University of Lincoln launches celebrity cast for virtual classroom

The University of Lincoln has assembled an amazing cast of celebrities, broadcasters and world-leading academics who are all giving their support to young people during these difficult times.

Big names including comedian and writer Stewart Lee, BBC Radio 1 presenter and influencer Clara Amfo and environmental campaigner, broadcaster and associate lecturer Chris Packham will share their experience and knowledge with students from all over the world, through the University of Lincoln’s Virtual Classroom.

In a further display of commitment and generosity; Clara Amfo has donated £1,000 to Lincoln County Hospital, adding to the University’s ongoing donations of equipment and support.

Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Lincoln, Professor Toby Wilkinson said: “University applicants would normally be attending a variety of events including open days and UCAS fairs, but the Covid-19 pandemic has made these face-to-face events impossible. The fact that the University has created the Virtual Classroom doesn’t just fill the gap, it shows incredible innovation and will make a real difference to young people considering their future.”

The University’s innovative approach includes a calendar of virtual events and activities that will engage, inspire and motivate young people to take their next steps.

Every Wednesday at 2pm a new ‘Lincoln Live’ talk will be hosted by an inspirational celebrity or a world-leading academic, giving a fully interactive talk on the issues they feel most passionate about.

Highlights include:

Chris Packham, 29th April; The broadcaster, environmental campaigner and University of Lincoln Associate Lecturer will address your questions about environmental issues and how we can all make a difference going forward.

Stewart Lee, 13th May; The multi award winning and critically acclaimed comedian and writer, will give his take on humour in times of struggle and what might be appropriate in the current climate. There will also be a chance to ask questions about his experience of higher education, life and career.

Clara Amfo, 20th May; The BBC Radio 1 presenter and social media influencer will take your questions and talk about how higher education helped her get to where she is now. Clara will also give her advice to young people thinking about making the step into university life.

Professor Nigel Allinson MBE, 15th April; Distinguished Chair of Image Engineering at the University of Lincoln and Director of Research, Professor Allinson will deliver his talk ‘Honest Science and Fake Science’ as well as answering questions about his research and the University of Lincoln.

Dr Patricia Jackman, 27th May; With research projects involving the optimal experience in sport and exercise as well as psychological wellbeing, Dr Patricia Jackman will discuss sport and exercise psychology, her research and her career.

Dr Craig Marsh, 3rd June; Pro Vice Chancellor and Director of Lincoln International Business School, Dr Craig Marsh will discuss management and leadership, as well as answering questions about what it is like to study in the University of Lincoln’s business school.

Director of Communications and Development, Elly Sample said: “This is an incredible opportunity for young people to be part of something that could genuinely help them make huge decisions about their future.

“It’s amazing to see such an esteemed array of people giving the Lincoln Live talks, people with genuine gravitas, giving their time so young people can make the most of theirs.

“These are extraordinary times and our experts and celebrities are volunteering in the best ways they know how. By giving them a captive audience and indeed the University giving young people a chance to be in that audience for free, makes this very much part of bigger national effort, to do the right thing and keep the country moving forward.”