Meet the team

Amy Adams 

My role
I work remotely and oversee the university’s outreach offer to schools and colleges including parental engagement and information advice and guidance to students who would not traditionally consider university.

My background
Since graduating from University of Brighton in 2007, with a Social Science degree, I have been involved in education with young people – from youth work and sexual health advice to behaviour and attendance management in schools.

I was the first person in my family to attend university. Brighton was such a brilliant choice for me; I found people with similar interests and I felt I fit in. The degree challenged me to question most of my beliefs and changed my perspective. I chose to work for the university’s outreach team to share my experience of being from a low income family and how that didn’t hold me back from achieving at university.

Why University of Brighton?
As a University of Brighton graduate I understand the positive experience this university has on our students. The work-based approach to learning helped me understand the value of working with young people and the opportunities that a higher education degree can offer. Both as a student and staff member, the support available at Brighton is second to none.

My hobbies
My children, aged 4 and 1, keep me pretty busy, but I do find time for yoga and I am most happy spending my days at the beach on my kayak.

Ask me about

• The University of Brighton Outreach programme
• Parental engagement
• Advice and guidance for children in care who have not yet applied to university

Get in touch
I work remotely. Contact me on a.r.adams@brighton.ac.uk. I work Monday to Thursday. For queries relating to children in care email aboutuni@brighton.ac.uk.

Wendy Heasmer 

My role
I have been at the University of Brighton for 14 years. I oversee the evaluation work the team conducts for our outreach projects and I am currently working with the team to develop new programmes to help support school partners to raise attainment. I also chair the NEON primary working group, which brings together widening participation professionals from all over the UK

My background
I went to Filsham Valley School and St Leonards Academy. I had no idea what I wanted to do, so I worked in Tesco pharmacy and opticians for several years. I saw an advert for the University of Brighton and ended up studying a degree in Applied Social Science. Best decision I ever made! During my degree I knew I wanted to work in education, probably as a careers adviser. I later worked as an information, advice and guidance youth worker, while finishing my degree, and had the interview for my job with the University of Brighton the same day as my graduation!

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton changed my life because an academic at an open day spent time finding out what I loved about studying and encouraged me that university was for me. I strongly believe that the area you live in or school you attend should have no bearing on your future potential.

My hobbies
Outside of work, I have a very active child who keeps me busy when I am not at work. He is already quite the golfer and I can see myself spending evenings and weekends at golf clubs before too long!

Ask me about

• Our partnership work with schools and colleges in Sussex

Get in touch:
Email me on w.heasmer@brighton.ac.uk.

Rachel Reid

My role
I oversee the Academic Excellence programme which gives students an insight into university through our subject focused tasters, summer schools and Saturday Clubs. Since joining the university six years ago I have worked in the recruitment, events and outreach teams. I love seeing school and college students experience being at a university, connect with student ambassadors and academics and discover subjects they may not have even considered studying before but get excited about.

My background
I grew up in Brighton and studied at BHASVIC before going to university in Reading to study English Literature and Philosophy. After graduating I worked as a students’ union officer responsible for welfare and equal opportunities, then taught English at schools in Chile. I worked for an education charity for five years where I led outreach programmes in London and Bristol before completing a primary PGCE and teaching for a couple of years. Supporting young people in education has been a core part of all my roles as has developing the partnerships between universities and local schools, colleges and communities.

Why University of Brighton?
The university is welcoming and diverse just like the city of Brighton which I love and the students and staff who work here are so friendly and supportive. There’s a wide range of subjects and amazing facilities – I still stumble across exciting studios, labs and projects when we have subject tasters and summer schools! Each campus has a unique character, so you feel part of a smaller community as well as the whole university.

My Hobbies
In my spare time I love to be by the sea, in the countryside or enjoying delicious food with my family and friends. Music, reading and swimming all make me happy too.

