Rushworth furthered his studies with an Master of Arts (MA) degree in international development from the University of Manchester. He also holds a Diploma in Advanced Business French from the Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Paris[2] and a Master of Research (MRes) degree in education and international development from the University of East Anglia, where he later completed his PhD. His doctoral thesis, titled "“Teacher, do you think I have a bright future?” - Anxiety and uncertainty in a Rwandan Catholic Secondary Boarding and Day School", which offers an in-depth ethnographic study of Rwandan adolescents in a Catholic boarding school. His work focuses on the themes of anxiety and uncertainty in educational settings.[3]
Early career
Rushworth's career began in various roles that laid the foundation for his future work in international development and education. He served as a Project Manager for Stockport Council and later as a Volunteering and Training Manager for the British Red Cross.[2] He was Youth Club Manager at the Hamlet Centre and as an Associate Tutor at the University of East Anglia.[4]
Rushworth's work in international development began with his work at the Aegis Trust, an organization dedicated to the prevention of genocide and mass atrocities.[5] He held multiple positions, including Head of Engagement, Director of Strategy, and Special Advisor to the Head of Strategy.[2] He specialized in education and conflict prevention, developing and implementing strategies to promote peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.
In 2017, Rushworth co-founded African Dreams Ltd, a consultancy focused on development projects in Rwanda, where he continues to serve as CEO. He also founded Our World Research & Consultancy Ltd, providing strategic advice and research services on global development issues.[6]
He also worked as a Lecturer at Macclesfield College of Further Education and has been involved in various research projects.[7] Prior to becoming an MP he was the Programme Manager for the Strategic Research Fund at Durham University, where he oversaw initiatives aimed at fostering innovative research and development.[2]
He was selected as the Labour Party's prospective parliamentary candidate for Bishop Auckland in 2022, a previously 'Red Wall' seat, but one of many that fell to the Conservatives at the 2019 General Election in 2022.[9] He successfully contested the seat in the 2024 general election, winning 17,036 votes, or 42.1% of the overall vote, with a majority of 6,672.[10] He was also the chair of Bishop Auckland Constituency Labour Party.[11]
He has served on the executive board of the Labour Campaign for International Development (LCID) and is known for his advocacy on issues such as child poverty.[12] During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rushworth and his family walked from coast to coast to raise funds for Children North East, a charity supporting disadvantaged children.[13]
Personal life
Rushworth is married to Siobhain, and they have five children[14][15] He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has worked with the church to bring delegations of women and youth from countries affected by interfaith conflict.[16][17]