Kate Sankey

Role: Co-Director
Joined: July 2014

Experience

Bachelors degree in Nutrition with Early Childhood Studies; 10 years’ experience of working with young people – including peer support, coaching and tutoring. Kate has worked within the local charity sector for the last seven years; past employment includes KEEN Oxford as their co-ordinator and Helen & Douglas House as a Community & Events Fundraiser.

Roles within the charity

I help ensure that Yellow Submarine is running well and safely. Dealing with everything from our finances and HR to monitoring and reporting, as well as being the organisation’s safeguarding lead.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Taking a group to Weymouth; it was great fun – from day trips out to singing karaoke at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, just because we could!

Anna Cheetham

Role: Co-Director
Joined: 2013

Experience

Anna managed residential care homes for adults with complex learning disabilities. She studied Youth and Community Work at the Ruskin College in Oxford.

Roles within the charity

Anna oversees Yellow Submarine’s Social Development projects, ensuring positive outcomes for all stakeholders. She makes sure that the staff team are well looked after and thinks about how Yellow Submarine might help more people in the future. She also drinks a lot of tea.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My first summer with Yellow Submarine; 6 solid weeks of activities in the sunshine, with an amazing cohort of children…laughing and cheering so loudly I lost my voice. Capsizing a canoe was particularly memorable!

Sophie Bradley

Role: Enterprise Development Manager
Joined: 2013

Experience

Before joining Yellow Submarine, I had worked in various customer service roles. I am a mum of two children, so have gained experience at being able to do lots of things at the same time – key for working in our cafes!

Roles within the charity

I oversee the charity’s enterprise projects, including our Oxford + Witney cafés and ‘Life Changing Bakes.’ I try to ensure that the team are supported to provide the best training possible and that everything is running smoothly.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Witnessing trainees transform during their time with us, there have been too many magical moments to choose just one!

Rachael Blakey

Role: Adults Programmes Manager

Experience

Before working at Yellow Submarine, I worked at The Royal Mencap Society, managing a team to support adults with Learning Disabilities and Autism into voluntary and paid work. I studied Social and Political Theory at University and also have a background in strategic planning in higher education.

Roles within the charity

I am Yellow Submarine’s Adult Programmes Manager, overseeing our Adults Programmes including Reach and our social activities. I also work with Yellow Submarine trainees to support them onto their next steps when they have completed the traineeship, this includes engaging with employers and other community organisations.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Too many to choose! Wednesday Night Club spontaneously bursting into “Country Roads” with everyone singing and hugging! Its also lovely to see trainees’ faces when they are offered employment after all their hard work.

Beth Simpson

Role: Activity Manager
Joined: July 2021

Experience

I have worked in a variety of different roles that work with young people, from after school clubs and holiday camps, to volunteering with my local Girl Guiding unit. Seeing young people have fun and try new things is something I look forward to getting to experience at Yellow Submarine.

Roles within the charity

I am a young person’s activity manager, I help to plan and deliver school holiday activities, youth clubs and residential holidays!

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My first summer of activities was so much fun, from visiting the zoo, facing my fears on a high ropes course and visiting Drayton Manor, it was a jam packed summer which I will never forget!

Millie Jackson

Role: Activity Manager
Joined: May 2026

Experience

Roles within the charity

I’m a Young Person’s Activity Manager at Yellow Submarine, helping to plan and deliver school holiday activities, youth clubs, and residential holidays. I love getting involved and making sure everyone has a fun and positive experience.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Even though I’ve only been here a short time, my favourite part has definitely been meeting all the members and getting to know their interests. Everyone has been so welcoming, and it’s been lovely to feel part of the community straight away!

Katie Dearden

Role: Activity Manager
Joined: May 2026

Experience

I studied Primary Education at the University of Brighton and have gained a wide range of experience through school placements, as well as many years of volunteering with Girlguiding and Scout groups. Working as a Sessional Staff Member at Yellow Submarine has given me valuable experience and opportunities to develop my skills while supporting young people. I’m excited to Start my role as Activity Manager and to see what adventures lie ahead. 