Ask me about

• Academic taster sessions
• Summer schools

Get in touch:
I work remotely. Contact me on r.reid3@brighton.ac.uk. I work Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Johanna Harris 

My role
Based in Moulsecoomb, I manage relationships with colleges and secondary schools throughout Sussex delivering and developing a range of activities through the Widening Participation programme. I am particularly passionate about Saturday Clubs, especially Formula 24 Saturday Club which gives young people the opportunity to build and race cars. It’s amazing to watch them grow in confidence over the weeks and is so much fun. I also really enjoy delivering our attainment projects which provide support for students as they approach their GCSE exams.

My background
I went to school in Crawley at one of the schools I now work with, so it’s been so lovely going back, encouraging students to make informed choices about their futures.

I have always been involved with charity work and managed a Toy Library, as well as a volunteer-run playgroup for pre-school children. I was also Vice Chair of Governors at my children’s primary school.

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton is such a warm welcoming place. I feel so lucky to be here; I have been supported to reach my potential both as a member of staff and as a student. I know first-hand what a wonderful experience coming to Brighton represents for the young people I work with.

My hobbies
When I’m not working I enjoy walking and reading. I also volunteer at a local youth club.

Ask me about

• All aspects of our Outreach programme, including talks, university visits, taster lectures and workshops.
• Talks to parents and carers, advice and guidance on student finance, student life and the application process.

Get in touch
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus in Brighton. Contact me on j.harris2@brighton.ac.uk.

Laura Towers

My role
I am responsible for delivering a range of widening participation activities across schools and colleges in Hastings, Bexhill, and Rye, and providing information and support to young people making a decision about university. Another part of my role is coordinating academic outreach in the School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences, and I also focus on planning and delivering the primary strand of the university’s outreach work.

My background
I attended university in Leicester and Sheffield, studying French and Spanish and Gender Studies. I moved to East Sussex in 2017, where I previously worked in the charity sector. I have always wanted to work with young people and have been very lucky to do this since the start of my career.

My last job was working in schools delivering a coaching and mentoring programme to young people to help them find the pathway they wanted to follow in life. It was here that I found a real interest in supporting students to make an informed decision about university, especially as I live in an area where many don’t consider going to university. This led me to the outreach team at the University of Brighton.

Why University of Brighton?
Working at the University of Brighton is a truly enjoyable experience and it is great to work with a team of people with shared values who care so much about working with and supporting young people. The opportunities that the university has available to staff, students, and prospective students are hugely varied and actively provide new ways to grow and develop.

My hobbies
Outside of work I like to try (and not always succeed at) as many creative hobbies as I can. At the moment you can probably find me watercolour painting, dressmaking, tap dancing, or crocheting – while also watching Netflix.

Ask me about

• Primary school outreach work
• Academic outreach for the School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences

Get in touch
I work remotely. Contact me on L.Towers2@brighton.ac.uk.

Amber Hanrahan

My role
Through my role in the Outreach team, I work with partner schools and colleges to give their students information, advice, and guidance around going to university. I organise and deliver activities, events, and 1-to-1 support in schools and colleges, as well as on our university campuses. Within the university, I work with the School of Art and Media and the School of Business and Law to arrange events on campus including Saturday clubs and summer schools. Throughout this work, my aim is to break down barriers to going to university.

My background
My professional background is in psychology, education, and children’s mental health. I have worked in a range of different roles throughout the education system, spanning from early years through to schools and colleges. Prior to starting with the University of Brighton, I worked in Widening Participation (WP) with another university where I initially developed my knowledge on outreach work. I also have personal experience of coming from a WP background myself, which gives me a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by students we work with.

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton is a creative university, full of opportunity, and based in a beautiful location. The community here is welcoming and supportive and the facilities are great!

My hobbies
On my more active days, I like to go climbing, cycling, and sea swimming. On calmer days, I enjoy doing pottery and drawing. I am always up for trying something new!

