Meet the team - Durham University ISC by

Meet the team - Durham University ISC by https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam Get to know our teaching staff and support teams who you'll meet on campus soon. en-us 2022-05-25 16:01:08 UTC 2025-09-30 07:30:11 UTC hello@padlet.com Helen Parks https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204501364 You can call me: Helen
Nationality: British
Languages: English
My Role at the ISC: Student Support Officer (Welfare)
I've worked at the ISC since: October 2021
What I like about working at the ISC: Meeting and supporting students from all over the world. It is very rewarding.
My piece of advice to students: Reach out if ever you have a question, there will be someone who has an answer for you. There is no such thing as a silly question!]]> 2022-05-30 10:27:08 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204501364 Lindsay Jones (she/her) https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204511208 You can call me: Lindsay
Nationality: British
Languages: English
My role as DUISC:
Advanced Practitioner (Teaching and elearning) and Politics co-ordinator.

About me:

I love dogs, I have three of my own. I also have chickens and a snake.
I have been a teacher for nearly 20 years.
I enjoy gaming in my spare time, particularly RPGs and a bit of Pokemon :)
History and Politics are my subject specialism, so I find visiting historical sites, discussing current affairs and reading enjoyable.

What do I like about working at the ISC: The staff and students. They make coming to work a pleasure.

My piece of advice to students:
Ask lots of questions, if you want help, are curious about something, you want to know more -just ask. We are all here to help you.

]]> 2022-05-30 10:37:39 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204511208 Yvonne Ford https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204546248 Nationality: British
Languages: English
My role at the ISC: Working on Helpdesk reception and supporting students.
I've worked at the ISC since: 2021
What I like about working at the ISC: Meeting new people and our friendly staff on campus.]]> 2022-05-30 11:17:56 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204546248 Barbara Gill https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204627393 You can call me: Barbara
Nationality: British
Languages: English

I have worked at the ISC since: It opened in 2017.

About me: I enjoy history, current affairs, swimming and walking.

What I like about the ISC: Our highly motivated students and my supportive colleagues.

My piece of advice to students: Speak English at every opportunity, it will be vital for your success at Durham. ]]> 2022-05-30 12:38:34 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2204627393 Andria Scorer https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2205668741 You can call me: Andria
Nationality: English
Languages: English

I've worked at the ISC since: January 2022

About me: I live in beautiful Durham with my husband, I have a daughter studying at university. I love reading, walking, cats and anything History related.

What I like about working at the ISC:
The staff are so friendly and supportive and the students are so lovely and enthusiastic.

My piece of advice to students:
Embrace this opportunity to learn as much as you can from your new friends and tutors to increase your understanding of cultural diversity.
'Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness' Mark Twain]]> 2022-05-31 07:24:10 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2205668741 Jillian McGuren https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2205745019 You can call me: Jillian
Nationality: British
Languages: English
My role at the ISC: Head of Progression Support
I've worked at the ISC since: August 2019
About me: In my role I support students with their transition to Durham University, the team organises engagement activities with your Durham departments and visits to Durham, as well as sending out progress and results reports and holding progression meetings. Before working at Durham ISC I worked at a local sixth form college and prior to that I worked at Durham University for both the Business School and Psychology, I first started working at the University in 2001!
What I like about working at the ISC: I love working on campus, there is a fantastic community spirit, I enjoy supporting students with their progression from day 1 until the end of the programme (and beyond!).
My piece of advice to students: Work hard, immerse yourself in the English language - but also enjoy the local area, it is a great place to live, with so many beautiful places to explore!]]> 2022-05-31 08:21:42 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2205745019 Caroline Cooke https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2206047754 You can call me: Caroline
Nationality: British
Language: English
My role at the ISC: English Literature and Liberal Arts Tutor/ Curriculum Lead for Arts and Humanities.
I've worked at the ISC since: 2018
About me: I am an experienced teacher, primarily in English Language and Literature. Not surprisingly, I really love reading and books, as well as poetry and drama. I have two beautiful cats, and am a massive ice hockey and football fan. I was born and bred in Middlesbrough and love the North East of England - it's a great place to live!
What I like about working at the ISC: Our wonderful international students, and the great inclusive learning environment we have created here.
My piece of advice to students: Be prepared and read everything you are asked to very carefully - both in terms of study materials and ISC guidance - and always feel free to ask if you are unsure of anything.]]> 2022-05-31 13:08:12 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2206047754 https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2228941975 You can call me: Nicola
Nationality: British
Languages: English
My Role at the ISC: Student Support Coordinator (Welfare)
I've worked at the ISC since: November 2021
What I like about working at the ISC:
Being apart of a students journey, supporting them through their transition to Durham University and seeing the student develop in so many ways.
My piece of advice to students:
Remember to look after yourself whilst studying, take breaks and make time for having fun!]]> 2022-06-23 14:28:37 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2228941975 Hello! clairewright8 https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2236619413 Hello everyone, my name is Claire Wright and I teach Sociology and Extended Project. I have been teaching for over 25 years, and I still love it! I live in Stockton with my family not far form the ISC campus. I am very much looking forward to meeting you. I also have an identical twin sister who you may also bump into in Stockton! Do not worry if you have never studied Sociology or Extended Project before, I am here to support you as you embark on this exciting new adventure. ]]> 2022-07-04 17:30:40 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2236619413 Demi-leigh Thompson demileighthompson https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2338467721 You can call me: Demi
Nationality: British
Languages: English

