Meet our Team
Maddy Austen Maddy Austen - Head of Employer Engagement
Maddy has worked at University Academy Holbeach since December 2022.
Her job role includes leading the engagement with local, regional and national employers to create and maintain apprenticeship opportunities and work placements. She oversees the apprenticeship standards delivered — meaning she ensures the training meets the required national apprenticeship standards and employer needs, as well as making sure all funding rules are followed correctly. Maddy coordinates with curriculum and training teams so that employer insight feeds into the content and delivery of vocational/technical and apprenticeship programmes. She acts as the main point of contact for employers wishing to collaborate on apprenticeships, work placements, and related workforce development activity.
Edwina Thorpe Edwina Thorpe - Employer Engagement Co-Ordinator
Edwina has worked for the Employer Engagement team and University Academy Holbeach since February 2025 after a very successful career in event hospitality.
Edwina plays an important role in building strong connections between University Academy Holbeach, local employers, and the wider community. Working as part of the Employer Engagement team, her role supports collaboration that helps learners gain valuable real-world experience while meeting the skills needs of employers. She works closely with businesses to support T Levels, apprenticeships and work placements, and employer-led opportunities, ensuring positive experiences for both employers and learners. She act as a key point of contact, helping employers engage with the Academy and supporting the smooth coordination of employer-based activities.