Ask me about

• Outreach support in schools and colleges
• Academic outreach for the School of Art and Media and the School of Business and Law
• Saturday clubs and summer schools

Get in touch
I am based at our City Campus in central Brighton.
Email me at A.Hanrahan@Brighton.ac.uk.

Mike McGuire

My role
I work as the Data Administrator for the Outreach Team. My role involves ensuring all data relating to student activities is recorded on the Higher Education Access Tracker (HEAT) and to provide analysis and reports to assist in the evaluation of the Team’s work. HEAT is a national system for universities engaged in widening participation (WP) providing data management, analysis and reporting for their outreach activities.

My background
I had a long career working as a Performance Analyst for the National Crime Agency (NCA) and its precursor agencies which gave me a fascinating insight into the threat from serious and organised crime and the ongoing fight against it. Prior to this I worked for the Courts Service working at many courts in London dealing with legal professionals, defendants and the general public in a variety of roles. I moved to the Sussex coast in 1999 and have been here ever since.

Why University of Brighton?
After taking early retirement from the NCA, I was keen to take on a part-time job where I could use my skills and experience in a supporting role and this fitted the bill. I feel that it is important that as many people as possible have the opportunity to undertake a successful university education and so I am very happy to support the hard work of my colleagues in the Outreach Team in this aim.

My hobbies
I enjoy most sports, particularly football and cricket, although I just watch rather than play these days. I also play guitar and bass, mainly on my own for relaxation but sometimes in jam sessions with friends.

Ask me about
Any queries or issues relating to HEAT.

Contact me
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus. Contact me on m.mcguire@brighton.ac.uk.

Lucy Jenner

My role
I am responsible for building relationships in widening participation in schools and colleges and supporting young people to consider their prospects, and the possibility of pursuing higher education. I do this through projects and events on campus or in schools/colleges, mostly in Brighton and West Sussex. I am based at the university’s Moulsecoomb campus. I work with the School of Applied Science but also help to support work with colleagues in other university Schools. I will also be responsible for leading our fantastic Saturday Clubs, which are free and run each year for secondary school students.

My background
I have worked in arts education most of my career, working in a secondary school as an Art Technician, as an Education Officer at an arts organisation promoting South Asian performance art and at an art and craft museum as their Learning and Public Programme Manager. I was the first to go to university in my family, and I came from a single-parent, low-income family. I studied Contemporary Applied Arts at the University of Cumbria. Having grown up in the south of England, I wanted to study in the north and explore new places. I was technically classed as a mature student when I started university at 21, having taken a few years out to work and travel. I also travelled after university, volunteering in India and Sri Lanka.

Why the University of Brighton?
In my role at the museum, I regularly worked with the University of Brighton. I enjoyed coordinating the live projects we collaborated on together. In addition, I was impressed by how the academics cared for their students, seeking new ways to engage with industry and supporting students to gain essential work experiences to help enhance their CVs.

My hobbies
I like swimming, visiting galleries and museums, and I run a night called Dancing in the Dark. Walking is my favourite pastime, and I hope my young family will enjoy it too so we can ramble together in the future. I have travelled extensively and dream of far-off lands regularly.

Ask me about
Saturday clubs and the School of Applied Science.

Contact me
I am based at Moulsecoomb campus.

Contact me on L.jenner2@brighton.ac.uk.

Jake Donkin-Peters

My role
As part of the Outreach team, I help deliver and organise a range of events across schools and colleges in East Sussex and Eastbourne. From 1-to-1 personal statement sessions to information, advice and guidance presentations, I work to equip young people with the relevant skills and information so that they can make informed decisions on their potential journey into Higher Education. Within the university itself, I work with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences to facilitate events on campus surrounding these subject areas including subject taster sessions and summer schools. I believe that every young person no matter their background deserves the right to pursue higher education if they desire, and I consider my role to be ensuring that every young person I work with is as best equipped as possible to make this choice and realise their potential.

