My origins lie within S.E. London and my early career as a Hospital Administrator at both general and paediatric hospitals was in the same area of London. Some of my early memories and experiences influenced the future career I chose, and in my mid-40’s as a mature student I returned to education after a 26-year break. Having first completed an Access year, I then went on to study Criminology and Forensic Psychology at degree level. Having been out of education for such a long period of time, returning as a mature student has given me some invaluable insight into the experience that this particular group of students encounters. Although working full time I achieved a 1st Class (Hons) degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Studying within the field of social sciences connected with my passion for understanding policing approaches, offender drug use and forensic psychology. After graduating I took the undergraduate research and worked again with Blackpool Primary Care Trust to understand substance misuse in prisoners and post-offenders, the findings of which influenced drug support facilities within prisons in the North-West.

As an undergraduate I also worked part time as an Educational Support Worker and Higher Education Learning Mentor supporting neuro-diverse students with various disabilities and learning difficulties at both FE and HE levels of study. At this time I also worked with the NEET (not in education, employment or training) students at Blackpool and the Fylde College teaching and supporting them through GCSE and BTech qualifications. My own drive for understanding human behaviour and how social influences can impact on an individual’s ability and achievement, led to the support work undertaken both in Lancashire and when moving to Bradford University.

In 2011 I joined Bradford University as a Lecturer in Criminology. Whilst at Bradford I completed an MA in Research Methods and a PGCHEP (Postgraduate Certification in Higher Education Practice). I also undertook extensive research with West Yorkshire Police informing some policy changes locally and am now a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. In conjunction with the lecturing role at Bradford I also worked for many years as a Study Skills Tutor supporting students from around the globe, helping them to understand university study and life in both undergraduate and postgraduate pathways. I also produced and ran a successful international Foundation program for a number of years working with students from countries such as Kuwait, Nigeria, China, USA, Holland, Spain and Korea. Working closely with this student group has given me a unique insight into the problems international students in particular may experience when travelling away from home.

I have devised a focussed module on culture shock to help orientate international students and give them the support needed when faced with studying abroad – a very different experience than many are used to. I am also experienced in offering study skills to students, from critical thinking to writing an assignment, and I have successfully delivered these across all levels of undergraduate study. I have extensive experience in editing and proofreading both undergraduate and postgraduate assessments and thesis and have worked closely with students to give critical and meaningful feedback.

I have developed a positive approach to learning and my insight into the relevant skills and techniques all students need to succeed is invaluable. Working with diverse groups of students from various different backgrounds has given me the knowledge and experience needed to guide individuals successfully through their academic journey.