ISSUE 12 SOUTHAMPTON SOLENT UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
SPRING 2014
#WeAreSolent
CONTENTS
2 Solent campus expansion 3 Southampton Talented Athlete Scheme launches 4 50 years of city status for Southampton 5 Why small music venues matter 6 Solent hosts local Children’s University graduation 7 Workshops from drumming legends 8 #WeAreSolent – graduation 2013
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10 Solent art at ‘TEXT’ exhibition, London 11 Retail Solent: conference and courses 12 Solent football experts visit Brazil 14 Research at Solent 16 25 years of outdoor courses 17 Solent media bring local events to life
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HOW TO CONTACT US: Send your news, views, queries and comments to: The Press and PR Officer, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace, Southampton SO14 0RB. Telephone: 023 8031 9040 Email: press.office@solent.ac.uk
Southampton Solent University’s Marketing and Communications Service PUB: D2014011302 Printed by: Indigo Press
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FOREWORD | ISSUE 12
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…We believe in our students, and in Southampton…
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I’ve always believed Solent is more than just another university. It’s a place where people from all walks of life and all corners of the world can come together to excel – to improve their knowledge and skills, to broaden their horizons and their opportunities, and to achieve more than they could ever have done alone. The #WeAreSolent initiative (p.2) we launched in January reflects this, revealing and celebrating the staff, students, graduates and external partners that make up Southampton Solent University. Of course, it’s our diverse and vibrant community which makes that possible – and I’m not just referring to our extraordinary students. If you are reading this, you are part of the Solent community too. From schools, colleges, businesses, community groups and local government, it’s our partners in the region and beyond who help make Solent the enterprising and innovative place it is today, who work with us to deliver academic, professional and practical opportunities for our students – and reap the benefits in turn. We are ambitious not just for ourselves, but also for the communities we serve. We believe in our students and in Southampton. We want to see them develop and excel. That’s why
we’ve taken a leading role in helping celebrate Southampton’s 50-year anniversary of city status (p.4), bringing together pledges from individuals and organisations to improve the city in ways great and small.
Solent University is an engine for creativity and transformation with global reach. Work with us, and who knows what we might achieve?
Professor Van J Gore We’re also continuing our Vision for 2020 programme of events and conferences, designed to help stimulate growth and generate the graduate jobs that will encourage tomorrow’s leaders, thinkers and innovators to make the Solent region their home – transforming the local economy and ensuring a brighter future for all of us. Whether it’s the recognised strength of our Sport Solent brand, delivering expertise as far afield as Brazil (p.12) and as close to home as the new Southampton Talented Athlete Scheme (p.3), or our partnerships team’s support for initiatives like the New Forest and Southampton Children’s University (p.6),
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ISSUE 12 | UNIVERSITY
NEWS IN BRIEF
#WeAreSolent BE PART OF THE BIGGER PICTURE On 21 January Solent launched the #WeAreSolent campaign, designed to put the spotlight on the students, staff, graduates and community partners who help make the University such a diverse, dynamic, and above all friendly place. Take a look at the front cover for a selection of the Solent selfies that came in over the first week, or visit www.solent.ac.uk/WeAreSolent to see the bigger picture. You can still send us your own Solent selfie, too – just tag your picture with #WeAreSolent on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram to join in.
APPOINTMENT OF NEW VICE-CHANCELLOR At their February meeting Solent’s Board of Governors confirmed the appointment of Dr Graham Baldwin as the University’s next Vice-Chancellor, succeeding Professor Van Gore when he retires this summer. Graham will join Solent from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), where he is currently serving as Deputy Vice-Chancellor. There was a very strong shortlist for this role, but the board felt that Graham was an outstanding candidate who demonstrated a clear vision that matched Solent’s own. He will take up his position as Vice-Chancellor in August 2014. 2 | SPRING 2014
SOLENT EXPANSION
PICKS UP PACE Solent’s plans for a stunning new £30 million expansion to its East Park Terrace campus are gathering pace, with the proposals approved by Southampton City Council in December. Final planning permission is set to be granted in spring 2014, after which work will begin. “Getting approval for this exciting new development is great news for our students, staff and the city,” said the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Van Gore. Designed by Scott Brownrigg, the new building will sit alongside the Sir John Everett Millais building and link up with the rest of the East Park Terrace (EPT) site through a spectacular central 18- by 80-metre atrium – featuring a bold, distinctive and multifunctional pod-room ‘floating’ in the centre of the huge space. As well as this eye-catching new central forum for the EPT campus, the new building will provide lecture and seminar facilities with state-of-the-art lighting, acoustics and equipment, plus social and flexible space for exhibitions, shows and events. Just the latest of Solent University’s significant investments in its facilities over the past five years, this new structure is also the first step in the planned transformation of the whole EPT campus.
