_edited.png){kind=small}
Meet the Team
Trudie Connolly
Learning Advisor
I provide Information, Advice and Guidance to learners to help them achieve their learning goals. I work closely with our partners to make sure their clients are on the right courses. I also support all of all learners to find the right course for them and love to see people succeed with their goals - no matter how small they may be.
Paula Sutton
Learning Advisor
I have always been driven to help support others in achieving their dream of furthering their education in order for them to pursue a happy career choice.
From someone who has struggled to move forward, personally to achieve a higher level of education, I have empathy and understanding in the frustration of not knowing where I could have received straight-forward advice and guidance to begin this journey. Seeing someone gain confidence, recognise their potential, and move forward with purpose is what motivates me every day.
.jpg)
Lucinda Sanders
Principal of Adult Education and Skills
I lead the team at On Course South West, building partnerships and developing curriculum to ensure that we continue to deliver high quality education and training that meets the needs of our learners, community and the city of Plymouth. I have worked in education for 15 years, teaching in secondary, further and higher education and as a leader in further education for 10 years, with strategic oversight for adult learning, higher technical education and apprenticeships.
Sarah Pink
Curriculum Manager
Managing Plymouth City Council’s adult learning service, On Course South West (OCSW). Working with Curriculum Leads to make sure that we plan courses that people will benefit from, will be popular and will be a good use of national funding.
Angela Clements
Business Information and Ops Manager
I bring over 25 years of experience in adult education to my role, where I oversee and optimise contract allocations and learner services within the Skills and Post 16 sector.
Lisa Thompson
Strategic Quality Lead
I have worked in Further Education for nearly 20 years and have a passion for high quality teaching, learning and assessment and robust quality improvement practice. Here at OCSW I manage and lead our quality processes, work with curriculum teams and tutors to monitor the quality of education, respond to student feedback and continually review our practices to drive change, and work towards outstanding.
Tim Scott-Lloyd
Apprenticeship Manager
As Apprenticeship Manager at OCSW, I bring over a decade’s worth of experience in apprenticeships across various sectors. With a deep passion for education, I am committed to the impactful nature of apprenticeships in developing the next generation of skilled professionals. I strive to ensure both apprentices and employers have a positive and tailored experience, encouraging development and success for all involved.
Lisa Grant
Curriculum Lead: Professional and Work Based
I am the curriculum lead for Professional and Work based learning. My priority is to create courses which include educational strategies that will provide learners with real life learning to encourage professional development, upskilling and make them work ready.
My focus is to provide employers and learners with a range of courses that have opportunities and pathways to suit business needs and provide a process of continuous improvement, supporting individuals to develop and enhance their professional knowledge and practice across all levels.
Samantha Welsford
Curriculum Lead: Employability and Life Skills
My main role is to create and plan the Employability and Life Skills curriculum at On Course South West which is designed to encourage more adults in Plymouth to access learning. This is particularly aimed at those who are most disadvantaged, to return to learning and develop and enhance their knowledge, skills and to gain employment. I work with a range of organisations in the community and can create bespoke courses to meet the needs of the community.
Clint Jones
Curriculum Lead: Digital, Science, Arts and Humanities
I am the Curriculum Lead for Digital, Creative, Accountancy and Business and my educational passion is fostering creativity and critical exploration and understanding the profound impact this integration has on learners’ perceptions and interactions with the world, helping them to not only thrive in their chosen careers but also contribute meaningfully to society.
I am an advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration and this has led to engaging in partnerships with industry, community groups and supporting third sector training.
I would love to talk with anyone about possible partnerships and how OCSW can support individuals or organisations to meet their training needs.
Abbie Cousins
Curriculum Co-ordinator
My role is to make sure that the tutors have everything that they need to welcome learners to the class. I often speak to learners and very often I am one of the main people to help if they are having problems attending or having the correct equipment for their class. I also support many of the processes and procedures that help the curriculum to be delivered and I am a main contact for venues.
Katie Archer
Operations and Innovation Lead
I have worked in education for over 10 years with learners from 5 to 85, and I’m passionate about supporting everyone to access the educational opportunities available to them. Here at OCSW, I lead the Learner Services Team and we support learners from initial enquiry to completing the right course for them.
Chris Brown
Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo)
My role is dedicated to ensuring that all learners with special educational needs and disabilities receive the support they require to thrive academically, personally, and professionally. I have over 20 years experience of working in the FE and HE sectors and working with a diverse range of learners in different contexts.
