
GO! Southampton signs Civic Charter
GO! Southampton have become the latest organisation to sign the civic charter
8 May 2026
19 May 2026
Southampton Solent University recently welcomed a group of school and college counsellors from across the United States, marking the institution’s first participation in a coordinated international visit of this kind.
The visit formed part of the UK Coastal Tour, delivered in collaboration with international recruitment partner The UK Study Expert, and brought 16 counsellors to the University’s campus in Southampton.
The group was welcomed by Meritza Hengari, Senior International Officer for the Americas, alongside colleagues from across the University. During their visit, counsellors received an overview of Solent’s academic offer and institutional strengths, including a presentation from Jonathan Ridley, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Partnerships and Education, who highlighted the University’s practice-led approach and strong links to industry.
Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Academic Strategy and Planning, Cathy Barnes, said:
“Welcoming counsellors from across the United States to our campus is an important step in strengthening Solent’s global connections. Experiencing our practice-led approach first-hand allows partners to truly understand what makes our courses distinctive and how we prepare students for successful careers.
“We are proud to showcase both the quality of our teaching and the vibrant, supportive community we offer here in Southampton, and we look forward to building lasting relationships that open up new opportunities for future students.”
Counsellors were provided with a first hand experience of Solent’s facilities and teaching environment. Through guided campus tours and subject-specific taster sessions, academic departments showcased their specialist expertise and demonstrated how courses integrate real world experience with academic study.
As part of the Coastal England University Counsellor Tour, the visit aimed to strengthen international partnerships and raise awareness of UK study opportunities among key influencers in the United States. By hosting the group, Solent University has further developed its global engagement activity and highlighted Southampton as a welcoming, student-focused city for international learners.
The University expects the visit to support future recruitment activity and build lasting relationships with counsellors advising prospective students and their families across the USA.
