More than 10,000 young people came together to discover more about the county’s fast-growing cyber ecosystem, with venues like Edge Hill showcasing the valuable cyber skills required for industries including aerospace, manufacturing and engineering.

Visitors to the Ormskirk campus met with the University’s staff and students from the Department of Computer Science to explore routes to academic study and heard from professionals in cyber-related roles.

And Edge Hill students took part in a ‘Capture the Flag’ competition against other university and HE students and apprentices, completing a number of real-world tasks across a variety of technologies.

Professor Amr Ahmed, Head of Department for Computer Science, said: “We were delighted to welcome so many bright young minds from across the county to discuss the wonderful opportunities available in the world of cyber.”

The event showcased the expertise of participating students and the practical application of their skills across computer and engineering sciences.

Dr Muhammad Usman, programme leader for BSc (Hons) Cyber Security, said: “We are proud that our students secured first and third place in the Capture the Flag event, a testament to the hard work of both our staff and students.

“It is also encouraging to see a significant rise in participation from local sixth forms and colleges, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for using cyber security skills to serve and protect our digital community.”

Lancashire Cyber Partnership’s vision for the county, and the wider North West Cyber Corridor, is to be one of the world’s leading destinations for cyber businesses, support agencies, careers, training and research, with Lancashire now the proud home of the National Cyber Force Headquarters.

A spokesperson for the Partnership said: “Education Week plays an important role in the Lancashire Cyber Partnership’s long-term goal of creating a talent pipeline for the many cyber-focussed roles UK businesses will require in the future.

“We are proud that many schools, colleges and universities in the county actively took part in the week. Unlocking the next generation’s ability to take advantage of cyber and tech-based jobs in Lancashire is imperative.”

Find out more about courses available in the Department of Computer Science at Edge Hill University.

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Sport and exercise science student Zoe Harvey won a scholarship for inspiring others to get physically and mentally fit.

She was recognised for boosting the number of women participating in the free active sessions she coordinates as part of Edge Hill’s Campus Sport programme. 

The twice-a-week, women-only sessions are in support of Sport England’s This Girl Can campaign, which aims to tackle the gender activity gap.

Edge Hill won landmark recognition for its commitment to democratic engagement, becoming the first gold status Voter Registration Champion, presented by Citizens UK. 

The top honour acknowledged the University’s successful efforts in promoting civic participation culminating in the engagement of over 5,000 people, including students and community organisations, in the run-up to the General Election. 

Student midwife Athalia Ross organised the donation of baby baskets to help new parents after being inspired by a hospital work placement.

Athalia set up a branch of Early Essentials UK to provide basics like nappies, clothes and toiletries for families including refugees and asylum seekers after working with the Fern Midwifery Team in Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (WWL).

Edge Hill historian Dr Bob Nicholson landed a top role in a Sky History series on Jack the Ripper. 

He shared his expertise on Victorian popular culture to explore how the media played a huge role in the truth and myth of the notorious serial killer.

A new era began when Professor Michael Young was appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor. 

Professor Young said he was “absolutely delighted” to be leading a “university deeply committed to inclusive education with a relentless drive for excellence in teaching and research, on a truly stunning campus.”

Mum and daughter duo Stephanie and Mia Kennedy celebrated an extra special achievement as they graduated on the same day from the same course. 

52-year-old teaching assistant Stephanie attended an Edge Hill open day with her excited daughter Mia and was so inspired by the child and adolescent mental health and wellbeing course that she decided to apply herself, eventually achieving first class honours. 

The historic first graduating cohort of medical students embodied the University’s pioneering approach to widening access to medical training.

The class of 2025 fulfilled an ambition set when Edge Hill opened its Medical School in 2019: to ensure more patients are cared for by doctors who understand their needs and life experiences, their community’s challenges and the barriers to good health. 

80 per cent of this trailblazing cohort were from backgrounds often under-represented in medicine – for example, they are the first in their family to go to university, they are from low-income families or they are from communities with high levels of deprivation – and many of them opted to take their skills back to the communities they grew up in.

2025 was a rewarding year for our dedication to providing an exceptional student experience.

