Headway 22

Summer 2012

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Alumni Magazine Issue 22

HOT STUFF DRAGON FIRES UP SOLENT STUDENTS

WELCOME

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HEADWAY – Southampton Solent University’s Alumni Magazine

elcome to the 22nd issue of HEADWAY, Southampton Solent University’s Alumni

magazine.

This year’s publication is an enterprise special and focuses on former students running their own businesses after leaving Solent University.

We’ve got top tips from those who have recently started up or are sustaining their business, employing staff and looking to expand.

We’ve also got news and advice from some of our high-profile entrepreneurial supporters – including Dragons’ Den’s Theo Paphitis, music industry mogul Feargal Sharkey and festival high-flier Rob da Bank.

At Solent University, we’re renowned for the support we give to our entrepreneurial students and graduates. We have enthusiastic experts with a shed-load of experience in ‘going it alone’, including our very own Stephen Brown.

Meanwhile, no one could be better placed to give advice and training in social enterprise than Louise Drake, with our multi-award-winning Eco Ernie recycling project.

Our unique links with music and media industries – offering our students and graduates fantastic opportunities in areas of broadcast, event management and creative media – have been strengthened through the creation of live-project agencies and partnership agreements.

In this edition you can read about some of the work we continue to do, our developments on campus and the range of businesses our graduates are succeeding in.

We hope the graduation pictures – and the words from our honoraries – serve to remind you of your days at Southampton

HEADWAY | Summer 2011

Solent University and the skills, knowledge and experience that will continue to help you in your future career and enterprises.

The Alumni Association has been relaunched as Solent Graduate Network and we are continuing to send Solent Spark Discount Cards,entitling you to fantastic discounts around Southampton and nationwide.

Our new Alumni Relations Intern, PR and Communications graduate Martyna Stepien, has been looking after the Solent Graduate Network Facebook page, Twitter account and a LinkedIn group, as well as developing the alumni pages on the Solent website.

We’re excited about our graduates and proud of what you’re achieving, so please, stay in touch and spread the word.

Alumni Office

How to contact the Alumni Office Send your news, views, queries and comments to: The Alumni Office Southampton Solent University East Park Terrace Southampton SO14 0YN UK T: +44(0) 23 8031 9642 F: +44(0) 23 8033 4161 E: alumni@solent.ac.uk www.solent.ac.uk/alumni Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ solentgraduatenetwork Twitter: @solentunialumni LinkedIn: http://linkd.in/f1TowM or search for Solent Graduate Network Produced by: Southampton Solent University Marketing and Communications Service.

DEGREE SHOWS

Art stoppers A compelling overview of the talent and dedication of the University’s graduating Fine Art students enjoyed a platform in a prime location, thanks to Solent’s new exhibition space.

The students’ work was the result of three years of experimentation, critical scrutiny and self-reflection.

During their studies, the students moved to the University’s new School of Art and Design studios in Southampton’s Below Bar. The studios were officially opened by Sir Peter Blake, who famously illustrated The Beatles’ Sgt Pepper album cover.

As the first cohort with professional practice as an integral part of their course, the Fine Art students held their second year exhibition of portraiture and identity politics, Stuff and Nonsense, in a disused shop in the city centre’s Bargate Mall.

Highlights of the degree show include Ellie Patterson’s conceptual film and photography work, exploring the body using materials such as raw meat set in unusual environments. She said: “Over three years studying Fine Art I enjoyed using a lens to create or capture an idea and to probe and pry at my subject matter.”

2 Vice-Chancellor’s welcome 3 University news A round up of what’s going on in and around the University

6 Enterprise special Meet some of our brilliant entrepreneurs

7 Theo means business Dragons’ Den star returns to Solent

13 Tattoo magic An illustrated lady

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16 Graduation with 2011 pull out

18 Faculty news What are they up to?

20 Festival fever Rob da Bank chats to Headway

30 Where are you now?

Updates, weddings and other news

32 Events round-up/ membership news

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Inside

this issue

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VICE-CHANCELLOR’S WELCOME HEADWAY – Southampton Solent University’s Alumni Magazine

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vidence shows that graduates generate an average of £180,000 more during their lifetimes than students with A-levels alone. Statistics like this highlight the importance of higher education and the financial role graduates have to play in ensuring regional and national prosperity.

An increasing number of employers are recognizing the immediate and tangible benefits of hiring graduates. There is also a wider acknowledgement of the role of student entrepreneurs in innovation and business startups, which are crucial to economic growth and resilience.

Solent University graduates are determined, talented and highly motivated individuals, eager to succeed as they begin building their careers. We know you have intellectual and professional skills, honed by work-related assessments and a cutting edge curriculum, which enhances any company or business.

This year, we ran our Vision for 2020 initiative for the second time. It was developed to strengthen links between Southampton Solent University and regional employers, promoting the importance of graduate retention in the local economy and helping our graduates to get on the first rung of the career ladder.

Employers responded brilliantly to our campaign to create new opportunities for university leavers. In total, £14.8m of graduate jobs were advertised through Graduate Jobs South – beating our campaign target of £10m, and exceeding the £11.9m of roles advertised the year before.

A recent study commissioned by Solent University has identified a potential for jobs and growth in the creative industries sector, particularly those providing high value added services to small and medium sized companies.

In this issue of Headway, you can see the work

being done by students, staff and graduates through Solent Creatives and Solent Productions. The University is also keen to take a stake in digital local television. If based in Southampton, it would form part of a promising business ‘ecosystem’, nurturing growth and a nascent ‘cultural economy’.

The main message for Solent graduates is that opportunities exist for entrepreneurs, intelligent employees and skilled practitioners.

The economy is challenging and changing and graduates are ideally placed to make an impact as we move forward.

Professor Van J Gore Vice-Chancellor

Welcome back to Sport Solent Sport Solent is committed to providing a quality service to students, while also supporting the needs of Alumni, Solent University staff and the local community.

Our facilities include: • Test Park Sports Ground – newest multi-million pound development - featuring a world class '3G' multi-purpose allweather sports pitch • Top class indoor sports facilities including Sports Centre St Mary's, Warsash Fitness Centre and East Park Terrace Sports Hall • The nationally renowned Southampton Solent University Watersports Centre • Award winning cricket and football venues

Find out more at www.solent.ac.uk/sport

/sportsolent @SportSolent

Honorary NEWS

Top Left: Alex Box Bottom Left: Richard Demarco Centre: Dannii Minogue, C/wise from bottom left: Brad Roynan, Carol Marlow, Mark Bramwell, Stephen Bolton, Mike Moran and Stewart Dunn

The Honoraries Recipients of Solent’s honorary awards were as varied as they were inspiring, coming from areas ranging from education and local government to media and fashion. They shared positive messages for Solent’s graduates.

Chief Executive of the Mary Rose Trust, Rear Admiral John Lippiett CB MBE (Doctor of Maritime Studies): "Solent graduates are well equipped to go forward into promising careers, with the skills, qualities and confidence to succeed."

Internationally renowned make-up artist and Creative Director of cutting edge cosmetic range, Illamasqua, Alex Box (Doctor of Design): “I would like to say to students, I was once where you are today. To quote: ‘Fortune favours the brave’; believe with all your heart you will do what you were made to do.”

Brad Roynan, former Chief Executive of Southampton City Council (Doctor of Business): "Solent graduates are in an

enormously important position in relation to the economy of Southampton and the rest of the UK. The future lies in graduate skills."

Managing Director of P&O Cruises, Carol Marlow (Doctor of Business): “University education gives a breadth of activities and information that is useful every day in business. If you have something different from all the rest, you’re more likely to be successful."

Singer-songwriter and actor, Dannii Minogue (Doctor of Media): " I admire the way Solent University students mix their studies with practical training in the entertainment industry. After 33 years of experience, I’m still learning.”

Former principal of Totton College, Mark Bramwell (Doctor of Education): “In these difficult times, education is more important than ever. Through working closely together, Totton College and Solent University create opportunities and break down barriers, ensuring people get a fair chance to experience post 16 education. This is beneficial to society, the economy and to individuals.”

Musician, composer and conductor, Mike Moran (Doctor of Music): “Solent University has a great policy of inviting those working in areas related to courses to come and talk to students about real life. It gives them an edge.”

Southampton Solent graduate Stephen Bolton, Group Controller of Diageo and former Finance Director of Unilever (Doctor of Business): “It’s always best to go with your passions.If you are passionate about what you’re doing the other things will look after themselves."

Richard Demarco CBE OBE, internationally renowned artist and promoter of the visual arts and performing arts (Doctor of Arts): “Solent University has proved that it cares deeply that students should be creative.

Art makes us human; it enables us to make contact with our fellow human beings and to make sense of the mysteries of life.”

Managing Director of Newsquest Hampshire, Stewart Dunn (Doctor of Media): “Solent University graduates, armed with degrees, as well as practical experience and skills, are ideally placed for the rapid changes occurring within the media industry.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 3

UNIVERSITY NEWS University takes on city sport

Warsash and water sports ‘outstanding’ The University’s further education provision at Warsash Maritime Academy and Sport Solent’s Watersports Centre were rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Inspectors rated the effectiveness of the provision overall, the quality of the provision and outcomes for learners as ‘outstanding’ (Grade 1). Grade 1 was also awarded to the two subject areas of Maritime Studies and Sport.

The report said: “The quality of the provision is very strong, with expert tutors, excellent support for students and exemplary links with relevant employers and regulatory bodies.”

It recognised that “the development of students’ economic and social well-being is exemplary”, and that “staff at all levels share an unwavering focus on ensuring that students achieve their goals”.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Jane Longmore said: “This tremendous result demonstrates how closely our FE provision is aligned with the strategic intentions of the University.”