Roles within the charity

I am a Young Person’s Activity Manager at Yellow Submarine, helping to plan and deliver school holiday activities, youth clubs, and residential holidays. I love creating fun, engaging experiences and ensuring that every young person feels included, supported, and able to make lasting memories

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My favourite Yellow Submarine memory is my first residential at Ufton Court. From feeding the chickens and building chariots to enjoying epic water fights, it was a week full of fun, laughter, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Seeing everyone get involved and have such a great time made it a truly special experience.

Simon West

Role: Activity Manager - Reach
Joined: 2022

Experience

Previously I have worked for Oxfordshire County Council organising residentials, setting up holiday programmes and supporting vulnerable families. I worked as Delivery Manager for Oxfordshire National Citizen Service programme, giving groups of teenagers their first experience of going away by themselves. I’ve organised trips around the UK from the Ilse of Wight to Cromer! Most recently as part of Banbury Early Help team, I’ve supported families and provided opportunities for children to thrive.

Roles within the charity

I will be organising our Reach project. Reach is our exciting daytime project designed to help each member achieve their goals and reach their full potential. I’m excited to work with community partners to support our members to learn skills.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Watching a group of teenagers busting a gut peddling the Yellow Submarine smoothie bike to make banana and strawberry smoothies to raise money.

Cara Pembridge

Role: Office Manager
Joined: February 2014

Experience

Before joining the Yellow Submarine team in February 2014, Cara gained a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Health Studies from Bath Spa University, she then went on to support both adults and children with additional needs in various residential settings. She progressed to a managerial level, before relocating from Wales to Oxford to pursue her career within the charity.

Roles within the charity

I oversee our Oxford office including; accounts, HR and general administration.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Providing a group of friends the opportunity to run their very own holiday to the Isle of Wight and be in charge of EVERYTHING! It gave me a new perspective on how to support people effectively on holidays; particularly how I don’t necessarily need to do everything; even the washing up!

Keely Harding

Role: Activity Manager
Joined: 2024

Experience

I studied Psychology with a later focus on Family and Child Psychology at the University of Chester. I then went on to work as a Teaching Assistant in the SEN department of a local school. I have also been part of Yellow Submarine since 2016, first as a Volunteer and then as Sessional Staff, working on both Young People and Adult’s activity days, evening clubs and residentials.

Roles within the charity

I am an Adults Activity Manager, where I will help organise and run the adult’s social daytime and evening activities. But you may also see me supporting in other areas, such as the Reach Project and residentials.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My most recent favourite memory is being at Hill End with the adults over Summer and having a water fight to cool us down on one of the scorching hot days!

Becs Lay

Role: Traineeship Manager
Joined: September 2016

Experience

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2002, and worked for many years with young adults who were experiencing mental health problems. After 7 years abroad, I returned to the UK and joined the Yellow Submarine Team!

Roles within the charity

I oversee the Workplace Skills Training Programme, teaching theory and practical skills for the workplace to our trainees.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Our annual Café Awards is always a highlight; we celebrate achievements and dance the night away!

Alice Margey

Role: Grants and Trusts Fundraiser

Experience

I’ve spent the last few years loving being a mum, at the same time as being involved in various voluntary things and looking after animals at home.  Prior to that I worked for The Landmark Trust and before that Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.  Previously I had roles with an A&E Dept, a Community Health Council (patient watchdog) and Arthritis Care.  It’s always been voluntary sector or non-clinical NHS.  Oxfordshire-born (Watlington), I was an Oxbridge reject so went off to LSE.

Roles within the charity

Grants and Trusts fundraiser.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Having just started here…smiling faces in the café every time I walk through!

Ella Sanford (on maternity leave)

Role: Community Fundraising, Marketing & Communications Officer
Joined: July 2021

Experience

I graduated from the University of Reading with a degree in Philosophy and English Literature in 2017. Since graduating I moved to Oxford and began working in the events sector as well as doing some volunteering and fundraising for various charities in my spare time.

