vital extra support to those most in need. If you would like to make a contribution to the Alumni Fund, call the Alumni Team on 01695 584861 or donate online at edgehill.ac.uk/alumni/donate
Derek Pinnock, Hardship Fund recipient
The long and winding road Last year the Corporate Communications team undertook a 15-mile sponsored walk to mark the University’s 125th anniversary and raise money for the Alumni Fund. The gruelling walk went from Edge Hill’s original site in Durning Road, Liverpool, all the way back to the Ormskirk campus, raising £430 to support future generations of students.
Caroline Mitchell, the University's Affinity Officer who came up with the idea for the walk, said: “For 125 years, the University has given thousands of students, many from disadvantaged or underrepresented groups, the chance to learn, develop and succeed. The money raised by this walk will help shape the future of Edge Hill students now and in years to come.”
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The team now want to make the sponsored walk an annual event. If you are interested in taking part, or want to organise your own fundraising event to raise money for the Alumni Fund, contact Caroline Mitchell on 01695 584861 or email alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
Alumni memories:
Do you remember... … amateur dramatics? “I was quite proud of my portrayal of the ghost in Macbeth. Ann Storr picked me because she said I had ‘ethereal qualities’. However, Miss Cole commented that the role would have been better left to the imagination of the audience. I remember trips to the Playhouse Theatre in Liverpool. There were some quite well-known actors – and all for a shilling.” Vivienne Brocklehurst, 1959 … the Huts? “I was very disappointed to find that I was in Huts to begin with (Hut 5, room 2), but soon realised I was in one of the best situations in college. In 1963-64 I was ‘Hut King’ representing the male students on the college committee.” Harry Healey, 1964 … meeting your true love? “We met at a screening of The Savage Innocents at the college film club in the Autumn term 1961, and then danced together at the Christmas Ball. By 1963 we were engaged and we eventually married in August 1965. I was in John Dalton Hall which was commonly known as the ‘Virgin’s Retreat’!” Christine Healey, 1964
… when men were scarce? “I remember our warden, Miss Scrimgeour, had near heart attacks at the thought that the men from Stanley might manage to get through the locked door which separated them from the girls in Clough!” Carole Ashton, former Clough resident, 1966 … the way things were in the '60s? “Among many things, I recall the hall ‘skats’ that became discos under the aegis of Radio Doom, the first night of the College Bar (wow, a bar in College!), the visit of the now legendary Wild, Wild Klubs in their ex-constabulary van, the abseil from the roof of Lancashire Hall. Oh, and we did learn to be effective teachers too…” Peter Ford, 1967 … Edge magazine? “I was editor of Opus, the messily inky, laboriously stapled together, then college newsletter, but was delighted to be asked to contribute an article for Edge Hill’s annual glossy magazine, Edge. I was to write a piece on the troubles in Northern Ireland which would involve a fact-finding visit – how exciting! I can’t now remember if we won an award for that issue of Edge, but I had the time of my life helping to put it together.” Jon Gardner, 1968 … when TV was new? “Lancs Hall was a trailblazer, being the first hall of residence to acquire a television – a technological advance at that time in history. It was amazing how many female students started to date Lancs students then, and if you weren’t in the common room 30 minutes before Top of the Pops began, you just couldn’t get inside.” Phillip Raw, 1971
EdgeHILL HillUNIVERSITY UniversityALUMNI Alumni Magazine EDGE MAGAZINE 03
… Ike and Tina Turner? “They played in the Refectory in 1975!” Peter Wilson, 1975 … practical jokes? “My first memory is of getting up at 6.30am on my first day, fully dressed in PE kit, for morning exercise. We were told that it was college rules that we all started the day with exercise to improve the mind. We became a little suspicious when we all had to turn to Lancs Hall, touch our toes several times and shout “Lancashire Hall”. The penny finally dropped! However, we were all greeted back in the common room with hot chocolate and buttered toast.” Sue Heyes (nee Howard), 1976 … Decs night? “Decs night’ was always a highlight. What a surprise to be woken at 6am to Christmas songs and older students hammering on your (1st year) door. And what a shock when you discover that your hall is decorated fantastically ... and you hadn't heard a thing! Only the start to the celebrations ...” Julie Alcock, 1988 … the idiosyncrasies of the staff? “Phil Scraton’s lectures always started with him playing music as we entered the hall. I have wonderful memories of his lectures, especially the one where he came straight into college after being burgled.” Debby Howard, 1993 … your graduation ceremony? “The culmination of my Edge Hill experience was my graduation ceremony up at Lancaster. The day was