The University’s sport and recreation provider has taken over Southampton’s sport development on behalf of the council – in the first partnership of its kind in the UK. The 10-year partnership between Southampton City Council and the University – now the largest provider of coaching education in England – will ensure the continuation of citywide sport and fitness initiatives, as well as after-school sports, coaching and volunteering projects.

Many of Solent University’s students are qualified coaches and are already experienced at working in school and community settings as part of their curriculum.

Phil Green, Director of Solent University’s Sport Solent, said: “We are delighted to be leading the city's Sports Development Unit.

“The provision of this service, in addition to the recent acquisition of the schools partnership and the University’s exciting new facility developments, will help us become a significant force in shaping local sport at all levels.

“It will also support the University’s emphasis on employability, providing work-based learning opportunities for hundreds of undergraduates, as well as research opportunities across many of Solent University’s subject disciplines.”

“

We are delighted to be leading the city's Sports Development Unit.

”

Psychology project to aid IT industry Dr Carolyn Mair, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, is leading a project investigating key IT business decisions.

‘Metacognitive Instruction, Confidence and Prediction Accuracy in Software Engineering’ (MICaPASE) addresses the reasons behind software cost prediction, through field studies, surveys and experiments.

The project – supported by a £91,000 Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council grant – should help senior software engineers understand and improve judgement, decision-making and prediction

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processes under uncertain conditions.

Industrial collaborators Hewlett Packard and Lloyds TSB have committed their time and resources to the project, which should improve tendering, cost–benefit analyses, project management and tracking within IT. “With total UK state spending on IT estimated at more than £7.6 billion, this project is important and timely,” said Dr Mair.

“Making the right decisions in IT has an

impact on public sector spending, and recent cuts have highlighted the need for better management of government IT projects. This need for improved project management is a major feature of the Cabinet Office Business Plan 2011–2015.

“Tax payers and consumers will benefit from more cost-effective choices, with fewer cancelled projects and wasted resources due to ill-informed procurement processes.”

UNIVERSITY NEWS

Junior Uni Solent University has joined forces with Southampton’s key education providers to raise aspirations and employability through a ‘Junior University’.

The project – backed by the University of Southampton, the city’s colleges and secondary schools, the Southampton 14–19 Consortium, the city council and local employers – targets Southampton’s Year 10 pupils.

More than 80 current university students are acting as role models for the Year 10s, who get a taste of university life through workshops, lectures and other events.

The project – which has just taken on its first cohort of 240 nominated pupils – also includes mentors from the local business community Dr Stephen Lake, Solent University’s Head of Access and Partnerships, said: “This collaborative project will help school pupils realise their full potential. It is part of a wider effort to promote excellence at all levels of education provision in Southampton.”

Winning sounds Mike Carroll, BA (Hons) Urban and Electronic Music student, has had his remix featured on The Ting Tings’ new album, Sounds From Nowheresville.

Mike’s dubstep remix of The Ting Tings’ hit song, Hang It Up, was judged the best in a competition run

by Sony Music Entertainment.

Using his alias, Inertia, Mike – more used to the underground drum ‘n’ bass scene – produced the track to prove to his

friend he could change his mixing style.

“It’s sweet to know that someone out there likes my stuff,” he said.

Mike’s track is featured on three different formats of the new album – the deluxe CD, the exclusive Play.com CD and the iTunes version.

Solent to stage international ICT conference Solent University is to manage a world-leading conference on ICT in education.

The School of Technology in the Maritime and Technology Faculty is to partner the University of the Aegean for the peer-reviewed 2012 International Conference on Information Communication Technologies in Education.

The conference, to be held in July in Rhodes, has been running for 12 years. It addresses the challenges and directions presented by technological innovations in educational settings, providing a forum for intensive interdisciplinary interaction and debate.

Dr Chris Barlow, Reader in the School of

Technology, will chair the conference, while administration will be undertaken by the Maritime and Technology Faculty's enterprise centre.

Previously run by the University of the Fraser Valley, Canada, the conference attracts delegates from more than 40 countries and acts as a forum to promote research and scholarly activity in technology-led learning.

Mark Udall, Head of the University’s School of Technology, said: “It’s a great achievement for the School and the Faculty to take over the management of this prestigious conference.”

War heroes brought to life The names of servicemen and women on Southampton’s Cenotaph were brought to life through an interactive website developed by Solent students.

Paul Marchbank, Head of the School of Media, and Steve Hogg, Head of Learning Technologies, worked with BA (Hons) Media Culture and Production students on the project, which was conceived by family historian, Celia Fraser.

The community project – part of the interactive web design option on the Level 2 Recording Realities unit – involved interactive flash movies illustrating the lives of individuals named on the cenotaph.

“Students used a broad range of skills – video, photography and radio – to bring the site to life,” said Steve.

The website was launched by Vice-Chancellor Professor Van Gore at the inaugural meeting of the Southampton Cenotaph Family and Friends Group.

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 5

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

Accelerating Enterprise Solent Enterprise Manager Stephen Brown has helped more than 70 students turn their bright ideas into fully fledged businesses.

Entrepreneur Ieva Poriete, cutting a dash with her fashion business

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s Enterprise Manager with Solent’s Accelerating Enterprise team, he supports students through training, mentoring and financial help.

The scheme – run as part of the University’s Strategic Development – embeds entrepreneurial training and support within the curriculum, as well as running a range of short courses open to a variety of students.

“Enterprise opportunities should be available to everyone,” said Stephen.

“People benefit from hard advice, in areas like business plans, contracts, sales calls and protecting ideas, as well as the ‘softer’ stuff, like confidence-building. About 50% of viable businesses fail to take off simply because of the fear of failure. Someone may have a great idea that could genuinely fly, but they never do anything about it.

“I’m fascinated by what drives people to start businesses. While passion, determination and energy can determine success, effective training and tailoring can reduce chances of failure.”

In his 12 years at the University – first through the Community Enterprise Office and then SPEED (Student Placements for

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Entrepreneurs in Education) – Stephen has seen many student startups across the spectrum develop into viable businesses.

“I could write a book about the students I’ve supported. But success is something that should be judged on how far people have developed, not just on how much money their business is making at any one time,” said Stephen.

“The entrepreneurial journey varies from person to person. Some people learn important lessons in their 20s, but others won’t really be ready to start a business until their 40s.”

The University’s eclectic and imaginative cohort of students is reflected in the diverse businesses they set up, ranging from coffee shops, fashion design and illustration to software, care homes and graphic design.

“You don’t have to have the biggest or most glamorous idea to be successful. For instance, graduate Bereka Sintanyehu, who came to the UK from Ethiopia, set up a cleaning business and now employs three Somalian women in the local area. It’s a small, effective, expanding enterprise,” said Stephen.

“We’ve had great results across the board. More than 40% of the students we support are still trading three years later – that’s a really good statistic and it’s great for the wealth of Southampton.

“Solent has real distinction in enterprise because of the dynamism of our students and staff – many of whom have experience of running their own businesses. Today’s climate is ripe for entrepreneurs. Not only do entrepreneurial students learn to be skilled in selfemployment and running their own business – skills they can use at any time of their lives – but their enterprising acumen also makes them more attractive to prospective employers.”

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Stephen’s top tip ...

“Get advice, do your homework and get on with it. You may have a great idea that could genuinely fly, but if you’re too afraid to do anything about it, it’ll never happen.”

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

Theo means Business Leading businessman and Dragons’ Den star Theo Paphitis returned to Solent University to inspire entrepreneurs during a question and answer session.

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tudents, staff and local business players filled the Solent Lecture Theatre to hear the Solent Honorary Doctor impart nuggets of wisdom drawn from his personal experience in a variety of successful ventures.

Theo – best known for his role on BBC2’s Dragons’ Den – has an empire that spans retail, property, finance and consumer goods. He launched his new lingerie company, Boux Avenue, via Twitter last year, moments before collecting his Honorary Doctorate of Business during the graduation ceremony at Southampton’s Guildhall.

Theo believes that entrepreneurs are most successful when they mix a passion for their product with a capacity to research the market.

“You need to do your homework, go that extra mile and make sure the cards are stacked in your favour.

“You don’t want to play on a level playing field. You want to be at an advantage. There will always be brighter, wealthier, better connected people out there, so make sure you have something unique.

“Once you’re up and running, cash flow is crucial. You don’t need to make an immediate profit, but you can’t run out of money. And if you don’t have passion for what you’re doing, you’ll fail. You need drive and determination to get yourself back on track if anything goes wrong.”

Theo – who moved to England from Cyprus in the 1960s – had a

bent for business even as a small child. Despite his dyslexia, he took whatever jobs he could and set up his own company aged just 23.

“As a kid, I had ants in my pants; I always found business interesting, intriguing and challenging – it gives you the ability to make things happen and find your own reward.”

Theo was Chairman of Millwall FC for eight years, taking the club out of administration and into the Championship; he also revived the fortunes of La Senza, Contessa Lingerie and Ryman.

It’s early days for new lingerie business, Boux Avenue, but Theo is confident.

“We’re offering something that people really want – and that’s a unique shopping experience,” he said.

Meanwhile, it’s evident that Theo’s astute business decisions have brought in the bucks.

Pulling into Solent University in his chromed-out Maybach 62s – considered to trump both the Bentley and the Rolls Royce – he said: “Everything I need is in my car. I don’t have an average day, I hate being in one place and I’m always on the move.”

Theo applauded Solent University for offering sound business advice, mentoring and support to students. “Desire, ambition and the will to win, coupled with a relevant degree, relevant work experience and practical support, will give students an edge,” he said.

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 7

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

The magic of MEDIA Former Undertones frontman Feargal Sharkey is singing from the same song sheet as our graduates in todays fastest growing industry

Sharkey’s got bite Former Undertones singer Feargal Sharkey gave students an insight into the business end of the music industry during a recent visit to the University.