In my role I work closely with learners, staff, parents/guardians, and external agencies to identify needs, implement effective support strategies, and advocate for inclusive practices. I am committed to fostering an accessible and supportive learning environment where every learner has the opportunity to reach their full potential and achieve their aspirations.
.jpg)
Hannah Brill
Learning Support Advisor
I am a Learning Support Advisor at On Course South West. I have 25+ years experience of working in education with children, young people and adults. I am passionate about supporting everyone that is interested in accessing education. My top priority is to make people feel comfortable so they are ready to learn and reach individual targets.
Adam Flynn
Learning Support Assistant/ Apprentice
Hi, I'm Adam. I joined On Course South West in January 2026 and am currently completing my Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship.
As a Teaching and Learning Assistant, my role involves supporting students in the classroom and providing additional support to learners with a range of learning needs, both in and outside of lessons.
I am passionate about helping people achieve their potential and creating a positive, inclusive learning environment where everyone feels supported. I pride myself on being approachable, friendly, and always willing to help those who need assistance. Drawing on my own experiences with autism and mental health, I bring empathy, understanding, and a personal perspective to my role, helping learners to build confidence and overcome barriers to success.
Ellice Stock
Marketing Coordinator (Maternity cover)
Hi, I’m Ellice, and I’ve recently joined the team as a Marketing Co-ordinator and I will be covering Kelly whilst she is on maternity.
I come from a creative and people-focused background, with experience in visual merchandising, retail, and charity sector communications. In my previous role with the Alzheimer’s Society, I supported audience communications and campaign delivery.
Alongside my professional experience, I enjoy creating digital content and exploring visual storytelling through photography, video, and design.
I’m really excited to be part of the team!
Claire Stevens
Quality Manager (Teaching, Learning and Assessment)
I have worked for On Course for 7 years both teaching and in the core team. I am currently acting Learner Services and Operations Manager supporting the team to provide information, advice and guidance and support our learners in a range of ways. In addition to this I also teach science, trauma informed practice and family learning.
Neil Sellors
Audit and Compliance Officer
As Audit and Compliance Officer, I undertake funding and delivery quality assurance and due diligence for both On Course South West and our sub-contractor partners. In addition I provide health and safety and IT support for both learners and staff.
Samantha Davis
Examinations Officer
I am the Exams and Quality Assurance Coordinator at On Course South West. My role involves ensuring the smooth and efficient running of examinations and assessments, from registration to results. This includes organising appropriate staffing, facilities, and training, as well as providing excellent customer service to our learners.
Kelly Stupples
Marketing and Communications Co-ordinator
I am responsible for the Marketing and PR for On Course South West which includes digital media, the website, engaging with stakeholders, planning events and marketing campaigns.
I have worked in the education sector for over 15 years including working in a school and in various roles within Plymouth City Council.
Lauren Parker-Smith
Lead Project Tutor - Your Future
Lead Project Tutor for the Your Future, responsible for the development and implementation of the Supported Internship programme at On Course South West. I believe in promoting equity in education, encouraging and empowering children and young people facing multiple disadvantage and barriers to learning.
As part of the government's latest initiative to connect SEND young people to opportunities for meaningful paid employment the internship is designed to provide interns with experience of the workplace and a bespoke course of study that will equip them with the skills needed to secure sustainable employment in an industry area of interest. My role in this is to educate and advocate, ensuring that interns are aware of their rights as an employee and that they receive full and adequate support throughout to raise aspirations, boost confidence and enhance skills for the workplace.
I have worked in education for over 15 years, specialising in ESOL and Social Sciences working with both children and adults, as well as supporting learners with additional needs.
Vicki Longhurst
Project Lead Tutor - Your Future
I am the Lead Project Tutor for Your Future Supported Internships, responsible for the development and implementation of the programme at On Course South West. My passion is collaborating with people, and this role enables me to enhance learner's employability opportunities through meaningful work placements. I am committed to developing and providing experiences that make a difference and buzz with collaborative, creative and innovative opportunities.
I am an experienced educator, having worked in schools, further education and higher education for the past 13 years. My previous experience working in the film and television sector means I bring my creative and technical skills, to not only my teaching practice but also, I hope to capture moments of the interns in their placements and enrich their employability skills with different media projects across the programme.
Charlotte Jacobs
Post 16 Coordinator
I am the Projects Lead for On Course South West, currently focussing on the Turing Scheme, Skills Bootcamps and Apprenticeships. I have worked in Further and Higher education for over 17 years, with extensive experience of leadership and culture, support services and staff development, as well as being a qualified counsellor. I am passionate about diversity and inclusion and am motivated to amplify the voices of the underrepresented, increasing opportunities and supporting everyone to succeed.