The University achieved remarkable results in the 2025 National Student Survey (NSS), ranking second in the UK for learning resources and fifth in the UK for ‘student voice’, a crucial measure of how effectively students are engaged and listened to. 

Edge Hill was also named ‘university of the year for student experience’ in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026, reflecting the exceptional feedback students shared in the NSS.

Our new Life Sciences building was officially opened by the UK Skills Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith.

This was a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing scientific education, research and innovation across the North West. The £17.4m facility features advanced labs for biomedical, biochemistry and plant sciences, supporting research and skills for new bioscience professionals.

Edge Hill lecturer Lee Thompson and alumnus Jack McLoughlin created drama Special Measures for iconic Channel 5 series.

The pair were commissioned by the channel for its rebooted anthology ‘Play for Today’ and the play focused on the extreme pressure of an Ofsted inspection on a struggling secondary school and placed the teacher experience in the spotlight. 

The year came to a festive finale with the University’s Christmas Carol Concert in Ormskirk Parish Church.

The magical event, which featured performances from choirs, schools and a brass band, brought together students, staff, local residents and the wider University community. 

Professor Michael Young, Vice-Chancellor of Edge Hill University, said: 

“Edge Hill is at its best when staff, students and our neighbours come together, and events like this help keep us firmly rooted in our local community.”

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Common(s) ground A conversation with Dr Patrick Butchard

Senior Lecturer in Law, Dr Patrick Butchard, also spends his time working for the UK Parliament as an International Law Researcher for the House of Commons Library. On top of this, Patrick is Co-Director of the International Justice and Human Rights Centre here at Edge Hill University. We spoke to Patrick about how his professional interests and research influence his teaching, as well as discussing the future of international law.

“It is fantastic to be able to give students insights into how Parliament works. It provides a real understanding of the political world and opens their eyes to potential career paths in politics that they might not have considered before.”

Dr Patrick Butchard

Tell us a bit about your academic and professional research

My research in Parliament can cover any matter of international law that might be useful or pertinent to the work of MPs. My university research usually focuses on international law related to conflict and security, particularly the use of force and military action. More widely I also research states’ responsibility to protect populations from atrocity crimes and what lawful routes might be available when the United Nations Security Council fails to act.

Talk us through what first sparked your interest in these areas

I have always been very interested in how international law tries to address complex global challenges like war and conflict. In particular, the routes that can be taken to solve really difficult international problems. Not only is it very interesting to me intellectually, but I find it really important to try and understand how we can use the law to make the world a safer and more just place – whether that involves the more technical day-to-day operation of the law, or the bigger questions like who is responsible for taking on those challenges.

Tell us about your role as International Law Researcher at the House of Commons Library

This role is different every week – which keeps things very interesting. I provide independent and impartial research briefings to Members of Parliament (MPs) and their staff. These briefings cover a wide range of topics, from the legal implications of current crises to the interpretation of specific treaties. I also produce my own research briefings on issues I believe are important for MPs to consider.

How does your work contribute to shaping UK policies on international conflict and security issues?

While I don’t dictate policy, my research provides MPs with the information they need to have informed debates and hold the government to account on international affairs. I contribute to a well-informed parliamentary discussion on these crucial issues.

Can you give us an example of something you’re currently working on for your role in Parliament?

I’m currently preparing briefings on the outcomes of the 2024 Summit of the Future. Looking ahead to the UN’s 80th anniversary, I plan to produce insights on various aspects of the UN system, including the International Court of Justice and the challenges of climate change.

So, does your research and role in Parliament influence your teaching?

Very much so. It is fantastic to be able to give students insights into how Parliament works. It provides a real understanding of the political world and opens their eyes to potential career paths in politics that they might not have considered before. As part of my research, I am always looking into what the latest legal developments are and I then translate that into the most interesting and relevant learning for our students. This dual role allows me to bridge the gap between academia and policy. It enables me to bring real-world policy challenges into the classroom and expose students to the practical applications of international law. It also allows me to contribute my academic expertise to inform parliamentary debates and discussions. My policy work keeps my research grounded in real-world issues, while my academic research provides a deeper theoretical understanding to inform my policy analysis.

You’re also Co-Director of the International Justice and Human Rights Centre. What are the aims of the Centre and your role within it?