Feargal – who is a Visiting Fellow of the University – talked to students from music, graphics, business, journalism and film about his varied experience in the music industry.

In the early 1990s, Feargal transferred to the business side of the industry, initially as an artist and repertoire (A&R) manager at Polydor Records and then as Managing Director.

Later on he served as a member of the Radio Authority and in 2004 he was appointed chair of the Live Music Forum, which campaigns on music industry issues.

In 2008 he was appointed Chief Executive of British Music Rights (UK Music), an

organisation representing the interests of Britain’s music industry, from composers, songwriters and musicians to promoters and music publishing companies.

Paul Rutter, programme group leader for Popular Music courses, said: “Hearing from Feargal first-hand was a really good experience for our students.

“Feargal talked about his beginnings in The Undertones, followed by life as a successful solo artist, and his continuing experiences within the industry.

“He urged students to consider what they could bring to the table, advising them that being a professional in the music and entertainment industry today required a range of specialist skills, as well as ideas, distinctiveness and an innovative approach.

“It’s very much an entrepreneurial landscape, a competitive industry. Students need to know that it’s not an industry you can just drop into – you have to bring something special and improve your skills in as many areas as you can,” said Feargal.

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Feargal’s top tip ...

“Make sure you are full of ideas and have as many skills as possible when you enter the music industry. It’s competitive and fast-moving and you need to bring something special to the table.”

Jenny Strange TV and Video Production graduate Jenny Strange has all the ingredients of a successful entrepreneur.

She is already landing plum roles in her freelance career, with her latest involving research for Channel 4’s 20-part daytime series, Baking Mad with Eric Lanlard.

The programme – produced by Infinite Media – has had her working with sponsors to source ingredients, accumulating recipes and launching a casting process for 60 amateur bakers.

For Jenny, life has barely stood still since she graduated. Within the first year, she had worked as a runner on One Born Every Minute, 24 Hours in A&E and Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is. She then went straight to researcher on a property makeover series, before landing her latest job.

Studying at Solent gave Jenny good grounding. “My degree course gave me a good understanding of the editorial process and the roles of each member of the team. It helped to develop my creative skills and understand modern developments in broadcast technology, such as tapeless workflow,” she said.

ENTERPRISE SOLENT Wheels turn for Cameron Since striking out as a freelancer, TV Production graduate Cameron Wheels has had his eye on the bigger picture.

Media graduate mixes it up From Glastonbury to gorillas, Media Culture and Production graduate Chris Clements is ready for anything in his new business venture.

Chris established his media enterprise – Clearcut Productions – while still an undergraduate and received mentoring and support through the University’s student entrepreneurship scheme. He went on to study for an MA in Media at the same time as expanding his business.

“I made some good contacts and decided to set up my own business,” said Chris.

“The challenges of being a modern entrepreneur are mainly financial. Everyone’s feeling the recession and it’s a tough climate.

Running my own business is unpredictable. I never know what I’m going to be working on next.”

Chris has produced photography and video work for a range of clients, including Skandia, Southampton City Council and Hampshire Constabulary.

“I’ve gone from filming for Glastonbury TV at the Glastonbury Festival to working on the BBC show, Real Rescues, and filming for the outdoor adventure company Go Ape, which included the Fourth Plinth at Trafalgar Square and the Great Gorilla Run in London,” said Chris.

“It was a challenge to run a marathon and film at the same time; keeping up was tricky. I had to run the marathon myself. I was awarded a competitors’ medal as I crossed the finish line, camera in hand.”

Chris was part of the crew for two

documentaries for the Glastonbury Festival through the University’s Solent Productions.

He was a camera operator for festival environment films, the John Peel stage and an interview with festival organiser, Michael Eavis.

“It was a challenging environment that stood me in good stead. Just getting around in the mud, carrying equipment was exhausting; I was worried about slipping up and dropping the camera. But to have free reign out there was brilliant, a fantastic experience.”

Chris has also filmed a mock public order incident, done in-car filming with emergency crews on blue lights and has had an increasing number of his pictures published in the Daily Mail.

“With the growing demand for highquality video production, editing and photographic services, I’m expanding into broadcast and getting my own ideas commissioned,” said Chris.

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Chris’s top tip ...

While working as a camera operator on advertising films for high-profile companies, Cameron is building up his own production business in a bid to be at the top of his game within three years.

Helping make online films for Ogilvy, TBWA, Golden Goose PR and McCann Healthcare Worldwide has provided a wealth of experience for entrepreneurial Cameron, who decided that going freelance would be the fastest route to career success.

He said: “As a freelancer, I’m busy most of the time, getting much of my work through word of mouth. It’s a great position to be in just a year after graduating.

“But it’s a transitional phase. Eventually, I want to have my own business, with an inhouse editor and production facilities.”

Cameron honed his business skills and entrepreneurial approach during his degree and gained valuable experience at Solent Productions.

“I learnt to write business plans, budget, pitch ideas and deal with clients, alongside improving my technical abilities as a cameraman.

“On the production side, I benefitted from the experience and knowledge of my tutors and gained the confidence to pitch for jobs, price my work and sell ideas. It’s all helped me in my freelance work and with my developing business, On Grapevine.”

During his time at Solent Productions, Cameron worked at the Glastonbury Festival, produced a 30-minute drama and a series of three, 30-minute shows which were streamed live online.

By his third year at Solent, he was running shows, shooting, directing, producing, meeting clients and delivering whole packages. He also produced a short piece of work at Channel 4, as an assistant cameraman on programmes such as Dispatches.

“Be flexible and varied. Try not to turn things down.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 9

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

Enterprising Ernie Its recycling scheme changed the face of a Southampton neighbourhood, and now Solent University’s Eco Ernie is being held up as a national model of social enterprise. and local charities – has generated significant funds for local good causes and made vast improvements in student–community relations.

It famously gave the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance its biggest ever textile donation.

Louise – who is spreading the recycling message around Southampton’s schools and businesses – is continuing to develop the initiative, while teaching students skills in social enterprise, community engagement, partnership working and volunteering.

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he converted milk float – used every summer to collect unwanted student ‘stuff’ – has won a string of awards for transforming an annual community problem into a sustainable solution, epitomising the new drive for social entrepreneurial projects.

Louise Drake, Solent University Student and Graduate Enterprise Adviser, is one of the project’s founders. She was awarded an UnLtd/Higher Education Funding Council for England award for leading the Eco Ernie scheme.

“Disadvantaged people within the local community are now engaged in the project and are keen to ensure its sustainability,” she said.

“Eco Ernie is innovative, fun and engaging – exactly what social enterprise is all about; that’s why it’s so successful. The idea of social enterprise has grown in popularity. It resonates with the desires of today’s entrepreneurial, civic-minded and globally aware young people.

“With the UK government’s £600 million Big Society investment, there is more and more funding being directed at social enterprise projects.”

Louise – named ‘Outstanding non-teaching staff social entrepreneur’ at the national Dare to be Different Conference – was praised for her passion and commitment by the Foundation for Social Entrepreneurs and HEFCE. “The award highlighted the success of Eco Ernie and the hard work of every person involved. I hope I can inspire other entrepreneurs to give their ideas a go, no matter how wild or crazy they seem. If you have passion and dedication, you can achieve anything,” said Louise.

The Eco Ernie recycling initiative – underpinned by staff and student volunteers in partnership with the City Council, Baptist Church

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“

Disadvantaged people within the local community are now engaged in the project and are keen to ensure its sustainability.

”

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Louise’s top tip ...

“If you have come up with a solution to a problem – no matter how unusual it might seem – explore it, work with it, give it a go. It’s amazing what can be achieved. Keep your enthusiasm and self belief and involve others.”

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

Fashion photographer

has business flair While Kimberley Langstone had an obvious flair for fashion, she was also able to keep things real. It was a combination that kick-started a successful career as a freelance fashion photographer.

“Right from the start I had my heart set on studying fashion photography rather than pure photography,” explained the BA (Hons) Fashion with Photography graduate.

“The one-to-one teaching at Solent University helped me to make progress in an area I was passionate about, while the unit briefs, relating to industry practices, gave me a good understanding of what would be expected in the real world.

“I felt that getting my name out would help me to build up some recognition, so I set up a website showcasing my portfolio during my first year of study.

“It was hard work designing, setting up and pushing the website, but I had the best time doing it. Every day I get emails from creatives and clients asking me to work on projects. It was a little daunting, but I treated every challenge as a learning curve.”

Kimberley gained valuable work experience at Third Floor Publication, where she learnt the importance of teamwork and trust in other people’s ideas. Communicating with agencies and designers became second nature, giving her essential practice for her career.

“Once I’d graduated, going freelance seemed like an obvious way to put my skills to good use,” she said.

Kimberley’s skills involve a genre of photography that requires a real understanding of the human form, as well as a certain way of dealing with the human psyche.

“I've always been interested in creating images that portray something beautiful. But people underestimate the difficulty involved in producing a flattering image of the human form. There are so many elements that come into play and the final product reflects the tastes of the photographer.

“It's handy to know about different lighting techniques, so you can tweak them accordingly, but for the most part it's very much about being creative.”

For fashion photographers, the most difficult challenges can arise from dealing with a multitude of clients expressing differing ideas.

“The hardest projects are those that adhere to someone else’s strong ideas and concepts. It's hard to create work that reflects opposing views while remaining professional.

Some clients are looking for something a little ‘out there’, while others want something more mainstream,” said Kimberley.

Kimberley is hoping to become a household name in fashion photography.

“I'm still learning. Fashion photography is always moving; you need to be prepared to tweak the way you work in order to stay relevant. You don’t want to be stale or stuck in your ways,” she said.