My Background
Originally from the south-west of England, I moved from Plymouth to Brighton to study International Relations and Development after having taken some time out of education and work to travel and volunteer in Southeast Asia. During my time studying I became introduced to the world of widening participation as a student ambassador, and from that point on have become infatuated with the amazing work the sector can do for young people.

Whilst my passion within my studies was originally on how education systems work around the world, and the impact of education for development, my work in widening participation has realigned my sights on the UK education system and the support that is needed by young people here. As such I have spent the last two years working within this sector, having volunteered for organisations such as Into University Brighton and having worked for amazing organisations such as We Speak who help develop students public speaking and confidence skills. Having come from an area of the country that was relatively deprived and devoid of vast opportunities I appreciate the value of what we do as a sector and a team at Brighton every day and I am glad I can be part of a team that combats these challenges.

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton is a great institution and asset to so many in the Brighton and East Sussex area, offering opportunities to so many to achieve their potential and challenge stereotypes of what success looks like. As a wonderful space of diversity, inclusion and innovation it is a privilege to be able to represent it and use our amazing facilities and resources to inspire young people to achieve and realise their potential in a positive and supportive environment.

My Hobbies
In typical British fashion my activities outside of work are highly weather dependent. An ideal day involves a trip to the beach with plenty of sea swimming, a potential bike ride, hike or if I’m lucky to return to the south-west then a bit of surfing or paddle boarding. However, when the winds and rain decide to bless us all, you can often find me watching a good movie or series with my partner, hanging out with friends playing some sort of game and all often accompanied by some excessive/extravagant meal that I’ve cooked as I love trying out new recipes from around the world.

Ask me about
Applying to university hints and tips

Contact me
Contact me onJ.Donkin-Peters@brighton.ac.uk.

Sarah Sawyer

My role
I am the Operations Coordinator within the Outreach team, based at the university’s Moulsecoomb campus. My role supports, develops and administers the Outreach team’s systems and processes used to promote our widening participation work with schools and colleges, including managing email communications and promoting our events to their students and staff.

My background
For the majority of my career I have worked within the education and training sectors. This includes many years working for the National Apprenticeship Service, implementing the government agenda to promote and widen access to apprenticeships. I worked for the training provider network for Sussex, supporting the interests of colleges, independent training providers and universities focusing on communications, administration and event organisation. During this time, I also worked for the Apprenticeship Support and Knowledge programme, delivering presentations and workshops to schools and colleges across Sussex about the benefits of apprenticeships. Before joining the university in this role, I worked as an Employment Coach for an educational charity supporting unemployed adults into work with employability skills and support.

Why University of Brighton?
I have worked for the university twice before and enjoyed the experiences and worked within really supportive teams. It has been a positive and supportive environment for me personally and rewarding to work alongside colleagues who care about the work they do in supporting and inspiring young people.

My hobbies
When I'm not working or negotiating with my teenaged children, I like to relax by reading, walking our lovely dog, and visiting galleries and museums. I love watching live music, and fortunately living in Brighton gives me lots of opportunities to attend gigs.

Ask me about
Our schools and colleges newsletters and Outreach events and activities 

Contact me
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus in Brighton. Contact me on s.j.sawyer@brighton.ac.uk.

Helen Bery

My role
I’m the Digital Outreach Coordinator and support the Outreach team’s aim to widen participation, through organising and delivering a range of online events and talks. These include subject tasters, information, advice and guidance talks and peer to peer events with Student Ambassadors. I also organise and edit content for our Online Summer Schools, which run during July each year.

My background
I’ve worked in the charity sector for most of my career. I studied Fine Art at UWE University in Bristol then went on to study a Masters in Curating Contemporary Art at London Metropolitan University.

After travelling and taking part in volunteer work in India and an internship at the Whitechapel Gallery, I knew I wanted to work on projects that make learning more accessible for disadvantaged groups.

