We’re a small team with big ideas and a passion for doing things well.

Meet the Team

Chris Rush
Director

As co-founder and Director, my background is in pastoral work, and years spent supporting young people in SEMH settings showed me just how much potential gets missed when a young person doesn't have the right environment around them. That's what led Nick and I to set up Adventure in Learning — we'd both seen too many pupils disengaged and struggling in settings that weren't right for them, and knew they deserved something better. Making sure every young person feels safe, understood and genuinely known is still at the heart of what I do.

Nick Allen
Director

As co-founder and Director, my background is in teaching PE and Maths, and over the years working in SEMH settings, it became clear that so many young people had real potential — they just needed a different way to reach it. That's exactly why Chris and I set up Adventure in Learning. We knew there were pupils being let down by mainstream education, disengaged and struggling, who deserved a provision built around them rather than the other way round. Seeing that potential unlocked is still what drives me every day.

Jon Rush
Non-Executive Director

As Non-Executive Director, I lead on governance and policy, making sure Adventure in Learning is run to the highest standards. My background is a little different to most — I spent time as a professional footballer before going on to become a Chief Superintendent with Greater Manchester Police, where I built real expertise in safeguarding, policy and reporting. I came on board recently to support Adventure in Learning as it continues to grow, bringing that experience to bear on governance and oversight. It's a privilege to help build something that gives young people the chance they deserve.

Scott Rutherford
Secondary Lead/DSL

I've worked in education for ten years — it's the career I always wanted since leaving school myself. This role lets me make a real impact on pupils' lives and help them through crucial transitions. I draw on my own experiences to help pupils build trusting relationships, grow in confidence, and discover their resilience through the challenges they face. Football is a big passion of mine — I'm a qualified coach, and I also love cricket and running. I lead a sports disability group in South Tyneside during the holidays and have completed ten Great North Runs for charity.

"Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I built my life."

Sunshine Douglas
Primary Lead/Deputy DSL

I've worked with children with social, emotional and mental health needs for over ten years, and I still find it as rewarding as ever. Watching a child grow in confidence and take pride in their own progress is one of the best parts of the job. I believe the most important thing I can offer is a consistent, supportive relationship, and I love finding creative ways to make learning engaging and meaningful for each child. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, being outdoors, and making the most of quality time together.

Brandon Simpson
Wellbeing, Behaviour & Learning Coach

I've worked in education for four years, across schools in Durham, Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Newcastle. It's given me some of the best experiences of my life and a solid grounding I carry into everything I do. I'm passionate about giving pupils an everyday safe environment where they can express themselves and grow in confidence through education. I believe in going above and beyond to get the best out of myself, my colleagues and our pupils. Football has been a big part of my life since I was young, and it's taught me a lot about teamwork and communication.

Jessica Jewers
Learning Support Assistant

I'm passionate about supporting children and young people to reach their full potential, and there's nothing more rewarding than helping create positive, meaningful experiences for the pupils I work with. I enjoy building strong relationships with students, families and colleagues, and I'm always looking for new ways to make learning engaging and accessible. Outside of work, I love spending time with family and exploring new places. What inspires me most is seeing the confidence and progress that grow when someone finally feels supported and understood.

Sharon Dale
Learning Support Assistant

Sharon has a background as a Residential Care Officer and brings valuable experience supporting young people with a wide range of additional needs, including SEMH, Autism and challenging behaviour. She is passionate about making a positive difference and is committed to helping young people at Adventure in Learning achieve their potential. With a strong interest in outdoor learning, Sharon enjoys creating engaging and practical experiences that build confidence, resilience and independence. She is dedicated to supporting every young person to succeed, offering encouragement, structure and care in a calm and supportive environment.

Join Our Team

We're always happy to hear from enthusiastic people who share our values. Feel free to send us your CV and a short covering note — we'll keep it on file for future opportunities.