The Centre aims to be a hub for collaboration, bringing together researchers and other stakeholders to address critical issues in international justice and human rights. One of my core aims is to build bridges between academia, policymakers, and practitioners – to develop our connections between academia, Parliament, and government, as well as other international bodies such as the United Nations or NGOs (Non-governmental organisations). We’ll do this to foster a deeper understanding of these complex challenges together.

Our research on state responsibility for international peace and security is a prime example of the type of collaborative project we aim to undertake. By bringing together diverse perspectives, we can generate new knowledge and contribute to more effective policies and practices.

Can student gets involved with these research topics?

There are many ways for students to get involved in research. The International Justice and Human Rights Centre offers opportunities for students to assist with research projects, attend conferences and talks, and participate in discussions with leading experts in the field. The Centre provides a key hub for students to get involved in some of these things.

Looking to the future…

What does the future of international law look like?

International law is constantly evolving, and we currently face a world where even fundamental principles are openly challenged. This creates a sense of instability and danger. Furthermore, emerging technologies like AI present new challenges to existing legal frameworks.

What impact might emerging technologies like AI have?

AI raises questions about the development of autonomous weapons and the implications for human rights. AI’s ability to generate information poses challenges to international law’s capacity to combat disinformation and protect democracy. These are critical issues that international law must address in the coming years.

How might the UN need to adapt?

Throughout its history, the UN has played a crucial role in addressing global challenges and promoting human rights. While it has faced numerous setbacks, the UN remains an indispensable institution for multilateral cooperation and a beacon of hope in a world fraught with uncertainty.

The UN has consistently adapted to challenges and created new tools to address them. The UN has been a dynamic, albeit slow-moving, organisation since its inception in 1945. While some may argue that it hasn’t adapted to the changing world, this overlooks key developments, such as peacekeeping operations and the evolving use of military force, that emerged during the Cold War.

There is no doubt that the UN faces unprecedented challenges today, raising questions about its continued relevance. The question is no longer simply how the UN will adapt, but whether it can survive. This is arguably the biggest challenge the UN has faced to date – that’s why the 2024 Summit of the Future and its Pact for the Future was so important in addressing how the UN will tackle these challenges.

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Patients registered with a GP in South Sefton or Southport and Formby can now access these videos through their practice.

Sara, now a nurse practitioner in the Greater Manchester Specialist Support Team, acted in the films and drew on her personal experience of being mum to her son Reid who has autism.

“Patients with learning disabilities can find trips to the doctor really intimidating. We all get nervous about intimate procedures, especially when it’s the first time, but they can be even harder when you don’t understand what will happen or why you have to have them.

“Evidence has shown that people with learning disabilities are less likely to take up smear tests, for example, so if these videos help even a couple of people get checked out they’ll have been worth making.”

Sara Preston

The short videos provide a run-through of the whole process, including arriving at the surgery, conversations and questions with the nurse or doctor, and the physical procedure itself, for example how to sit or lie, any equipment which might be used and who is likely to be there.

Georgia, artistic director and cinematographer on the project, added:

“I really focused on the audience to make sure the films were informative and accessible. This was a great opportunity to create healthcare-related films and I understood the importance of meeting the brief well, of making sure patients get what they need out of them.

“It was also a very liberating project to work on because part of my film-making ethos is that I want to help people, I want to show real experiences of real people. So I really hope those who see these videos will feel supported, I hope they’ll realise that the NHS is there to support them, that they’re not alone.”

Georgia Wood

The initiative was led by Maggi Bradley, honorary lecturer at Edge Hill University and clinical nurse lead at the Sefton Training Hub, in partnership with the training hub which is run by GP-owned Southport and Formby Health to provide NHS services.

“This has been a fantastic collaboration, resulting in an exceptional piece of work which will provide previously unmet benefits to patients with specific needs.

“We hope people with learning disabilities will, at the very least, feel less nervous when an intimate procedure is called for.”

Maggi Bradley

Three videos covering vaginal, rectal examination and breast examination are now available to use across all GP surgeries in Sefton.

Filming took place at Edge Hill’s multi-million-pound Clinical Skills and Simulation Centre which houses wards, an operating theatre, and an anatomy and ultrasound resource centre.