Roles within the charity

I help Yellow Submarine with community fundraising, marketing and communications!

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My first activity day at Hill End. It was so lovely meeting our members and everyone made me feel so welcome!

Ellen Parker

Role: Community Fundraising, Marketing & Communications Officer
Joined: July 2025

Experience

I started out as a primary school teacher before swapping the whiteboard for the world of TV production, and later moved into marketing as a copywriter. Storytelling has always been at the heart of what I do—whether it’s in a classroom, behind a camera, or crafting words that connect with people. I’ve loved working in creative, people-focused roles, and now I’m excited to be part of a team where the work really makes a difference.

Roles within the charity

My role is all about sharing all the incredible things happening at Yellow Submarine. I get to curate and post our content on socials, celebrate our community, plan events and help spread the word about what we do. I also lend a hand wherever I’m needed—at clubs, events or out on trips.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

The people, without a doubt. From day one, I’ve been blown away by the warmth, humour and energy of the whole community.

Mark Clay

Role: Administrator
Joined: 2021

Experience

 I’ve worked for some amazing organisations in my working life, mostly as a fundraiser and manager, including charities, universities and even an opera company. I most recently worked at The Story Museum in Oxford. I’m also a part-time artist, and often show my work in various venues around Oxford!

Roles within the charity

My role as Administrator is to make sure that systems and processes such as records, accounts and invoices all work efficiently and promptly, so that we can all get on and help our members achieve brilliant things. But you’ll also finding me helping out at Reach, social clubs and activity days.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Finishing the Oxford Half Marathon twice on behalf of Yellow Submarine, and enjoying the support and love of all the Yellow Sub and wider community.

Nathan Swift

Role: Volunteer Manager
Joined: June 2025

Experience

I have spent the last seven years as a Senior Community Fundraiser for a National Charity and have been involved with the Round Table for the last ten years. Having spent time in numerous industries, I love knowing that our daily work in the Charity sector makes a positive difference to people’s lives.  I also wear another hat as a DJ and Event Host, which has taken me all over the world and means you’ll often find me on stage at local events and festivals. 

Roles within the charity

My primary role is to look after our wonderful existing volunteers, and also to expand our volunteer base to ensure we can continue to give our members the best experiences. I can also be found supporting whoever needs me; from helping at Reach groups and evening clubs, to assisting on trips. No two days are the same at Yellow Submarine. 

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My answer to this is simply ‘the people’. From the teams to the members, everyone is instrumental in our culture of smiles. 

Lauren Allen

Role: Oxford Café Manager
Joined: 2023

Experience

I previously managed a Pizza restaurant in Oxford and ran my own cake business before joining Yellow Submarine.

Roles within the charity

I help to make sure the Oxford Café runs smoothly and that trainees feel supported!

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My favourite Yellow Submarine memory is definitely celebrating the birthdays within the team as everyone comes together to sing and celebrate – these moments are so full of happiness and joy it would make anyone’s day!

Anna Dashwood

Role: Café Supervisor
Joined: 2023

Experience

I have spent the last 14 years working as a Nursery Nurse and Forest School Leader at a local school. The experience I’ve gained through these roles and helping children and young people grow in confidence and independence has been really exciting to be a part of and super rewarding. I am looking forward to helping the Trainees grow in confidence and learn new skills !

Roles within the charity

Supporting trainees in the Oxford Café.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

I do love the happy smiley welcome I get every time I arrive at the cafe! A great start to the day!

Julie Hedges

Role: Production Baker
Joined: 2022

Experience

I worked as a cake decorator and run my own business making cakes for special occasions.

Roles within the charity

Making our delicious Life Changing Bakes and supporting our wonderful trainees.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Seeing our trainees faces when they saw their own figures in marzipan on our 10th anniversary cake!

Julie Muirhead

Role: Café Supervisor
Joined: 2023

Experience

Before joining Yellow Submarine I worked in the food, drink, catering and hospitality industry.

Roles within the charity

Supporting our trainees and helping them gain knowledge and independence. I also help make sure the café runs smoothly.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

The excitement on the trainees faces when we put the Christmas tree up and they helped decorate it.