Noah Harp
Learning Advisor Administrator
I have been at On Course SouthWest since March 2024 where I began as an apprentice for just shy of 2 years. I have now progressed to become a learning advisor where I use all the knowledge and information I have gained over this period of time. I am here to help learners find the right course and path for them whilst taking into consideration their busy schedules. It's incredibly rewarding to be the link between now and their future destinations.
Jennifer Sullivan
Your Future Job Coach
Hello everyone! I'm an animal lover who has worked in the equine industry for 25 years. I truly enjoy problem-solving and believe that life is all about making the most of the journey to reach your end goals. I love being outdoors and trying new hobbies, which led me to take up playing rugby for a local women's team, the Plymouth Argaum Rugby Club, last year. When I'm not on the pitch, you can find me running with my dog—it's a great way to exercise and maintain a good mental health balance. I'm looking forward to getting to know you all!
Rachel Boon
Your Future Job Coach
I am absolutely delighted to be joining the Your Future team at On Course South West. I have a degree in Psychology and have worked as a Primary School teacher for the last 10 years. In this role, I was passionate about supporting children with SEND, creating an inclusive environment where my learners felt safe through building strong, positive relationships with each pupil.
I have always been driven to help support and nurture others, which has grown further since having my 3, beautiful children. I want to be a part of creating a future my children can be proud of. A future where all workplaces are disability friendly and there is equal opportunity for all.
I love travel, food, reading, paddle boarding and beach walks with my family. I love nothing better than being outdoors, rain or shine!
I cannot wait to begin working alongside the wonderful people at On Course South West and look forward to supporting and making a difference for our learners moving forward.
Emily Oaten
Business Administration Apprentice
I’m Emily and I recently joined On Course South West this October as a Business Administration Apprentice.
Since starting, I’ve been getting involved in lots of different areas across OCSW – supporting the team wherever I can. My role is primarily helping with finances and keeping our records up to date for auditing, but my other responsibilities include assisting our MI Team with processing learner applications, supporting the Turing Scheme project, and lending a hand at the front desk for receptionist duties.
I’ve only just begun my apprenticeship journey, but I already feel so grateful to be part of such a friendly, welcoming, and supportive team. Everyone has made me feel right at home, and I’m excited to keep learning and developing my skills as I grow with OCSW.
Chloe Reeve-Kerswill
Business Administration Apprentice
I’m Chloë, and I recently joined On Course South West as a Business Administration Apprentice, working closely with the Learner Services team.
Having previously faced challenges with learning opportunities myself, I’m especially excited to be part of such a friendly and supportive team, helping guide people towards their future goals.
My previous experiences have helped me develop valuable administrative skills, which I’m now bringing into this new role at OCSW.
I’m really looking forward to progressing within the role, growing with the team, and supporting others along the way.
Abigail Johns
Content Creator Apprentice
I am Abby the new Content Creator Apprentice here at On Course South West. I am working closely with the marketing team by; managing the social media pages, creating engaging content to promote our courses, supporting event planning and collaborating with our partners.
Prior to this I have always been creative, from my A levels Media, Film and Photography to managing my own social media as a fashion influencer on TikTok with a following of 24K.
I am also deeply passionate about our local community; I co-run a girl’s social group in Plymouth, that creates a safe space for young women to make friends and grow their confidence.
I can’t wait to share all the amazing things happening at On Course South West!
Emma Burgess
Business Administration Apprentice
I’m Emma, and I recently joined On Course Southwest as a Business Administration Apprentice, more specifically supporting in student experience. My role involves a range of administrative responsibilities, from coordinating communications, helping to ensure daily operations run smoothly and supporting with the Turing Scheme Project.
Prior to this, I gained valuable experience as an administrative assistant along with doing Psychology at University, where I developed an interest in building a career in admin and student services. I’m excited to continue progressing in my role and look forward to building my skills further as part of the team.
Kirsten Melhuish
Business Administration Apprentice
My name is Kirsten, and I recently joined On Course South West in May as a Business Administration Apprentice.
My main role is supporting the front-of-house reception team, where I assist staff and students with queries and day-to-day support. I am also involved in a variety of administrative duties, including responding to emails, maintaining accurate records, and helping operations run smoothly.
Through my previous experience, I have developed key skills in IT software and design, which I am now using as I begin a new career path and take on new challenges.
I am very new to Plymouth, having moved here in January, and it has been great becoming part of such a welcoming community. My goal is to support others as much as I can and continue developing within my role.