By 2020 Solent will have spent £100 million on campus improvements, including a new sports and sport science complex, a landscaped plaza and further enhancements to the East Park Terrace site – all as part of the exciting ‘Master Plan’ to realise Southampton’s city centre vision.
…The new building will provide lecture and seminar facilities with state-of-the-art lighting, acoustics and equipment…
Nine of the new scheme’s eleven athletes in the University’s High Performance Academy gym. (L-R) Oliver Bromby, Mahamed Mahamed, Lewys Oakley, Owen Lawrence, Theo Barnes, Archie Waldock, Jordan Campbell, Sam Bass Copper and Jeamy Navarro Schrank.
UNLEASHING SOUTHAMPTON’S
SPORTING TALENT Following a tough selection process, eleven of the city’s brightest sports stars have secured a spot on the newly launched Southampton Talented Athlete Scheme (STAS). Run and funded by Southampton Solent University, and supported by Southampton City Council and Active Nation, the new sports programme aims to help highly ranked Southampton athletes between 12 and 18 years old fulfil their sporting potential. The young athletes will be able to take advantage of the University’s state-of-the-art equipment and sport science expertise, receiving training, treatments and other benefits usually only available to professional athletes. They will also receive free access to the University’s leading sports facilities and several other Southampton sports venues, along with a free local bus pass. Modelled on Solent’s successful High Performance Academy for elite student athletes, the scheme also complements the Hampshire Talented Athlete Scheme which Solent has supported for a number of years. “STAS gives us an opportunity to share our facilities, knowledge and expertise, and
encourage the highest level of achievement from these promising young athletes,” said James Grant, the scheme’s High Performance Manager. “In turn, this scheme provides valuable real-world experience for the University’s sport science, coaching and health and fitness students.” Peter Haynes, coach of STAS cross-country athlete Mahamed Mahamed, agreed: “It is important to build a support mechanism around the athlete; STAS is just what Mahamed needed.” The scheme also helps relieve some of the pressure on athletes’ families. Michelle Campbell, mother of STAS athlete Jordan, commented: “The free bus passes are a welcome relief and give Jordan her independence.” Sixteen-year-old Jordan is ranked second in the UK for under 17s javelin, and won last year’s nationals. Michelle continued: “What’s impressed me is the attentive and encouraging support Jordan receives from the STAS team. They’re
…A scheme like this is priceless for athletes like me… always there to help and advise, and really care about her progress.” Sam Bass Copper, pole vault champion for the south of England, added: “A scheme like this is priceless for athletes like me; having a whole expert support network behind me gives me an edge on my opponents!” The other talented young STAS athletes are: national Taekwondo champions Jeamy Navarro Schrank and Archie Waldock; Robbie Brodie, national 1m diving champion, and fellow divers Theo Barnes, Lewys Oakley and Portia Angove; Oliver Bromby, English Schools 100m champion; and Owen Lawrence, second place in England Athletics U17 Championships.
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ISSUE 12 | COMMUNITY
CITY OF GOLD The fiftieth anniversary of the city of Southampton provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate what’s great about this city, and why we love to live and work here. It’s also a chance to make some changes, to start to realise our hopes and aspirations and make the city a better place for our children and our grandchildren. A packed programme of events throughout the year will mark the city’s golden jubilee – and Southampton Solent University is pleased to be at the heart of the celebrations.
PLEDGES TO IMPROVE SOUTHAMPTON The University is also co-ordinating a ‘fifty pledges for fifty years’ engagement project, gathering pledges from local people, organisations, community groups and companies to improve Southampton in ways little and big. The idea came from a challenge issued by Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the RSA, when he spoke at Solent University’s Vision for 2020 conference in October 2013. “Southampton’s future is out there,” he said. “It inhabits this city today. But, right now, it lies diffuse and dawdling. To be brought together and brought alive, it needs a catalyst.
“How about fifty commitments to mark fifty years?” Taylor asked. “The institutions, businesses and communities of the city are challenged to make fifty commitments, to be delivered by 2020, that will set the city on course for the half century ahead.”
50 YEARS TO THE DAY The year of celebration was officially launched on 24 February, the date on which Southampton received its city status fifty years ago. The Mayor and Mayoress threw open the Mayor’s Parlour to local people and school pupils, with every school receiving an inscribed plaque to show they were part of the celebrations, and the Mayor and Mayoress later led a non-denominational service of thanksgiving at St Mary’s Church.
CELEBRATING THROUGH SPORT One of the first events in the anniversary celebrations will be the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile, returning to Southampton on Sunday 23 March 2014. Thousands are expected to don their trainers and gather in Guildhall Square, before following the one-, three- or six-mile courses around the city’s beautiful central parks.
