SWANSEA INSTITUTE ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
INTOUCH ISSUE 6 I DECEMBER 2005
NEW SWANSEA SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
A Member of the University of Wales Aelod o Brifysgol Cymru
from the past to the future...
S WA N S E A I N S T I T U T E O F H I G H E R E D U C AT I O N
ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
TALES FROM THE PAST AS THE INSTITUTE LOOKS TO THE FUTURE memories of the ‘Angel Staircase’ were vivid because of a night when she returned late from a dance, with friends, and had to use the forbidden staircase; the strict rules would have led to severe consequences but thankfully she wasn’t caught! Myra also remembered the students being chaperoned at dances. Perhaps her most exciting and romantic memory was of being in the college library with friends when they heard the radio announcement that King Edward was abdicating to marry Mrs Simpson: "We thought it was most romantic that a king would give up his throne for the woman he loved," said Myra. When the ‘New Teacher Training Today Myra is a warm, thoughtful lady located.” College’ was officially opened in Now in its 133rd year of educating and of eighty eight years and she is an Townhill in 1913, the British and inspiration to today’s student teachers. training teachers, Swansea Institute’s Foreign School Society produced a She said that her return to the college Townhill Campus received a surprise report which stated: “It lies with the was a special one for her. It was also a visit recently from one of its past new managers to determine whether very special day for Swansea Institute students, who returned to find the the next volume shall be a record of of Higher Education. ‘Angel Staircase’ that she remembered equal peace and more rapid progress, so well. As Myra Harrison (nee of higher aspirations and worthier Whent) stood on the staircase, which achievements.” she would not have been allowed to 92 years on, Swansea Institute’s use as a student in 1936, memories Townhill Campus not only has a flooded back. history and reputation of producing Myra’s studies at the Institute began in some of the best teachers in England 1936 and she qualified as a teacher in and Wales, but is looking ahead to 1939. She recalled that the prize of ten becoming one of the largest and most pounds that she won as one of the top powerful teacher training colleges in the three students “seemed like a fortune” UK with the creation of its new and that she was required to write to Swansea School of Education. the Principal, Rhoda Roberts, to tell However, the roots of teacher training her what she bought with the money; in Swansea stem back to 1872, where a picture and a few books as she one of Swansea Institute’s predecessor recalled. A distinction in teaching, colleges was purposely built to cope and credit in all other subjects, with the demand for teacher training. earned her the coveted prize. The British and Foreign School Society She also recalled that the had to choose between Aberystwyth dormitories were all within the and Swansea as a location for the college building on the Townhill college; their 1913 report stated: Campus. The special “Swansea appeared to be a suitable place, central for South Wales, easy of access by railway and steamboat from North Wales and the West of England, and possessing a moral and political atmosphere in which (the college) was likely to thrive, and there it was resolved that (it) should be
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In August 2004, the Institute took control of Swansea University’s teacher training courses based at Hendrefoelan. As a result it has created the new Swansea School of Education, which includes BAEd, Primary and Secondary PGCEs, FE teaching and other teaching qualifications, in-service Diplomas and Masters’ and a doctoral programme. The Dynevor complex in the City
Swansea Institute, commented: “Swansea Institute and Swansea University have led the way with their bold reorganization of higher education teaching in the City. “The fruits of this initiative are already beginning to show with increased applications for programmes at both Centre is the new home for the Swansea institutions. I am particularly pleased School of Art and Design and as a that our Townhill Campus, which is the result, the Institute’s Townhill Campus home of teacher education in Swansea, has become available for a complete will shortly become one of the premier refurbishment and redevelopment of the sites in the UK training areas at a cost of approximately for this £2.5 million. In September 2006, this work,” will become the new home of the he combined Swansea School of Education. added. Professor David Warner, Principal of
TEACHER TRAINING AT THE SWANSEA SCHOOL OF EDUCATION Betty Morris, Recruitment Officer said: “It is a very exciting year for us here at the Swansea School of Education. The amalgamation of all the Post Graduate Certificate of Education courses from University of Wales Swansea and the Swansea Institute of Higher Education in 2004 resulted in the largest post graduate teacher training centre in Wales: the Swansea School of Education. Our first year has been a resounding success with 100% pass rate for our trainees and some glowing reports, both
from our students and from our external examiners. Recruitment for the current year has been on target and we are confidently striding towards the next big move: to the purpose built refurbished Education School on the Townhill campus. We are now recruiting for September 2006 entry to this one-year post graduate teacher training course. As a graduate of the Swansea Institute of Higher Education you may well qualify to apply. So, if you are thinking of changing careers or even
wondering what to do next, give teaching a thought. It is a challenging and rewarding profession. Contact us to find out more. It could be the call that changed your life!” Contact: Betty Morris, Recruitment Officer: 01792 518608 Betty.morris@sihe.ac.uk or: The Registry, Swansea Institute of Higher Education: 01792 481010 email: enquiry@sihe.ac.uk
INSTITUTE JOINS THE ELITE At the meeting of the Court of the University of Wales held earlier this year, Swansea Institute received the formal confirmation of its admittance to the University of Wales as a full member. Professor David Warner, Principal of Swansea Institute, commented: “For many years we have awarded degrees of the University of Wales to our students. Now at last we have become a full member of the club. “We have waited over 100 years for this privilege. It is a little known fact that it nearly came about in 1919 when the Privy Council approved the admission of two of our founder colleges to membership of the University of Wales; but instead, a new college was founded at Singleton for space reasons. “Swansea now has two full members of the University of Wales which is a recognition, not only of the Institute’s growing strength, but also that of Swansea as a sought after city for students,” he added.