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Kimberley’s top tip ...

“Push yourself to be as professional as possible. It’s fun working with friends on projects, but if they’re not up to standard, you end up limiting yourself.

Sometimes you need to be selfish in order to get where you want to be.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 11

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

Putting Fido in the frame Solent University alumnus Victoria Armstrong-Evans has always had a penchant for a pooch, so a gallery containing all things canine was a perfect business choice.

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he former army officer opened Hampshire’s Stockbridge Gallery after turning 50, in a bid to make a success of her ‘twilight career’.

“I studied for my degree more than five years ago as a prelude to a career change. Solent University gave me the grounding, contacts and confidence I needed to open my own gallery,” she said.

Victoria decided she needed a specialism and ‘doing dogs’ ticked the boxes. “It made sense to focus on a part of the art market which I knew well.I’ve had many dogs over the past 35 years. I love their uncompromising ability to make the best of every waking moment.”

Victoria opened the gallery in 2009 in a tough economic environment with discretionary spending at an all-time low; the niche subject developed a strong following.

The gallery is now going strong and Victoria is constantly sourcing new artists.

“Discovering new talent is an enormous pleasure, as is meeting and working with well-established, great artists.

“I feel humbled that so many renowned artists have chosen to exhibit with us when we are such a ‘young’ gallery.”

Victoria’s latest exhibitions include Dog GB – A Celebration of Our British Dogs, featuring premier canine portraiture artist Claire Eastgate and animal sculptor Rosemary Cook.

“The works followed the great British tradition of dog portraiture, which began in the 18th century and went on to become hugely

12 | HEADWAY | Summer 2012

popular in the 19th century, during the reign of Queen Victoria.”

Victoria’s gallery attracts buyers of all typesfrom all over the world.

“Dog lovers tend to commission paintings or sculptures of their own dogs, while collectors buy pieces that they love, regardless of breed.

“Because our theme is narrow, we have to cater for all-comers – the collector of period work, the decorative art collector and the young city collector looking for stylised contemporary pieces,” said Victoria.

“Starting the business was hard work, , especially at the beginning, but the challenge of creating a thriving enterprise from nothing is very rewarding. The freedom to try things, take risks and experiment is not normally something you have the luxury of doing in paid employment.”

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Victoria’s top tip ...

“Believe you can do anything you set your heart on.

Set the bar high.

Figure out where you want to go and journey there step by step.

Don’t be distracted by fear of failure.”

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

“ I realised that

I was destined to work with skin in my own tattoo studio..

”

Kicking up ink When BA (Hons) Illustration alumnus Dionne Clarke tattooed her 79year-old grandfather, she said it was one of her greatest achievements.

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he experience set the tone for Dionne’s tattoo business – her own studio in Staffordshire, combining her passion for art with a love of people.

“I was immensely proud to be able to tattoo my grandad; it was only the third tattoo I’d ever done. We sat in his conservatory drinking tea while I tattooed the front side of his lower arm from wrist to elbow. We were both pleased with the result,” said Dionne.

The experience was a prelude to Dionne’s business, Addictive Passions.

“I’d always kept my ears and eyes peeled for ideal premises, and when a friend suggested the Halfpenny Green Vineyard in the small town of Bobbington, I emailed my interest on the off-chance. A shop became available and I decided to take it. Starting the business was a little scary, but hugely exciting.

“The building was an empty shell when I took it on which meant I could do exactly

what I wanted with it, but it took a lot of hard work and money to get it up to standard.”

Addictive Passions was the culmination of Dionne’s lifelong love of illustration, which was nurtured during her time at Solent.

“My skills with ink developed alongside my Illustration degree. I started liking tattoos when I was just 12 years old. But it was while I was at Solent University that I really honed my interest. I held my first tattoo machine and I was addicted,” said Dionne.

“I realised that I was destined to work with skin in my own tattoo studio.”

As the proud owner of her own body art, Dionne has instant empathy with her clients.

“They’re choosing artwork that means so much to them, they’re willing to wear it on their body for the rest of their lives. My tattoos all mean something to me, a memory, a moment in my life or a well-loved family member.

“I try to capture and illustrate the stories behind the tattoos when I work on my clients.

It’s not like drawing on paper.You have to consider the tone, condition and age of someone’s skin and the shape of their body.”

Dionne attracts a wide range of clients, including women and first-timers, drawn to her warm and welcoming studios and appointment-only system. With tattooing becoming an increasingly popular art form, the climate is ripe for business.

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Dionne’s top tip ...

“Make sure you really understand your clients and you give them a good experience. If your business can grow by word-of-mouth you’re going to do well.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 13

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

Top talking James Headspeath, a final-year BA (Hons) Marketing with Advertising Management student, is flexing his entrepreneurial muscles with his successful company, iChallengeU.

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ronman triathlete James set up iChallengeU to provide inspiring, young, motivational speakers for a variety of organisations.

He was recently named as one of the UK’s most successful and promising young entrepreneurs, beating thousands of contenders to reach the final five in the Entrepreneur Country and Google Young Masters Awards’ ‘Most Employable Young Person’ category.

“It was surreal to be considered one of the top five most employable students in the UK,” said James. “My aim is to be a full-time entrepreneur and businessman and if my plans work out, I’ll be well on the way to achieving that.”

James set up iChallengeU – providing motivational speakers for mentoring, guest talks and team-building – to specifically inspire and challenge young audiences.

As well as speaking himself, James manages events and employs speakers for a variety of clients, including prisons, schools and scout groups.

“Most of the speakers are still under 30 and have achieved in areas ranging from adventure and athletics to business and politics. There are plenty of people under 30 who have achieved a lot; my business shows other young people that you don’t have to have years of wisdom to do amazing things,” said James.

The idea for iChallengeU was conceived while James was in the second year of his degree course and running the Solent Sparks Entrepreneurs Club.

“We were getting a lot of great, young keynote speakers in who were providing a refreshing change from the more mature and experienced kind,” he said.

“I always wanted to be my own boss, because I like making my own decisions. While at Solent, I’ve been able to realise my ambition, with the help of mentoring and financial support through the Solent Entrepreneurs Programme.

“I have exciting new plans for iChallengeU which will help me even further with the business.”

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It was surreal to be “considered one of the top five most employable students in the UK.

”

ENTERPRISE SOLENT

Adventure Sport An entrepreneurial spirit and a lust for travel has proved a winning combination for Tim Miller and James Baker.

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he Outdoor Adventure Sports Management graduates run three strands of a business specialising in scuba diving and rock climbing holidays all over the world, as well as a rock climbing wall in their home city.

It was while organising trips for fellow students of the University’s rock climbing and scuba diving clubs, and honing their sporting and management skills, that Tim and James started Freedom Adventures.

In 2009, they took over the Southampton Climbing Wall, and a year later they bought main rock climbing holiday competitor, Rock & Sun. “Rock & Sun was a 10-year-old company that had good repeat customers behind it and brand awareness. It made sense for us to do the scuba holidays through Freedom and the climbing through Rock & Sun,” said Tim. Freedom now provides diving in Malta and Lanzarote, while Rock & Sun offers courses and holidays for rock climbing all over the world.

Through the Southampton Climbing Wall, Tim and James offer courses, consultancy and private hire for parties, doubling sales and profits.

As well employing full time staff in Southampton, the company employs freelancers all over the world, ranging from taxi drivers and hoteliers to climbing and diving instructors.

“Freedom started while we were in our final year at Solent. We realised there were clubs across universities going on trips abroad and needing someone to organise them from start to finish, at a reasonable price and in a flexible way,” said James.

Despite many big tour companies being hit hard by slow economic growth, Tim and James have continued to grow their business and are looking forward to expanding further.

They currently have a healthy clientele of individual climbers and divers wanting to meet like-minded people and are hoping to extend their reach to the larger group market, including schools, the military, scouts and groups of friends.

“We’ve recently made some large group bookings from schools which we feel will be the next big thing for Freedom Adventures. These are fantastic earners as we can drop the price down for large groups, as we have the economy of scale, and still make a big margin. This means that the school gets a great deal and we have an extra 30-plus sales under one booking,” explained Tim. Whatever their business approach for the future, it’s Tim and James’ unique formula that makes the punters come back for more.

“Our success is down to our passion and interest in the business,

our desire to grow and succeed, and the time we’ve put in,” said Tim. “Many companies see this time as the worst it can be, but predict that in the next three years things will improve and more disposable income will be spent.

“Our hands-on approach keeps the business personal to our clients and works very well. We see a successful trip as one where our customers are happy and want to tell their friends and come back.”

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Tim ’s top tip ...

“Work out your start-up costs and have a contingency plan in place should you need more finance. Many new businesses are on the road to success, when they fail because of insufficient cash flow.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 15

GRADUATION 2011 provides an educational experience that “fusesSolent theory and practice, with industry partnerships.

This enables our graduates to make an immediate and meaningful contribution to the world of work.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Van Gore

�

Creative productions Solent’s talented students continue to share their skills, giving local businesses a real boost

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he University media production centre, Solent Productions, is going from strength to strength, giving a first-class service to its clients while underpinning the talents of graduates and students through enviable experience in the field.

Its broadcast and media professionals – alongside current students ‘learning the trade’ – work with the latest technology to cover live events, provide outside broadcasting and produce documentaries and corporate videos.

Assignments are varied with recent jobs ranging from filming the Duke of Edinburgh at the University’s new Ship Handling Centre to videos and podcasts for the NHS, documentaries for the Glastonbury Festival and live coverage of the University’s graduation ceremony.

Solent Productions offers HD/SD single and multi-camera capability, tapeless workflow, design and graphics to get the best out of its broadcasts, but success is helped by clever thinking and an ability to get stuck in.