…Southampton’s future is out there - but it needs a catalyst… This year the event will be organised by a team of volunteers from Southampton City Council, Public Health and Sport Solent, as well as from Southampton Solent University, the University of Southampton Students’ Union and the Saints Foundation – which are also part-funding the event. An important part of Southampton’s golden jubilee celebrations, the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile is expected to generate significant Comic Relief funding for local charities, encourage local community spirit and promote healthy living to local residents – whether running, skipping, jumping or walking the Mile.
FINDING OUT MORE For more information on the Sport Relief Mile or to register for a place, visit www.sportrelief.co.uk/sainsburys-sportrelief-mile If you would like to know more about the fiftieth anniversary celebrations, or to see how you can help shape the fifty years to come, visit www.discoversouthampton.co.uk. Pledges can be sent to pledges@solent.ac.uk, or by post to Pledges, MCS, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace, Southampton SO14 0YN. In support of Sport Relief, an initiative of Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England/Wales); SC039730 (Scotland).
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MUSIC | ISSUE 12
KEEPING MUSIC ALIVE AND KICKING January saw Southampton Solent University host the region’s first ever conference on live music. ‘Live & Kicking: Why Independent Venues Matter’ brought together music industry executives with academics and students to discuss the importance of Britain’s independent live music venues. Groups from Nirvana and Oasis to Radiohead, Coldplay and Frank Turner learnt their craft playing venues like Southampton’s Joiners Arms and Hull’s Adelphi. Alan McGee discovered and signed Oasis at Glasgow’s King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, while Oxford’s Jericho Tavern nurtured local talent like Radiohead, Supergrass and Ride. “It’s really important for people to understand the importance of the ‘toilet circuit’,” guest speaker John Harris from The Guardian and the BBC said. “Serving an apprenticeship in these venues hones your skills and builds up a dependable fanbase in a way that TV and social media alone simply can’t.” Live & Kicking’s panel of experts also included Cerne Canning, manager for The Vaccines and Franz Ferdinand; Joe Edwards of Independent Venue Week; Sarah Lowe, PR for Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, Iggy & the Stooges and My Bloody Valentine; and Ricky Bates from legendary local venue the Joiners Arms – winner of NME magazine’s award for Britain’s Best Small Venue 2013.
SECURING THE INDUSTRY’S FUTURE Southampton Solent University has
for some years been supportive of the local music scene and live music venues. This conference, organised by the music promotion team and Solent Music, put the focus on such venues as the centre of vibrant music scenes and the life-blood of the music industries. John Harris added: “I think it’s great that Solent University students learn about the music business at undergraduate level and really give things thought and attention, as well as spending time in a more hands-on way. Solent has the kind of students that could bring expert and fresh thinking to an industry in dire need of them.” Southampton Solent University’s unique programme of undergraduate music courses covers the entire breadth of the music industry, including specialist degrees in digital music, music promotion, popular music journalism, popular music performance and popular music production. The University’s focus on real-world learning gives it a particular affinity for small music venues; Solent music promotion students work closely with local venues on music promotion projects and live event organisation, building their experience and
…Never underestimate the strength of word-of-mouth in establishing an act… learning from first-hand exposure to artists and industry professionals. Johnny Hopkins, popular music and media lecturer and the conference’s organiser, commented: “Small independent venues are part of the cultural fabric of this country and the life-blood of the music industry. We mustn’t lose them. “The conference developed some new ideas on how to help small independent venues, and we feel optimistic about the future. Many of our students have gone on to careers in record companies, music marketing and event management after gaining valuable work experience in Southampton’s local music venues.”
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ISSUE 12 | COMMUNITY
LOCAL KIDS GOWN UP TO GRADUATE November saw Southampton Solent University host the first ever graduation ceremony of the New Forest and Southampton Children’s University. Forty-six pupils between the ages of five and fourteen donned mortar boards and robes to attend the ceremony at Solent’s Sir James Matthews Building, Southampton, receiving a certificate of their achievements from wheelchair rugby star Aaron Phipps.
LEARNING TO LOVE LEARNING The New Forest and Southampton branch of the Children’s University (CU) was launched in March 2013, as a partnership between Southampton Solent University, Brockenhurst College and local schools. The CU aims to give young people from all backgrounds – particularly those who might not think further or higher education is for them – access to an exciting range of extracurricular activities and events, including visits to museums, businesses, exhibitions, sports activities and university lectures. At the graduation ceremony Tariq Sasso, Deputy Head of Blackfield Primary, said: “We’ve had 25 clubs that run every week at our school, 6 | SPRING 2014
After completing 30, 65 or 100 hours of activity the pupils achieve bronze, silver or gold certificates, with CU postgraduate and doctorate levels also available.