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ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
HONORARY FELLOWSHIPS AWARDED AT SUMMER GRADUATION CEREMONY DOCTOR WHO WRITER RECEIVES HONORARY FELLOWSHIP The writer of the new Doctor Who series, Russell T Davies, received an Honorary Fellowship at Swansea Institute’s graduation ceremony. Mr Davies is a television producer and writer best known for writing ground-breaking and sometimes controversial drama serials such as Queer an Folk and The Second Coming, and for spearheading the revival of the popular science fiction television series, Doctor Who. In a twist of fate, not unlike one of Mr Davies’ own storylines, his sister Susan Davies-Lowe also graduated in the same ceremony with an MA in Education. Born in Swansea in 1963, Russell attended Olchfa School before continuing his education at Oxford University, from which he graduated with a degree in English Literature in 1984. After initially working in the
theatre in his home town of Swansea, he joined the staff of BBC Television, working as a floor manager and production assistant before taking the in-house director’s course in the late 1980’s. His most recent work before moving on to Doctor Who was the ITV miniseries, Mine All Mine, screened over five episodes in November and December 2004. The comedy was set in Swansea featuring locations right across the city, including the historic Guildhall where Mr Davies received his Honorary Fellowship. On receiving his Honorary Fellowship, Mr Davies said: “This is a great honour. When I was a school pupil in Swansea, I used to attend residential courses at Swansea Institute’s Townhill campus with West Glamorgan Youth Theatre, so it’s great to come back.”
TOP COMPOSER HONOURED Swansea born Composer, Karl Jenkins OBE, awarded an Honorary Fellowship. Karl, who was born in Penclawdd on the Gower Peninsula, is one of the world’s best-selling living composers, and is best known for his Adiemus project, The Armed Man - A Mass for Peace and Requiem. Requiem was premiered by Apollo Voices and the West Kazakhstan Philharmonic Orchestra in June this year. Karl has topped classical and pop charts around the world and continues his epic live concerts with
distinguished orchestras including the London Philharmonic, featuring in festivals and concerts in Britain and abroad. This year, Karl was awarded an OBE for services to British Music, by Her Majesty the Queen in the New Year’s Honours List. Swansea Institute Principal, Professor David Warner, commented: “Karl Jenkins is one of the world’s top living composers and is someone who has had a diverse and distinguished career. It is an honour to be presenting him with an Honorary Fellowship.”
FRIENDS AND FELLOWS
Photo - Pictured (left to right) are Tourism Management graduates Zoe Williams and Emma Kitchen with Ritz Carlton President, Simon Cooper.
FIRST CLASS WRITERS
Photo - (left to right) Patrick Dobbs, Phillip Stockton, English Lecturer Dr Nick Potter and Giovanni Ferri.
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Swansea Institute could soon have some of its students following in the footsteps of Swansea born Dr Who writer, Russell T Davies, as three of its English graduates recently achieved first class honours awards. Phillip Stockton from Cockett, Patrick Dobbs from Abercrave and Giovanni Ferri from Slough received their degrees at the Institute’s graduation ceremony in the same ceremony that Russell T Davies received his Honorary Fellowship. The students now hope to study for a Masters Degree in Creative Writing at Swansea University. Swansea Institute’s poet, novelist and lecturer, Lloyd Rees commented: “The standard of original writing by our students continues to develop. It should not be long before we see a major piece of work from one of our alumni being published.”
