UWTSD CELEBRATES 200 YEARS OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN WALES BICENTENARY EDITION
CONNECTIONS
12
GRADUATIONS 2022
14 WORKING WITH INDUSTRY 20 MEET OUR ALUMNI
uwtsd.ac.uk | 1
Contents
www.facebook.com/trinitysaintdavid
www.instagram.com/uwtsd/
twitter.com/UWTSD
www.youtube.com/trinitysaintdavid
www.linkedin.com/showcase/uwtsd-alumni/
22 || University University of of Wales Wales Trinity Trinity Saint Saint David David
4
Welcome to UWTSD 2022 Alumni Magazine, Connections
5
Stay Connected 18
6
Welcome from our Provosts
8
UWTSD Celebrates 200 Years of Higher Education in Wales
9
Pete Pahides, Lampeter Alumni
10
Canolfan Tir Glas - A New Vision for Lampeter
11
Lampeter Procession
12
Graduations at UWTSD 2022
14
Working with Industry: - AMSA: Providing the knowledge and skills needed for today’s modern manufacturing environment - MADE Cymru benefiting manufacturers in Wales
15
- Assistive Technologies Innovation Centre (ATiC)
16
- Cerebra Innovation Centre (CiC)
17
Innovative UWTSD Apprentiships Scheme a success for students and employers Master Your Future: Postgraduate Study at UWTSD
18
UWTSD Virtual Postgraduate Evening - Register your interest
19
Brush up on your Cybersecurity skills this summer
20
Meet our Alumni
22
Our Entrepreneurial alumni: Futures Fund Entrepreneurship Start Up Grant
27
Graduate Outcomes: Make your voice heard!
28
Alumni Events: Alumni and Student Careers Fair Success at Swansea’s SA1 Campus
29
UWTSD Careers Service: supporting you throughout your career
30
Alumni App
31
Make a Donation
uwtsd.ac.uk | 3
Welcome to our new Alumni magazine for 2022, Connected. As alumni of University of Wales Trinity Saint David and its predecessor institutions, you are part of a prestigious historical alumni association and global community which has inducted graduates since the nineteenth century. UWTSD is proud of its alumni, and we continue to support you in your future endeavours providing unlimited access to careers services, networking opportunities to improve career prospects, access to events, reunions and guest lectures and helping you to maintain lifelong connections with your university community.
44 || University University of of Wales Wales Trinity Trinity Saint Saint David David
Reconnect with classmates and fellow graduates Stay connected with your alma mater to find out about reunions and events, networking opportunities and alumni benefits and services. Whether you graduated recently, or many years ago, our alumni are our finest ambassadors, so ensure you update your contact details to get access to exclusive benefits and careers services, provided free as a member of our alumni network. We now have our very own LinkedIn site, UWTSD Alumni Network, so please follow for access to updates, information and inspirational alumni stories and reconnect with classmates and fellow graduates. You can also update your details on our website and we can stay in touch: www.uwtsd.ac.uk
Share your success, UWTSD E-Mentoring Scheme Make a difference, volunteer your time. Sign up to our mentoring programme and help current students who are currently studying courses in your area of expertise. Being a mentor gives you the opportunity to improve your leadership skills, advance your communication skills and enhance your emotional intelligence. Mentoring is a great way to expand your network and construct a legacy. Becoming a great mentor is good for you, your mentee, and your organisation. You can offer help with CVs, cover letters, portfolio review of simply provide careers advice. All mentoring will take place online, so should not be too disruptive to your working day and may also count towards CPD requirements for professional associations. You can also visit UWTSD to speak at events, provide guest lectures or offer internships to current students and graduates. Volunteering can offer a great opportunity to enhance your skills and help your company open the door to the latest graduate talent and expertise. Take a look at our website for details on how to sign up: www.uwtsd.ac.uk/alumni
uwtsd.ac.uk | 5
Welcome
from the Provosts
Professor Ian Walsh,
Provost Swansea and Cardiff Campuses
As Provost of the Swansea and Cardiff Campuses of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David I’m delighted to welcome you to the UWTSD Alumni Network. For two hundred years, this University has been welcoming learners to study here in Wales. In choosing UWTSD you have joined Wales’ oldest higher education institution.
66 || University University of of Wales Wales Trinity Trinity Saint Saint David David
UWTSD is embedded in the cultural and social life of Wales. Our campuses in Swansea and Cardiff are located in vibrant city centres with access to great cultural, sporting and leisure facilities. Wherever you are based there are great outdoor spaces to explore with some of the finest beaches and national parks in the UK. As an alumnus of this university, I encourage you to stay connected, attend the various reunions and events we have on offer, sign up to the mentoring scheme to help inspire current students and most of all, let us know how your journey is progressing. UWTSD is constantly evolving as a University as is evident in the transformation of our campuses. This summer we are busy creating a new home for our Students’ Union, Student Services and a new café and events space in Swansea’s Dylan Thomas Centre. We’re also breaking ground on our new £10m Innovation Matrix in our SA1 Innovation Quarter. This new development will open in September 2023 as a vibrant and dynamic centre for digital research and innovation.
Gwilym Dyfri Jones,
Provost Carmarthen and Lampeter Greetings and welcome alumni to our Connections magazine, and to the UWTSD Alumni Network. Many of you will be aware that the University is celebrating its bicentenary this year, the highlight being the procession through the town of Lampeter on the 12th August to commemorate the laying of the foundation stone of St David’s College. I hope that many of you will be able to join us for that event later this summer. We have already held a very wellattended service at St David’s Cathedral along with various talks and lectures on campus. Bicentenary Professorial Inaugural Lectures have also been held to honour four Lampeter based scholars.
We held a special Honorary Degree Ceremony on campus in early July in the presence of the University’s Chancellor and Royal Patron, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales. This was an opportunity for the University to honour four distinguished individuals who have made a significant contribution to Wales and beyond – Lord Griffiths of Burry Port, Emma Jane Bolam, Patrick Holden CBE and Ned Thomas.
Community Renewal Fund to develop feasibility studies in the areas of food, wood and rural enterprise that will support an institutional application to the Mid Wales Growth Deal of some £8m - £10m to develop an iconic sustainable building to house the Academy of Contemporary Food Wales on the Lampeter Campus. Work is progressing well, and the final submission should be ready later this year.
