I am from a working-class background and was the first member of my family to go to university. For as long as I can remember I have been creative and grew up loving the arts. Like many people (10%) I have dyslexia, although there was no recognition of this when I was growing up. There was no support for learning disabilities when I went to university to study English Literature and Fine Art.I had to devise my own ways of studying, making notes and writing assignments and I have empathy with students facing the same barriers in education today.

After getting my degree I trained as a secondary school teacher, teaching English and Art. I was an innovative teacher, developing interactive strategies to bring the curriculum to life and developed a teaching style that focused on experiential learning. Whilst teaching I was trained in Critical Skills with Edgehill University which developed my understanding of learning styles and group work. I feel strongly that traditional education can be one dimensional and that conventional teaching strategies can unintentionally exclude many people. This has made me determined to spread the knowledge of alternative study skills to empower all students, and not only those diagnosed with specific learning difficulties.

Whilst teaching I was involved in theatre, working and learning from professional directors and actors and developing a reputation as an actor, director and playwright. This led me to shift from English teaching to Drama teaching and I successfully led Drama in various schools and trained as an Advanced Skills Teacher. My innovative work with young people led to collaboration and training with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. Through an affiliation with Warwick University and the Royal Shakespeare Company, I undertook research into using innovative methods of teaching Shakespeare to develop empathy and emotional intelligence in young people. I have also trained as a Professional Coach with Edgehill University, developing creative techniques in problem solving.

After a 30-year career as a teacher I moved to the Higher Education sector as a tutor specialising in supporting students with specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD. I lectured undergraduates, introducing all students to the study skills they need to succeed and gained experience in editing and proofreading undergraduate assessments, working closely with students to give critical and meaningful feedback. I have worked with a wide range of students including those transitioning from school and college; mature students returning after a long gap; international students new to the English education system; students studying a wide range of subjects and those with and without learning difficulties. As a creative teacher with extensive experience I can empathise with students whatever their background and needs and I am uniquely qualified to assist them in building their confidence and developing study skills that suit their particular personality and learning style. My knowledge of theatre qualifies me to develop a student’s ability in public speaking, working effectively with others, communicating, presenting ideas and finding creative solutions to problems.