Turnaround can be quick. Footage of the Duke of Edinburgh was shot and edited on the same day to be used for the BBC evening news.

It took under a fortnight – from conception through to filming and production – for Solent Productions to complete titles and graphic beds for a series of Revolution cycling highlights programmes for ITV4.

Much of the work carried out by Solent Productions is of real value for social projects. They have been commissioned to produce videos for the Seafarer Support website, as well as the NHS, including videos

for patients and junior doctors about enhanced recovery, educational podcasts for healthcare professionals and a training DVD for pharmacists.

Screen South/Creative England recently helped fund Solent Productions’ Associate Producer Craig Lees to deliver workshops training disabled film-makers in 3D. He said: “Film-makers with disabilities got to learn a completely new media practice in a growing area and then put their new skills into practice by making a short film.”

Meanwhile, Solent Productions’ presence at the annual Glastonbury Festival continues. Dozens of eager students swell the team which provides outside broadcast coverage of stages, documentaries and daily news videos for the festival’s website.

Ben Challis, Glastonbury Festivals TV Executive Producer, said: “The students who undertake the live stage filming produce excellent quality footage and the short film crews and news gathering crews are excellent at responding to briefs and meeting tight deadlines.

“Footage has been used by the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, as well as the international news services Reuters and Associated Press – a real ‘feather in the cap’ for the University.”

Wight wins A documentary produced by two Solent University graduates will be viewed by millions during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The film, made by Jon Lovell-Knight and Stephen Salesse, was picked for the screenings after winning Best Documentary (20–25 category) at the Film Nation: Shorts Awards, part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiads.

Jon and Stephen produced the three-minute documentary while they were working as interns for the University’s in-house media agency, Solent Productions.

The Great Wight Attack follows the efforts of charity swimmers Dave Savage and Martyn Kennaugh as they take to the seas around

18 | HEADWAY | Summer 2012

the Isle of Wight to raise money and awareness for cancer. It records their highs and lows as they tackle the busy waters before completing a 65-mile endurance run around the island.

“It was a challenging but rewarding project,” said Stephen.

“We had to shoot with both a large shoulder-mount camera and an underwater camera from a speed boat, while trying to record good audio of the guys as they battled through the waves.”

Tony Steyger, Academic Leader of the University’s Skillset Media Academy, said Jon and Stephen were typical of the type of ‘industry-ready’ graduates Solent was producing on its accredited media courses.

Cultural Olympiad Director Ruth Mackenzie added: “We’re looking forward to the films being shown in Olympic and Paralympic venues.”

Willetts visits The impact of higher education on the region’s economy was top of the agenda when the Rt Hon. David Willetts MP, Minister for Universities and Science, visited the University.

Providing ‘real-world’ experience was highlighted as the minister toured Solent University’s groundbreaking creative industries agency, business start-up pods and media production facilities.

The visit gave the University – which prides itself on strong regional business links – an opportunity to showcase its employability and enterprise initiative.

The minister met students being matched to external organisations through Solent Creatives – the University-wide initiative which provides value-added services for employers, while improving undergraduate employability.

He was also shown film clips produced by the University’s TV and Film Production students with regional media company Newsquest, and he talked to Warsash Maritime Academy cadets about their excellent job prospects.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Van Gore said: “We’ve developed a unique model for breaking down the barriers between business and higher education. Our students really enjoyed the opportunity to talk to the minister about their experience and ambitions.”

Opportunity knocks for creatives Creative students are getting the right experience for an enterprising future, through an innovative agency that matches talent with need.

Solent Creatives registers students skilled in more than 30 disciplines and matches them with organisations needing specialist support for projects ranging from website development and brochure production to event management and twitter-led branding.

It means students get the skills they need to be future freelancers or directors of small businesses, within areas ranging from marketing and public relations to design and advertising.

Typical projects – which are usually off site – start with a meeting between the student, Solent Creatives agency staff and the organisation, to discuss a detailed brief and deadline.

Rates of pay are negotiated before briefings, with subsequent freelance rates arranged directly between students and their contacts.

Organisations get unrivalled access to affordable services, while students get valuable experience in pitching and retaining contracts

and a portfolio that proves they can work on their own initiative, on time and on budget.

Suzanne Dixon, Head of the School of Writing and Communication, said: “It’s increasingly common for people to work in the media sector on a self-employed, contract basis and we’re encouraging our students to be entrepreneurial to compete in the new environment.

“Solent Creatives gives students commercial exposure while also building strong, mutually beneficial links with the region’s businesses, giving them affordable access to valuable media expertise.”

Grumpy is great A film made by Solent students about a badtempered tot is helping the NHS to recruit health visitors.

Grumpy Baby forms part of a campaign to raise the profile of health visiting as a key service for new parents and a rewarding career for healthcare professionals.

BA (Hons) Film students Greg Michael and Reese Howard produced the film – inspired by Mitchell and Webb’s Peep Show – as part of a Solent Creatives project.

The film – which took three months to make – will help South Central NHS to recruit more than 150 health visitors, or trainee specialist community public health nurses.

“It was fascinating working with a two-year-old. Sometimes it was hard to get James to sit still and look in the right direction,” said Greg, who is planning to set up his own promotional film business.

Clare Messenger, Associate Director of South Central Strategic Health Authority Children and Young People, said: “The students’ innovative approach and fresh perspective produced a film which gets people talking.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 19

Rob gets real Bestival creator Rob da Bank has strengthened his links with the University after receiving a Visiting Fellowship.

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he festival entrepreneur, DJ, record label owner, journalist and musician is the founder of two of the UK’s most popular festivals – Bestival and Camp Bestival.

Since 2010, when Rob was a guest speaker at the University’s annual music industry event, SMILE, he’s provided enviable work placements and performance slots for Solent students, as well as giving Solent bands and musicians airtime on his Radio 1 show.

The working relationship has been so successful that Rob recently made Solent University the sole academic partner of Bestival and Camp Bestival, meaning its students will continue to play a central part in the festival production.

“We’ve always been impressed with the work of Solent University students. Further collaboration is a natural fit and an exciting development for us,” said Rob. “When I did my first SMILE, the students asked cracking questions that showed independent thought and that seemed to reflect the innovative and exciting courses they were doing.”

Rob also instigated the creation of the Association of Independent Festivals, which aims to promote the UK’s independently spirited festivals, encouraging efficient management and a better audience experience.

With that ethos in mind, he is working with Solent’s music team to create professional development units that will open up more career opportunities in music festivals throughout the UK, Europe and the USA. Dr Martin James, Senior Lecturer in Popular Music, said: “Rob da Bank is a globally successful music entrepreneur who started promoting events as a student. He became a staff writer on Muzik following a successful spell as a graduate intern, before going on to launch a record label, host a Radio 1 show and create one of the most successful music festival brands of recent times.

“He’s a true role model for Solent’s music and media students, and his appointment as Visiting Fellow adds gravitas to Solent’s growing reputation as the leading university for music festivals.”

Rob, who hails from Warsash, held the first Bestival at Robin Hill Country Park on the Isle of Wight in 2004. It soon established itself as one of the most idiosyncratic and popular annual music gatherings, drawing crowds of 40,000 and being named the UK’s best mediumsized festival.

20 | HEADWAY | Summer 2012

Rob now books a host of legendary musicians and breaks some of the industry’s most exciting new acts, but his musical background is more traditional.

“My childhood was spent sailing and playing trombone in the Warsash brass band. We played in the church hall as the liners left Southampton,” he said.

When he moved to London, Rob mixed his love for music and DJing with an unstoppable determination to make things happen. He started a regular club night, Sunday Best, which grew into a record label before forming the basis of his festival business.

But although he enjoyed life in the capital, his commitment to Hampshire guided his plans.

“It was really important to me to start up a festival close to where I’d grown up. I love the Isle of Wight and I really wanted to start a festival there. It wasn’t easy. We had to do a lot to convince the locals that we weren’t going to turn the island into some kind of rave hell,” explained Rob. “We were up against the Isle of Wight Festival organisers, who didn’t particularly like the idea of us being there at first. There were also unique logistical issues to contend with – ferrying artists and crowds on to the site.

“It’s been worth it though. We have a home on the Isle of Wight. I love the beaches and the peacefulness of it and I’m very involved in community and youth organisations.”

Managing a festival is a 365 days a year job, requiring nerves of steel, monumental commitment and an ability to manage the most minute details.

“Festivals are not just about bands. You’re running a temporary small village. We had just 4,000 people at the first Bestival. I thought we’d open the gates and have a cup of tea, but immediately there were problems – ranging from running out of loo roll to a sinking stage. We were flat out. After snatching ten minutes’ sleep in a spider-infested tee-pee, we were up again, worrying about the next lot of bands.

“The second Bestival felt better, but it took me four years before I began to feel like I had control. It’s hedonism and high energy on such a big scale. There are two police stations, mobile hospitals – it’s a temporary town of 50,000.”

Five years after starting Bestival, Rob identified a gap in the market and started the family-friendly Camp Bestival.

“Festival goers were growing up and having kids. Camp Bestival was for parents who wanted a full festival experience with their children. I think we’ve achieved that and it’s very popular and different from other festivals. For instance, there’s nowhere else where you’ll get a call out for bodyguards because Mr Tumble is being mobbed.”

Bonding with Bestival

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olent University continues to lead the way in its involvement with Britain’s music and arts festivals.

The multi-million-pound festivals industry provides employment opportunities in areas ranging from performance to sound engineering and broadcast. Solent University has an enviable track record which it has strengthened even further for 2012.