The President and Chief Operating Officer of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, one of the world’s most powerful brands, received an Honorary Fellowship at Swansea Institute’s Graduation Ceremony at the Brangwyn Hall. Simon Cooper, who oversees the operations, development and strategic positioning of Ritz-Carlton, met up with some old friends at the Institute’s ceremony. Students Emma Kitchen
and Zoe Williams have both worked under Simon Cooper during their work placements with Ritz-Carlton in Aspen. The Tourism Management students graduated on the same day that Simon received his Honorary Fellowship. Zoe, who is from Neath and Emma, who is from Evesham, are both going back to work for Ritz-Carlton. "Swansea Institute has supplied Ritz Carlton with high calibre students over
the years, some of whom have gone on to work in top jobs within the company, "said Simon. Swansea Institute Leisure, Tourism and Sport Lecturer, Jacqui Jones, commented: "We have developed an excellent relationship with Ritz Carlton over the years and many of our graduates are currently working for them all over the world."
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INSTITUTE HONOUR FOR AUTOMOTIVE CHIEF Richard Parry-Jones CBE, Group Vice President, Global Product Development, and Chief Technical Officer at Ford Motor Company, received an Honorary Fellowship from Swansea Institute of Higher Education. Bangor born Richard is responsible for product development activities for all Ford Motor Company vehicles worldwide, including the Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Jaguar, Volvo, Land Rover, and Aston Martin brands. With a never ending list of Fellowships and other accolades to his name, Richard was this year awarded a CBE for services to the automobile industry. This will no doubt inspire the 2005 Ford graduates, Daniel Preece, Keith Lewis and Neil Williams, all of whom completed the Institute’s Manufacturing Engineering Systems degree after studying at the Institute on Friday afternoons and evenings for the last three years. On receiving his Fellowship at Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall, Richard said: “Ford places great emphasis on the development of its staff. Swansea Institute has been chosen as one of the key HE institutions to undertake this work and the ensuing partnership has been highly successful. It is a pleasure to see the Ford graduates here today.”
there as an Engineering Team Leader. Chris said: “The project is still on-going and the Institute has developed a standard testing programme. They have also allowed the use of their computer which significantly lowers cost. modelling facilities, something that the By utilising the hi-tech facilities and company would never have had the wealth of knowledge at the Institute, the opportunity to use otherwise.” company has been able to develop the High Torque Chief Executive, Jeff Bird product over a number of years and now added: “We hope to offer an opportunity boasts a client list that includes Land for final year students to undertake some Rover, Fiat, Caterpillar and Sky TV. As a projects with us in the near future, just as result of the pioneering product they have Chris did when he first became involved." created, High Torque has also been invited On achieving the Excellent rating for the to present their research at a number of partnership, Dean of the Faculty of international conferences. Applied Design and Engineering, Dr When the scheme first started, Swansea Kelvin Donne said: “It has been great to Institute employee Chris Payne was watch the relationship between the two appointed as a Research Associate parties and the product itself develop over working with the company. Since this the years. Both sides have learnt a lot relationship with the company began, he from each other and will continue to do has now become a full-time employee so in the future.”
HIGH PRAISE FOR HIGH TORQUE PARTNERSHIP Swansea Institute’s Faculty of Applied Design and Engineering has been awarded the highest possible grading in a recent Department for Trade and Industry report for its partnership with a company called High Torque Fastener Systems. As a part of the DTI’s ‘Knowledge Transfer Partnership’ small companies can collaborate with higher education institutions and utilize the research, knowledge and facilities available to them. Through this initiative, Swansea Institute has been working with High Torque Fastener Systems, based in the Technium 2 Building at the City’s new SA1 development. The company has created a novel system for sheet metal fastening
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ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
STUDENT’S FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR PHOENIX CENTRE Pictured at Phoenix Community Centre Townhill are (left to right) Head of Swansea Business School, Jim Waygood; Phoenix Centre Chief Executive, Mike Durke; MBA student, Nerys Jones and Phoenix Centre Chairman, Roy Phelps. Phelps, who was looking for financial advice for the Centre. The Head of Swansea Business School, Jim Waygood, swiftly put together a project for one of the Institute’s top MBA (Master of Business Administration) students. Nerys Jones, from Mount Pleasant, is currently completing an MBA which includes modules in consultancy and project management. Eager to put her study into practice, Nerys jumped at the chance to help out the local Community Centre. “This project gave me the experience to back up what I have been learning. As a result, I have a strong interest in community regeneration as a whole in other areas of the country. For this I can use the Phoenix Centre as a flagship,” said Nerys. Supervised by Jim Waygood, Nerys Swansea Business School has again put together an excellent financial report strengthened its reputation as an asset to the local community following a recent project with which clearly informed the Phoenix Centre team on how to improve its financial the Phoenix Community Centre in Townhill. management. Jim Waygood commented: Swansea Institute’s Business School was “Nerys is an excellent student who has approached earlier in the year by the worked her way up from a HND to a Chairman of the Phoenix Centre, Mr Roy