My role(s) at the ISC: Student Support Officer Enrichment

I've worked at the ISC since: June 2022

About me: My name is Demi.. I am a big Disney, Star wars, and Marvel fan.. You could say I am a bit of a geek! I recently went to a comic con and met Ewan Mcgregor/Obi Wan which was AMAZING! I have two pet rabbits and 1 little pooch which I adore!

What I like about working at the ISC: I love working at the ISC because I find it really amazing getting to know all the different students that we get to work with and being able to help them achieve their goals! It's nice to see them grow and see who they become!

My piece of advice to students: Stress is a fact of life, but it should never become a way of life so cope with failure and learn from mistakes. ]]> 2022-10-13 09:45:00 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2338467721 Daniel Goodfellow https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2338545242 You can call me: Daniel Goodfellow

Nationality: English

Languages: English

My role at the ISC: Head of Quality and Enhancement – I’m here to ensure your academic experience is of a good standard, gather feedback from you and work with our teams to keep improving the experience we offer at the ISC.

I've worked at the ISC since: December 2017

About me: I have an undergraduate degree in business and a postgraduate degree in history.

What I like about working at the ISC: Meeting and working with students from across the world!

My piece of advice to students: Work hard and listen to your tutors – they know best what you need to do to succeed.

]]> 2022-10-13 10:51:39 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2338545242 Allan Suter https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2338799605 Call me: Allan
Nationality: British
Languages: English
My role at the ISC: I teach Academic English on the IFY, PMP and CRAAWS courses. I also help with technology related queries whenever I can.
I've worked at the ISC since: December 2019
What I like about working at the ISC: I love meeting students from around the world and helping them on their journey to where they want to be. The staff are fantastic too and there is always someone willing to help whenever you need.
About me: I am from Oxford originally and have an MA in Japanese from Edinburgh University and an MA in TESOL from UCL Institute of Education. I love travel, music and teaching.
My advice to students: Work hard at DUISC and learning will be much easier for you later. Listen carefully to everything your tutor says because all of it is important: otherwise we wouldn't be saying it!]]> 2022-10-13 13:45:19 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2338799605 Dermot O'Higgins https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2339036162 You can call me: Dermot
Nationality: British although I was educated in Ireland.
Language: English

I have worked at the ISC since October 2018. I have taught mathematics, mostly at A level but also GCSE, for over 32 years.
I love my subject and have always enjoyed problem-solving activities.

I enjoy reading mystery novels, walking and chess. I am an active member of an evangelical church.

I am married and have lived in the Nort-East of England for over 30 years.

I love working with the staff and students at ISC. I particularly enjoy working in an international community which is why I chose to work at Durham ISC.]]> 2022-10-13 15:57:38 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2339036162 Vinitha Sebastine https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2341269786 You can call me: Vinitha
Nationality: British
Ethnicity: Indian
Languages: English, Tamil, Hindi and Telugu
My Role at the ISC: Mathematics Tutor
I've worked at the ISC since: September 2018
About me: I enjoy baking for family and friends. I love singing and am part of the music group at my local church. I have taken up indoor cycling recently to stay fit and active.
What I like about working at the ISC:
Teaching the subject that I love to international students and supporting them on their learning journey to fulfilling their hopes and dreams.
My piece of advice to students:
Remember that you are here on an adventure and to make many lasting memories. Work hard, eat well, sleep well, make good friends and engage in at least one extracurricular activity that you enjoy. ]]> 2022-10-15 11:04:26 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2341269786 Georgia Dimitriou https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2342847853 You can call me: Georgia
Nationality: Cypriot
Languages: Greek, English.
My role(s) at the ISC: Module Coordinator and Tutor for 'Contemporary Issues in Politics/International Relations'.