I worked in the charity sector for a number of years; at Kids’ City charity recruiting disadvantaged young people into volunteer placements, while marketing the project within the local community and Age UK Merton where I worked as a Festival and Volunteer Coordinator, organising a large festival, producing a brochure and promoting this within the borough. I also worked as a Visual Content Editor for a period of time, which continued my interest in using digital methods of communication to engage with different community groups.

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton is a welcoming, inclusive, and creative place and I am very happy to be here and to represent it. The university has so much to offer and a vast range of opportunities for both staff and students. I’m enjoying working in an environment that is both supportive and inspiring.  

My hobbies
My three young children keep me busy! - I love the beach and going for walks in the countryside with them. I also enjoy going to music festivals, visiting art galleries and travelling when I can. Baking cakes and sweet things is another favourite pass time of mine – especially eating them!

Ask me about
Digital and online outreach events

Contact me
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus in Brighton. Contact me on E.Bery@brighton.ac.uk.

Kirsty Yull  

My role
As UK Student Recruitment Officer, I plan and attend recruitment events across the UK, such as HE fairs and UCAS events. I also develop the university’s partnerships with schools and colleges outside of Sussex, delivering our programme of talks and information and guidance sessions, both online and face-to-face. Alongside this, I am also involved with planning and supporting our Clearing activities every summer.

My background
I grew up in Sussex where I studied my GCSEs and A-levels and went on to study Nutrition at the University of Surrey. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after university, so I worked in hospitality for a little while and learnt that I enjoyed working in teams and mentoring other people. I’ve always had an ambition to work in healthcare, and I came across the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme which married my interests nicely! At the start of 2023 I moved to Melbourne, where I worked as an Ethics and Governance Coordinator in a cancer clinical trials centre. Whilst I really loved having the opportunity to experience living and working in a new city, I yearned to be back home near family and friends again, so I moved back to the UK at the end of 2023. This is my first role in the education system, and I’m excited to join the team and to support student recruitment across the UK.

Why University of Brighton
The University of Brighton embodies a culture of creativity, brimming with opportunities, and based in an amazing location. The people here are so friendly and supportive, and I feel privileged to be part of the team.

My interests
I love running and have also dabbled in triathlon recently (I want to do an Ironman one day!). In my spare time, I also like to spend time with family and friends, explore new places, and read fantasy books.

Ask me about

• HE fairs
• Student life

Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on k.yull@brighton.ac.uk.

Kat Cockram

My role
I am the current Student Recruitment Assistant for the Student Recruitment Team. My job involves organizing and attending higher education fairs that encourage post-16 students to attend the University of Brighton. I also have the chance to attend larger exhibitions like UCAS and UK University Search and give talks at these events about student life using my firsthand experiences.

My background
I am originally from South London, where I studied my GCSEs and A levels in Art, Photography, Drama and English. I left London when I was 18 and I have lived in Brighton for 6 years before I became a student. One of my life ambitions was to graduate from university. With the support and advice of my friends and family, I enrolled on the Marketing Management course at the University of Brighton. I chose this course because it combined my love of being creative and my management and business skills from my years of working prior to studying.

After 2 years of being on the course, I can truly say I chose the right degree for me. From the city itself, to the lecturers, and the wonderful experiences I’ve had, I absolutely love being a student at the University of Brighton. Originally, I wasn’t planning on doing a placement year, but when I saw the opportunity with the Student Recruitment team, I couldn’t refuse! I hope I can gain key experiences into the marketing world, but also gain skills in event management, presentations and team coordination.

Why University of Brighton?
Choosing to study at the University of Brighton was a no-brainer for me because I love Brighton. I am a mature, disabled and queer person so I wanted a university that could support my needs but could also be a fun and inclusive space. I looked at different universities around the area, the University of Brighton’s courses, services, inclusion and generally lovely vibe were perfect for me.