The University has been privileged this year to receive undergraduate students from St Vincent and the Grenadines who have been provided with scholarships to study at the University. We also look forward to welcoming 20 postgraduate students from the Ukraine to Lampeter in the very near future.
Carmarthen Campus is the focus of some important developments and improvements. These include: creating a new reception area in the Dewi building, further investment in the University’s Sports Academy, and further enhancing the relationship between the campus and local community. There is also a renewed focus on our provision within the creative and performing arts as well as a fresh vision for Yr Egin. We are proud of the work that has been completed on the Carmarthen Campus and look forward to swift progress on these other initiatives to further enhance our offer to students, staff and the local community in Carmarthenshire.
In further news, a recent visit to the University of Gastronomic Sciences at Pollenzo, Italy, proved transformational and allowed those who visited the university to see the significant potential at Lampeter to create a bespoke higher education offer in the area of sustainability, with a particular focus on food sustainability, sustainable farming, food security, rural enterprise and health and nutrition. As part of the Canolfan Tir Glas initiative, the University was awarded half a million pounds from the
Please do stay in touch so we can update you on campus news, reunions and events. We appreciate your input and contribution made to this university and value our life-long connections with our alumni.
uwtsd.ac.uk | 7
UWTSD Celebrates 200 Years of Higher Education in Wales The bicentenary commemorates the establishment of St David’s College, Lampeter on the 12 August 1822 through the laying the foundation stone which marks the beginning of higher education in Wales. We’re proud of our history and how it has shaped the University that we are today. From the seeds sown in Lampeter over two centuries ago and the development of our campuses, we have grown into a multi-campus, dual-sector University providing vocationally relevant programmes in partnership with employers. Visit our website for further information: www.uwtsd.ac.uk/bicentenary/meet-our-alumni
200 Biographies-Celebrating Lampeter’s Bicentenary As a part of the Bicentenary celebrations, staff within the Library and Learning Resources team undertook a project to explore the lives of our Lampeter alumni and staff. Their project provides information on those who have made their mark across all walks of life including Academia, the Armed Forces, The Arts, Religion, Education, Sports and Entertainment and other areas. It is intended to expand this repository to include alumni from the university’s other campuses.
Their history can be read on our website: www.uwtsd.ac.uk/bicentenary/meet-our-alumni
88 || University University of of Wales Wales Trinity Trinity Saint Saint David David
Meet our Lampeter
Pete Paphides is a music writer, broadcaster, record label proprietor and former chief rock critic of The Times. Music became a huge driving force for Takis very early in his life. Pop music not only influenced but even seemed to describe his growing up. He comments ‘I was trying to find a way into things. I was curious.’ He thinks he was looking for a bridge into Britishness. He also decided he wanted to be known as Peter. He studied philosophy, which he feels is a ‘very good degree to do to become a better writer.’ After graduating, Paphides went to London to work as a freelance journalist for Melody Maker. Around the same time, he met Caitlin Moran, another Melody Maker writer. He has said ‘I was envious of her because she was brilliant.’ He and Caitlin married in 1999 they have two daughters, Dora and Eavie. More recently, Paphides launched a record label Needle Mythology which is mostly dedicated to reissuing undercelebrated albums, many of which have never previously being available on vinyl, and “giving them the loving release they deserve.” Artists whose work has been released on the label include Stephen Duffy, Ian Broudie, Tanita Tikaram, Bernard Butler and Catherine Anne Davies, with expanded reissue of titles by Neil and Tim Finn scheduled for 2021.
March 2020 also saw the publication of Paphides’ first book Broken Greek: a story of chip shops and pop songs, (Quercus, 2020). He describes how he struggled to reconcile his Greek-Cypriot and Birmingham identities. Alongside this, he writes about the impact of music on him he asks, ‘Do you sometimes feel like the music you’re hearing is explaining your life to you?’ But the book is also the story of his parents and their struggle to make something of themselves. For the full article, please visit our website: www.uwtsd.ac.uk/library/special-collections/200biographies-celebrating-lampeters-bicentenary.
uwtsd.ac.uk | 9
Canolfan Tir Glas:
A New Vision for Lampeter At a special event, held at the Arts Hall on the Lampeter campus on Thursday 17th March 2022, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) launched the Canolfan Tir Glas project. As the University marks its bicentenary this year, UWTSD has now launched this exciting new vision for the future of its campus in Lampeter which builds on its worldrenowned reputation as a centre for the study of the Humanities and multi-cultural and interfaith dialogue. The aim is to create a long-term offer for the campus and the town, underpinned by the principles of resilience and sustainability, which offers an opportunity to promote the area’s strengths and rural context. The University offers an ambitious and bold vision for Lampeter and the vicinity. As a core institution, the University recognises that it has a central role to play in the regeneration of Lampeter town in the post Covid period.
10 10 || University University of of Wales Wales Trinity Trinity Saint Saint David David
By working in collaboration with the Town Council, Ceredigion County Council, the local business community and other key partners, the University is confident that an integrated vision for the town can be created and implemented during the next few years. The University’s proposal is based on facilitating and accelerating economic growth in and around Lampeter. Strengthening economic resilience is at the heart of the vision, most of all, by taking advantage of the range of natural assets that exist locally. Gwilym Dyfri Jones, Provost of the Lampeter campus says: “As a core institution in the town, the University recognises that it has a central role to play in the regeneration of Lampeter in the post Covid period. The University sees itself as a catalyst for positive change that will be sustainable for future generations. “As well as providing the town of Lampeter with a direction of travel, the vision for Canolfan Tir Glas is to provide an opportunity for the University to develop a new portfolio of programmes, working collaboratively with a range of local, national and international partners to enable Lampeter to become a centre of excellence in the areas of sustainability and resilience”.
Professor Medwin Hughes, DL, Vice-Chancellor said: “Canolfan Tir Glas offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to redefine the University’s offer in Lampeter to deliver economic, social, cultural and environment benefits to Mid and South West Wales. The University and our partners aim to create opportunities that will upskill and reskill the area’s workforce, create jobs and attract further investment in the town and surrounding area. In doing so, the aim is to create resilient communities so that people and places can flourish for generations to come”.