…The Children’s University builds a lasting passion for learning…
Kevin Muddiman, who watched his twins Amber and Nicole receive their gold certificates, said: “Today was brilliant. They’ve really enjoyed their tasks over the year, including woodwork and forest trails. They love it because while they’re playing, they’re learning.”
Dr Jamie Mackay, Partnership Development Manager at Southampton Solent, said: “The Children’s University programme is a fantastic way of encouraging young people to continue their learning, and an ideal extension of our Bright Sparks work.”
SPARKING A BRIGHTER FUTURE
With the recent graduation showing how the CU has sparked the imagination of local youngsters, Solent and its partners are ready to expand on their success. “As well as the number of schools which are already a part of the Children’s University, we are looking forward to signing up more from Southampton and beyond, and hosting a second graduation ceremony in the summer,” said Dr Mackay.
and over 40 pupils have completed activities as part of the Children’s University – with quite a few children graduating today.”
As well as helping organise the Children’s University, Southampton Solent already has close ties with local schools and colleges as part of its Solent Bright Sparks programme – providing outreach, summer schools and competitions to encourage local children to get engaged with learning.
MUSIC | ISSUE 12
THE BEAT KEEPS COMING A steady stream of drumming legends are passing on their skills at Solent. SHARING THE KNOWLEDGE Solent visiting fellow Carl Palmer of prog rock legends Emerson, Lake and Palmer, who kicked off the first drumming clinic back in October, said: “When you get to a certain stage in your life, it’s good if you can actually direct or inspire younger talent. I think there are many, many pitfalls today, and this is obviously a great place for learning. I think the facilities are superb, but a little injection from the actual working world of music is definitely inspiring and motivating for students. So for me, it’s giving something back.”
In February 2014 one of the world’s top drummers visited Southampton Solent University to share his skills and knowledge with students and members of the public, as part of a special series of drum clinics being hosted by the University. During a career spanning more than 30 years, Craig Blundell has become an ambassador for British drumming on the international circuit. His talents are always in high demand, and he’s a regular feature alongside well-known artists such as King Crimson and Deep Purple. Craig kicked off his drumming career with HM Royal Marines Band Service, touring and composing his own pieces before turning professional. Noted for his experimental style and enthusiasm for technology, Craig is the BBC’s drummer of choice and plays at shows and drum festivals across the globe.
STAR PERFORMERS Craig is just the latest in a string of leading drummers to bring their knowledge to Southampton Solent. December’s drum clinic
featured Neal Wilkinson, who has toured with James Morrison, worked on hit TV shows American Idol and the X Factor, and played with such legends as Sir Paul McCartney, Van Morrison and Ray Charles. One of the UK’s most respected drummers, Neal demonstrated advanced drum techniques and discussed his life in the music industry with a crowd of around 150 students, members of the public and pupils from two of our partner colleges, Itchen and Fareham. As well as being free for Solent and partner college students, the clinics are also open to members of the public for a small fee – providing a chance to learn from the very best. Solent BA (Hons) Popular Music Performance student Yasmin Corrigan Davey said: “Neal was one of the nicest, most inspirational guests I have met – he had a real interest in us as young musicians and great advice for everyone, including me as a singer.”
October 2013 also saw Gerald Heyward, session drummer for legends Michael Jackson, Beyonce and Jay Z, fly in from the USA to share his experience. Ash Martin, third-year music performance student, said: “Gerald Hayward was amazing. I now have a deeper understanding of the industry, as well as new practical techniques.” Paul Rutter, Programme Leader for the University’s popular music courses, was enthusiastic about the clinics’ ongoing success. “These events are proving increasingly popular with both students and local musicians, giving them the opportunity to benefit from the talent, knowledge and advice of some of the world’s top drummers. “This kind of involvement from the industry not only enhances students’ learning experience and sharpens their skills, but it also improves their employability.” And it’s not just Solent’s performance students who benefit; music production students get first-hand experience providing live sound for the events, while TV production students have the chance to build their experience filming and editing footage, which is made available to students through the University’s Mountbatten Library.