EURO FUNDING HELPS CAREER DEVELOPMENT The European Objective One funding previously available on Masters courses at Swansea Institute is benefiting a whole new generation of students entering the local job market. One such success is Matthew Eynon, originally from Penclawdd, and now a Fellow of the Geological Society after studying the Environmental Conservation and Management Masters course back in 2003. He took advantage of the Objective One Funding which allowed him to study for free at the Institute. Since completing the course, Matthew has seen his career develop rapidly, spending nearly two years at a contaminated land consultancy in the Midlands before moving back to Wales and utilizing his valuable experience on the problems faced by brownfield site
redevelopment and the geo-environment challenges faced by developers and land owners. Matthew is now a Project Engineer with Earth Science Partnership based in Cardiff, an independent specialist consultancy offering geo-technical and environmental services to private and public clients across the UK. ESP are also specialist geotechnical advisors to the Welsh Assembly Government for all major highways in Wales and have extensive experience on all aspects of site appraisal. Speaking about his experiences at the Institute, Matthew said: “The MSc course gave me an excellent platform to launch my career and I am extremely happy to be tackling the unique geo-technical and geo-environmental challenges that South Wales has to offer”.
degree and is now thriving in her MBA studies. She will be an outstanding addition to any business.” Phoenix Centre Chairman, Roy Phelps, said: "We have built up an excellent relationship with Swansea Institute and by using the skills and resources the Institute has, we have been able to add value to the Phoenix Centre and the Townhill area. “It’s not just the Phoenix Centre that benefits. This has given Nerys the practical experience which will no doubt help with the course. It was good for us to have an independent review with clear recommendations for the future of the Centre,” he added. Phoenix Centre Chief Executive, Mike Durke, concluded: “The overall aim of the centre is to ensure that the ‘Hill’ continues to flourish and with Nerys’ input we are confident that this will happen.” For further information on Swansea Business School, please contact the School directly on 01792 481132 or via email at sbs@sihe.ac.uk You can also visit the website at www.sihe.ac.uk
Environmental Conservation and Management Programme Director, Chris House commented: “It’s great to see how Matthew’s career has progressed since his time at the Institute. The funding was a big asset to those who wanted to develop their knowledge further and Matthew is an excellent example of that”. Matthew will share his knowledge and experiences when he returns to the Institute to speak to current students about the contaminated land regime in the UK and its influence on the redevelopment of brownfield sites. The MSc, BSc and BA Environmental Conservation and Management courses are run by Swansea Institute’s School of Built and Natural Environment and can be studied on either a full-time or part-time basis. For further information on the Earth Science Partnership, please visit their website at www.espwales.co.uk.
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ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
INSTITUTE MEETS FACILITIES MANAGEMENT DEMAND
STEPHANIE BAFFLES STARS AT WELSH AWARDS A 19 year old student from Aberdare stole the show at this year’s Bafta Cymru awards in Cardiff. Stephanie James, a Performing Arts and Theatre Studies degree student, scooped two awards at the star studded bash, walking away with Best Newcomer as well as Best Actress. Stephanie, who is a full time student at Swansea Institute’s School of Humanities, won the awards for her excellent performance in the ITV Wales film A Way of Life, which also won the award for Best Film and Best Director. Stephanie received her Baftas from Welsh actor Rhys Ifans who was there to collect the Sian Phillips Award for making a significant contribution to film and TV. Stephanie was selected for the role out of 700 people and starred alongside the acclaimed actress Brenda Blethyn. She was originally spotted when the film’s Director, Amma Asante, visited
Stephanie’s Drama Academy in Aberdare. After numerous auditions across the Country, Stephanie was selected for the role and to start filming on the ITV Wales drama. Playing the part of a poverty stricken single mum, Stephanie found the role very challenging. "The whole experience was hard work but also very enjoyable and something I am proud to have been a part of," said Stephanie. The filming took place in Swansea, Barry, Cardiff and Pontypridd over a time schedule of six weeks. Stephanie commented on her future aspirations: "My main priority is to finish my degree in Performing Arts at
SIHE ALUMNI’S SUCCESS AFTER EMBARKING ON A NEW CAREER Jennifer Finch, a graduate in Leisure and Tourism at Swansea Institute, has recently been awarded a Graduate Diploma in Law by Swansea University. Spurred on by her interest in matters legal, which she developed while studying for her first degree at SIHE, Jennifer decided that a legal career was for her and enrolled on the one-year Diploma course, which is run by the School of Law at UWS. Not only has Jennifer gained her Diploma with Commendation but she
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Stephanie James (Bafta Award)
Swansea Institute and then start a fulltime career in acting." A Way of Life has been broadcast on ITV Wales and had a short spell on the cinema screen. There is also a DVD of the film available to buy from most retailers. For more information on Stephanie’s achievements or for information on Performing Arts and Theatre courses at Swansea Institute, please call the School of Humanities on 01792 481246.
