Jules Guillard

My road into academic research has been shaped by nearly two decades working in senior leadership roles in children’s and mental health charities. Here I have seen first-hand both the opportunities and the challenges of supporting young people.

I have also recently worked as Research Manager at the University of Sussex, collaborating with scientists to help them demonstrate the real-world impact of their research. It was there that I met Matt and Ian and was inspired by the work of the School Inclusion Group. That inspiration led me to begin a PhD in Psychology, focusing on inequalities in schools and how evidence-based interventions can improve outcomes for pupils who too often get left behind.

I am also part of the team working on the Whole School and College Approach toolkit — a practical resource to help schools and colleges embed mental health and wellbeing into every aspect of school life, from leadership and culture through to classroom teaching and student support.

My interest in this work is also personal. I have lived experience of social exclusion and of facing challenges at school myself, which is part of the reason I have come to academia later in life. I also see the similar struggles playing out now with my two sons and their friends, which strengthens my determination to make real-world change so that all young people have the chance to be the best version of themselves, now and in the future.