Lampeter Procession:
Celebrating the Bicentenary of higher education in Wales On 12 August 1822, the foundation stone was laid for St David’s College Lampeter which signalled the beginning of higher education in Wales. To commemorate this special day, there will be a range of events and exhibitions held on the Lampeter campus. We welcome attendance from our alumni, for more information please contact: 1822@uwtsd.ac.uk uwtsd.ac.uk | 11
Graduations 2022 This year has marked a milestone, not only as it is the University’s bicentenary, but where we can finally join with our students in celebrating their graduation. Taking place across our campuses, we welcomed back graduates from 2020 and 2021 as well as joining with our latest graduates in a series of ceremonies that showed what resilience and character our graduates truly possess.
UWTSD’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Medwin Hughes, DL said: “The Graduation ceremony marks the climax in the academic career of our students. It is the result of hard work and commitment, but we should also remember the support given by family and friends.” “You all graduate with the skills and attributes you require to make a difference in your chosen career. I trust, as you look back at your time as a student at the University, that you take with you the many friendships and happy memories of our time here, and that your experiences at UWTSD will serve you well throughout your life.” “I wish you all success for your future and remind you that, as alumni of this University, we will endeavour to support you and hope that you will continue to stay in touch with us.” You can view the picture galleries here: https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/graduation2022/
12 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Hear from our 2022 Graduates A BA Philosophy mature student from Lampeter has just graduated with a first class honours degree at 60 years old. Wendie Kosek has recently graduated from Lampeter with a first-class honours degree in Philosophy. A few years ago, Wendie was living in Rhaeadr and working as a hands-on therapist, but due to discovering pain and eczema flare ups, Wendie decided she couldn’t carry on with her work. She visited Careers Wales to see what other possibilities were out there for her and was offered to go back to study.
It’s never too late to graduate!
Mike Wakelyn, a Senior Infrastructure Engineer for the Welsh Renal Service in the NHS enrolled for his Digital Degree Apprenticeship in 2017 with the expectation that the degree and the skills learnt would help with his current role, and his experience and exposure to complex IT systems would help with the degree studies. During his degree, Mike developed an innovative web-based dashboard that gave nurses a live view of due medications for patients they were treating. Mike said: “When a patient sits down to dialyse, there are no paper-based drug charts on their table and the nurses do not need to find notes or track down doctors to re-write illegible charts. Studying at UWTSD gave me the time and skills I needed to develop the
Whilst Wendie was on campus she met lecturer Tristan Nash, which sparked her interest and love in Philosophy and decided to study the subject as a degree. “I felt that the lecturers were so
supportive. I liked going to the library and being in that kind of atmosphere, and the spontaneity of meeting people and having conversations which was so alien to what my life had been before. I liked that intellectual stimulation from those spontaneous meetings.” Over the past three years, Wendie has seen herself develop in many ways, especially academically. As a mature student, Wendie’s encouraging others to follow her footsteps and to follow their dream: “Don’t worry… you get there, you do get through it… just take it one step at a time. If it does get too much, there’s so much help there for you – the study skills, the tech department, just ask!” Wendie is now studying for an MRes degree in Philosophy at UWTSD.
dashboard far quicker than I could have managed otherwise.” Mike is now looking forward to spending quality time with his family and focusing on his career. He would recommend the Digital Degree Apprenticeship to others, as although challenging the results have meant a huge improvement in procedures for patients and staff in the renal service within the NHS. He also hopes his hard work and commitment to study will serve as an example to his young children concerning the importance and value of higher education. Mike stated: “Like any degree study it is hard, but with added professional and family pressures, it really takes its toll. With all that said, the staff at the university were supportive and it has all been worth it in the end.”
Digital Degree Apprenticeship leads to innovative new patient care techniques for NHS Renal Service in Wales
uwtsd.ac.uk | 13
Working with Industry
AMSA: Providing the knowledge and skills needed for today’s modern manufacturing environment
The Advanced Manufacturing Skills Academy (AMSA) aims to develop, maintain and build upon the vital skills required by manufacturing apprentices and employers to deliver the technologies that keep the manufacturing industry globally competitive.
MADE Cymru
- benefiting manufacturers in Wales
In the constantly-evolving world of manufacturing, Industry 4.0 is an opportunity to explore technologies that have the potential to increase efficiency, maximise productivity and future-proof businesses. MADE Cymru, a suite of EU-funded projects supported by the European Structural and Investment Funds through the Welsh Government and delivered by University of Wales Trinity Saint David, is here to help. Our university-accredited courses and expert-led business support scheme can help individuals and organisations to adapt to both the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0. From remote learning opportunities to hands-on support with prototyping, our experienced team is on hand to help you embrace the latest knowledge, research and technologies. And what’s more, the MADE Cymru Upskilling for Industry 4.0 and International Innovation programmes are fully-funded (for eligible businesses). We can help with: A flexible way to learn while you work A rewarding way to increase job satisfaction Realise the economic benefits of Industry 4.0 Collaborate with experts Email MADE@uwtsd.ac.uk for more details. 14 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
We provide enhanced training for Engineering students, apprentices and businesses on the latest Industry standard machine tools and inspection equipment. Funded by the Welsh Government and the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW), AMSA works in partnership with three of the leading companies in the manufacturing industry To find out more, please contact Lee Pratt: l.pratt@uwtsd.ac.uk
Are you in the mood for learning….. Are you interested in studying a fully funded short course? Can we tempt you with some fully funded accredited short courses we are running at UWTSD. The next start date is October 7th. We have two Industry 4.0 short courses, perfect for anyone who is working in engineering or manufacturing in Wales. A short course in Innovation Management that would suit anyone working with
new product development, brand/product strategy and any type of innovation. You can find out more by following this link: https://www.madecymru. co.uk/enrolling-now-fullyfunded-made-cymrucourses-starting-october/ Or you can email MADE@uwtsd.ac.uk for more details and to check eligibility. This is the last time these courses will be fully funded (ESF via Welsh Government).