has also obtained a place on the Swansea Legal Practice Course, successful completion of which will equip her with the skills vital for a successful career as a solicitor. Jennifer acknowledges that her legal studies have been challenging and demanding at times but her determination to succeed in her new career path has seen her through and we wish Jennifer every success in the future. Any one interested in following in Jennifer’s footsteps should either contact Shirley Davies, Careers Officer at SIHE or the School of Law at Swansea University directly, by emailing karen.davies@swansea.ac.uk
The UK is becoming a nation of new contemporary developments fused with deeply historic buildings. To help the expansion and maintenance of these buildings, Swansea Institute’s School of Built and Natural Environment is running a Masters degree in Facilities Management. In these times of rising fuel prices, climate change levy and high costs associated with staffing and accommodation, most businesses are forced to review their energy consumption, and space efficiency while offering employees working conditions that bring out the best in them. Facilities Management is a comprehensive approach to the provision, management and maintenance of buildings, combined with the management of people and essential services that supports an organisation’s main activities. Facilities Management Programme Director, Bryn Evans explains: “Energy costs are controllable, it is possible to manage space and it is possible to
provide working conditions to enhance productivity. However, to do this
Management are expanding. Swansea Institute’s MSc programme has been designed to give graduates and those with the relevant experience, the knowledge, management skills and specialist expertise required to become a successful Facilities Manager. The programme can be studied on either a full-time or part-time basis. Bryn continues: “Facilities management is firmly established as an academic discipline. They must be able to communicate at all levels and have an eye for detail. Also, an effective Facilities Manager can help to keep down total staff costs and boost staff satisfaction and performance for the core business.”
requires knowledge of many facets including buildings, resources, environment and services.” Described as the fastest growing of the various built environment disciplines, employment opportunities in Facilities
If you would like to know more about Swansea Institute’s School of Built and Natural Environment, log on to www.sihe.ac.uk Alternatively contact Margaret Grills on 01792 481106 or email margaret.grills@sihe.ac.uk
FIRST CLASS SHOW FOR INSTITUTE’S COMPUTING SCHOOL
Swansea Institute’s School of Computing has enjoyed another successful year after seeing a record breaking ten of its students receive First Class Honours degrees. Twelve months ago the School was celebrating a then record six First Class Honours degrees for its students. One year on and they have already increased that number in another impressive crop of results. Those awarded Firsts were Ruth Butler and Mark O’Sullivan, from Co.Cork in Ireland, Patrick White, from Northern Ireland, Paul Evans from Llanelli and Owain Donovan, Simon Myers, Chris Prince, Rhian Pugh, Janet Bradley and Steve Skelton, all from Swansea. The graduates come from a cross section of the computing degree portfolio, including Business Information Technology, Computing and Information Systems, Software Engineering and Web Management. Dave Rees, Head of computing (centre) and Karen Jones, Programme Director (to Dave’s right) surrounded by First Class Honours graduates. Simon Myers absent from picture.
