Being a PGR Parent

25 Aug 2022

Perpetual Eze-Idehen, a PGR graduate from the Department of Chemical Engineering, has recently setup the Researchers Parents, Carers and Guardian Network, to offer support to PGR students who have caring responsibilities for children.

As well as a mailing list for support and information, the intention is to host events where PGR parents and carers can come together with their children, to socialise. The first such event recently took place, and was a great success, with activities for everyone to relax and have fun.

Perhaps the most interesting session was where children were encouraged to tell everyone what their parents do as researchers at the University. This provided an opportunity for parents to explain their research in language all kids could understand. Children were also encouraged to colour in bees, based on their parent’s research area.

Over 70 people attended the event, which allowed attendees to network, offer mutual support, share experiences, signpost queries and represent views.

“I have been at the University for more than 3 years, this is first time I have witnessed such a brilliant event, please we need more from the organisers”

“I and my kids enjoyed the whole event, which was packed with different educational activities”

“What a brilliant event, my 5-year old was able to understand and explain what I do as a researcher at the University - thank you Dr Perpetual for an amazing event for PGR parents and their children”

Thanks are due for the great contribution and support of Debbie Smith and Erin Barrett from FMBH, and Elizabeth Kurtis from Directorate for the Student Experience, which greatly helped with the success of this event. 

Anyone with caring responsibilities for children is encourages to join the email list for the network.