Jules Gillard presents research at the Boys Impact Hub launch
A county-wide collaboration officially launched on Thursday 8th October at the University of Sussex to tackle one of the region's most persistent educational challenges: the attainment and progression gap for young men eligible for Free School Meals (FSM).
The launch conference for the Sussex Boys Impact Hub, hosted in the Student Centre, brought together leaders in regional education, national researchers, policymakers, and prominent community organisations.
The huB aims to establish a network dedicated to introducing evidence-based strategies to improve outcomes and support the emotional and social development of disadvantaged young men across Sussex. Work that ultimately benefits young people of all genders and backgrounds.
The initiative is co-led by Caroline Barlow, Headteacher at East Sussex’s Heathfield Community College, and Daniel Hawkins, Associate Director of Access at the University of Sussex.
Addressing the Root Causes
National data shows that young people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds consistently face barriers in education, this is particularly apparent for boys. The Sussex Boys Impact Hub aims to connect grassroots community work with academic research to shift these trends.
Dr Alex Blower, Director of Boys' Impact, opened the conference by challenging educators to create environments which allow disadvantaged boys to succeed. The event included talks from Jules Gillard of the University of Sussex and Brave Mind, an official partner of work in mental health of the Royal Foundation,as well as "Masculinity in the Digital World" led by Charlie Monaghan of Progressive Masculinity, which discussed how online spaces shape young men's views.
The conference showcased successful local case studies and cross-county partnerships:
- The Brighton and Hove Albion Foundation highlighted best practices for scale and engagement via their Premier League 'More Than Football' Project. Additionally, the Trust for Developing Communities joined Professors Robin Banerjee and Kristine Langhoff to outline asset-based strategies for reducing harmful sexual behaviours in secondary schools.
- School leaders shared real-world insights, including assistant headteacher James Crane from West Sussex's Durrington High School, alongside an educational alliance featuring the Sussex Learning Network, Bexhill College, and the University of Brighton.
A Shared Vision for Change
Co-chair Caroline Barlow emphasised the strength of bringing these various agencies under one roof: "The room was full of amazing, interesting people already active in this work. The power of working together should be genuinely impactful. We want to ensure young men and boys grow up feeling supported, recognising and developing their strengths so that they can achieve and thrive. This work will undoubtedly benefit young people of all genders”
The launch of the Hub is just the first step in a long-term commitment, with regular training and expert keynote series planned across 2026 and 2027 as well as opportunities to share what works, to drive measurable change throughout the county's schools.
If you are interested in finding out about future events and opportunities hosted by the hub, please contact Daniel Hawkins: Daniel.hawkins@sussex.ac.uk