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ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
GLASS STUDENTS CONTINUE WINNING STREAK Students from Swansea Institute’s School of Architectural Glass are continuing to dominate the prestigious annual competitions run by The Worshipful Company of Glaziers and Painters of Glass, with four students picking up prizes at this year’s awards. The Stevens Competition for Architectural Glass Design is the only national competition of its kind and attracts between 30 and 50 entries from students and young artists from all over the country. Two of the three prizes awarded in the Stevens Competition went to students Helen Kenna, and Rick Schnoll, both from Swansea. In recent years the competition has attracted a sponsor who has commissioned work of his or her choice from among the prize-winning entries. The Award for Excellence went to Anne Marie Robinson, from Llanelli. This
prize is a once in a life-time opportunity to undertake a 40 week work placement in a variety of leading UK and continental European studios. Anne is no stranger to winning praise from The Worshipful Company of Glaziers and Painters of Glass. She was highly commended in last years Stevens Competition. Erika Schrinner, from Pontardawe, won The Travel Scholarship Award, which gives the winner an opportunity to travel, widen their experience, and to develop their study and knowledge of glass. Previous winners of this award have visited the USA, France and the Czech Republic. Last year, former Swansea Institute Masters student Tanja Entwistle, claimed first prize in the Stevens Competition with additional commendations for two of her fellow students. These annual competitions
demand an imaginative approach to design and workmanship of a high quality. A distinguished panel of practising craftsmen assessed the entries. Head of Architectural Glass, Rodney Bender, said: “This is a terrific achievement for all our students. Their work was of the highest standard and it is also a tribute to staff at the Institute’s School of Glass. With the sponsorship opportunities that are available and the chance to travel the world and gain valuable experience, these awards will be of great benefit to all our winners,” he added. For more information on the School of Architectural Glass at Swansea Institute, please contact Rodney Bender on 01792 481179 or via email at rodney.bender@sihe.ac.uk
OUTSTANDING FINANCIAL HEALTH The Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) has published an analysis of the financial position of the Higher Education sector. The figures are comparative over a three year period. Once again, Swansea Institute has an outstanding record. Key features of the Swansea Institute picture are:
● The highest percentage expenditure of turn-over in the sector on premises ● The highest operating surplus in the sector pro-rata to turn-over ● The highest total of liquid assets in the sector pro-rata to turn-over ● The best ratio of current assets to liabilities in the sector
SWANSEA INSTITUTE SUPPORTING ENTERPRISE Neil Williams and Charlene Hickey
DOCTORS OF ART Swansea Institute’s School of Art and Design has awarded four doctorates at the Institute’s recent graduation ceremony. One of which went to the Head of the School, Andrea Liggins. Andrea collected her PhD to a rapturous applause from many of the students she had taught, who were all graduating with degrees. Andrea Liggins is a photographic artist who is well known and respected in Wales and has had her work exhibited and published both in the UK and internationally. Andrea commented: “I am delighted to have obtained my doctorate and it was especially nice to receive it on the same day that so many of my students were graduating.” The three other newly crowned doctors were Robert Newell, who also lectures at the Art and Design School; student Waleed Al-Gein and student Gordon Grainger. Swansea Institute’s School of Art and
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Design is over 150 years old and has taught some of the worlds finest artists. This year saw the unveiling of a brand new £8million School of Art and Design at the old Dynevor School site in the city centre. Principal of Swansea Institute, Professor David Warner, added: “Swansea Institute has a great tradition for developing world class artists and we hope to continue to do so for the next 150 years with our fabulous new School of Art and Design.”
Pictured at Swansea Institute’s Graduation Ceremony are (front to back) Andrea Liggins, Gordon Grainger and Robert Newell.
Swansea Institute Principal, Professor David Warner, commented: “We are delighted that the Institute now probably occupies the strongest financial position in Welsh Higher Education.” “During the last year we have been able to use this financial strength to develop the Dynevor complex, which will be a new School of Art and Design, and shortly we will start refurbishing our Townhill Campus. Further projects are under discussion,” he added.
Alumni of the Institute can still take advantage of funding to help start their own business. The Entrepreneurship Scholarship is available to students who have graduated within the last three years. It offers a grant of £144 per week payable for up to 36 weeks. Since the fund was launched in 2000 over 40 Entrepreneurship Scholarships have been awarded to students from Swansea Institute. The companies that have been set up include web designers, multi media services, textile design, psychology consultancy and ice sculpture.
One of the recent awards was to Neil Williams and Charlene Hickey of ToYou Design, a greetings card company. Neil and Charlene both studied on the BA (Hons) General Illustration course where their ideas for a business initiative were developed. They then worked with a mentor on the Graduating to Enterprise programme to develop a business plan which they needed to apply for the Entrepreneurship Scholarship, which they were each awarded.