Edge Hill University’s Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine is one of the largest providers of healthcare education in the North West of England.

The School of Nursing and Midwifery offers training across a range of disciplines including adult, children’s, mental health and learning disabilities nursing at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

The Department of English and Creative Arts provides education across the arts including creative writing, film, broadcast production, performing arts, animation, graphic design and music production.

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In this latest student-written blog, second year student Thomas Jones has a message for potential voters in West Lancashire.

Your voice matters

Politics is a fast-paced subject that can be hard to keep track of. Questions like ‘what is currently going on’ and ‘what is going to happen with the cost-of-living crisis’ have no straightforward answers. After a long day, the news can overload us, and the last thing we want to read about is what someone said during Prime Ministers Questions.

But the reality is that politics is a vital aspect of our lives. Decisions made by politicians affect many things ranging from the quality of our pavements and roads and the ease of getting an appointment at the doctors to bigger national decisions, such as how education is funded and how the economy can be supported. All of these decisions have been made by politicians working at different levels of government. And whether it be a general election, by-election or local council election, these politicians have always been elected by a democratic vote where people have had to go out, do their democratic duty, and vote.

Young people, get out there

Younger people statistically are less likely to take part in elections. You may have failed to vote in the past, but that means things affecting your life have been decided by someone else. You may have even heard a common saying during election times: “you can’t complain if you didn’t vote”.

Young people can have a massive impact on who is elected and seeing as it’s going to affect the rest of your life, it’s especially important to ensure your voice is heard.

The tricky part

The next question is who to vote for. This is a tricky question as it is an individual choice. People will have a range of opinions on how things should be running, and we won’t all agree. Look into the views of parties and see what aligns to your values. You don’t need to agree on everything about a party, although it would be wonderful if that was the case.

Nevertheless, the things that you find important in life, for example gender, sexuality, economic status, immigration, and the environment, are things that most people will have an opinion on. Having a look at the candidates and seeing what aligns with your views is an effective way to work out who to vote for. Your vote is secret, so don’t be afraid to express your views.

X marks the ballot box

If you are reading this and are not eligible to vote, visit the gov.uk website to register. It is really very simple. With the by-election happening soon, this is a perfect opportunity to get out there and get voting. You do not need to be connected to a political party to vote for them, just turn up on the day, get your ballot paper, mark your ‘X’, and that’s it, democratic duty done.

Motivate others

Encourage your friends to talk about politics. There doesn’t need to be full debate around the kitchen table, but starting the conversation about voting and the significance it has is an effective way to get people thinking.

What else can you do?

If you’re very motivated, you may even help with campaign work within a political party.  The party you want to help will welcome you and explain what you need to do.

Even if you don’t want to campaign, you can still vote. So go out and vote, your neighbourhood and your country depends on it.

Thomas Jones is a second year student on the BA (Hons) Politics and Sociology degree.  He is a winner of a University scholarship for his work as part of the Edge Hill University Politics Lab.

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Saffron, who is following up her undergraduate degree in sports development and management with a Masters in sport, physical activity and mental health, said she was “incredibly honoured” to win the award. 

“It’s lovely to gain this recognition of my hard work over the past three years. I think I won because of how much I engaged with the course and made the most of opportunities the sports department presented us with. I believe my range of professional experience made me stand out.” 

While studying as an undergraduate, Saffron completed two internships with Everton in the Community, the football club’s official charity. She researched the impact of Covid-19 on the mental health of care home staff, residents and their families, and explored the need for the charity’s proposed mental health hub The People’s Place. 

“The first internship led me to apply for my role as a healthcare assistant in a residential care home for people with dementia as I felt such a connection with the residents I spoke to. I knew I wanted to continue to work with the elderly and play a part in supporting them through a very difficult period.” 

Saffron also took part in a work placement with Tackling the Blues, a mental health programme for children and young people run by Edge Hill University in partnership with Everton in the Community and Tate Liverpool, and worked as a one-to-one support worker for a young man with autism. 

The 21-year-old from Glossop, Derbyshire added: “I love working with people and knowing I can play a part in improving people’s mental health and wellbeing.” 

