Profile

I have been an English language teacher since 1994. I’m now based in Leicester, where I teach at the ELTU at the University of Leicester. At the same time I am doing my PhD at the Open University in Milton Keynes, to where I go three times a week.  My professional life is made of a number of activities, all interconnected, but which could be basically grouped as follows.

Teaching: classroom practice and contact with my students is what keeps me aware of learners’ needs and also gives me opportunity to do some research, develop projects and reflect on teaching practices.

English Literature: besides the pleasure of reading, my Degree in English at the University of London has significantly broaden my horizons, helped my to see things from different perspectives and shaped my interest in the contact area of Literature and ELT.

Teacher Networks and Associations: being a member of IATEFL and being active in teachers’ communities has definitely given a new dimension to my professional life. You feel you are part of something bigger than the classroom or the institution you work for. It gives you a voice and the opportunity to learn and share things with other people.

Online Projects: I am currently the discussion list moderator and committee member of the IATEFL Literature, Media and Cultural Studies Special Interest Group. I am also the Project Coordinator of the British Council ELT Online Reading Group. I am the co-manager of the Extensive Reading Foundation website and a Board member.

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Apart from my (boring?) professional self, I am an Iron Maiden hardcore fan. I am also an avid reader of English literature, especially 19th century English novels and contemporary British fiction. I love playing videogames (PS3, PSP), especially RPG games and I am addicted to World of Warcraft. I am interested in English history and painting, especially the English Impressionists. My favourite sport is golf.