everything it should be – happy and sad, ceremonial but light hearted, nerve wracking but fun. However, without a doubt, my favourite moment was the symbolic group photograph when, watched by family and friends, we all threw our hats in the air to celebrate the end of three years of hard work.” Anna Phelan, 2006 … the ducks? “The best thing about my course was the small class size, which made lecturers and seminars really friendly and relaxed. The campus itself is also very relaxed and the perfect place to study; some days we’d do our group work in the Waters’ Edge Restaurant where we could watch the ducks and catch a few rays!” Louise Gaul, 2009 You can read more alumni memories on the Alumni Network, register at edgehill.ac.uk/alumni/alumninetwork. If you have any interesting memories of your time at Edge Hill, we’d love to hear from you. Contact the Alumni Team, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk L39 4QP or email alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
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News The latest news from around the campus
EDGE HILL TRIO WIN MAJOR TV AWARD Gifted media graduates at Edge Hill University have attracted the attention of TV companies after winning a prestigious Royal Television Society award. Anna Ormsby, Jim Martin and Dan Evans scooped the Entertainment Category at the Royal Television Society North West Student Awards in January. Their television pilot, Escape From the Studio, aims to gets bands out onto the streets to perform in their home towns. It beat off stiff competition from Stockport College and the University of Salford to win the accolade. Anna, Jim and Dan will now go through to the national finals later in the year and a number of independent production companies have already been in touch with the University about their work. Anna said: "To have won an award from the industry is such a major confidence boost. We put so much effort, work and time into it. In the lead-up to announcing the winners, all three of the nominees had clips of their pieces shown and the other two were of such high quality that we didn't think we had a chance. It was pretty overwhelming to hear our names called out and go up on stage to collect our award.” To view their television pilot, visit: www.edgehill.ac.uk/video/escape-from-thestudio-trailer
GRADUATES DEVELOP CHINESE CONNECTION Three Edge Hill graduates are taking part in a special exchange scheme that will enable them to gain valuable experience of teaching in China. The trio are completing three-month work placements at Chinese partner institutions as part of a programme arranged by the University's Centre for International Education. Lois Rollings, Jennifer Jones and Lauren Widdowson are teaching English to Chinese students in Chengdu College of Sichuan Normal University. The programme will also allow them to gain an insight into China’s new educational system. English graduate Lauren said: “I've always liked the idea of teaching abroad and it will be a great experience to meet people in China.” Lois and Jennifer will have the additional responsibility of teaching dance to students as they are both recent graduates of the Edge Hill BA in Dance. Lois said: “I’m a keen traveller so I jumped at the chance because I wanted to experience the Chinese way of life. It will be very interesting to see how their educational system works compared to ours.” The graduate placements are part of Edge Hill's growing links with China, which have strengthened considerably over the last year. Dr Iona Huang, Director of Edge Hill's Centre for International Education, commented: “It is important that our students understand global issues and practices. We have been doing a lot of work with our partners in China as it is one of the biggest players in the global economy.”
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
TUNING INTO SHARPER SCRIPTWRITING
INTERNATIONAL VENTURE SCORES TOP MARKS
Budding scriptwriters were given the chance to hone their skills and meet leading industry figures at two specialist workshops on television and radio scriptwriting.
Edge Hill has established an innovative collaboration in Singapore as part of its plans to develop strategic international activities.
