Kensington and Chelsea College’s adult students were blessed with the tutelage of Kath Harris – my mother – between 1996 and 2010. Her magical teaching touch positively impacted many, as evidenced by the numerous messages of condolences that poured in from past students worldwide after her death at 67 due to cancer. One lovingly proclaimed that she was a "source of inspiration" that wholly changed their life for the better.
Kath herself faced the daunting challenge of higher education in her 40s, making her hyperaware of the obstacles that older students may encounter. Her path was paved by taking the Access course in Northern College, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, which she never forgot, even after graduating from the University of Sussex, Brighton, with a social anthropology degree in 1994.
Born and raised in the Yorkshire mining village of Birdwell, Kath grew up aware of the difficulties that come along with low social status. As someone who left school at 15 in the 1950s, she had firsthand experience with the many barriers that could hinder one’s journey to higher education. Her life was multi-faceted, juggling various jobs as a secretary for different companies, helping run her parents’ pub – the Alexandra Hotel in Wakefield – and raising me as a single parent. Kath knew the struggles of maintaining work and study balance, addressing childcare issues, and even the simplicity of not being able to afford transportation to school.
Initially serving as a social anthropology lecturer, later promoted to Access course coordinator at Kensington and Chelsea College, Kath found her stride in mentoring mature students eager to attend university. Her grounded personality and Yorkshire sensibilities made her approachable and engaging. Despite fears and insecurities, her unwavering belief in her students’ potential propelled many to success.
Kath Harris was a dynamo in the classroom, consistently encouraging her students to view their learning experiences through adventures. Her fascination with anthropology exuded in trips to Brighton, this beautiful UK seaside city, where she would invite pupils to indulge their anthropological curiosity. Whether learning about tribes, Newcastle United fans, with the aid of Newcastle Brown, Kath’s classes were compelling, further inspiring her students to go beyond their limits.
Several outstanding adult students earned the esteemed Helena Kennedy Foundation award under Kath’s guidance. They went on to establish fulfilling careers as social workers, teachers, journalists, documentary makers, while some pursued doctorates. Kath had an infectious passion not only for her subject but for life in general, making her presence exciting and ever-thrilling both inside and outside the classroom.
Kath leaves behind her devoted husband, Willy Coupar; her sister, Pauline; her mother, Irene; and me.
