Coventry University London up for business culture award

Coventry University’s campus in central London has been shortlisted for an accolade in recognition of how its workplace culture has developed to benefit staff and students.

The campus, based in the City of London, is a finalist – and the only higher education institution – in the 2017 Business Culture Awards, which celebrate UK organisations’ efforts to create an exceptional business environment.

Coventry University London’s use of business simulations to help tutors engage students across all of its master’s and bachelor’s courses – including those in finance, management and entrepreneurship – was instrumental in earning it the nomination.

The simulations are designed to provide students with an authentic business experience in a classroom environment, and pose interactive challenges such as turning around a failing retail business and transforming it into a profitable one.

As part of the university’s simulation-based approach, tutors adjust their teaching style to be that of ‘facilitators’ – helping the students make their own decisions and react to the consequences – while students are encouraged to reflect on their performances and how their roles can influence the financial success of a business.

The simulations have supported the learning experience of over 2,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students to date, and is most regularly used in modules designed to develop understanding of financial statements, sustainable strategies and international corporate reporting.

Janet Hannah, pro-vice-chancellor and chief executive officer of Coventry University London, said:

“At our London campus we’re creating an engaging environment in which students who are interested to progress into careers in finance or business can learn by experiencing realistic scenarios.

“We’re delighted that those efforts to create a workplace culture that brings out the best in our tutors and students have been recognised by the Business Culture Awards. We’re the only university represented at the awards, so it’s a real testament to the hard work of our staff.”

Coventry’s London campus was established in 2010 and focuses on providing its 1,500-plus UK and international students with a learning experience that prepares them for future management roles in industries such as finance, marketing, hospitality and fashion, as well as support to start their own business.

The winners of the Business Culture Awards will be revealed on November 29 at an event in central London.