I've worked at the ISC since: March 2022

About me: I'm currently completing a PhD on vulnerability and refugee resettlement in the North East of England
at the School of Government and International Affairs, Durham University. I am also slightly obsessed with Philosophy!

What I like about working at the ISC: The diversity of students I get to work with.

My piece of advice to students: Learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Make sure you eat and sleep well, and don't forget to take days off to do the things that you enjoy!]]> 2022-10-17 09:07:58 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2342847853 Graeme Jorgenson https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2343259642 You can call me: Graeme
Nationality: British
Languages: English

My Role at the ISC: Head of Science

I've worked at the ISC since: August 2017

About me: I am hockey mad and love music. I also tell jokes and consider myself very funny.

What I like about working at the ISC: Teaching students about science and helping students complete laboratory experiments is always amazing. I learn so much from students about their traditions and I am always amazing at their achievements.

My piece of advice to students: Make sure you do your best everyday. This is an amazing opportunity and more you commit to the course, th emore likely you will be successful in everything you do.]]> 2022-10-17 13:53:17 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2343259642 Heather Watson https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2345035213 You can call me: Heaher
Nationality: British
Languages: English
My Role at the ISC: Head of Registry & Operations
I've worked at the ISC since: January 2018
What I like about working at the ISC: I love meeting students from all over the world. I am always so impressed by their politeness and determination and spirit of adventure.
My advice for students: Use the technology that comes with your Durham University account - check your email, set reminders and use your calendar. That way you will be better able to manage your time.]]> 2022-10-18 12:46:46 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2345035213 Mandy Connelly https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2348648308 You can call me: Mandy
Nationality: English
Languages: English and German
My role at the ISC: Mathematics Tutor
I've worked at the ISC since: December 2017

About me: I have a BSc in Accountancy & Process Engineering and obtained my articles in Certified Accountancy with British Gas in Leeds.
I also have a BEd in Mathematics and worked as a teacher in the UK and Norway.
I enjoy walking with my dog, knitting and cooking.

What I like about working at the ISC: I just love mathematics and working with young people

My piece of advice to students: Don't struggle; ask for help as soon as you need explanations.]]> 2022-10-20 08:35:26 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2348648308 Yvonne Thompson https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2467422889 You can call me: Yvonne
Nationality: British
Languages: English
My role(s) at the ISC: Curriculum Lead in Maths
I've worked at the ISC since: September 2017
About me: I am a Durham graduate myself and have been teaching for 8 years. I always try to be positive and enjoy getting students excited about maths. When I am not teaching or practicing maths, I enjoy baking and spending time with my 2 dogs. I am also a big Disney fan!
What I like about working at the ISC: I enjoy meeting students from a range of different countries and learning about their cultures.
My piece of advice to students: Never be too shy to ask for help. All of the tutors will be happy to help and answer any queries.]]> 2023-02-03 11:10:23 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2467422889 Jason Batty https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2467460505

You can call me: Jason
Nationality: British
Languages: English and some Thai
My role(s) at the ISC: Head of Mathematics
I've worked at the ISC since: January 2018
About me: I have been teaching Mathematics for 30 years now. 15 years of which were spent working internationally. I held the role of Head of Mathematics at two very well-known International schools. Harrow International School, Thailand and St Christopher's School, Bahrain.
I enjoy true crime and if I were to choose an alternative career it would have been to have worked with the Police. I am also passionate about dogs and classic motorcycles, especially Triumph (of course !)
What I like about working at the ISC: I enjoy getting the best of both worlds. That is living in the UK and all that this offers and yet still working with International students.
My piece of advice to students: Mathematics is a subject that students learn at a different rate. But I firmly believe all students are capable of learning Mathematics to quite an advanced level. Don't underestimate your potential. Finally, Mathematics is a doing subject and skills are perfected through practice not through observing or reading.