They were also successful in applying for support from the Wales Spinout Programme which offers successful applicants an interest free loan of up to £25K. To be eligible for the Spinout Programme there must be a link between the new company and the HE institution. Neil and Charlene have established a link with the School of Visual Communication, in the Faculty of Art & Design. So if you’ve graduated in the last three years and are thinking of setting up a business in Wales, contact us to see how we may be able to help you. For further information contact: Kathryn David Commercial Manager Swansea Institute Mount Pleasant Swansea SA1 6ED Tel: 01792 481082 Email: Kathryn.david@sihe.ac.uk
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ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
INSTITUTE STUDENTS PLAY WITH DESIGN joining Hasbro. Swansea Institute’s School of Industrial His current job involves travelling to Design have continued to develop their Industrial links by welcoming the visit of technology and design fairs, looking for new designs and technologies that can be a senior product designer from leading toy creators, Hasbro Europe. Many people will remember toys and games from their childhood like Action Man, Monopoly and Mr Potato Head, with present day youngsters enjoying products such as My Little Pony, Transformers, Weebles and Video Now. These are all produced by Hasbro, a worldwide Phillip Sage with some Industrial Design Students. leader in children’s and family leisure time entertainment developed and used in next generation products. toys. In addition, Phillip works on the Hasbro designer and ex-Institute student, Star Wars brand and also with big Phillip Sage, graduated with a BSc in named companies such as MacDonald’s and Phillips. Industrial Design in 2001. During his Explaining the difficulty of finding work visit, he gave an insight into the life of a as a product designer, Phillip told product designer, tracing his route from students: “The experience I had here at graduation to the present day. Swansea Institute has been vital in my Philip started his career in Sweden career progression. Not only did I learn working for world famous toy makers Lego, before moving back to the UK and design skills, I also had a good technical
‘KEEP IN TOUCH’ Letter Box Service
understanding of the field which was advantageous in a very competitive employment market.” As a result of the visit, first and second year students are currently working on a live project with Hasbro, only the second university in the UK to do so. Phillip will return to the Institute in the near future to assist the projects. In conclusion, Phillip said: “During my three years in Swansea I was successful in three major national awards. This was down to the excellent studio facilities and constant encouragement by the staff. I’m grateful to everybody at the School of Industrial Design for helping me fulfil my ambitions.” If you would like more information about the School of Industrial Design at Swansea Institute, log on to www.sihe.ac.uk Alternatively, please contact Ian Walsh on 01792 481120 or email sid@sihe.ac.uk
If you have lost touch with an old friend from the Institute we may be able to help reunite you. We will try our best to put you in touch with other graduates with whom you have lost contact. Just forward your request to the Alumni Office with as many details as possible (eg name, (maiden name if appropriate) subject studied, graduation year) Alternatively you can email us with your message asking for it to be forwarded. All information held is in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 and therefore personal information cannot be released without consent.
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BIKER SAFETY HIGHLIGHTED IN CITY WORKSHOP This year, Swansea Institute played host to the city’s first ever BIKESAFE Campaign, whose aim is to lower the number of motorcycle rider casualties by offering road safety tips to motorcyclists within the region. BIKESAFE is a two day workshop, which is lead by South Wales Police in association with RoSPA, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, and Welsh Assembly Government, and has been successfully running in Cardiff for the last ten years. Police, ex Police and RoSPA Gold Riders offered a mix of theory and practical advice, including on-road assessment rides, information videos, motorcycle related first aid and other relevant issues. The workshops have been designed to enhance the skills of all riders who have already passed their tests, and are particularly suitable for sports bike riders and those that may be returning to biking after a period of absence. Recent figures published by RoSPA illustrate that between 2002 and 2003, the total number of motor vehicle road deaths in the UK rose from 3,431 to 3,508, with fatalities among motorcyclists up by 14%. South Wales Police motorcyclist Kevin Garner stated: “These courses are
designed to help reduce accidents, develop skills and provide further training for motorcyclists. “BIKESAFE has taken safety techniques used by motorcycle officers and adapted them to benefit the general public. These workshops are running within police forces across the UK, and we were very keen to bring the campaign to Swansea.”he added. On finishing the course, all the participants were impressed with what they had seen. In an anonymous questionnaire, one student said: “This has made me realize how little I knew and made me want to learn more. I
REUNIONS
highly recommend this course to all bikers, however experienced or inexperienced they think they are.” Another student summed the weekend up saying: “This course was carried out by very competent people and with a very professional attitude to students in a friendly atmosphere.” It is appropriate that the permanent base for the campaign is at Swansea Institute’s Mount Pleasant Campus, where the School of Automotive Engineering has recently started a Motorcycling Engineering Degree with great success. It is the only course of its type in the UK.
The Alumni Office is happy to help with arrangements for Reunions. We can assist with the mailings of any lost contacts, help with the venue, catering etc. Out of term overnight accommodation can also be arranged at discount prices. If you are planning a reunion get in touch and we will give you all the support we can. We hope that all Swansea Institute graduates will remain interested and involved in the long term development of the College. We welcome members’ suggestions for new services and activities. We would also like to hear from you with your news, achievements and reminiscences. If you have a ‘good story’ to tell please let us know.
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S WA N S E A I N S T I T U T E O F H I G H E R E D U C AT I O N
ALUMNI Whether you are returning from travelling, planning a career change, considering further study or seeking a new job later in life all alumni are welcomed back by the SIHE Careers Service to use its facilities and expertise. We have a range of services and information sources to help.