Assistive Technologies Innovation Centre (ATiC)
ATiC is a unique, multi-modality, stateof-the-art research and knowledge exchange centre created to support the innovation needs and drive change and transformation in the life sciences sector and NHS in Wales. The Centre’s £1.1m cutting-edge user experience (UX) and usability engineering (UE) research laboratory is based at UWTSD’s Swansea Innovation Quarter. Powered by a diverse multidisciplinary team of artists, designers, architects, scientists, and engineers, ATiC’s focus is on understanding people’s needs through user-centred thinking, design
research methods, and objective physical measurement tools. The team analyses user experiences and performance during interaction with physical and digital healthcare products, services, systems, and spaces. We then use these insights to help our partners develop innovative solutions for health and wellbeing that transform lives. ATiC provides expertise in the following areas such as: Design Research, UX and UE Engineering and Evaluation, Thermographic Analysis and much more.
innovators in Wales turn their ideas into solutions. Whether you have an idea for a healthcare technology but aren’t sure what next staps to take, you are in business and looking to expand your product range, or you are an allied health professional who has spotted a smart way to improve a process – we want to work with you! For more information please contact: atic@uwtsd.ac.uk
ATiC is a partner in the pioneering Accelerate programme, which helps
UWTSD Master’s student and research centre collaborate to improve children’s medical procedure experiences Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Welsh Government.
University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) graduate Adam Higgins has collaborated with the University’s Assistive Technologies Innovation Centre (ATiC), to develop his range of Pre-Medical-Preparation – or PreMedPrep – product prototypes to improve children’s medical procedure experiences. The five-month project was supported by Life Sciences Hub Wales through Accelerate, a £24million co-funded programme by the European
MSc Industrial Design student Adam, aged 23, from Rhiwbina in Cardiff, worked with ATiC as he developed his bright and colourful animalthemed products, which are each specific to a certain medical procedure or examination. The products aim to teach, engage, and prepare children for their procedure, such as blood tests, heart and temperature examinations, and nebulisers for medication intake, offering the child a sense of control and autonomy back over their healthcare. Adam, who is a Product Design graduate of UWTSD’s Swansea College of Art, said: “A child’s lack of
understanding of what is happening to them can lead to a negative experience of medical procedures; it can cause fear and anxiety and affect their future medical visits. This can have lasting implications and children will often refuse future treatments, which can lead to longer procedure times and makes the work of healthcare professionals more challenging. Adam also received advice and support from both Kath Penaluna, UWTSD’s Enterprise Manager and a member of the UK Intellectual Property’s education advisory group IPUC, and Patent Attorney Tom Baker of Murgitroyd, who regularly supports UWTSD students with guidance in protecting their innovations.
uwtsd.ac.uk | 15
Cerebra Innovation Centre (CiC) Disabled Children often encounter barriers to taking part in activities that non-disabled children take for granted. At Cerebra we work with families to come up with bright ideas to help children have fun, play, discover and take part.
What we do
Creativity and Innovation
Cerebra innovation centre is a team of designers who design and build bespoke products for children when there is not something commercially available that works for them.
These sensory Cajon drums are beautifully made from local and sustainable materials, and offer children a huge range of possibilities for music, therapy and play. The textured surfaces and variety of sounds that can be made allow children to explore many of their senses and are proving very helpful in music therapy sessions.
A key component of any CIC design is that the product should be beautiful and exciting, not just functional. It should promote social inclusion and peer acceptance for the child concerned. Parents/carers approach CIC with an issue relating to the ability of their child to participate in a range of activities that any non-disabled child is able to enjoy.
The idea for this application was born when CiC showed these drums to some music technology colleagues, who suggested that they could include lots of high tech components to increase the sensory feedback and fun!
Examples of their pioneering work includes Dr Ross Head and his team adapting a surfboard for 10-year-old Imogen Ashwell-Lewis, who has cerebral palsy, so that with a little help she can ride the waves just like everyone else.
Dr Ross Head, Associate Professor said: “We chose to adapt existing boards to show that it is really easy and that children can then choose their own board, colour, brand, just like anyone else, and with a small adaption they can hit the surf.” Imogen’s mum, Catherine Ashwell-Lewis, said: “We are so grateful and thankful to UWTSD. Imogen had an amazing time and is completely in love with the pink board, it’s so much easier for her than with the prone board shes been using up until now.” For more information on the charity Cerebra, please visit: www.cerebra.org.uk
16 16 || University University of of Wales Wales Trinity Trinity Saint Saint David David
Innovative UWTSD Apprentiships Scheme a success for students and employers Invest in developing your employees with Industry led Higher and Degree Apprenticeships and transform your business. Our apprenticeships are for employees of all ages aged 18 and over, not in full-time education: this is a lifelong learning pathway (no age limit). Duration is 2 – 4 years depending on the programme. Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives takes 5 years for a full Degree Apprenticeship. Apprentices must be in employment, but if you are self-employed in Wales, you can still apply. Apprentices must be eligible to work in the UK and receive a minimum salary of at least £12,000 per annum, you will study part-time, to fit around work commitments. You will be entitled to a wage, statutory holidays and paid time off to study and the cost is paid through Government funding. You can gain qualifications such as HNC / honours degree / MA with optional professional qualifications.
Spotlight on our Apprentices
Daran Griffiths
Operations Engineering Leader, Zimmer Biomet studying Level 6 Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering Degree
“I’m currently studying my BEng in Mechanical and Manufacturing engineering and I’m finding it a very rewarding course, I feel I can relate some of the subjects to experiences I have had during my working life so far and I’m gaining a lot of knowledge around the analytical modules, which is helping me take a lot of confidence away and back into my workplace. I feel the university and lecturers have done an amazing job.”