Dr Martin James, Course Leader BA (Hons) Popular Music Journalism and Solent University Festivals Coordinator, said: “We’ve

developed some very exciting links with music festivals over recent years, but our partnership with Bestival is the best yet. It allows us to support students who have real drive for future employment within the music festivals industry. They will have unrivalled opportunities to focus their skills.”

During the 2011 Bestival, students worked in stage management and production, sound and lighting, and artist liaison. They also filmed two stages for a live multi-camera feed which was projected onto the festival’s LED screens. Popular Music Journalism students worked on Bestival’s daily newspaper, The Bestival Bugle.

At Camp Bestival, University bands The Widowmaker and Fly, Frankie Fly! performed after being personally selected by Rob da Bank, and one student produced an animation that was shown on the main screens all weekend.

Popular Music Journalism student Carl Gwynne was a Production Assistant. He said: “The experience was really rewarding. It was full on and I was able to put a lot of transferable skills into practice. I was treated like I was part of the team at every festival, so I had to learn the ropes quickly. I see a career in music festival production management ahead of me.”

Music Promotion student Carly Rockett worked in artist liaison at Camp Bestival. She said: “Working at Camp Bestival was eye-opening and inspiring. I gained invaluable knowledge.”

Students also worked at Blissfields. Music Journalism students created the programme and a documentary, while others worked in artist liaison, box office, stage crew and as backline technicians.

Three Popular Music and Production students ran the mobile stage at the award-winning Wilderness event and one Music Journalism student was the official journalist for the Sonisphere festival.

Paul Bliss, Head of Blissfields, said: “The Solent students were indispensable. They were of good calibre and we would certainly like to work alongside Solent again.”

Science fires up festival Pole-dancing robots and energy-saving ecology were part of an eclectic science show put on by Solent University lecturer Anthony Gallagher at Bestival.

The science tent, designed, coordinated and hosted by Anthony, made its appearance to critical acclaim. Anthony is now rolling out the tent – designed to promote science in a positive and engaging light – to more festivals and events across the UK.

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 21

While you’re a “student and once you’ve graduated, get as much experience as you can. Always be open to learning and stay interested in people, wherever they come from.

Zoe Ball

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Gigs, industry talks, challenges and a city-centre festival produced by students made SMILE 2012 the most successful yet.

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he University’s fourth dedicated music industry festival saw students producing, promoting and performing live gigs across Southampton.

The students were joined by some of the industry’s top players, who shared their knowledge and skills with those wanting to carve out a career in a sector that has become an increasingly important part of the UK’s economy.

A panel of industry experts cast their critical ears over the demos of Solent producers and performers, while more than 100 students took on a series of challenges – from recording an album to making a magazine in a day.

Third-year BA (Hons) Popular Music Journalism and BA (Hons) Music Promotion students took charge of media outputs and the promotion of 15 gigs, including SMILE Fringe, Rock Paper Scissors and the SMILE closing party, while second-year Music Promotion, students promoted a further 10 gigs.

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The festival culminated in the free open-air gig, ‘SMILE in the Square’, which drew more than 1,200 people to Southampton’s Guildhall. It was entirely produced and created by third year students.

Dr Martin James, SMILE founder and Music Journalism Course Leader, said: “Industry experts love taking part in SMILE and our students gain a huge insight.”

From top: Zoe Ball chats with the audience.

Rob da Bank with Dr Martin James.

Alabama 3 have a jam session.

The names Top 1970s and 80s music men, Producers, came to SMILE for a Q&A session with students, before performing an intimate gig at the Millais Theatre.

The group – made up of Solent University Honorary Doctor, Trevor Horn, with Stephen Lipson, Lol Creme and Ash Soan – performed Horn’s Buggles hit ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’ as part of their repertoire.

Trevor Horn CBE – is one of Britain’s greatest record producers.

Bands and solo artists he has worked with include ABC, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Simple Minds, Pet Shop Boys, Boyzone, Rod Stewart and Robbie Williams. Performing with Buggles, he scored a worldwide hit with ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’.

Stephen Lipson – 10cc and Godley & Creme – enjoyed a run of hits, as well as producing some of the most memorable videos of the 1980s, working with The Police, Duran Duran and Frankie Goes to Hollywood.

Drummer Ash Soan – Squeeze – recently recorded with Adele and Cee Lo Green. He has played on 27 top 10 albums and seven number one singles.

Solent University Visiting Fellow Colin Lester gave a talk to students on his career as manager for artists including Arctic Monkeys and Craig David.

Bestival co-founder Rob da Bank, with Jim Mawdsley (Evolution, Newcastle) and Jo McKay (LarMac Live), gave an insight into successful independent festivals.

Rob da Bank received a Visiting Fellowship, after talking to students about the industry.

James McMahon, editor of the UK’s loudest music weekly, Kerrang!, was awarded a Visiting Fellowship.

James – who previously lectured at the University – accepted his award after hosting ‘an audience with’ leading Welsh punk rock band The Blackout.

The music journalist has been credited with putting some of the biggest bands on the radar – including Maximo Park and Futureheads.

He said: “Coming back to Solent University for SMILE reminded me what a great place the University is and how proud I am to be involved.

I’m very happy to support Solent University’s innovative endeavours to involve students in the cutting edge of the music industry.”

Radio DJ and TV presenter Zoe Ball received a Visiting Fellowship, following an inspirational talk to students.

The first female to host the coveted BBC Radio 1 breakfast show, Zoe has enjoyed a glittering broadcast career, ranging from TV researcher and presenter to talk show host.

Until recently, Zoe hosted a mid-morning show on BBC Radio 2 and the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing spin-off, It Takes Two. She said: “Solent University would have been exactly the kind of place I would love to have come to. I’m looking forward to an ongoing relationship.”

Dubbed by many as the best live band in the UK, Country Acid House Music fusion band Alabama 3 famously sung the theme tune to The Sopranos. After a lively and candid Q&A session, they performed an acoustic set for students.

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 23

New facilities

£18 million invested in new facilities.

Highlights included: the purchase of a prime site for development to the side of the main University campus; the opening of the Timsbury Lake Ship Handling Centre near Romsey; the new Wessex Leaguestandard football facilities at Test Park; and a new home for the School of Art and Design.

Test Park’s a triumph

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uperb sports facilities, perfect pitches and champion changing rooms lie right in the heart of Southampton, thanks to Solent University’s brand new multi-million-pound sports development.

The multi-purpose Test Park Sports Facility – part of the University’s roll-out of sports development programmes across the city – was officially opened by Southampton FC legend Matt Le Tissier.

It is the latest addition to the University’s dedicated sports facilities to complement the student learning experience and continued commitment to widening community participation.

Boasting a full size 3G multi-purpose all-weather sports pitch, Wessex League floodlit football stadium, two adult size grass pitches and a changing room pavilion with teaching space, Test Park is proving

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a hit with staff, students and the local community.

It provides an enviable venue for the University’s Sport Solent matches and training – including outdoor football and American football – and is also the home of the FA Charter Mark Oakwood Football Club.

Test Park is a win–win for students and the community, with Solent students using it as a brilliant training ground for coaching qualifications, as they offer first-class training and supervision to local schoolchildren as part of their curriculum development.

Test Park has already hosted a variety of sporting events for students and the community, including Leisure Leagues’ six-a-side, Wessex League football and Solent Redhawks American football fixtures, FA Tesco Skills kids programme, Mars-sponsored Just Play sessions and Elite Training Centre children’s football, bridging the gap between grass roots and academy football.

Sport Solent Director Phil Green said: “This amazing new facility benefits both students and the wider community of all ages. It offers unique opportunities to encourage participation and a commitment to sport.”

This amazing new facility “benefits both students and the wider community of all ages. It offers unique opportunities to encourage participation and a commitment to sport.

”

New facilities

Opening up art The University’s brand new gallery and exhibition space opened with a stunning display of thoughtprovoking art from one of the most celebrated artists and cultural commentators of the last few decades.

The city-centre gallery – the first major addition to Southampton’s emerging cultural quarter – is enjoying increased footfall through its prime position, encouraging shoppers and seasoned art lovers to engage in contemporary art through nationally and internationally acclaimed exhibitors.

It coincides with the expansion of the University’s art courses and the development of a new space for the Solent School of Art and Design close to the city’s Bargate.

The new venue opened with ‘Nine Artists, Nine Narratives’, an exhibition of works from Professor Richard Demarco’s personal archive, featuring renowned artists including Joseph Beuys, Paul Neagu and Ian Hamilton.

Octogenarian Demarco, CBE, OBE, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Arts from the University. He said: “The University cares deeply about creativity. Art makes us human; it enables us to make sense of the mysteries of life. The language of art gives hope for the future.”

Solent Showcase has also been earmarked as a centre for performance art, including contemporary dance, poetry reading and acoustic sets. Its opening night performance, Miss Julie, directed by Marcell Ivanyi and performed by Budapest’s Yvette Bozsik Dance Company, was a taste of things to come.

The Chancellor, Admiral The Right Honourable Lord West of Spithead, said: “The University has the largest arts and creative industries faculties outside London. Solent Showcase is truly wonderful. It will open up art to more people.”

Gallery curator Les Buckingham added: “Our new gallery space will facilitate more exhibitions and performances in the city centre and will work in harmony with the city’s cultural quarter activities. It was fabulous that the University was able to display works from Professor Demarco’s personal archive at the opening and that the University honoured him with a doctorate for his commitment to the arts over many years.”

Clockwise:: Former Saints get stuck in at Test Park opening. Dance troop make shapes at the new Showcase Gallery.

HRH Prince Philip takes a closer look at manned models.

Royal visit for Ship Handling Centre Warsash Maritime Academy’s manned model Ship Handling Centre was given a royal seal of approval when the Duke of Edinburgh paid a visit.