My interests
I am a massive foodie – I love going out to eat and trying new things! I am also a giant nerd, so I love fantasy, sci-fi and fiction. I also love travelling, music gigs, and going on hikes with my wonderful friends.

Ask me about

• HE Fairs
• UCAS Fairs
• Student life

Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on k.cockram@brighton.ac.uk.

Victoria Patel

My role
In my role as UK Regional Student Recruitment Officer I work remotely, specifically with schools and colleges in Hampshire and Surrey. I build relationships and develop partnerships with schools and colleges in these regions and deliver our programme of talks and workshops, both virtually and face-to- face. I also attend recruitment events across the UK. Current projects I am working on are our school and college newsletters and activities for teachers and advisers.

My background
I studied my A Levels in Hampshire - at a college I now work with - before completing a Geography degree at Royal Holloway and I have worked in education ever since. I have worked across marketing and alumni relation teams both at universities and schools, before retraining as a Geography teacher and working at a secondary school in Southampton. I loved teaching and working with schools and young people and decided to utilise these skills back in the Higher Education sector. Before joining the University of Brighton, I worked in subject specific student recruitment at another university and delivered taster days, webinars and outreach events, working closely with academic colleagues and schools and colleges. It is great to be working at Brighton and to be meeting students from across the region.

Why University of Brighton?
Brighton is a vibrant city, and the university empowers students to be creative and dynamic. We know that all students are unique individuals, and we recognise this in teaching and learning and assessments to foster an inclusive community. There are so many varied opportunities to help students progress and develop in their chosen field – it’s wonderful to represent a university with such strong core values and to share what is on offer to new students and applicants.

My interests
Since having children my hobbies have changed somewhat and their social lives now keep me busy! So, when I am not taking my children to their activities or kids parties we often have long walks in the forest or along the beach as a family. We also love travelling or exploring new places.

Ask me about

• Visiting your school or college in Hampshire or Surrey
• HE and UCAS Fairs
• Opportunities for school and college staff
• HE Talks and presentations

Get in touch

I work remotely and am based in Hampshire. Email me on v.l.patel@brighton.ac.uk.

Finnuala Jenkins

My role
My role as a UK Regional Student Recruitment Officer gives me the opportunity to work with students at various points in their university application process. I am based in Essex and work remotely, specifically building and developing relationships with schools and colleges in Essex, Kent and South London.  I attend recruitment events and deliver our programme of talks and information and guidance workshops, both virtually and face-to- face, as well as national events across the UK.

My background
Born and raised in South Wales, I moved to Liverpool in my late teens to study a Fine Art degree. Since graduating, I have worked for a number of universities, with roles in Student Support, Student Recruitment and Widening Participation teams. I have moved across the UK for my roles, moving to the south-east of England in 2018. For the last five years I have worked in regional recruitment roles, travelling across the region to offer advice and guidance to students interested in studying at university.

Why University of Brighton?
I was drawn to the University of Brighton because of the culture of the location. Brighton is an inclusive, vibrant and welcoming city, and the university mirrors this, empowering students to pursue their passions and creativity and offering a supportive environment to grow and develop. The opportunities available to students to progress and develop not only in their chosen field, but also personally, are incredibly exciting and I’m excited to represent a university with such strong core values and welcoming environment.

My interests?
I am a beach lover, so you will normally find me on some kind of beach walk with a coffee in hand. I also love bootcamp style workouts and weightlifting and I’m aiming to complete my first HYROX competition next year! This year I’m also trying to get back in touch with my creative side, so I’m currently exploring a few new creative channels.

Ask me about

• Visiting your school or college in Essex, Kent or South London
• HE information and guidance talks and workshops
• HE and Careers fairs
• The UCAS Process
• Opportunities for school and college staff

Get in touch

I am based in Essex and support schools in Kent, Essex and South London regions. Email me on f.jenkins@brighton.ac.uk.