Apprentiships are available in: Digital Engineering Ordinance, munitions and explosives Archaeology Police
Katie Rees
Support & Business Analyst at NHS Wales Informatics studying BSc Computing (Data and Information Systems)
Construction Glass
Find out more by contacting: apprenticeships@uwtsd.ac.uk or take a look at our website: https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/Apprenticeships/
“As I started in NWIS without a technical background, the Digital Apprenticeship Degree has given me a huge confidence boost within my role and allows me to have a better relationship with developers and other members of my team. UWTSD have fully supported me throughout the apprenticeship.”
uwtsd.ac.uk | 17
Master Your Future:
Postgraduate Study at UWTSD Whether you have recently completed an undergraduate degree, are pursuing a life-long interest, or are seeking a career change or promotion, you can choose from our range of different postgraduate qualifications, many of which offer a choice of part-time, full-time or online/distance learning. Every year we welcome students of all ages, from around the world, so whatever your background or motivation, postgraduate study at UWTSD will offer you great intellectual and personal satisfaction and enjoyment. Our strong portfolio of postgraduate,
professional and PGCE programmes means there’s every reason to study on with UWTSD. UWTSD Taught Postgraduate Progression Bursary There are a range of bursaries and scholarships available at UWTSD to help with funding the cost of your studies. For students wishing to continue their studies with UWTSD there is a taught postgraduate progression bursary. This Bursary is awarded to UK/EU students who have recently completed an undergraduate degree at UWTSD (within two years) and are progressing onto a full time or part-time taught postgraduate programme at UWTSD e.g MA/MTh/MRes (but excluding PgCert/PGDip). The award amount is up to £2,500 and the bursary will be applied automatically for eligible students. This bursary is awarded as a fee reduction and awarded pro-rata with the cost of the programme and the intensity of study. The full £2500 is for courses which cost £7,500 or more. (Full taught MA courses costing £5050 will be eligible for a £1,000 bursary)
Take a look at our website for more information on the postgraduate taught and research courses available www.uwtsd.ac.uk
POSTGRADUATE VIRTUAL EVENING REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Tuesday, 6 September 2022 at 17:30
Are you ready for the next chapter with UWTSD? Stay on for postgraduate study and discover a new and exciting chapter of your story. Meet academics, chat with current students and find out more about our range pf postgraduate courses at this event. 18 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
You can register to attend on Eventbrite: www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/uwtsd-virtual-postgraduate-evening-registeryour-interest-tickets-387479691187 or take a look at web site for more information: www.uwtsd.ac.uk
Brush up on your Cybersecurity skills this summer
University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) is running some beginner-level, introductory courses in Cybersecurity for anyone interested in brushing up their knowledge over the summer.
These free, online CISCO Academy certified courses are intended to provide an introduction to the subject and will appeal to those looking to study computing, switch careers or just interested in finding out more.
You can self-enrol and find more information on the links below: Introduction to Cybersecurity: https://www.netacad.com/portal/web/self-enroll/m/course-1339822 Cybersecurity Essentials: https://www.netacad.com/portal/web/self-enroll/m/course-1334662 Linux for beginners: https://www.netacad.com/portal/web/self-enroll/m/course-1324280
Meet our Alumni
Carmarthen alumni celebrate their 30th reunion during UWTSD’s bicentennial year Press Releases 2022 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David (uwtsd.ac.uk)
Teresa, Melinda and Marie have been meeting every year since graduation, with the exception of lockdown. Teresa Barrett, who completed a four-year BEd Hons in English and Drama in 1996 and is now a Year 2 and Key Stage 1 Phonics Co-ordinator said: “We meet up once a year and usually stay in each other’s homes, but as this was thirty years it had to be Carmarthen. We are always in touch through our WhatsApp group and during the pandemic we Zoom called. It was a special time and very special bonds were formed.”
Marie Smith completed a BA Hons in Theatre Studies and Religious Studies. Marie applied to study at Trinity through clearing and originally considered attending a different university but found the campus and Carmarthen so welcoming, she did not hesitate to accept her place, and has many fond memories of her studies. Marie has had a twenty-year career in training, and now works part-time for a children’s cancer charity. Marie said “Never again will I be in a place surrounded by exciting, fresh minds from so many different walks of life. There were creative, thoughtful, unusual, outspoken people there and I met some friends for life. I loved my lectures, I found my theatre workshops amazing, and I loved the cultural aspect of the RE. My lecturers were passionate and knowledgeable. “ Melinda Craddock, a Deputy Headteacher in Merthyr Tydfil studied for a BEd Hons in English and Drama, completing teaching training alongside her degree. Melinda said: “I have such fond memories of my time at Trinity. Everyone looked after each other, there was a real sense of community.” What these friends have in common is their shared love of Carmarthen and of their university experience, from summer balls to fancy dress competitions, mass snowball fights in the winter to carpet surfing along Dewi B corridor. Teresa saw Carmarthen as her second home and the trio love meeting up to reminisce. As Marie concluded: “To each other, we’re not a mum or wife or teacher or manager, we’re Marie, Melinda & Teresa, the 18-year-old students.” We wish them many more happy years of reunions as UWTSD proudly celebrates its bicentenary. If you would like to share your alumni story, please contact us on alumni@uwtsd.ac.uk You can also stay in touch via our UWTSD Alumni Network or find more information on our website: www.uwtsd.ac.uk
20 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
West end role in Jersey Boys for Perfformio Alumni Joey Cornish, graduate from the BA Perfformio course in Cardiff, has been cast as Joe Pesci and second cover for Frankie Valli in the West End production of Jersey Boys. BA Perfformio (Performance) is an innovative, Welsh-medium course taught intensively over two years. The course develops multidisciplinary, confident performers who have strong knowledge of, and links with, the creative industries in Wales and beyond. Alumni from the course have included Lloyd Macey (2017), X-factor performer, and accomplished singer.
Joey said: “My time training on the Perfformio course at UWTSD Cardiff was the perfect springboard to the next step in my career. For me, that step was to seek further training and the course gave me the perfect tools and experience to do so. I learned so much during my time at UWTSD and acquired so many skills and techniques that I implement daily, in rehearsals and while performing. To get a degree under my belt in only two years is a bonus too as it meant I could get my career started sooner. I don’t think you can get such drama-school-level training through the medium of Welsh anywhere else!”
Business success for Carmarthen Film Graduate Carmarthenshire County Council, Scarlets, Hywel Dda University Health Board and Welsh Government to name a few. One of the most rewarding clients I’ve worked with is the university itself. To actually have the multiple opportunities they’ve entrusted me with is very rewarding.
James Owen is very proud of his achievements since graduating from the Film course in Carmarthen with UWTSD. James said: “My business is called Stori Cymru and I help businesses across Wales and beyond to help share their business story through the medium of film. As a video production company, I can produce a range of professional videos for all business types both large and small. Over the last year I’ve moved from my home studio to a new workspace in Cross Hands. The business is slowly growing and I’m now looking to build my team to work on large projects. I’ve worked with some amazing clients over the last few years.
