Before coming to Edge Hill University in January 2008, I taught in the Further Education sector for 20 years mainly as a Modern Languages Tutor (German, French, Spanish, Portuguese and ESOL), as a Personal Tutor, College in the Community Co-ordinator and and latterly as Team Leader MFL/Teacher Education. I have been consistently awarded Grade 1 for my teaching in OFSTED inspections during 1994-1997-2006-2008 and 2011, grade A for my management and delivery of ITT programmes in 2007 and two STAR award nominations (2006 and 2007) recognising my contribution as a teacher. I was also granted the Student-Led Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2013. Between 2006 and 2012 I was External Moderator for Quality Assurance of the PGCE extension courses in Modern Languages at the University of Portsmouth and I am also the External Periodic Review panelist and External Examiner for Joint Honours degrees in French, German and ESOL at the University of Northampton. Whilst at Edge Hill I have been course leader for part-time and professional development programmes in Post-Compulsory Education and Training as well as module leader and coordinator of mentor training. In 2011-2012 I became the Senior Learning and Teaching Fellow (SLTF) for the Faculty of Education and I am also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and of the Institute for Learning (FIfL). I am now a Senior Lecturer in Teaching and Learning Development and my roles and responsibilities within the Centre for Learning & Teaching include: • the co-ordination of professional development provision • co-ordination of the fellowship scheme • leading the academic writing professional development group • monitoring the UG Framework Wiki • leading the PGCert.THE module THE7002 Cuuriculum Design for Learning • liaising with Senior Solstice Fellows re TEL activity • supporting EAL. I am committed to providing and promoting staff development programmes in order to ensure an excellent experience for all students at Edge Hill University. I am particularly focused on issues concerning transition to HE and the first year experience.