]]> 2023-02-03 11:50:36 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2467460505 Zara Leggett https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2468060093 You can call me: Zara
Nationality: New Zealander
Languages: English and German
My role at the ISC: Mathematics Tutor
I've worked at the ISC since: February 2022

About me: I've been teaching maths around the world for over 20 years and love to see the different methods used in mathematics in different places. I really enjoy learning from my students, so please teach me a little from your home country - so far I can write my name in several scripts and greet students in a variety of languages.
When I'm not at work, I love to get out in the fresh air with my dog and my family.
What I like about working at the ISC: Watching students gain confidence in themselves as they adapt to a new country and often a new language.
My piece of advice to students: Challenge yourself to move out of your comfort zone - and that includes asking for help when you need it. We love questions!]]> 2023-02-03 20:01:08 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2468060093 Libby Jelpke https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2471670690 You can call me: Libby

Nationality: British

Languages: English

My role at the ISC: Mathematics Tutor

I’ve worked at the ISC since: April 2018

About me: I love mathematics and I have enjoyed teaching maths for over 30 years, including a fabulous 11 years teaching maths in Singapore. Away from work I play saxophone in a quartet and clarinet in a local orchestra. I think community is important so I organise regular village social events and I am a Girl Guide Leader and a fund raising volunteer with the Scouts. Another passion is nature, and hedgehogs in particular. I hold a qualification in looking after and rehabilitating sick hedgehogs.

What I like about working at the ISC: The ISC is an exciting place to work, the combination of maths and an international culture is wonderful.

My piece of advice to students: My advice is in two parts. Firstly don’t be disheartened if things don’t go to plan as plans rarely work out perfectly. Pick yourself up and make another plan. This resilience will stand you in good stead as you go through life. Secondly if you don’t know what to aim for, just aim for something. Whether in studying or jobs, all experience and learning will help you grow and will lead on to other opportunities. Your journey through life might not be a straight line but will be all the more interesting and exciting for it.

]]> 2023-02-07 12:40:42 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2471670690 Gary https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2477499012 You can call me: Gary

Nationality: British

Languages: English

My role at ISC: AES Tutor

I have work at ISC since: January 2018

About me: I currently have three degrees, a BA in Design and Technology, a MA in TESOL and a MA in creative writing. I have worked as a teacher since 1986. I started in secondary school in the Design and Technology department before moving into English as a second language. I have taught in all levels of education from kindergarten to corporate. I lived in China for nearly 9 years but returned to the UK in 2016. I enjoy both reading and writing and have published academic articles and fiction. I am a big fan of Star Wars and am never seen without a Star wars T-shirt. I'm also rarely seen without a cap. I have played Hockey since I was 16 which was a long time ago, a very long time ago. I like dogs and have had them since I was a child and now for some reason, I have two cats instead.

What I like about working at the ISC: The students and the staff.

My piece of advice to the students: There is no magic wand only practice.]]> 2023-02-11 20:22:11 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2477499012 Louise Billingham https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2483363370 You can call me: Louise
Nationality: British
Languages: German and Japanese - a bit rusty now.
My role at the ISC: Arts & Humanities Tutor. I cover subjects including Liberal Arts, Ancient and Modern History, English Literature, Geography, Sociology and Extended Project.
I've worked at the ISC since: January 2020
About me: I have been a teacher both in the UK and overseas. I taught for NOVA ICI in Japan in the 1990s and then qualified as a secondary school teacher. I worked in mainstream schools until 2020. I currently work part time for our ISC as I also train teachers for Sunderland University. I have two children and a rescue dog so when I am not at work I am looking after them. I love taking our dog on long walks.
What I like about working at the ISC: I love working with such a diverse range of students and staff and sharing our knowledge and cultures together.
My piece of advice to students: Remember to focus on short term goals when times are tough. There is always support at hand when you need it. It is a strength to ask for help.

]]> 2023-02-15 12:10:14 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2483363370 https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2623378662 You can call me: Linda
Nationality: British

I have worked at the ISC since 2018.

About me: I have over 30 years experience of working in education and training, I am the Head of Student Outcomes and lead the Academic Personal Tutor team.

What I like about the ISC:
I love working with our talented international students, to support them with their studies and help them to succeed. I also love working with my team of academic personal tutors who provide advice and guidance to our students and support each other.

My piece of advice to students: Get involved in as many activities as you can, enjoy your time with us. Study hard, listen to your tutors and you will be a great success.]]> 2023-06-14 12:01:36 UTC https://padlet.com/ebrett6/duiscteam/wish/2623378662