The University last played host to the Duke 15 years ago at its former ship handling site in Marchwood. Impressed with the new £2.7 million centre at Timsbury, near Romsey, the Duke of Edinburgh once again boarded ‘Challenger’ and navigated the lake, under the expert tuition of Senior Lecturer Gordon Maxwell.

The Duke, who spent more than 20 years in the Royal Navy, was keen to learn how the facilities emulate challenges in maritime navigation, increase pilot skill levels and ultimately improve safety at sea.

He was especially interested in how the lake and its training features were constructed and the type of training the centre provides.

“With his Royal Navy background, the Duke had a particular interest in the purpose of our training and its environmental benefits through prevention of catastrophes like the Exxon Valdez oil tanker spill,” said Gordon.

Back on shore, the Duke watched delegates in the manned models undertake a range of ship-handling scenarios, before meeting staff and students and touring the classroom and workshop facilities.

Solent University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Van Gore, said: “The University was honoured that the Duke of Edinburgh visited our new world-class ship-handling facility.”

The centre – one of only five in the world – was officially opened in June 2011 during a ceremony presided over by the University’s Chancellor, Admiral The Right Honourable Lord West of Spithead.

It was the culmination of a year of construction involving the creation of berths, basins and channels designed to replicate port scenarios, canal transits and berthing operations for officers and pilots practising complex maritime manoeuvres.

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 25

University helps city commemorate Titanic It’s a subject close to the heart of the people of Southampton and one which attracts worldwide interest – so the challenge was on for Solent University staff and students to organise and broadcast the Titanic commemorations.

n an act of remembrance to mark the centenary of the ill-fated liner’s departure from berth 44 at Southampton Docks, descendants of those who perished on the Titanic placed wreaths and flowers in the water.

Images of the ‘Titanic 100 Commemorative Event’ – organised by Solent University with Associated British Ports – were beamed around the world by ITV Meridian, working with the University, and the BBC News Channel. A team of Solent University staff and students provided the BBC with a live feed, and more than 20 minutes of the event was broadcast uninterrupted.

The event recalled the ‘Titanic Story’, up to its sinking after hitting an iceberg on its maiden voyage to New York. A minute’s silence to respect those who perished was followed, at noon, by the ‘sounding off’ of a recording of the Titanic’s whistle, exactly when the liner left its mooring. A flotilla of vessels – led by the tug tender Calshot, which was

I

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built in the same era to manoeuvre the world’s greatest ocean liners – re-enacted the ship’s departure.

ITV Meridian presenter Fred Dinenage, whose great uncle perished in the tragedy, hosted the event. The Royal Marines Association Concert Band and the Southampton Choral Society played during the proceedings, which ended with prayers and the hymn ‘Nearer My God to Thee’, which was said to have been played by the ship’s musicians as the Titanic sank.

Wreaths were placed in the dock by the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Dame Mary Fagan, Solent University’s Chancellor, Admiral the Lord West of Spithead, and other civic dignitaries and representatives of maritime organisations. Everyone attending was invited to place roses in the sea as an act of personal tribute.

The sinking of the Titanic is imbedded in the psyche of Southampton, which has more Titanic memorials than anywhere else

to create “suchIt wasa verya privilege special occasion, knowing how much it means to the people of our city and the wider world.

”

in the world. The dockland city bore the brunt of the death toll, with 549 – more than a third of the total – dying in the disaster.

Civic dignitaries, representatives of maritime organisations, and business and community leaders were joined at Southampton’s Ocean Terminal by more than 650 descendants of those who had been on board for the ship’s ill-fated maiden voyage.

Solent staff and students ensured the smooth management of the event, providing professional media relations, live film footage and outside broadcast feeds. The University also published the official programme.

Trevor Thorne, Solent University’s Director of Marketing and Communications and Titanic 100 event organiser, said: “It was a privilege to create such a very special occasion, knowing how much it means to the people of our city and the wider world.”

Vanessa Beecham, from Southampton, paid tribute to her great

uncle Edward Biggs, a fireman who died aged 21. “I enjoyed the ceremony, which was tasteful and moving,” she said.

Robin Britton, Head of News at ITV Meridian, said: “Solent University staff and students gave us such valuable assistance. It was a big programme for ITV News, more than a year in the planning, and a special edition of Meridian Tonight that we knew would attract a very big audience with high expectations.

“Ratings were the highest we’ve achieved this year, with an audience of more than 400,000. We’ve had many emails and letters from viewers and other professional colleagues, complimenting us on the programme and telling us how they regarded the Titanic 100 Commemoration as the most fitting event so far.

“The facilities and production crew which Solent University provided for the outside broadcast were first class and undoubtedly enhanced the core coverage we had put in place.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 27

business training “hasMybeen really useful in the planning, budgeting and sponsorship skills needed in our sailing endeavours.

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C/wise from left: Kate sails ahead, Ben’s for Britain and high drama for Paul.

Solent’s Olympic stars Former student Paul Goodison, present student Kate Macgregor and Honorary Doctor Ben Ainslie are flying the flag for Solent University at the 2012 Olympics.

Paul Goodison, Solent alumnus and Honorary Doctor of Sport, won laser sailing gold in Beijing 2008 and is hoping for another top spot on the podium. Since Beijing, Paul has continued to shine in his sailing challenges and secured victory in the Melges 32 Europeans.

He said: “Ever since Beijing I’ve been focusing on 2012, making sure I’m in the best possible shape. I’ve been doing a lot of ‘on the water sailing’ supplemented by four gym sessions a week, mainly on weights, and six to ten hours’ aerobic training through cycling.

“It’s a great honour to represent Team GB at the Olympics again and even more special with so many friends and family there to watch.”

As a former Solent student, Paul is especially pleased to see BA (Hons) Business Management student Kate Macgregor in the team.

He said: “Kate is in good hands and I’m sure her team will be in a good place to deliver the right result.”

At just 20 years old, Kate is the youngest in the squad, joining Annie Lush and her older sister, Lucy, as part of the match racing team going for gold.

Kate and Lucy have already made history as the first sisters in British sailing to be picked for Team GB. It’s the culmination of an exciting campaign which saw the team win the match racing worlds in France.

“At one point we were ranked world number one, so a gold medal is a real possibility and we are working hard with that in mind,” said Kate.

Kate came to Solent University to study for a career in business and to take advantage of the University’s sailing reputation.

“I wanted to get into the business side of the sailing industry, but I also wanted to continue in my sport,” said Kate.

“I was part of the University sailing team that won the student world championships and I was invited to join the match racing team.

My business training has been really useful in the planning, budgeting and sponsorship skills needed in our sailing endeavours.”

Match racing differs from other sailing events in that it consists of two boat ‘sprints’ over a two-lap course, with winners racing each other until there is an overall victor. It requires quick thinking, tactics and fitness as competitors use boat-handling skills, the winds and currents to gain control of the race.

“There’s nothing like winning an event on home waters. It would be my dream to win a medal and make my family, friends and the University proud,” said Kate.

Ben Ainslie, Solent University Honorary Doctor of Sport, is an inspiration to both Kate and Paul. Ben – who had the honour of starting the torch relay on British soil - will compete in the Finn category, having returned to the event after two years away. He has won gold at every Olympic Games since Sydney 2000 and is on course to win a fourth consecutive Olympic gold medal.

He said: “It was a big relief to have my place for 2012 confirmed.

Competition was strong and I had to be at my very best in every race.

I’ve been working hard to get my fitness to peak at the right time.”

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 29

ALUMNI WHERE ARE YOU NOW? This is your chance to let everyone know where you’ve been and what you’ve been up to since graduating. To appear in the next issue, just fill in the Alumni Update Form, on our website at www.solent.ac.uk or email your update to: alumni@solent.ac.uk

1975 David Cradduck HND Graphic Design David studied to be a graphic designer from 1972 to 1975 at Southampton College of Art. His first (foundation) year was spent in the old shared Deanery School campus near the docks, before moving into the new building in East Park Terrace. He ran his own graphics business for 35 years and is now marketing Smartphone apps and providing design and marketing consultancy services.

1990 Jason Crocker After graduating, Jason went into the aerospace industry, writing software for flight simulators. He has been involved with IT ever since and is currently Chief Engineer for Abiquo – a ‘cloud’ software start-up in Barcelona. He is also Founder and Director of Stratospherix Ltd which produces software for iPhone and iPad..

1994 Sharon Scott LLB While studying for her degree, Sharon completed work experience with Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, Mundy Coutts Wood Solicitors, the Sheffield Magistrates Court and the Probation Service.

After graduation, she held a number of positions, such as Legal Officer for Abbey National Shareholders Services, Legal Administrator at Nabarro Nathanson and Legal Assistant for Young Criminal Defence Solicitors, where she assisted with crime and immigration work.

Sharon also carried out freelance

30 | HEADWAY | Summer 2012

marketing and design work for The Body Shop and TopShop, before returning to the legal industry. In 2010, Sharon trained to be a citizens advice volunteer, as well as a generalist advisor. In 2011, she began selfemployment as an independent distributor for Utility Warehouse.

1995 Jacquelyn Ready BA (Hons) Fine Art Valuation Before working fulltime, Jacquelyn was a facilitator for Fareham and Gosport Mental Health Day Services, and whilst finishing her dissertation she volunteered at Hampshire Museums, as she was desperate to work there. Jacquelyn now works for Hampshire County Council Museums and Archive Service as a Conservator of Social History/Collections Officer, and is also looking for some freelance projects.

1996 Kieran Delaney HND Graphic Design After graduating, Kieran worked for a small start-up agency in Camden Town, London and corporate giant, Texaco. He took two years off to travel and work in Australia and after his return, he spent five years working for a healthcare membership-based organisation in High Holborn.

