AlumniAlex Hamblin

From All Saints’ to UCAS: Supporting Students Across the UK

After leaving All Saints' Academy Sixth Form in 2016, alumnus Alex Hamblin has built an impressive career in higher education and admissions, combining a passion for learning with a drive to keep developing professionally.

At All Saints’, Alex studied A-Levels in Applied Business, ICT, and English Language & Literature before progressing to Oxford Brookes University to study Business and Management. Graduating in 2019 with a 2:1, university offered him the opportunity to explore many different aspects of business, from accounting and operations to entrepreneurship and supply chains.

Reflecting on the course, Alex particularly valued the university’s focus on critical thinking.

“I really valued how much we were encouraged to challenge theories and concepts, rather than simply accepting old ideas without analysis.”
Alongside academic study, university life also brought opportunities beyond the classroom. Living in Oxford meant being surrounded by intellectual discussion and debate, and Alex regularly attended debates at the famous Oxford Union.

For Alex, education did not stop after graduating. Recognising the importance of standing out in a competitive job market, he continued developing professionally through vocational qualifications. Since university, he has gained additional qualifications in management with the Chartered Management Institute, project management with the Association for Project Management, and change management with APMG International.

He describes this as making use of a “time dividend”.

“Knowing that having such qualifications under my belt now will put me in a good place in the future.”
Since 2022, Alex has worked at UCAS, one of the UK’s most recognised education brands. In his role, he works closely with universities and colleges across the country, supporting admissions-related activity and helping institutions manage everything from course listings to major organisational changes.

The role has also provided opportunities to represent UCAS at conferences across the UK, delivering speeches and leading sessions for colleagues across the higher education sector.

Although many people associate UCAS with A-Level Results Day each August, Alex emphasises that the work continues year-round.

“Whilst many think of UCAS for that one day a year in August, the important role my team and I play is supporting universities, colleges, and applicants all year round.”
Looking back on his time at All Saints’, Alex credits the Academy with helping him develop the independence and responsibility needed for both university and professional life.

“One of the things I realised during my first year at university was how easy I found it to manage my own workload, organise my time, and meet deadlines. It was only then that I became truly grateful for the values of responsibility instilled in me during my time at All Saints’.”
When asked about his Sixth Form highlights, Alex reflected on both the opportunities and the support he received.

“The trips and visits were highlights, but I’m most grateful for the support and guidance I received from my teachers during my time at All Saints’.”