Alkhemy’s coaches have years of experience in supporting staff within organisations representing students. Our programme looks to complement and enhance your existing support and development. To chat to Alkhemy about the programme – set up a call here.
Why would I or our staff need support?
If you work in the student movement, chances are you’ve been expected to be a master of all trades. From project and volunteer management to training, community building, coaching, campaigning, report writing, policy analysis, governance, research, elections, and more; your role likely covers an incredible range. And yes, the list does go on!
In many Students’ Unions and student-focused charities, coordinator roles are graduate-entry level, yet they carry responsibility for some of the most mission-critical work: amplifying student voice and building strong, inclusive communities. It’s rare that anyone arrives in post with the full toolkit needed to meet these wide-ranging demands.
Similarly, managers within the movement are often promoted from coordinator roles, stepping up with deep commitment and experience, but without the tailored support required to transition from great delivery to great leadership.
That’s where Alkhemy comes in.
We support SU staff with high-impact, personalised development, helping you build confidence, sharpen your skills, and navigate the realities of your role.
And we get it: even when you find a great training course, it’s all too easy to come back to work and fall into old habits, while the workbook gathers dust on your desk.
Our approach blends coaching and mentoring, so it’s not just about learning new frameworks, it’s about embedding them in your day-to-day practice. Whether you’re new to your role or ready to level up, we’re here to help you thrive.
How could this help?
Whether you’re new to SU staff life, stepping into your very first role, or transitioning from being a sabbatical officer, we’re here to make that shift smoother and more sustainable.
Our experienced coaches understand the unique challenges of the student movement and offer practical, personalised support to help you grow in confidence and impact.
Here’s how we can help:
- Navigating the staff/officer dynamic with clarity and confidence
- Getting the best out of your officers, and yourself!
- Optimising your performance against strategic objectives
- Building authentic engagement and inclusive communities
- Designing and delivering effective training
- Learning how to “manage up” with professionalism and purpose
- Protecting your wellbeing and setting healthy boundaries
- Identifying your development needs and turning them into goals
- Listening to, accessing, and responding to student insight
- Feeling equipped to support yourself and others through change
We meet you where you are, and help you get to where you want to be.
Why coaching and mentoring?
Our blended coaching and mentoring approach allows SUs to see increased development and performance of their staff over time. This programme is not designed to be a silver bullet for staff members but a key part in a wider learning and development approach.
How much does this cost?
It’s £49 per hour (plus VAT) and appointments are arranged your calendar.
I want to enquire, what should I do?
Let’s chat!
We offer a free, no obligation consultation to explore how we can support you. Email ollie@alkhemy.org.uk or book a call with us here.
What types of role is this support offered to?
We can support anyone working in an organisation representing students:
- Assistants
- Coordinators
- First time managers and managers taking on more responsibility
- New senior managers
Please contact us if you would like to enquire about these areas of support.
“I’ve had the privilege of being coached by Ollie from Alkhemy over the past few challenging months, and I genuinely can’t recommend the experience highly enough.
From our very first session, Ollie created a space where I felt comfortable, supported, and truly heard. He’s been an incredible sounding board and a safe space to explore thoughts and challenges without judgment.
What I’ve valued most is Ollie’s ability to gently guide my reflections and help me see situations from new perspectives. His insight and calm approach have made a real difference in how I process and respond to what’s going on around me.
A huge thank you to Alkhemy for offering such meaningful support. If you’re looking for thoughtful, empowering coaching. I highly recommend.” Cohort Member 2025/26
“I would absolutely recommend the programme to anyone in a Student Voice role position right now who wants to develop their career and be successful in all that they do. It’s been a genuinely life changing experience for me and one which I will forever remain grateful for.” – Cohort member 2021/22
“My team were part of the Support Programme last year and they spoke highly of their experience, both the coaching element and the collaborative sessions with other Students’ Union staff on the programme.
I myself have had coaching and mentoring from Alkhemy during a challenging time of change and it was definitely time well spent, not only did we explore the different challenges and avenues, Alkhemy’s approach and philosophy enabled me to think with a positive mindset and how to work forward whilst also thinking about the reasons why we need to change our approach or perception.
At this time, I needed someone who could question and challenge me but also had all the knowledge I needed for me to work through to solutions.
I would highly recommend this programme. Thank you!” – Cohort SU 2022/23