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ISSUE 12 | GRADUATION
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GRADUATION | ISSUE 12
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#WeAreSolent The photographs we take form part of a bigger picture: a vibrant community of staff, students and graduates, working closely with the university’s friends – a living mosaic of achievement and ambition, an expression of identity and confidence in the future. Vice-Chancellor Professor Van Gore
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ISSUE 12 | CREATIVE
NEWS IN BRIEF A NEW WAY OF DEVELOPING STRATEGY ‘What is the Southampton that you will give to your children and grandchildren?’ Ed Morrison asked an audience of staff, students and city opinion leaders at a recent workshop on ‘Strategic Doing’. A new approach to high-level working that enables civic leaders to form collaborations quickly, adapt their processes and steer projects more efficiently toward success, ‘Strategic Doing’ allows its practitioners to create workable action plans with measurable outcomes and accountability in just a three- to six-hour period. The workshop was part of the Vision for 2020 event series, the University’s campaign to encourage employers to employ graduates, improve graduate retention in the region and build a knowledge-based economy. Visiting from the Center for Regional Development at Arkansas’ Purdue University, Ed Morrison invited representatives from Southampton City Council, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, the University and local businesses, as well as the Rt Hon John Denham MP, to ‘think differently, behave differently and do differently’. Participants shared personal or professional assets, such as skills, networks and connection, as they worked out ways to channel strategy across university, community and employer boundaries. Feedback was positive, suggesting the ‘Strategic Doing’ process should be continued and broadened here at Solent. To find out more, please email vision.2020@solent.ac.uk
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SOLENT ART SPEAKS A THOUSAND WORDS A recent exhibition at London’s Kemistry Gallery brought Solent students’ art into the public eye, attracting praise from retail guru Mary Portas and prompting the public to snap up student works. Running from 3 to 15 February 2014, Kemistry’s ‘TEXT’ exhibition explored type, typography and textuality in a variety of formats. The exhibition featured original pieces by expert typographer Chris Bigg, Esquire’s Creative Director David McKendrick, Saatchi Collection-exhibited artist Brian Reed, and Matt Curtis, Sunday Times Magazine Art Director and a Solent graduate, as well as the work of a range of up-andcoming Solent designers, illustrators and artists. Mary Portas said: “It’s fantastic when you see the vibrancy of a lot of work coming together. Truthfully, if you came in here and someone said that these are professionals you’d say, yes of course they’re professionals. I just want to get my purse out!” The exhibition was facilitated by the University’s new OMNI Solent art enterprise brand, dedicated to helping creative students take the first step into commercial sales. Solent students’ contribution wasn’t limited
to the art on display, however, with branding, posters, flyers and invites all designed by graphic design and illustration students Lilly Marfy, Dan Jay, James Willsher, Leanne McKenzie and Laura Hunt. TEXT curator and OMNI founder Steve Lannin, of Solent’s School of Art and Design, said: “For many of the students, this is a great start to their career. To sell work in one of the world’s creative capitals has boosted confidence, inspired creativity and hopefully fired up their entrepreneurial spirit.” Student Dan Jay, who also helped with the event, said: “The show was a really good opportunity for us to showcase our work. And from what I’ve learnt working on the exhibition, I’d feel confident setting up something similar myself.”
…I just want to get my purse out…
BUSINESS ISSUE 12
UPGRADING THE RETAIL EXPERIENCE Helping the retail industry provide the seamless shopping experience expected by today’s digitally savvy consumer has become a top priority for Southampton Solent University. In addition to new marketing strategies and software, a skilled workforce that understands and meets the demands of the 21st-century consumer is key to success. Today’s customer uses all available shopping channels simultaneously – including stores, online sites and mobile apps – and at a Solent Retail Network event on 4 March, industry experts discussed how the ability to take advantage of consumers’ omni-channel approach can create a framework for success. Talking about the impact of this new development, former CEO of B&Q and keynote speaker Martyn Phillips said: “Omni-channel retailing is an ‘always on’ approach to retailing. “It means that retailers are setting out to enable customers to access and interact with their brand when, where and however they want, and really it’s nothing but good news for customers. They are getting choice, value and convenience at levels not seen before.
…As a university, we want to support growth in the sector… “Omni-channel retailing means different things for different retailers – the biggest challenge is for what I would term the middle ground, mass-market retailers. It requires a considered, informed and intelligent approach, coupled with an ability to adapt in a fast-changing environment.”
THE EVOLVING RETAIL SECTOR The Head of the National Skills Academy for Retail, Jane Rexworthy, highlighted what omnichannel retailing means for staff development, while Scott Taviner, Retail Operations Manager for the Southern Co-op, explored the sector’s education requirements – from apprenticeships to degrees and even higher.
The event also marked the launch of an exciting new portfolio of courses at Solent University. Created specifically to support employers with in-house training, the programme provides a range of flexible courses aimed at providing retail employees with personal development opportunities at levels ranging from foundation degrees to an MSc in Retail Management. Christine Fountain, a Principal Lecturer at Southampton Solent Business School, said: “This event and these courses are part of a new initiative to support retail and its ecosystem in the region. As a university, we want to support growth in the sector, and workforce development is one area where we can bring our particular expertise to bear.”
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ISSUE 12 | FOOTBALL
SOLENT SHOWS OFF ITS FOOTBALL SKILLS The Times Good University Guide calls Southampton Solent University ‘a leader in football-related academic study’ – and staff from the University’s Lawrie McMenemy Centre for Football Research (LMCFR) recently demonstrated that Solent’s reputation for academic excellence in football is reaching around the globe.
