I am a qualified and experienced English Language teacher. I studied English language and literature at Leeds University and have the LTCL Dip TESOL.  I have lived and worked in Greece, The Netherlands, Slovakia, Spain, France, Russia and India,  I know about group dynamics, learning cycles, learning theories, (including learning versus acquisition, intrinsic and extrinsic motivations for learning, learner autonomy), reflective practice. I know how to set up communicative situations.

I have an MA in Phonetics and Speech (Essex 98) so I know a bit about Natural Language Processing, something of linguistics and parsing and quite a lot about the mechanics of conversation and the evolution of meaning and identity in the dynamic context of human communication.

I spent another 5 years in London co-ordinating and delivering English Language support for various organisations from small community groups to the Refugee Council, World Education Service, V&A Museum, NE London Probation Service. I understand how community organisations function and have learnt a lot about inclusion, migration and acculturation.

Since leaving full time work at Stoke on Trent College three years ago I have been bringing up my small son, researching and writing about herbs, growing vegetables, keeping hens and, until recently, being the main carer for my 90 year old grandmother. I have leart a lot about extreme old age. I am currently studying for an MA in Community Practice in the Creative Communities Dept at Staffordshire University, hwere I also teach English for Academic Purposes. I also do a few hours for the WEA. I have a communications role with my local Transition initiative and am on my son’s playgroup committee. I have family in the UK, Irish Republic and The Republic of Georgia.