Three years ago, Kieran landed his dream job as Art Director in a healthcare advertising agency in Soho which, he says, has been hard graft but hugely rewarding.

Rudy Jurg BA (Hons) Maritime Leisure Management Keen to pursue a career in the leisure marine industry, Rudy continued to work for Opal Marine after his graduation.

An ambition for world travel took him sailing

around Australia and Indonesia, and afterwards he joined rigs manufacturer Carbospars in Hamble as Sales Manager.

After four years, he joined an International 12M racing boat to sail around the Solent and the Mediterranean, and managed a few new-build and refit projects.

Rudy joined SP-High Modulus, the marine business of Gurit in Newport, Isle of Wight, in 2003 as a Sales Technician for Marine and Architectural Structures and travelled extensively through the Middle East, South America, South Africa and his home country, Holland.

Rudy was closely involved with the 2007 Americas Cup. He has also helped to diversify and expand the business into architectural composite structures and got involved with the engineering and supply of materials for the second highest building in the world, the Mekkah Clock Tower in Saudi Arabia.

1998 John Anagnostopoulos BSc (Hons) Shipping Operations After his time at Solent University, John joined the military, worked in Athens, Greece, and moved to Singapore in 2007. He is now working as Insurance and Claim Manager for Tanker Pacific Managemnet (Singapore) Pte.

2004 Luca Cataluffi BA (Hons) Business Management After his graduation, Luca spent some time in the Alps. In June 2006, he became a Marketing Executive for Marriott International and nearly three years later he joined SIDA USA in Marketing and Commercial Development in Los Angeles. He is now Sales and Marketing Manager at SPES S.c.p.a., and is about to get married.

ALUMNI WHERE ARE YOU NOW? Sarah Rajabalee BA (Hons) Journalism After graduating, Sarah went back into education in 2008 to study for an NCTJ in Newspaper Journalism. She is now working in public relations.

2005

Adam Lewis BSc (Hons) Merchant Ship Operations Adam had various shore-based jobs before joining the International Maritime Employers’ Committee (IMEC) in 2010 as the Operations and Training Manager. He is now responsible for the management of a number of maritime training initiatives, most predominately the IMEC cadet programme in the Philippines. Currently they have around 900 young Filipino men and women who are undergoing a four-year training programme to become future ship navigators and engineers.

Martha Cadle BA (Hons) Fine Art Since graduating, Martha has worked in various art-related areas but has most recently been appointed Short Course and Summer School in Arts Course Leader at Oxford Brookes University.

Oana Anghel BA (Hons) Multimedia Design Oana moved to London in 2006 with aspirations to join the media industry as an editor. Her first industry position was as a runner for a busy film post-production house in Soho. She spent the next four years building up her knowledge and skills before becoming a fully integrated member of the Graphics team, creating title sequences for films and TV programmes.

She is now Junior Producer for GreyWorks, the in-house post facility for ad agency Grey, handling their output, as well as other creative projects.

2006 Anisha Vasani BA (Hons) Journalism While studying at Solent University, Anisha enjoyed work experience at the Daily Mirror, Closer, Heat magazine, X Factor and BBC Watchdog.

For the past five years, she has been working at Asiana Wedding magazine and Asiana TV. At 23 years old, she was the youngest editor ever appointed by Asiana TV and she is still in this role.

Lydia Anne Thompson BA (Hons) Fashion Writing and Culture Lydia was awarded Best Stylist for her final major pathway in Photography and Styling while studying at Solent. Since graduating in 2006, she has worked as a fashion and beauty writer, as well as a stylist, for More!, Stylist and Look. She has styled shoots for Rimmel Cosmetics, Heat and OK! magazines and has recently styled fashion campaigns for Claire’s Accessories and Internacionale.

Simon Tipple BA (Hons) Film, Television and Performance Simon works for Sega – Sports Interactive on the ‘Football Manager’ games and helps coordinate the scouting of players around the world to ensure accurate information and ratings for all staff in the footballing world.

Filming Southampton Football Club matches while studying at Solent helped him secure a role filming first team and youth team matches at Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club.

2009 Bertie Green BSc (Hons) Construction After getting his degree, Bertie topped up his qualifications with an HNC in Quantity Surveying. He works for Garenne Shopfitting as a Quantity Surveyor, on projects all over

the UK. Although he achieved Chartered Builder status in 2010, his current aim is to become a Chartered Surveyor.

Nathan Myerthall BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering Since graduating, Nathan has been trained up in the theme park industry. He looked after some of London’s top rides and rollercoasters, and currently works at Thorpe Park. He is working towards becoming a Chartered Engineer.

Tracy Stevens BA (Hons) Events Management with Tourism After a year of short-term internships, Tracy got a job as the Education Business Manager for Marwell Wildlife Park. She enjoys her role in a workplace that is so unusual that she can see rhinos from her office window.

2010

Steven Woodgate BA (Hons) Sports Journalism After a stint of travel and sporting experiences – witnessing England win the Ashes, Andy Murray at the US Open and competitive squash in Kuala Lumpur – Steven ended up at Atletico Madrid’s training ground, interviewing Sergio Aguero. He is studying for an MA in Public Relations and worked as a Project Managing Intern at Solent University. He has also worked parttime in communications for Winchester City Football Club and most recently secured a role as a Digital Marketer for the global company, Avery Dennison.

Summer 2012 | HEADWAY | 31

Sport Solent Gold, Silver and Bronze gym memberships at student rates

MEMBERSHIP NEWS SOLENT GRADUATE NETWORK – what’s in it for you?

Membership of the Solent Graduate Network is free and automatic for all graduates of Southampton Solent University, Southampton Institute, Warsash Maritime Academy (formerly College of Nautical Studies), Southampton Technical College, Southampton College of Technology, Southampton College of Art, and Southampton College of Higher Education.

KEEP IN TOUCH! Alumni are urged to take advantage of the Sports Centre St Mary's, which has a separate state-of-the-art fitness suite and weights room. Tailor made training programmes are available as well as exciting fitness classes. Friendly female staff provide women only gym sessions and fitness classes in a closed and private environment. Sports Centre St Mary's welcomes people of all abilities and levels of fitness.

For more details Tel: 023 8031 9277 Email: sport.solent@solent.ac.uk. *Offer valid from July 2012 to 30 June 2013.

Full terms and conditions apply.

Southampton Solent University Alumni can now benefit from student prices on all watersports courses*

We really want to know what you have been doing so tell us about your life after graduation!

Whether you’re undertaking further study, working, travelling the world, running your own business, organising a reunion or raising a family, we’d like to hear about it.

Also, if you know any graduates who do not receive HEADWAY, ask them to contact us so we can ensure we have their correct details on our database.

Don’t forget to let the Alumni Office know if you change your address, e-mail or job title!

You can update your details here: www.solent.ac.uk/about-us/graduates/alumni/registrationupdate-form.aspx With a network of over 45,000 members worldwide, Solent Graduate Network aims to maintain lifelong links with past students, promote your achievements and foster contact with old friends and colleagues.

In addition to continued links with Southampton Solent University, membership benefits include: • • • • • • • • • • •

HEADWAY – the alumni magazine News of reunions and events Continued use of the library and Sport Solent facilities Support of the University’s career service Inclusion in the online e-mail directory of graduates and/or professional networking directory Contact service which enables you to get in touch with old friends Discounts on postgraduate/professional study and use of conference/training facilities Free Solent Spark Discount Card Use of Students’ Union facilities Mail order service of University memorabilia Dedicated alumni pages on the University website

For full details of our benefits and discounts visit: www.solent.ac.uk/aboutus/graduates/alumni/graduate-discount-scheme.aspx The RYA recognised Training Centre offers practical courses in dinghy and keelboat sailing,powerboating and personal water craft (PWC) as well as RYA shore based qualifications.

For further details www.solent.ac.uk/watersport Tel: 01489 556298. *This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Full terms and conditions apply.

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You can get in touch with us via: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/solentgraduatenetwork Twitter: @solentunialumni LinkedIn: http://linkd.in/f1TowM or search for Solent Graduate Network Tel: 02380 319642 Fax: 02380 334161 Email: alumni@solent.ac.uk

www.solent.ac.uk/alumni

GIFT COLLECTION

HEADWAY - Southampton Solent University’s Alumni Magazine

To order your Southampton Solent University gifts, please complete the order form in full and return to: Alumni Office, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace, SOUTHAMPTON, SO14 0RB, UK. All prices include VAT and are valid until January 2013.

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# DESCRIPTION 1 Benji Bear (with t-shirt only)** 2 Graduation Bear (with t-shirt, mortar board and cloak) 3 Silver 1GB USB Stick

UNIT PRICE

TOTAL

£11.00 £7.00 £10.00

5 Golf umbrella

£10.00

7 Rollerball Parker pen in black presentation case

P&P*

£9.00

4 Silver star business card & photo holder

6 Silver-plated key ring

QUANTITY

£6.00 £10.00

8 Red pin badge

£1.00

9 University scroll

£6.00

10 University tie

£10.00

*Postage and packaging extra. Please add per item: £2 UK and Europe; £3 outside Europe ** Please note, mortar board not included on standard Benji Bear

Order total:

£

Name (in full): .................................................................................................................................. Daytime telephone: ..................................................................................

Address: ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Postcode: .......................................................................................................................................... Email: ............................................................................................................

Please allow 28 days for delivery from receipt of order. All orders must be accompanied by full payment. Refunds will only be given if the goods are faulty or out of stock.

Summer 2011 | HEADWAY | 33

WANT TO DO MORE? Southampton Solent alumni can apply for 10% discount on our Postgraduate and Professional courses which can help enhance personal and professional development even further To find out more about our courses talk to your lecturer or visit our website

www.solent.ac.uk PUBD2012-04-1816