Writtle University College and ARU have merged. Writtle’s full range of college, degree, postgraduate and short courses will still be delivered on the Writtle campus. See our guide to finding Writtle information on this site.

Meet the Schools and Colleges team

Here are some of the members of our Schools and Colleges team.

We work with education professionals across the eastern and London regions to support schools, sixth forms and colleges with a huge range of events and information, advice and guidance activity to assist young people and parents with post-18 options and progression to higher education and degree apprenticeships.

We're supported by a team of Student Ambassadors, who you can also read about here.

Find out more about our offer or contact us on [email protected] or 01245 683281 for further information.

Katie Price – Schools and Colleges Development Officer

Katie Price

I joined the team in 2019 and love the variety that comes with the role. One day I will be delivering a personal statement session to a group of 30 students in a college in London, and the next I am planning on-campus taster days for over 100 people in Cambridge!

Being able to engage with and inspire so many students, each with a different drive and passion is what motivates me the most, and I get a huge sense of achievement when I can successfully guide and support them on their university journey.

Fun fact about me: I love adventure and have scaled the highest mountain in the UK (Ben Nevis) and flew a plane aged 21!

Lauren Tabbinor – Schools and Colleges Engagement Officer

Lauren Tabbinor

Having graduated from ARU in 2014, when I returned as a staff member in 2019, it is safe to say that it was like returning home! The positive student experience, paired with the academic support I received throughout my degree, has always made me ‘pro-ARU’.

I love having the opportunity to work with students and staff members across the eastern region, to showcase who we are as a university, and what we can offer students if they choose to study with us in the future.

The diverse student community at ARU means that it can be home to anybody, and I love the friendly and welcoming atmosphere that the university upholds!

Louise Newley – Schools and Colleges Engagement Officer

Louise Newley

Since hearing my very first student finance talk and visiting an ARU Open Day, I have always felt fully at 'home at ARU'.

My journey to my current role in the Schools and Colleges team has been a little unconventional. I joined ARU as a student in 2016 and have worked various student roles across the university and also completed an internship alongside academics.

I am really excited that I am now in a position to work with prospective students and support their transition from Level 3 to HE.

Whilst working full time, I am currently studying a part-time Masters in Education with Leadership and Management at ARU, so 'spare time' is a term that I don't use very often. Although, I do ensure I take regular breaks, go for seaside walks, and see friends and family.

Ruby Ballaam - Student Recruitment Development & Outreach Officer

Ruby Ballaam

I joined ARU in 2020 after working at another university for two years.

I studied Social Work at the University of Winchester and I had such a great experience that I knew I wanted to work with young people and build aspirations, primarily encouraging students to think about their own futures and who they want to become.

Since joining ARU, I’ve had the unique experience of informing students of our brand-new campus opening in Peterborough city centre. It is such an exciting opportunity for Peterborough, and it’s been great to see the feedback and buzz around the city.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with friends, travelling to new places and seeing the world!

Emily Savage – Schools and Colleges Development Officer

Emily Savage

I am the newest member of the Schools and Colleges team and am already enjoying working in such an open and friendly environment. I'm looking forward to meeting and engaging with future students, potential applicants, parents and staff at events. Please come over and say hello!

In my spare time I love to play video games, with my current favourites being Animal Crossing and Diablo (very different games!), re-decorating my house, or catching up with my friends and family over a coffee and cake.

Student Ambassadors

We have a team of Student Ambassadors who support us with events and activities.

Our Ambassadors are responsible for sharing their insight into life as a student at ARU through student life talks and campus tours. They also visit schools and colleges as part of careers events and represent ARU at higher education conventions such as UCAS.

Many of our Ambassadors are keen to revisit their old school as they are still in regular contact with their teachers and tutors. They can give your students a relatable individual to look up to.




Find out more about our offer or contact us on [email protected] or 01245 684711 for further information.