The ‘Plotting and Pitching TV and Radio Drama’ events, organised in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University, were part of the University’s 125th anniversary celebrations. Alumni and students attended the workshops to sharpen their series drama skills and to have the chance to pitch original ideas to professional producers. The first workshop involved students drawing up proposals for a pre-watershed precinct ‘gang' show for BBC3, with support available from Phil Collinson, producer of Coronation Street, BBC development script editor Simon Judd, and writer for Casualty, EastEnders and Holby City, Daisy Coulam. The second event brought together British media professionals, including the producer of Skins and Wild at Heart, John Griffin, Kathleen Beedles, who produced Emmerdale, independent radio producer Chris Wallis, and BAFTA award winning writers Tony Marchant and Sally Wainwright. The workshop enabled student writers to analyse the work of the panelists and take part in an intense script surgery. Attendees also discovered how to pitch concepts to TV and radio producers, with the experts giving first-hand advice. Professor Michael Bradshaw, Edge Hill’s Head of English and History, commented: “The quality of writing and discussion was extremely high, and as well as getting feedback on their own projects, writers gained valuable insights into the state of the creative industries in these changing times.”
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Singapore is a key location as a growing educational centre for the broader global region, as well as a springboard for China and India. The partnership with the FY Institute of Technology (Singapore) currently delivers degree-level programmes in Business and Management, and Engineering Management. “The institute is a private college set up in 2005 as the first overseas campus of Qingdao Feiyang Vocational and Technical College in China, and we registered 40 students in 2008/09,” explained Keith Cook, a senior lecturer in Management at Edge Hill. The students graduated in December 2010 and the scheme proved so successful that three additional courses have been introduced in Leisure and Tourism Management, Accountancy Management and Computing Management. “We have established a very strong working relationship with FY Institute of Technology (Singapore),” said Keith. “This has been of real benefit to staff from both organisations, as we have had to find ways to work and co-operate to establish various systems to make things work.” Jayaram Menon, Academic Director at FY Institute of Technology (Singapore), added: “Our partnership with Edge Hill has been great and definitely helped us to develop more robust academic quality systems. As an exercise in continuing education, it has been a real learning experience for all of us.” For further information contact Keith Cook on 01695 657655 or email keith.cook@edgehill.ac.uk
LETTERS STORIES, MEMORIES, FAMILY NEWS
GOLDEN MEMORIES September 1960 was the magical date when seven 18-year-old would-be teachers met to begin the first of the three-year trained teachers course in Clough Hall, Edge Hill College. Little did they know they would form a deep friendship lasting 50 years. Our names then were: Kath Burdekin (now Gartside) Ann Castledine (now Wall) Pat Coulson (now Baron) Rosie Gore (now Slack) Julie Parkin (now Julie Waring, but sadly widowed) Anne Sherrington (now Caunie) Cynthia Storey (now Sampson, married to fellow Edge Hill graduate Pete Sampson) Permission notes from parents were needed in those far-off days if you entertained “men” in your room, as 21 was the age you officially became an adult. Some of us went on to marry these same men. Last September was a special time. Rosie arranged a get-together for a long weekend to celebrate our Golden Anniversary – 1960–2010. We had a wonderful time reminiscing about our college days, pouring over old photographs with laughter – and some tears. Between us we could name all the students from an official College photo taken in 1962.