After teaching myself how to take photographs and then edit films, I realised I was very passionate about storytelling. My dream was to quit my job in sales to pursue a business within the Creative Industries in Wales. The main attraction for me to study Filmmaking at UWTSD Carmarthen was the entrepreneurship modules. I wanted to learn as a filmmaker, how do I earn a living professionally. That was something that really enticed me to study in Carmarthen. In Carmarthen, the teaching and focus on entrepreneurship was the deciding factor. It was a very practical course and I enjoyed the filming opportunities that I worked on over my time as a student. I got to film Ryan Jones for the Iron Man Wales event. That was pretty special as growing up playing rugby he was a childhood hero. I really enjoyed being taught by Dr Brett Aggersberg and Dr Matt Jones on campus too. The
knowledge these men have academically is quite astonishing. Studying a degree wasn’t easy for me personally for a few reasons. Firstly, I wouldn’t consider myself very academic as I struggle to write essays and reports. Secondly, it was a huge sacrifice financially speaking. I quit a well-paid job in sales to pursue life as a student. I don’t regret it to date as it was the best decision for me long term. I would absolutely recommend this course to anyone who has a passion for Media. It’s a very practical course so you shouldn’t be put off if you’re not academic like me. In fact it’s right up your street if that’s something you struggled with. Even though my writing skills weren’t great when I was first a student, I was taught by Dr Matt Jones how to improve my writing skills and I went on to get many top grades in my essays during my final year. The business skills I learned while studying at UWTSD have been instrumental in my business success to date. The belief in my tutors and the encouragement I had has helped tremendously. I risked a lot to quit my job and go back to study and after many years of hard work, it’s all paid off.”
uwtsd.ac.uk | 21
Our Entrepreneurial Alumni:
Futures Fund Entrepreneurship Start Up Grant University of Wales Trinity Saint David is proud to launch the Futures Fund Entrepreneurship Start Up Grant, allowing our Enterprise Team to award students and alumni with funding of up to £500. The grant will be given to those individuals who demonstrate a need for assistance on their start-up journey whether you be a freelancer or small business. If you are thinking about starting or have started a business in the UK within the last year, you could be eligible to receive this grant.
Applicants must be a current student or alumni of UWTSD in order to qualify for the fund, as well as be able to clearly outline how you will use the £500 to support the growth of your business. This could be to assist with the purchase of materials, create a website or cover the costs of professional services, such as legal advice. Prior to the release of funds, all applicants must receive a business planning session with an Enterprise Team member, where together you will explore your business idea in greater
Alumnus cruises to success and invites teaching staff aboard The invitation to visit the new ship came from alumnus Craig Jarrett, who began his career studying an industry-based Leisure Management programme at UWTSD. After graduating, he worked in a French ski resort and developed hotel management experience before joining RCI and working a range of on board operational positions. Working his way up within the company, Craig became the Food & Beverage Director for Asia before moving to Miami where he is now the Director of Global Corporate, Incentive and Charter Sales.
degree was delivered encouraged me to stay in touch with the University and it’s great to see my lecturer Jacqui Jones still leading the way in the Tourism industry.
Craig says: “When I joined UWTSD nearly 20 years ago, I could never have imagined that I would be where I am today. I’ve been working for Royal Caribbean International for over 13 years, and I can confidently say that I still use some fundamentals covered during my time at University to this day. The useful topics and the way the
Craig is just one of many UWTSD students and alumni who have enjoyed excellent placements and careers on cruise ships based in the Caribbean, US, Alaska, Middle East and Far East. Many alumni are now supervisors and managers, whilst others have returned to the UK and have successful careers in tourism, events and marketing.
22 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
It’s good to see the university continuing to forge new relationships with the global industry, opening big opportunities for students to gain meaningful employment opportunities once they graduate. Life is a blend of luck, hard work and the right timing. I know my time at UWTSD was right.”
depth and receive guidance as to next steps in your business journey. In addition to this session, applicants must complete a relevant business start-up course to ensure that you have all the necessary knowledge and skills to give yourselves the best chance at success. Finally, all start-ups must have registered their businesses accordingly within the UK. If you are interested in applying for Entrepreneurship Start Up Grant, please visit: https://future-fund.uk or contact: enterprise@uwtsd.ac.uk
Entrepreneurial Carmarthen Graduates Establish LQBTQ+ Badger Sett Productions Our company is called Badger Sett Productions and it is a production company, producing and creating live performance art and film content. We specialise in live theatre but also have experience in producing promotional content, facilitating and workshops. Some people may question why we chose to openly brand our production company as
LGBTQ+. Alex and I are openly queer and recgonise that privilege. We’ve had the love and support from our friends and family to be open and express our sexuality with the world. We now choose to brand our company as LGBTQ+ to ensure people know we are a safe space and a support network for those that need it.
During our time at UWTSD we gained valuable life and career skills. We built our own toolkit that we use everyday, one of which is communication. Working alongside other courses and industry professionals you have to be able to articulate your ideas. We made lots of different connections whilst studying including producers, directors, writers etc some of which now play a large role in our company.
diverse and exciting course. It has shaped us into the creatives we are today, and we wouldn’t be where we are now without the love and support of our lecturers and peers. UWTSD as a whole has also been incredibly supportive, offering mental health support, financial support and more. University can be an incredibly daunting thing, but UWTSD made the transition incredibly easy.