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…We were so impressed with the Solent team that we’re already planning our second conference to run by the end of the year… 12 | SPRING 2014
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FOOTBALL | ISSUE 12
…We selected Solent University because it’s known in Europe for its academic research in football… Invited to bring their expertise to São Paulo in Brazil, LMCFR Director Dr Richard Elliott, Solent Football Studies Course Leader Clwyd Jones and Associate Lecturer Mario Maranica delivered a three-day education programme for representatives from a range of Brazilian clubs and associations. “We selected Solent University because it’s known in Europe for its academic research in football,” said Pedro Stern, Director of Brazilian sports marketing company Unisport, which organised the conference.
national team have been enormously successful in the past. However, most people don’t realise that Brazilian domestic football lags some way behind the much more developed European leagues on a number of measures. Our hope is that by providing new ways of thinking both on and off the pitch, the attendees of this programme can work to develop Brazilian football for the future.” Solent’s Clwyd Jones and Mario Maranica, respectively A-licensed and Pro-licensed UEFA coaches, kicked off the conference with two days of pitch-based techniques, training and tactics. Day three was spent exploring the business of football and player development with Dr Richard Elliott. The event was a great success, with Solent’s academics receiving praise from delegates and positive coverage in the Brazilian sporting press. “Richard, Clwyd and Mario did such a great job,” Stern said. “We were so impressed with the Solent team that we’re already planning our second conference to run by the end of the year.”
BETTER FOOTBALL THROUGH THEORY According to a Unisport survey, only 35 per cent of Brazilian coaches have undertaken vocational courses about football – revealing an opportunity to blend Solent’s academic expertise with the unquestioned quality of the Brazilian game. “Football is in the DNA of all Brazilians, so why not maximise the results through study?” said Stern. Dr Elliott agreed: “Football is part of the very fabric of Brazilian culture and the
IMPROVING THE HOME GAME It’s not just the Brazilian game which has benefited from Solent’s footballing expertise, however. In January Dr Elliott also met with members of the FA Commission to share his views on overseas players in the UK game. An expert in overseas player involvement with over a decade of experience in researching the area, Dr Elliott was also asked about youth development at English football clubs, another area that he has studied in recent years.
Dr Elliott told the commission: “In order to develop the best players you must surround them with players of similar or better ability, as has been the case at Southampton. “By introducing academy talent into the first team when the club was competing in League 1 and the Championship, Saints gave its upcoming players the time and experience they needed to hone their skills in preparation for the Premiership.” Solent University partner Southampton FC was recently in the headlines for its excellent record of developing talent, with former England captain Alan Shearer suggesting other English clubs should follow their lead. Speaking after his meeting with the commission, Dr Elliott said: “I’m really pleased to have been given the opportunity to share my views with the FA Commission. I hope that my work and that of the University’s Lawrie McMenemy Centre will help them to better understand this complex area.”
BRINGING BUSINESS SKILLS TO THE LOWER LEAGUES As well as its influence at the international and Premiership level, Solent is having an impact on the local game. In a national first, the University is developing an online learning course in partnership with the Wessex region’s Sydenhams Football League. Supported by an FA development grant and backed by the League Managers Association, the course will provide club administrators with a professional grounding in the business side of the beautiful game – as well as a fully transferable qualification. Solent students can also take advantage of the scheme, obtaining an additional qualification to help them find a role in non-league football. “Our academic provision, facilities and research and consultancy work are all making a recognised impact in the football industry. This, coupled with our expert knowledge of learning technologies, makes us the perfect partner,” said Phil Green, Director of Sport Solent.
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ISSUE 12 | RESEARCH
…The timing couldn’t be better, looking at how fast some African countries are growing…
SOLENT
RESEARCH In recent years Solent’s multi-disciplinary approach to research, with academics working alongside partners from a wide range of industries, has produced valuable studies and data that help break new ground in fields as varied as acoustics, maritime, business, sport and the creative industries.
Other projects include an international research project on seafarer fatigue for the shipping industry, examining the perceptual audio and visual impacts of wind turbine developments, and chronic lower back pain for patients on GP referral.