Hannah Sherrington

Role: Job Coach
Joined: May 2026

Experience

Roles within the charity

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

I think it’s wonderful to see everyone come together as a team throughout shifts, especially on busy days. 

Amy Frampton

Role: Job Coach
Joined: 2024

Experience

Working as a Job Coach at Yellow Submarine is probably the most rewarding first job out there. As of now, I intend to go on to study philosophy and German at university, starting in 2026. I volunteer weekly at Junior ParkRun in Witney and have previously had work experience at a law firm in Thame.  

Roles within the charity

I am a Job Coach based in the Witney Café.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

I have many positive memories from my time at Yellow Submarine, but my favourite one must be seeing a trainee be so incredibly proud of themselves after achieving something they never thought possible. It is so heart warming to see this day after day!

Rachel Grenville-Hunt

Role: Traineeship Tutor
Joined: May 2021

Experience

I previously worked in the technology industry, specifically motion capture – which is totally different to my roles at Yellow Submarine! I also ran my own business teaching cookery classes specialising in baking and patisserie. I started volunteering with Yellow Submarine in 2018, working with the trainees in the Witney café and in 2021 I became a member of staff; baking for the cafés and supporting our trainees with our ‘Life Changing Bakes’. In 2022 I moved roles and am now part of the teaching team.

Roles within the charity

I plan and teach the trainees lessons, including the theory work for their ASDAN qualifications, food hygiene, and tutorials on a range of subjects to help grow their independence.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

The incredible engagement and enthusiasm the trainees show during lessons, even when I’m teaching them all about bacteria!

Patricia Box

Role: Witney Café Manager
Joined: 2014

Experience

I have worked for Yellow Submarine since 2014, mostly in the oxford café where I was responsible for the catering.

Roles within the charity

I work in the Witney Café supporting trainees and making sure everything is running smoothly!

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

First visiting the café. The trainees made me feel welcome and I decided to volunteer!

Kate Day

Role: Café Supervisor
Joined: 2015

Experience

BA Hons in Communication Studies followed by 25 years working in the world of television and film as a casting director!  I have also worked in the local charitable sector including 12 years as an Events Fundraiser at Helen & Douglas House.  More recently I have run my own catering company!

Roles within the charity

I work in our Oxford café, supporting the trainees in all aspects of the day to day running of the café.  In addition, I am responsible for our menu and have recently taken on managing the catering side of the business as well.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Seeing our apprentices and trainees enjoy greeting our regulars in the morning – great start to the day!

Raluca Gabriela

Role: Café Supervisor
Joined: 2021

Experience

Originally from Romania, moving to Witney was a complete challenge. My progress over the years made me realise that anything is possible, which is what attracted me to Yellow Submarine. Seeing the confidence and the progress of trainees grow is an incredible experience. Having worked in hospitality over the past months also made me enjoy putting smiles on people’s faces and making their day.

Roles within the charity

My role within the charity is working in the Witney cafe, helping and supporting the trainees with their daily activities.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

My favourite memory was around Halloween and the carving of pumpkins with the trainees, seeing them have fun and being independent at the same time!

Freya Dyer

Role: Café Supervisor
Joined: 2021

Experience

I have previously had experience similar to my current role when volunteering at Springfield schools dance and movement club, during work experience placements at Witney Community hospital, and a previous job serving guests at a small B&B, although I can say that none of these experiences combined compare to the work that goes on at the Yellow Submarine!

Roles within the charity

I am a job coach at our cafés.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

I do not yet have a singular favourite memory since working at Yellow Submarine, but rather the continual joy of seeing how much the trainees take away from their time at the café and hearing of how much they have enjoyed trips out (especially to the pantomime), it never fails to add a bit of spark to a long day.

Keith Palmer

Role: Cleaner

Roles within the charity

I do the cleaning in the Oxford Hub.

Favourite Yellow Submarine memory

Enjoying a hot drink before my shift and seeing the Yellow Submarine team.