We will always advocate for our course. The BA Acting degree at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David Carmarthen is a wonderfully
The advice we would give to other entrepreneurial students who want to set up their own company is just go for it. There are always going to be
hurdles regardless of whatever path you choose to go down, so go down the one that’ll bring you the most joy. Lastly, we would like to thank everyone who has supported us along the way. Lynne Seymour, Stacey-Jo Atkinson and Dave Atkinson for their continued love and support. UWTSD and Yr Egin for providing us with rehearsal and office space. Our family and friends, we hope we’re making you proud.
uwtsd.ac.uk | 23
Matthew Salleh-Matta Millar voted TTG 30 under 30, class of 2022 in Travel and Tourism Awards
Setting his sights on a senior-level career in travel, Matthew studied travel and tourism management at the University of Wales, graduating with first class honours in 2017 before going on to achieve a Distinction in his Masters in Business Administration in 2018. He joined jet2 as an executive the following year, and has since been promoted to
Senior Executive after showing great tenacity to support different areas of the business during the pandemic. Nominating Matthew, Janice Mather from Jet2 said: “As part of TTG 30 Under 30, Matthew will personally benefit from expanding his knowledge of the travel industry and learning and developing from opportunities for networking and professional development as well as career progression.” It’s the most exclusive list for those looking to build their careers in the travel industry – the TTG 30 Under 30. Matthew said: “First of all, the fantastic work the lecturers did through support and guidance of all students. Key figures within the team supported me from decisions for my professional development through opportunity on
placements and opening the door to key contracts across the industry. They were the catalyst for my drive within the industry through the knowledge shared. The modules covered such a wide spectrum of areas which are applicable to virtually every business within the industry. To be part of this year’s TTG 30 under 30 and to be recognised and part of this elite group has been an incredible accomplishment within my professional career to date. It provides a fantastic opportunity to network with peers that have been nominated as part of this year’s group, discuss current industry challenges and opportunities, listen in to key speakers across a number of events, and continue to develop my knowledge within this fantastic industry!“
Former UWTSD Anthropology student and Lampeter alumna invited to deliver TEDx talk Malsa is a cultural anthropologist who is passionate about Maldivian culture. Being the daughter of a sailor, she grew up listening to stories from around the world and was inspired by it. Following the completion of her Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Anthropology and Master of Research in Engaged Anthropology at UWTSD’s Lampeter campus, she conducted fieldwork exploring the coconut culture of the Maldives. Her latest research examines how the human body holds and transmits cultural knowledge. A TEDx Talk is a showcase for speakers presenting great, well-formed ideas in under 18 minutes. During her talk Malsa argued that one has to be present, pay attention and take 24 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
part with the people to understand the world from their
perspective. Following her talk, she commented: “I was honoured to be invited to give this TEDx talk and to have such a fantastic opportunity to present my work.”
UWTSD graduate’s passion for innovative creative thinking leads to designer job at Apple’s Advertising Agency
“Creativity in its academic sense was something that my parents always encouraged in my earliest years, more reading, writing and building,” says Patrick Edem Glavee, who was born in Ghana in 2000 and raised in Ireland. With his passion nurtured at home and enhanced at school, Patrick decided
to expand that creativity further by enrolling at University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) at just 17 and three years later, just weeks after graduating from his Graphic Design degree course at the University’s Swansea College of Art, he’s moved to London to start a career as a junior designer with TBWA\Media Arts Lab, Apple’s Advertising Agency. He says: “My passion was born at home. I had a knack for taking toys apart, investigating and breaking their circuits in a futile attempt to build a new toy. My destructive creativity paired with my love for precision, nurtured through Lego, led to me studying a subject blending product design with
architecture in secondary school. I was confident in the fact that I wanted to create, not just one thing, but anything and everything. To cut the story short, I was introduced to graphic design and instantly saw it as the universal subject to cover all creative bases. Fast forward to UWTSD. I came to Swansea for the beach and stayed for the course. My thanks go out to the graphics department at UWTSD who always allowed freedom of exploration. To Donna, Gavin, Harry and Phil, who constantly put up with my last-minute project revamps and nurtured my creative development. And again, to Donna, for being my guardian while I was 17 throughout my first year, and a friend.”
Natalie Jones PGCE alumna, be the difference…teach!
Great teachers are needed now more than ever to enrich children’s learning after what has been a hugely challenging time for the educational sector. Natalie Jones is a second language Welsh teacher in secondary schools. The PGCE Secondary pathway is an extremely popular route into teaching, and allows you to choose a subject you wish to specialise in. She said the pandemic has shown her
how rewarding teaching can be and encouraged anyone considering it as a career to “go for it”.
even better and I wanted to know how I could help support the Welsh language in schools.
She said: “I chose to become a teacher because I wanted to be the adult I didn’t have as a child in the education system. I’m also very passionate about the Welsh language and what it means to the heritage and culture of Welsh children.
Being part of the huge effort to adapt and work through lockdown to support the children has made me more determined to achieve my goal and help shape young lives.
Working with children and young people is so rewarding. I chose to study at UWTSD because it’s a local university committed to the area and I wanted to go somewhere that I knew would support me and my future endeavours to be a teacher. Choosing this university was also crucial to me as a Welsh speaker. I needed to know that I would get support with making my Welsh
I would recommend that people from ethnic minorities entered teaching as a career as currently the population of pupils from ethnic minorities far outweighs the population of staff in schools in terms of diversity. There’s a saying that, ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’, and if we want to encourage the next generation to become teachers, they need to be able to see diversity within the people that are teaching them.” uwtsd.ac.uk | 25
Career success and racing glory for UWTSD Motorcycle Engineering graduate Sam Mousley graduated from UWTSD in 2019 with an MEng in Motorcycle Engineering, and since then his career has gone from strength to strength, working for McClaren as an Engine Calibration Engineer, then moving onto Triumph. Despite a hectic work schedule, Sam continues to race at competitive motorcycle events with former students and Orthrus Racing team members from UWTSD including Jordan Ballantyne, Mechanical Development Engineer at McLaren. Sam recently competed at the Isle of Man TT and credits his success to a love of all things motorbike and the opportunity UWTSD gave him to further his race career. “I must have loved UWTSD because I decided to spend five years of my life there!
Isle of Man mountain course circuit at the Manx GP where we finished second in the newcomer’s race!
I started on the foundation year in 2014, as I never did A-levels, and this was a really good move as not only did it get me up to speed with the maths and science, but I got a head start in the other modules and got to know the lecturers ready for year one. At the start of year 1, myself and five other students founded ‘Orthrus Racing’, a motorcycle race team which we developed over the next four years with great support from the university. Many other students got involved along the way and, with me as the rider, we raced for 4 years on a Yamaha R6 culminating in racing on the
Share your Story
Tell us about your achievements and success, we would love to hear from you. Just got to the website and complete the ‘share your story’ online form, which will guide you through a series of question. Alternatively, contact alumni@uwtsd.ac.uk. Your career success could prove an inspiration for a current student, or for those still deciding upon their course. We look forward to hearing from you! 26 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
After my final year, I decided I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to the university just yet and stayed on for a fifth year to do an integrated master’s degree. I started my master’s thesis on incylinder combustion modelling and due to the excellent industry connections of the university, I was put in touch with McLaren automotive and finished it as a collaboration project with McLaren. This led onto my first job being at McLaren as a calibration engineer. I am now working at my dream job as a calibration engineer for Triumph Motorcycles where I get to develop the traction control systems for new models and ride a lot of bikes!”