IDENTIFYING AFRICAN INNOVATION Nasiru Taura, a Solent PhD student in the School of Business, recently investigated small and medium enterprise (SME) clusters in Africa and possible mechanisms for overcoming constraints on innovation in hostile business settings. Comparing Suame Magazine automotive and metal-working cluster in Ghana with similar institutions in Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya, Nasiru has used theories of entrepreneurial action and strategic management to create a model to describe the underlying patterns in African innovation, and to identify points where active
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management could accelerate or improve an already innovative performance. “Measuring and mapping innovation in Africa is fraught with difficulty,” Nasiru said, “not least because often detailed information about the informal sector is not available, but also because innovation measurement has been confined to the traditional metrics of R&D, number of patents, and technological intensity.” Although these measures are appropriate in developed countries, Nasiru said they often provide misleading results when applied in African settings. The African intellectual property market is weak, and most informal SMEs in Africa are not research-intensive. Nasiru, who studied his master’s degree at Solent before entering the Business School’s PhD programme, hopes his new model will help highlight African investment opportunities on the international stage,
RESEARCH | ISSUE 12 bringing money and resources into the continent’s economies. “I wanted to contribute to Africa’s development, informing potential international investors regarding pockets of innovation. There’s potential here for partnerships and investments, whether with Europe or other developed countries. “For me African knowledge-intensive clusters are analogous to an oasis in the desert – enduring the harsh business climate and overcoming transaction/ transportation costs to export regionally. While it is true that some African firms stagnate or regress, many are progressing. You can’t build an effective understanding of the region based only on non-performing firms – it’s bad science.” As well as returning to Southampton Solent University as an associate lecturer, Nasiru has also set up his own consultancy with support from the Solent enterprise team and is using his research to advise international investors on safe, reliable and profitable investment opportunities within Africa.
is potentially one of the most exciting investment opportunities within the MINT countries (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey).”
A BETTER HEARING TEST
With support from Solent’s Dr Chris Barlow and 2013 graduate Lee Davison, local company Strategic Audiology Services has developed an innovative new hearing test for the twenty-first century. “It is incredible that over five million people in the UK suffer from hearing loss, yet the test currently used to diagnose them is based upon one developed as long ago as 1946,” said Chris. “Our work has moved this forward to improve and update the methodology for assessing hearing loss.” Already over 70,000 people have tried the Solent-supported new hearing test, and Strategic Audiology Services hopes to assist over a million patients each year through GPs and home- or work-based applications. Part of a 40-week Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with the Maritime and Technology Faculty, the project made use of Solent’s hemi-anechoic chamber – the newest addition to Solent’s specialist stateof-the-art acoustics facilities.
Nasiru at Suame Magazine, Ghana Nasiru is also looking to expand on his earlier research, establishing connections with a number of African research institutes in order to build an integrated African innovation, management and development system. “The timing couldn’t be better,” Nasiru said, “looking at how fast some African countries are growing; Nigeria, for example,
NEWS IN BRIEF
This successful partnership has generated £38,000 for the University, as well as four academic papers due for publication. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships such as this are a key part of Solent’s strategy for business engagement, and the University is already engaged in several new joint ventures.
ENGINEERING A BRIGHTER FUTURE Thirty-nine sixth-form students from local colleges brought their passion and enthusiasm for technology and engineering to Solent University’s Engineering Education Scheme (EES) in December 2013. Run in partnership with the Engineering Development Trust, the day gave pupils from Totton College, Portsmouth Grammar and several other colleges a chance to get firsthand insight into university life, talk with university students and staff, and work on exciting science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) projects at the University. In teams of six with an industry mentor, the students worked on a range of projects using the Maritime and Technology Faculty’s industrystandard labs, workshops and CAD suite. Mark Udall, Head of the Technology School, said: “Initiatives like this are very important to us as they promote and raise the profile of technology and engineering. It was a great pleasure to see lively minds in action and to support young people who are potentially tomorrow’s innovators and entrepreneurs.” The workshop event will be followed up with a celebration and assessment day on 22 May, when students and mentors will return to Solent to showcase their designs and receive awards.
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THE GREAT OUTDOORS Contributing billions to the global economy, outdoor and adventure pursuits continue to attract those looking to step away from an increasingly computer-driven world – even for just a few hours. The European Outdoor Group (2011) reports continued growth in the outdoor market with an estimated annual turnover of more than €40 billion in Europe alone. Echoing the industry’s success, resilience and flexibility, Southampton Solent University is celebrating 25 years of outdoor adventure and maritime-related courses this year. Keeping pace with industry developments over the last couple of decades, Solent has continued to deliver a wide range of courses, from specialist maritime leisure and water sports qualifications through to adventure- and extreme sport management.
25 YEARS OF OUTDOOR EDUCATION As part of the anniversary celebrations, industry supporters, alumni, staff and current students got together to learn how it all began. Guest speakers from the worlds of outdoor education, sailing and skiing spoke about their experiences, successes and the future of their industries.