IMPRESSED...AND A BIT JEALOUS! Thank you so much for all you did in organising our reunion visit. We loved being back at college, hardly recognised the place. The facilities for the students are incredible. Plasma TVs and en suite wet rooms! Very impressive. I didn't have that in 34 EM Butterworth Hall. Our guide was lovely and didn't seem to mind our giddiness too much. We rounded off our weekend with a meal at the Cafe Bar in Ormskirk, our old haunt for special occasions when at college! That hadn't changed either. And to walk off with an Alumni bag ... magic. We now have lots of new memories about a place that already holds lots of great memories for us. Thank you for making our visit so special. Clare Middlehurst Via email
Kath Burdekin emigrated to Australia with her husband, Jim, over 30 years ago but they still visit the UK each year and we try to meet when she’s here on holiday. I taught for 40 years and then ‘retired’ but still, at the age of 68½, get called into my local school as a very, very casual supply teacher when they get desperate. On our 50th anniversary we want to thank everyone at Edge Hill for the strong foundation they gave to us. Pat Baron (nee Coulson) Accrington, Lancs
Send your stories, memories, family news to:
Edge Hill University Alumni Magazine
CLASS OF ‘66 REUNION Were you at Edge Hill between 1963 and 1966? I am organising a reunion on 1–3 July 2011 and would like to extend the invitation to anyone who was there at the time. People from the years either side are also very welcome. We will be staying in the new Founders Court Halls of Residence and will have a tour of the campus, so different from our time. It would be great to get together again. Some folks think this could be our last get-together as we may fall off the twig soon. Although I intend to go on for a lot longer yet. Please email me if you are interested. I do hope many of you can come. It will be a great opportunity to renew old friendships. Paula Benson (nee Entwistle) Contact Paula via the Alumni Team, email alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
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OBITUARY Brian Greaves
JUMPER IS A WORK OF ART I was delighted that my Katherine Fletcher hall jumper was included in the exhibition to accompany the publication of Edge Hill’s new history book. I travelled from Yorkshire with my student friend Sandy Hayes (nee Cumming). At the event we were reunited with Vanessa and Patrick White, old friends that we have exchanged Christmas cards with over the years but have not met since the late 80s. It was great to open the book and find myself in the College bar posing for a picture for the 1984 prospectus and then to also have a chance meeting with friends that I have not seen since graduation. It was lovely to see them again and meet their daughter. We recognised each other instantly. We are now considering a reunion back on campus this year; hopefully we can get our other Edge Hill friends all back together on campus again. Sarah Riley (nee Waite) Via email
LOOKING FOR OLD FRIENDS Neil Ginger and Karen Groom (now Ginger) would like to get in touch with old colleagues from the 1997 PGCE English course run by Rob Spence. We would like to get in touch with everyone – but we are specifically looking for Michelle Brown and Mark Troughear. If you were on our course, or know Michelle or Mark, please drop us an email. Neil Ginger Contact Neil via the Alumni Team, email alumni@edgehill.ac.uk.
We are sad to report the death of Brian Greaves, a committed educationalist and former Deputy Principal of Edge Hill. In 1982, when Brian was a member of teaching staff, Lancashire County Council voted to close Edge Hill and merge it with Preston Polytechnic. With senior colleagues, Brian helped the fight against the plan, arguing the case with such conviction that the Council rescinded its decision. Under the 1988 Education Act, Edge Hill was removed from local authority control and Brian was key in putting the necessary infrastructure in place. Edge Hill University, as it is now, survived in no small part because of Brian. Brian also served as a governor of Skelmersdale and Ormskirk College, and Glenburn School, Skelmersdale. He was appointed MBE in 2002. Vice-Chancellor, Dr John Cater, said: “Brian was the nicest of men, a good friend to the University and a supporter, from his home off Ruff Lane, throughout his retirement. Our thoughts are with his wife of 53 years, Joan, and his daughters, Alison and Katherine, at this difficult time.”
Stay connected It’s never been easier to get in touch with old friends, organise reunions and receive all the latest Edge Hill news. Sign up to the Alumni Network and you not only join a thriving online community you also get exclusive invitations to events, great networking opportunities and our regular e-newsletters. Register now at: edgehill.ac.uk/alumni/alumninetwork And if that’s not enough Edge Hill for you, we can also be found on Facebook and Linked In or you can follow us on Twitter. Extend your network If you know a former student who doesn’t currently receive Alumni, please point them in our direction. We get to update our database and they get lots of benefits. All they need to do is call the Alumni Team or register with the Alumni Network.
Alumni Team, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, L39 4QP t: 01695 584861 e: alumni@edgehill.ac.uk f: 01695 584355 w: edgehill.ac.uk/alumni