Graduate Outcomes: Make your voice heard!
The Graduate Outcomes survey is a national survey capturing information about the activities and perspectives of graduates 15 months after they finish their studies.
The Graduate Outcomes survey... contacts graduates 15 months after completing studies by email or phone to learn about your activities and views keep your contact details up to date: www.uwtsd.ac.uk/stayconnected Find out more www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk
About the survey All graduates who completed a relevant course will be asked to take part in the survey, to help current and future students gain an insight into career destinations and development. Your responses will also help UWTSD to evaluate and promote our courses. ‘Graduate Outcomes’ looks to understand whether you’re in employment, have continued with further study or are doing something else, and to what extent your qualification played a part.
The survey is also of national significance. It allows policy makers, charities, journalists, researchers and others to understand the higher education sector and the state of the graduate labour market. Therefore, it is important that we have your most up-to-date contact details so we can contact you after you graduate. If you are a current student, you can update your details using MyTSD, however, if you have completed your studies, you can update your contact details on our website www.uwtsd. ac.uk/careers/graduate-outcomes-survey. uwtsd.ac.uk | 27
Events This year has been a busy one for our alumni, as well as the numerous events celebrating UWTSD bicentenary, we have been hard at work organising career focused alumni talks and events.
Alumni and Student Careers Fair Success at Swansea’s SA1 Campus Current students and alumni attended a Careers Fair at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) SA1 Swansea campus to meet with potential employers and hear about the employment opportunities available in a variety of sectors. Hosted by the University’s Careers Service, it was the first in person event post pandemic and was held at the IQ building with a STEM focus. The event was co-ordinated by Mel Hall, Careers Adviser at the University’s Wales Institute for Science and Art (WISA) and was attended by representatives from 25 businesses. The careers team provides one to one career advice and guidance to current students and alumni, help with CV, applications, interview preparation and advice on finding work experience. The careers service at UWTSD are proud to highlight that they offer a service to alumni regardless of their year of graduation and are as available to recent graduates, as they are to those that graduated many years ago and are perhaps looking for a career change or have experienced redundancy. Pierluigi Bonagura, Automotive Engineering Student at UWTSD who attended said: “It has been an incredible event, which has been helping me and others to discover new job opportunities, well done for organising this.”
28 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Employers attending included: Tata Steel, GotBoost, HEIW Wales, NHS Management, Kier, Sureview, DVLA, Kaymac Marine Engineering, Sony, Concrete Canvas, Oakwood Theme Park, Students Union, MFL Cardiff University, Carmarthenshire Theatres, St Davids Cathedral, Environment Centre, Vinci Construction, Flexonics, Vaillant, Digital Health Care Wales, South Wales Police Force, UWTSD Enterprise, Hydrock Engineering, Swansea City Council Building Services, Sunny Recruitment. Links to the employers attending can be found on our LinkedIn site: UWTSD Alumni Network To find out about future employment events, reunions and our mentoring scheme, please take a look at our website www.uwtsd.ac.uk/alumni or email alumni@uwtsd.ac.uk
UWTSD supporting you throughout your career The careers team at UWTSD are here to support you, whether seeking work just after graduation, thinking about a change of career, or looking at postgraduate study. There is no time limit on when you can get in touch and seek support. Graduates can use our career portal MyCareer: and then have an option to convert to a graduate account. We have a team of experienced and professionally qualified University Careers guidance practitioners and we exist to help you understand your career options and develop your Employability. We can also help with queries about: Getting started & generating Careers ideas Understanding your options and making sound decisions Finding and getting quality work experience Understanding your Postgraduate options Starting your own business
Find out how our careers team could support your future. You can contact the Careers Service team by E-mail careers@uwtsd.ac.uk
Institute for Sustainable Practice, Innovation, Research & Enterprise Phone: 01570 424755 Email: rebecca.jones@ uwtsd.ac.uk uwtsd.ac.uk | 29
UWTSD are excited to announce the launch of the brand new UWTSD Alumni app. The app will be the one place where you can find all Alumni related matters: •F ind out about events and how you can join in UWTSD’s Bicentenary Celebrations • Share your success stories and discover other Alumni activity • Update your contact details • Study on with UWTSD • View University announcements in the Newsroom • Check out campus news and developments
To access the app you will need to:
Register your details with us by completing this online form.
You will need to provide your name, email address and a memorable word which you will need to login.
Any questions please contact the Hwb: hwb@uwtsd.ac.uk | @uwtsdstudents
30 | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
We will then email you once your account is set up.
Once you have been notified that your account is active, you will then be able to download the brand new UWTSD Alumni app.
Make a Donation With many students struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, it more important than ever before that we support our student community. You can choose to donate to the student hardship fund, or a specific project, make a one-off donation or leave a legacy in your will. Donations to support UWTSD play a vital s help ensure that our mission, ‘transforming
education, transforming lives’, is underpinned through providing facilities, research, campus experiences and a channel of talent from undergraduate to leaders in industry, irrespective of financial circumstance, providing access to higher education for all.
Donations welcome to: Student support and hardship fund Student entrepreneurs Student experience - travel and study opportunities Subject specific bursaries and scholarships opportunities
If you would like to discuss making a donation, please get in touch with our alumni team alumni@uwtsd.ac.uk Gift Aid – for eligible UK taxpayers When you make a Gift Aid donation, we can reclaim from HM Revenue & Customs the basic rate tax which you have already paid on your gift. This increases the value of your gift to us by 25%, at no extra cost to you. If you are a higher rate taxpayer, you can also claim the difference between the higher rate and basic rate tax on the total value of your gift to the University on your SelfAssessment tax return.
uwtsd.ac.uk | 31