Erasmus+ visit to Bishop Grosseteste University

Our Programme Leader PhDr. Veronika Quinn Novotná, Ph.D. from School of Education had a pleasure of visiting Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln, UK, from Tuesday 22 April to Friday 25 April 2025.

You can read below what Veronika wrote about her visit at BGU:

The main objectives of my Erasmus+ visit were to establish a partnership that would allow PCU students to begin their Erasmus exchange at BGU in the winter term of 2025, as well as to shadow faculty and colleagues to gather inspiration for the new accreditation of our TEFL programme, due in 2026. Throughout my stay, I had the opportunity to meet with key staff, including Dr. Kay Johnson, Dr. Jessica Vernon and Fiona McManus, in the English Language & Teaching department, where we discussed strategies to solidify the Erasmus exchange for our students. I also delivered a guest lecture titled 'Paradigms at crossroads or on a highway? The Curious Incident of Global Englishes in the ELT Classroom,' which sparked engaging discussions on the role of English in today’s globalized world. Additionally, I sought advice from my fellow researchers on my current project, which examines the role of emotionality in teacher education. This mobility is crucial for our students—future English teachers—to gain intercultural experience abroad, especially in the UK. It also provides an invaluable opportunity for the faculty at both PCU and BGU to stay informed about current trends in TEFL education. My stay was greatly facilitated by Sophie Hadfield, the International Support Officer, who kindly coordinated all of my meetings, my lecture, and planned my attendance at local seminars and workshops. I had the opportunity to meet with various departments at BGU, including Early Childhood Studies and Foundation Year, to explore their academic offerings and research interests. I was also able to attend several classes, such as those on Shakespearean topics, TEFL methodology, and Reflective Practice. On a personal level, I believe it is essential to remain actively engaged with British culture, society, and educational trends, which can only be fully achieved through direct, in-person interaction. This visit has not only laid the groundwork for future cooperation but also inspired new ideas for the ongoing development of our TEFL programme and its accreditation process.