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
Get in touch
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus in Brighton. Contact me on j.harris2@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.
Mike Fisher
My role
Based across Eastbourne and Brighton, I support the delivery of Widening Participation activity in Secondary Schools, Sixth Forms, and Colleges in both Eastbourne and Brighton. My role focuses on increasing attainment of young people in identifying the possibility of going into Higher Education, and providing the relevant advice and support throughout the process.
My background
I graduated from the University of Brighton in 2005 having studies Sport and Leisure Studies with PE. I subsequently delivered community sport programmes across Sussex, engaging people of all ages into sport and physical activity, and went full circle when I started working in the University of Brighton’s sport department in 2011. In this role, I delivered a wide range of activity including participation, sports clubs, recruitment, whilst learning more about the opportunities that University can bring.
Having worked with the Outreach Team on programmes whilst at Sport Brighton, I was able to develop a great understanding of the role the team plays in increasing access into University, and was able to successfully apply for a role within the team.
Why University of Brighton?
Having graduated from the University, and subsequently studying a part-time Masters in Sport and Media, I know the impact that University can make in both supporting both academic and personal growth. I moved to the South Coast to study and have never left, as I think Sussex is a great place to learn, grow, and develop. I also believe that the University is fully committed to attracting a diverse cohort of students, providing them with the tools and skills to be more employable once they have graduated.
My hobbies
I have a young family who keep me on my toes and keep me busy on a daily basis. I am also a keen sport and physical activity fan, whether it be watching various sporting matches, or taking part myself.
Ask me about
- Academic outreach for the School of Education, School of Humanities and Social Science
- Widening participation in the Brighton area
- Summer schools
Contact me
I am based at our Eastbourne campus. Contact me on M.Fisher2@brighton.ac.uk.
Holly Wright
My role
Based at the Moulsecoomb campus, I deliver Widening Participation initiatives to various Secondary Schools, Colleges and Sixth Forms in and around the city of Brighton. My role aims to help and encourage prospective students to think about their future prospects and the possibility of pursuing Higher Education. I am passionate about helping young people achieve their potential and enjoy providing support and guidance to students.
My background
I was born near Uckfield and had many different schooling experiences before the age of 12. Struggling with specific learning difficulties, my parents withdrew me from school and took me travelling around the world for two and a half years at eight years old, home educating me along the way. After carrying out my final few years of my primary education back in the UK I went on to secondary school where I was told I would never pass my GCSEs or A-Levels due to my learning difficulties but with great determination I did!
I enrolled at the University of East Anglia to read International Development with Social Anthropology and Politics with overseas experience. During my course I undertook a work abroad placement in Dharavi, the largest slum in Asia in Mumbai, India where I gained experience working for an education charity that provided local residents with educational qualifications. My experience in India, an Education and Development module I took at university and delivering 1-1 student mentoring sessions, opened my eyes to the importance of education and its ability to transform someone’s life, and made me want to work within the sector.
Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton, much like the city, is a wonderfully warm, welcoming, inclusive and diverse place to live and study. Growing up near the city of Brighton it was always my favourite place, so when it came to choosing somewhere to live and work it was an easy decision!
Having worked at other higher education institutions within the city, I can testify that the University of Brighton is an institution that celebrates and encourages the individuality and creativity of their students and I feel proud to be a member of staff that helps provide that student experience.
My hobbies
On my days off you will find me swimming in the sea, painting, studying astrology, running or recording the latest episode of my radio show!
Ask me about
- Academic outreach for the School of Applied Sciences
- Saturday clubs
Contact me
I am based at out Moulsecoomb campus in Brighton.
Contact me on H.Wright3@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 Health and Sport, 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 Health and Sport Science
Get in touch
I am based at our Eastbourne campus. 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.
Helen McGlead
Outreach operations coordinator
My role
Based in Moulsecoomb, I coordinate the operations of the outreach team and lead on marketing and communicating the various outreach events, projects and opportunities with Sussex secondary schools, colleges and sixth forms. My role focuses on supporting the incredible outreach coordinators in delivering outreach across the county.
My background
I am originally from South Africa and graduated from the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2012 with a degree in environmental and geographical science and politics. I worked as a small group facilitator for first year health science students at UCT medical school, providing these students with support in becoming a health professional. I really loved working within a university environment and this led me to pursue a career in outreach in the UK.
I previously worked in, specifically, STEM outreach at the University of Brighton and helped run events like STEM in the park in Crawley and the Big Bang Fair South East. I also delivered STEM workshops in local schools to help inspire young people to consider STEM careers and absolutely loved being a part of these important interactions for young people.
Why University of Brighton?
I first moved to Brighton from South Africa in 2017 and absolutely fell in love with the city. I fully believe in the outreach mission statement at this university and am proud to be a part of the positive impact this team has in the community.
My hobbies
I am a keen crocheter who loves to weightlift. You can usually find me on a long walk on the downs with my partner and my little dog, Jenga.
