College staff

The Resident Provost

David Efird (david.efird@york.ac.uk) lives on campus in the Provost's House, and responsibility for the character, discipline, well-being and development of the College community and for co-ordinating and representing the views and interests of its members. He is the head of Vanbrugh College, Chair of the College Council, and Chair of the Vanbrugh Welfare Team and is supported by a network of committees.

Appointments can be made with the Provost to discuss welfare concerns whether resident in the college or off-campus. The Provost is also responsible for discipline within the College. Those students who are concerned about their course, but feel they cannot talk to their academic supervisor or department, are welcome to make an appointment to see the Provost to discuss further options.

David runs a variety of suppers and receptions at his House, including receptions for International Students, LGBTI students, Mature Students and students with families, and college colloquiums.

I am a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy.  I teach undergraduate and postgraduate modules in the philosophy of Christianity and the relation between God and morality, subjects in which I am also research-active and in which I supervise research students.  However, the main body of my research concerns the philosophy of necessity and possibility, in particular, the question of whether there might have been nothing. 

In addition to serving as Provost of Vanbrugh College and as Senior Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy at the University of York, I am the Assistant Curate at York Minster.  In this role, I perform a variety of liturgical roles in the many services taking place each week in the cathedral, I preach once a month, and I provide pastoral care for members of the Minster community.  These three roles of Provost, Senior Lecturer, and Assistant Curate are wonderfully complementary, and it is a privilege to serve in all of them.

The Deputy Provost

The Deputy Provost: In Vanbrugh the Deputy Provost is a voluntary role for staff members wishing to become more involved in student life and is responsible for the College Tutors and is also a contact for individuals requiring long-term welfare support. This position is currently vacant.  Any enquiries should be directed to the Provost.

The Resident College Dean

The Resident College Dean: David Hickman (david.hickman@york.ac.uk) is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Theatre, Film and Television, and continues a twenty-year career as a producer and director for broadcast television.

David lives in Room 309, House A, Donald Barron Court, provides support and guidance to residents of Vanbrugh College, assists with general welfare and discipline of all College members, resident or non-resident, and helps to develop the collegiate community and its activities.

Description of the Role of College Dean

College Administrator

Georgina Heath (georgina.heath@york.ac.uk) has worked as Vanbrugh College Administrator for seven years, and is an alumnus of York University, having been an undergraduate student at Vanbrugh College.

The College Administrator is a first point of contact for any queries or concerns, and is happy to discuss issues such as college life, student welfare or accommodation, and can refer students to the Provost or another member of the support team if necessary.

The College Administrator is also the person to contact if you wish to book college space or advertise on the College Newsletter and for any queries and problems associated with residence in Vanbrugh or membership for the College.

Resident College Tutors

Resident College Tutors

College Tutors are resident post-graduate students who are responsible for providing welfare guidance to those residents for whom they are responsible.  They are an important part of the Vanbrugh Welfare Team. Role of the Vanbrugh College Tutor.

The Resident College Tutor for Le Page Court ‎‎‎

‎‎‎‎‎‎Josh Whittingham (jw610@york.ac.uk), based in room A230, Le Page Court, provides support and guidance to residents of Le Page Court and Donald Barron Court, House B, and helps foster a community atmosphere there, whilst being responsible for general welfare and discipline in the residence.

"I am currently entering my sixth year at the University of York and am studying for my doctorate in Computer Science. Whilst being part of the university I have enjoyed getting involved in all aspects of student life. This has included being a member of both Vanbrugh JCRC and GCRC, and my ongoing role of managing the YUSU event security team. I have a great passion for sport and currently play for, and coach, the University Mens 1st Lacrosse team. I also enjoy music and can play both the saxophone and the piano.

I pride myself on being approachable and friendly, and with five years of York culture and experience behind me I hope that I can help with every issue that arises. My door is always open so pop in with any problems and concerns you have, or if you just want a cup of tea and a chat.The Resident College Tutor for Eric Milner-White Court, House A"

Resident College Tutor for Eric Milner-White Court, House A

James Harland (djmh500@york.ac.uk), based in room A368, provides support and guidance to residents of Block A at Eric Milner White Court as well as House D, Barbara Scott Court, and helps foster a community atmosphere there, whilst being responsible for general welfare and discipline in the residence.

‎ "I've just started an MA in Medieval Studies with the Centre for Medieval Studies. I did my BA in English at the University of Leicester, so I'm as new to York as many of you will be! When I haven't got my head in the books, I like to act and direct in amateur theatre, write and am also an avid guitar player (having spent 3 years playing in a hard rock band in Leicester, I'm very much hoping to find something similar here in Vanbrugh).

Although I'm new to York, I'm by no means new to the University experience and know how big a change it can be. If you have any worries or concerns do come and have a chat - no problem is too big or too small.
Don't feel you have to have a concern or a problem to come and see me, though: I'm always up for a good natter!" 

Resident College Tutor for Eric Milner-White Court, House B‎‎‎

Tom Wright (thomas.wright@york.ac.uk) based in room B105, provides support and guidance to residents of Block B at Eric Milner White Court as well as and Donald Barron Court, House C, and helps foster a community atmosphere there, whilst being responsible for general welfare and discipline in the residence.

"I am entering my third year of study for a PhD in History. This will be my seventh year at York and my fourth in halls. Though I am a sports enthusiast, I lack any discernible athletic ability. I enjoy reading, writing, playing sport badly and socialising with my friends."

Resident College Tutor for Eric Milner-White Court, Wentworth E ‎‎‎

Manuel Sarmento (ms649@york.ac.uk), based in room D/117 in Wentworth E, provides support and guidance to residents of Wentworth E at Eric Milner White Court and helps foster a community atmosphere there, whilst being responsible for general welfare and discipline in the residence.

"Having just completed a BSc in Biology, I am currently studying for a Masters in Environmental Science and Management, starting my fifth year at York. I have been involved in many aspects of University life: I founded,and continue to take part in, the Portuguese Language Society, I was a member of the Vanbrugh JCRC and was involved with the ISA.

I have a strong interest in sports, mainly football and rugby, and like to go to the gym. Not being particularly musically talented, I enjoy listening and talking about a wide range of music styles.

I hope to help make Vanbrugh feel like home to every student and build up a college spirit that will be transmitted down the years. I am friendly and enthusiastic and hope that people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds will find me approachable."

Vanbrugh Porters

Reception Co-ordinator

Hester De Groot
email: hadg500@york.ac.uk
Tel: 2466
Location: Langwith D/001

Vanbrugh Porters

Danny Barbour	Steve Bell	Dave Boulton
David Dale	Kevin Huddart	Peter Oglesby
David Mountain

Vanbrugh Porters can be contacted on: (01904 32) 3200 or email: admn196@york.ac.uk

Vanbrugh College Reception is the reception for all Vanbrugh students and staff as well as residents in Le Page, Eric Milner-White, Donald Barron and Barbara Scott Courts, as well as Fairfax House and the Fulford Road Flats.

For opening times please see the Porters and Receptions website

The Security Centre can be contacted via the following telephone numbers:

• Security Control (24 hr) (43) 4444
• Security Control (Emergency) (43)3333 or 0800 433333 (freephone external)