NEW PREMISES This academic year the Careers Centre has moved to the Thompson building, Mount Pleasant Visit www.sihe.ac.uk Services for Students/Careers Service for further information
ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
DON’T FORGET THE ALUMNI GOODIES
In addition to the Careers Adviser the Careers Centre at SIHE has a team of Graduate Opportunities Wales (GO Wales) Project Officers who offer a range of services providing information, advice and support on jobs, work experience and funding for further study to help graduates and businesses in Wales.
GO Wales WORK PLACEMENTS, TASTERS AND CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (CPD) GO Wales can help graduates find employment, gain work experience, develop their career management skills and continue their professional development with work-based training. Students and graduates are offered the chance to develop their skills and enhance their CV through work experience and work tasters.
GO Wales Additional Careers Support including E guidance The GO Wales Project Officer can arrange tailored support for graduates according to their needs, for example specialised interviews, workshops and talks. If you would like more information on any of these initiatives visit www.gowales.co.uk
A number of our services are supported by European Union funding Careers Centre staff will be pleased to answer any of your queries
ANNUAL GRADUATE DESTINATION SURVEY (DLHE)
As a member of the alumni organisation you will be able to use the following facilities and services free of charge: ● Use the Institute Libraries for reference purposes. ● Use the Townhill Fitness Centre - so long as we have space! ● Have continuing Careers counselling, find out about job opportunities throughout Wales and the rest of the UK, and use the Careers ICT Service.
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Are we up to date? The Alumni Organisation is currently updating the information held on its database and would be grateful if you would send/email to j.reed@sihe.ac.uk the following information:
PRIZE DRAW
● Get the latest information about Institute Bursaries and Scholarships
This year we are holding a prize draw as an incentive for graduates to return their postal questionnaire. All completed forms will be entered in the draw. Further details will be included with the mailing.
● Use our student accommodation, when available at low, low rates.
Address
● Use the Institute’s conference, catering and other facilities for your events at reduced rates.
Email Address
● Gain the latest information about business incentives in South West Wales
Graduation date(s)
● Intellectual Property Rights Advisory Service
The above information will then enable the Alumni Office to email you with any events, reunions or interesting information. All information held is in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.
The destination survey is undertaken by the SIHE Career Service on behalf of the Higher Education Statistical Agency (HESA). Graduates in every UK higher education institution are contacted to find out what they are doing six months after graduation, whether they are in employment, continuing their education etc. Please complete your questionnaire and return it in the pre-paid envelope as soon as possible. Good luck in the draw!
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Name
Course(s) taken
Profession
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PART-TIME FEES - SPECIAL OFFERS NO FEES FOR THE UNWAGED People who do not receive a wage or salary will have their tuition fees waived. It is this group who need most help to enter the job market with recognised qualifications behind them and this initiative is aimed at taking some of the worry away from students who just don’t have the money to spare. HND/HNC and postgraduate students will be charged a registration fee for their first year of study.
OTHER HELP WITH FEES There are some other ways in which you can get help with the costs of your course.
ASSEMBLY LEARNING GRANTS The Assembly Learning Grant is available for all students. To find out if you are eligible, please contact your Local Education Authority for further information.
SPONSORED BY YOUR EMPLOYER A letter of authorisation is required, if a student is being sponsored by their employer. The letter should state that the company is liable for payment of tuition fees for the academic period with the correct company address and department, contact name and telephone number for invoice purposes. If a sponsor letter is not presented on enrolment, then the student will be liable for payment of fees.
FEE GRANT Help with fees up to a maximum of £575 for those whose income is below certain thresholds and are studying the equivalent of at least 50% of a full time course. £250 Grant Available for Part-time study. Please contact the DfEE for further information on 0800 731 9133 or at www.dfee.giv.uk/studentsupport
HELP WITH SPREADING THE COST For those who have to pay we give as much help spreading the cost as possible, including: Some fees may be paid by instalments please ask for details.
FINANCIAL CONTINGENCY FUNDING AVAILABLE Some funding is available from the Institute for those who may not be able to continue with their full or part-time course because they are facing some form of financial hardship. Application forms are available from the Reception areas in the Institute. Part-time students have to be studying for a set number of credits per year to be eligible for funding.
INTOUCH ISSUE 6 I DECEMBER 2005
Contact: Julie Reed, Alumni Co-ordinator, Telephone/Fax: 01792 481217 E-mail: j.reed@sihe.ac.uk
A Member of the University of Wales Aelod o Brifysgol Cymru