William, who graduated with a First Class Honours sports coaching and development degree, is now studying for a PGCE Secondary Physical Education at Edge Hill. 

He said: “Winning the award gave me tremendous pride. When reflecting on the hard work I put into my studies over the past three years, receiving this recognition has made it all worth it. It was great to share the news with my family and see how proud they are. 

“I think my drive and passion to succeed made me stand out. I had an amazing experience at Edge Hill in social and academic settings, balancing both well in order to achieve high marks as well as enjoy myself, meeting friends for life with incredible memories to go with them. 

William, 21, originally from Bradford, hopes to become a PE teacher when he completes his PGCE. 

Kenny Greenough, Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Sports Coaching and Development, explained that Saffron and William were selected to receive the national awards – introduced by CIMSPA in partnership with Edge Hill as one of the 10 original higher education institutions granted degree endorsement – in recognition of their “excellent academic and work-related success”. 

He said: “Saffron and William consistently achieved outstanding grades and gained invaluable experience throughout their studies, developing an excellent range of industry employability skills by engaging regularly with placement and other work-related learning opportunities. We are extremely proud of all their achievements.” 

Professor Andy Smith, who leads the University’s work with CIMSPA, added: “We are also immensely grateful to CIMSPA for their continued support in ensuring our sports coaching, management and development degrees prepare students to undertake highly-skilled work on graduation.”

To discover more about courses at Edge Hill University, please visit ehu.ac.uk/study.

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Steph Rimmer is an Education Liaison Assistant and predominantly provides higher education advice and guidance to students in schools and colleges.

Before joining the Student Recruitment team, Steph graduated from Edge Hill University with a BA (Hons) in English Language.

In this article, Steph shares her journey to university with parents who didn’t attend university themselves. She highlights some of the ways you can support your student if you are in a similar position.

I had always imagined becoming a primary school teacher, but never really gave much thought to how I would make it happen. When I started college, I began to think about my future, and university seemed to be the answer. I went home and asked my mum what she thought to the idea and she told me that she had always imagined me going to university, even though neither her nor my dad had been themselves. This may be something that resonates with you, as you and your student begin to explore university as an option.

Utilise support from universities and other bodies

Universities usually have teams dedicated to providing information, advice and guidance. Although you may expect that this is aimed only towards prospective students, there can also be a wide range of support available to parents and supporters.

In terms of resources that can help you understand the process of applying to university and the steps afterwards, the internet is the best place to start. UCAS, the organisation through which your student will apply to university, have a wealth of content to introduce you to the world of higher education. By making use of these resources you can begin to learn a little bit about what your student may encounter in the coming months and start to understand the application and decision-making process.

Your student may already have a few universities in mind which they like the look of. Speak to them about the universities they are interested in and visit their websites. Don’t forget to look out for resources dedicated to parents and supporters.

At this point, your student might want to visit an open day to see the university in person. There will be plenty of opportunities to get answers to questions you may have, perhaps around accommodation or finance.

Talk to your student

As a first-generation to university student, I found that one of the most useful things when applying to university was discussing the process early with my parents. Once they had a grasp of the process, my mum made sure to check in with me every so often about where I was at with the application process and offered help with my personal statement.

One part of the process that your student will need support with is their student finance application. The amount of maintenance loan they receive is dependent upon household income, and so as a parent or supporter you will need to share information to complete the application. This is something universities can offer information and guidance on, and some universities do this in more casual ways, such as on live chat.

Realise your value in the decision-making process

In hindsight, some of the best advice I received was from my mum and dad, as they knew me best. You have a valuable perspective as somebody with more life experience and can offer advice about things your student may never have experienced before, such as accommodation or managing money.

When I visited universities, my parents often pointed out things I hadn’t considered, like the practicalities of living in a certain place or studying in a particular way. Having that perspective from my parents was really valuable to me.

Have confidence in your student

Your student will receive lots of advice from you and their sixth form/college, but the choice of university and course is ultimately theirs. I found it particularly comforting that my parents supported my decision to move into university accommodation and reassured me that even if things didn’t work out so perfectly, they would be there to support me.

For most students, the trust and confidence from their parents and supporters makes the world of difference.

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