Nikki Collins
My role
Based in Eastbourne, I coordinate and deliver our widening participation programme with students who attend schools, sixth forms and colleges across East Sussex. We support the transition from school to higher education, running sessions that tackle the application process and provide open discussion so they can make informed decisions about their future. I also lead our primary school programme. As a qualified teacher, I strongly believe in the importance of education regardless of background.
My background
I went to five different secondary schools due to being estranged from my parents. I ended up being cared for by a wonderful family in Bexhill and completed my GCSEs at Bexhill High School, and then completed a BTEC in Early Years Education at Northampton College.
I had never considered going to university as this was just not the norm for anyone I knew or had lived with. One of my tutors encouraged me to train as a primary school teacher, so I applied for Plymouth Marjon University and enjoyed it so much that I stayed on for a year as the Students' Union Deputy President.
After my sabbatical, I worked for 18 months as a supply teacher but wanted a change. Using the skills acquired whilst working for the Students' Union, I put them to best use and became an award-winning wedding and events manager in Cornwall. This is a position I would not have been able to apply for without a degree.
When I applied for my current role I knew instantly that it was the perfect balance between event planning and widening opportunities through education.
Why University of Brighton?
Pride is the one word that sums up my feelings at the University of Brighton. We are proud to represent the people behind the grades and embed our outreach activities in the wider community.
My hobbies
Outside work, I am a partner of the National Lottery Big Local Heart of Sidley, running community events all year round, something I am really passionate about. I recently joined the PTA of my son’s primary school and have just set up a community interest company to save two local nurseries from closure. In my spare time I love to sew and create personalised bunting for family and friends, and enjoy time with my two small children.
Ask me about
- Talks, workshops and university taster sessions for young people aged 10 to 18 across East Sussex
- Widening participation in the Hastings and Rother area
- Information, advice and guidance for parents and mature students.
Contact me
I am based at our Eastbourne campus. Contact me on n.t.collins@brighton.ac.uk.
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. We are expanding the range of these clubs and I can’t wait to do more.
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 better choices.
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.
I joined the university as an administrator in the outreach team before becoming a coordinator. It’s the best job in the world and I can’t imagine ever wanting to do anything else.
I am currently studying part-time for a Working with Children and Young People BA(Hons) at the University of Brighton and I love it! I will be in my fifties by the time I graduate but I’m determined to get there!
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. It’s hard to keep up with all the amazing work to support the wider community, from law advice drop-ins, to art and performance opportunities to scientific research and environmental schemes.
My hobbies
When I’m not working or studying I love going to the gym to do pilates, boxing and weights. I also like to cook.
Ask me about
- The Widening Participation programme, including talks, conferences, university visits, taster lectures and workshops
- Talks to parents and carers and support parents’ evenings in order to give advice and guidance on student finance, student life and the application process
- Saturday clubs
Get in touch
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus in Brighton. Contact me on j.harris2@brighton.ac.uk.
Marina Trowell
My role
Based in Eastbourne, I deliver and coordinate talks, taster days, conferences and other activities through the widening participation programme. I manage relationships with secondary schools and colleges in East Sussex providing information about student finance, student life and the application process.
I have previously worked in FE in widening participation and have worked in the disability and dyslexia team, supporting students with disabilities at the university.
I have a keen interest in widening participation and access to HE as well as race equality and inclusive practice. I really enjoy working with young people and with our student ambassadors who are fantastic role models in supporting our outreach work.
My background
I went to Richmond upon Thames College to do A-levels but had to re-take to get the grades for Glasgow University. I studied French Language and Literature and spent a year in Orleans teaching English to secondary school students and adult learners.
After uni I worked in finance and marketing in London. When I moved to Eastbourne, I worked in disability support and widening participation through Aimhigher and then at the University of Brighton. I now work in outreach and I am currently on secondment as a part-time lecturer.
More recently, I did a Postgraduate Certificate in Communities, Engagement and Enterprise at the University of Brighton and got to graduate again in my 40s at the Brighton Dome with my husband, our two sons and my mum – it was a really memorable experience.
Why University of Brighton?
I love working at the University of Brighton as there is a real sense of openness, fun and work ethic. It’s great that each campus has a slightly different feel that links to the local community and as part of my role I can work with local schools and colleges to give students a greater understanding of university.
My hobbies
I love all things creative including drawing and painting, creative writing and I recently took up printmaking. I also really enjoy travelling and seeing different places. I speak fluent Japanese and in theory should be fluent in French as well but I need to practice more!
Ask me about
- Widening Participation in the Eastbourne area
- Student finance and university applications
- Disability and dyslexia
Get in touch
I work three days per week, based at the Eastbourne campus. Contact me on m.y.trowell@brighton.ac.uk. I work Monday–Thursday.
Vicky Johnson
My role
Based in Falmer, I have been a part of the University of Brighton’s outreach team for five years and have worked across various age ranges. I have led on the primary Professor C Gull programme and am now focusing on pre-16 outreach. My job is diverse and can range from delivering assemblies to hosting campus visits, developing mentor programs, running summer schools and my favourite is organising a primary World Book Day event.
My background
I grew up in Bristol and was the first in my family to go to university. Creating opportunities for young people to reach their potential is a big driver for my work here at the university. I am passionate about education. Before working at the university, I spent many years working in secondary schools as a Physical Education teacher, Head of Year, Director of Progress and later a Head of House. Working in schools have given me a really good insight into young people and how schools work. I’m keen in my work to support schools and see the work we do here as an extension of the curriculum.
Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton has a great attitude towards outreach and is a warm and welcoming place. It’s been a great place to work since leaving teaching. I enjoy the continued interactions with schools and young people and am proud that the university has a real commitment to improving the life chances of young people
My interests
As an ex PE teacher, I’m still keen on sport and love to play netball.
Ask me about
- Primary outreach
- Pre-16 outreach
- Support for sixth forms
Get in touch:
I am based at our Falmer campus. Email me on v.johnson3@brighton.ac.uk.
James Barron
My role
I am based at our city campus in Brighton. I have worked at the University for 4 years, initially as part of our enquiries team and on a number of projects including in-school based workshops, assemblies, campus visits and parents/carers evenings advising on university level study.
I have been in my current role since late 2019. A big part of my role is leading academic outreach activity within the university schools of art, architecture, media and humanities – focused on organising pre-16 Saturday Clubs and post-16 summer schools.
My background
I was born and raised in Brighton and attended school and college locally. I studied a BA in English and Drama at the University of Manchester. After graduating I returned home and worked for the local authority and then in language teaching before studying PGCE in Primary Education here at the University of Brighton.
I taught in a local primary school in Key Stage 2. After a career break working as cabin crew and travelling, I began working for the university. My background in education has made me passionate about working with young people and encouraging them to reach their full potential.
Why the University of Brighton?
The Brighton student experience is varied, innovative and prepares its graduates with the skills to succeed. We are a truly inclusive place and treat all current students and potential applicants as individuals. We are firmly committed to the principles of university outreach locally and nationally, and strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to study at higher level.
My interests
Outside work, I love British cinema, going to new exhibitions and galleries and travelling. I’m also a keen runner having completed three marathons and helped set up an LGBTQ+ running club in Brighton.
Ask me about
- Outreach support in schools and colleges
- Parents and carers events
- Campus visits
- Academic outreach for the arts and humanities
- Saturday Clubs and summer schools
Get in touch
I am based at Grand Parade on our City Campus in central Brighton. Email me on j.l.barron@brighton.ac.uk.