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Glyn Brackenbury hadn’t planned on going to university, but changed his mind after meeting students on work experience – he graduated from the University in 1995 with an HND in Leisure Studies. “Solent taught me the principles and fundamental basics which helped me make the decision to buy into the outdoor education centre, Skern Lodge, the place where I undertook my course-specific work experience, years before.” Just back from driving snow mobiles and steering huskies in Sweden, Jonny Crockett gave tips on surviving the industry. “Do something different,” the broadcaster, writer and founder of Survival School Ltd told the audience. “Be fluid and flexible. You will make mistakes along the way, but you need to be stubborn; it’s a lesson learnt. Overcome it and move on.” Pip Tyler, director of tour operator Neilson, spoke about what it took to be an awardwinning business, and all three speakers highlighted how the industry has changed from when they first started. “People have gone away from wanting five hours on the water,” said Pip. “There is now
a demand for variety. They want Zumba in the morning, walking in the afternoon, and a spa session in the evening.”
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Solent is also recognising this change, with plans to introduce a new BA (Hons) Adventure and Outdoor Management course for 2015 entry. Underpinned by management skills and featuring a core work placement element, the course is designed to make the most of Solent’s RYA-recognised Warsash Watersport Centre and deliver national governing body qualifications alongside professional skills and practical experience in leisure service and related industries. Ian Harris, Director of Sport, Tourism and Languages at the University, has been driving course developments in this area for the last 20 years. He said: “Solent’s success in this field is its ability to stay ahead of the game and ensure that courses meet both student expectations and the demands of a fast-moving industry.”
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LOCAL LIFE THROUGH A LENS Drawing on Solent University’s cutting-edge facilities and staff expertise, students on the University’s television and media courses have been working with local sports and community partners to bring a range of events to life on-screen.
“I was particularly impressed by the professionalism and expertise displayed by the students who filmed and produced the meeting,” Commissioner Hayes went on. “The production was very well managed.” During the conference the chief constable praised Solent for the work it does in the community, giving particular attention to the university’s sporting arm Sport Solent, who are involved in running extra-curricular workshops to divert children away from crime and encourage healthy living.
CAPTURING CRICKET
Solent TV and media students received a further opportunity in December, when the university was named as official video content creators for Hampshire Cricket TV.
Solent students hosted, filmed and produced the COMPASS conference – which stands for Commissioner’s Performance, Accountability, Scrutiny and Strategy – in one of the University’s state-of-the-art television studios. The regular county-wide meetings seek to cover a range of issues and to discuss the force’s performance with Chief Constable Andy Marsh. Commissioner Simon Hayes said: “This was the fourth COMPASS meeting, but the first one that was open to the general public, and I am glad students and residents made use of this great opportunity.” In line with the conference’s emphasis on promoting public accountability and oversight, students compiled and edited the footage before making it available to a wider audience via the web at www.hampshire-pcc.gov.uk
SAINSBURY’S SPORT RELIEF MILE Sunday 23 March, 10.30am start Southampton Guildhall Square Sport Relief returns to Southampton’s Guildhall Square, where thousands will compete in the one-, three- or six-mile courses around the city’s central parks.
SOLENT SOUND 24-25 April Studio Solent (JM315), Solent University, East Park Terrace Join college musicians from around the region as they perform and compete in front of a live studio audience and a panel of industry professionals.
AIDING PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY
In December 2013 the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner’s bi-monthly COMPASS conference with Hampshire Constabulary was opened to the general public for the first time, filmed in front of a live studio audience at Southampton Solent University.
EVENTS
As a result of the partnership students will produce regular video packages for Hampshire Cricket squad’s website. With support from University staff and making use of Solent’s state-of-the-art facilities, students were able to deliver the first video package in a fast one-day turnaround – filming and editing the footage for a next-day delivery. Jamie Hopkins, Hampshire Cricket’s press officer and a Solent sports journalism graduate, was pleased with the result. “It was great to work with Solent University students on this project. They brought great enthusiasm and energy, and we were very pleased with the final package.” Solent University sports journalism senior lecturer Andy Ford said: “Working alongside Hampshire Cricket allows our students to get a taste of working to industry standards for a demanding and highly professional client. There are lots of opportunities to develop skills and make fantastic contacts for the future.”
FORWARD LOOKING 20 March-3 May Solent Showcase Gallery, Above Bar Street In this innovative exhibition investigating artistic solutions to a sustainable planet, artists from Canada, Japan and the UK present thoughtprovoking mixed media artwork.
QUEEN’S BATON RELAY Wednesday 4 June Southampton Guildhall Square Solent University is supporting the arrival of the Queen’s Baton Relay to mark the run-up to the 20th Commonwealth Games this July, with baton-bearers chosen for their contribution to sport in the community.
VISION FOR 2020 CONFERENCE Friday 20 June Ageas Bowl, Southampton Southampton Solent’s latest Vision for 2020 event, the conference features guest speakers and workshops designed to improve graduate retention in the region and help build a knowledgebased local economy. To register your interest, email vision.2020@solent.ac.uk
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