Meet your Academic Skills Tutors

Your Academic Skills Tutors are available to work with you on a one to one basis and can help you develop your academic skills such as:
AcademicWriting
Academic writing
 
StructuringAssignments
Structuring assignments
 
literature
Literature searching
 
referencing
Referencing
 
more
And many more…

If you are interested in having an academic skills appointment with your academic skills tutor, you can book it here. 

AST Trudy - profile image

Trudy Waterton-Duly

Deputy Head of Library Services (Learning and Teaching)

twduly@arden.ac.uk
Remote Working

Hello, I’m Trudy Waterton-Duly and I am the Deputy Head of Library Services (Learning and Teaching). I’m a Chartered Librarian with over 20 years’ experience working in academic libraries, and my role at Arden University is leading and managing on all aspects of Academic Skills provision. I’m a great believer in the fact that with the right support, guidance, and encouragement everybody can achieve their academic potential. I also completed my MA Information Services Management whilst working and having my first child, so I fully understand the challenges of studying and juggling all the other commitments that life throws at you.  The Academic Skills Team are here to support you and help you through your academic journey at Arden University. 

Photo of Senior AST Tom Amos

Tom Amos

Senior Academic Skills Tutor

tamos@arden.ac.uk
Birmingham

Hi, I’m Tom, and I am a Senior Academic Skills Tutor based in Birmingham. I have several years’ of experience working in higher education, and I have an MA in Information Services Management, which I completed as a distance student whilst working full-time, so I recognise that balancing work and study can be a challenge. I have experience of teaching a broad range of academic skills and I really enjoy using my expertise to help students to achieve their goals, develop confidence and succeed. In my spare time, I enjoy keeping active, reading, and following Coventry City FC. The Academic Skills Team are here to support you, so please do book an appointment, attend a workshop, or get in touch for any support!

Sam Thomas - profile image

Sam Thomas

Senior Academic Skills Tutor

samthomas@arden.ac.uk
London - Holborn

I’m Sam and I’m a Senior Academic Skills Tutor based in London. Prior to this I worked in academic and public libraries in a range of professional roles, including reader development, teaching digital literacy and academic skills, and faculty liaison. Throughout my career my focus has been on providing support and services to those with additional needs, such as improving the accessibility of online resources, and supporting the needs of large cohorts of distance learners. My current research interests include the role of language in teaching and learning, and how students navigate and overcome difficulties in their studies. Outside of work I love to make things; I sew, knit, paint and collage, but my passion is book binding and paper marbling which is messy but a lot of fun!

AST Belle Grenville profile image

Belle Grenville-Mathers

Academic Skills Tutor

bgrenvillemathers@arden.ac.uk
London - Holborn

I’m Belle and I’m an Academic Skills Tutor (AST) based in Holborn, London. I completed my doctorate in History (with a focus on the United States in the late nineteenth century) in 2015 at the University of Sheffield; my thesis explored the political ideology of republicanism and the impact it had on executive power during the Reconstruction era from 1868-1880. I have previously taught at the University of Sheffield, the Open University, and ARU College (a partnership college of ARU) where my focus was always on how to help students achieve their best, especially in the area of academic skills which is vital for students’ success. My most recent job at ARU College involved leading and teaching on the Critical Thinking module at foundation level – a role I excelled at due to my skills in forensically analysing pieces of work. It’s a skill which I am sure will enable me to help Arden students improve their work and succeed at their studies. I look forward to helping you on your journey to success at Arden!  

AST Chris Feakes - profile image

Chris Feakes

Academic Skills Tutor

cfeakes@arden.ac.uk
Birmingham

I am an Academic Skills Tutor (AST) based in Birmingham. With a PhD in Human Computer Interaction, I served as a lecturer in acoustics, psychoacoustics, and media system design at De Montfort University for eight years. As an academic my research spanned multiple disciplines, including psychophysical function modelling, the application of machine vision and learning in assistive technology, and the development of 3D printing algorithms. Having been a "mature student" myself and coming from a background not typically associated with academic success, I have always enjoyed helping students reach their potential. Prior to joining Arden University, I established an academic skill coaching service for higher education students at a college affiliated with the University of East Anglia and De Montfort University. 

Christopher

Christopher Moore

Academic Skills Tutor, Distance Learning

cmoore@arden.ac.uk
Remote working

Hi, I’m Christopher, and I’m the Academic Skills Tutor responsible for distance learners. I hold a Master’s Degree in Comparative Literature and a PGCert in Digital Pedagogies. I'm passionate about language and writing - I have won the Canterbury Christchurch International Poetry Prize and the Leeds Poetry Festival Award. Before joining Arden, I lectured in English Language at a Further Education college, and I’m a keen tennis player and long-distance runner. I think that academic writing should be clear and efficient, but I also believe that it can be beautiful. As your Academic Skills Tutor, I will always encourage you to follow your ideas and to be bold in your choices.

AST profile image Daniel Brown

Daniel Brown

Academic Skills Tutor

dbrown@arden.ac.uk
Leeds

Hello Arden students! I'm Dan, one of the many ASTs here to help you on your academic journey. I am based in the Leeds centre and I am an evening and weekend tutor. I have spent most of my career teaching academic English at various educational institutions in Japan and have now returned to my home county of North Yorkshire to join the Arden family. In another life, I was a translator and so I have a great interest in how we can manipulate language to make complex ideas or concepts clear and transparent. I will offer both online and face-to-face sessions, so please do get in touch or book a session and I'd be more than happy to help.

Debora

Debora Quattrocchi

Academic Skills Tutor

dquattrocchi@arden.ac.uk
London - Holborn

Hi! I am Debora and I am the Academic Skills Tutor based in the Holborn Arden Centre, in London. My academic background is in literature, languages and linguistics and I have long-term experience in online and blended learning and teaching, gained working at various HE institutions. The students I have taught over the years come from very different backgrounds and are often busy juggling family life and studies, so I am aware of how challenging working and studying at the same time can be. But it can also be exciting and rewarding! Do get in touch to discuss any aspects of academic skills you would like help with, I look forward to hearing from you!

George Collins AST

George Collins

Academic Skills Tutor

gcollins@arden.ac.uk
Berlin

Hi, I’m George and I’m one of the Academic Skills Tutors based at the Arden Berlin campus. My background is in education and I have taught several subjects, including English, German and Maths, to students of all ages and from lots of different backgrounds. A lot of my experience has been with distance learning in different contexts and so I am aware of both the advantages and the challenges that come with distance learning and studying. I love to spend my time helping others and I am looking forward to meeting you and answering any questions you may have about your academic skills

James Nixon AST

James Nixon

Academic Skills Tutor

jnixon@arden.ac.uk
Birmingham

Hi there! My name’s James and I am one of your Academic Skills Tutors based at Arden’s Birmingham study centre. My academic background is in English Literature and Creative Writing, which has led me to studying for a doctorate in Creative writing at Goldsmiths, University of London. My research explores applications of the concept of hauntology within creative writing contexts. I have taught Creative Writing and Academic Writing to undergraduate students in the UK and the United States, in blended and online environments, with New College of the Humanities, Northeastern University and the Poetry School. In my spare time, I train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the gentle art of folding clothes while people are still in them. If you have any academic skills needs or questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch or book a one-to-one appointment - I'm always happy to help you develop and progress in your studies.

Kevin Myers AST

Kevin Myers

Academic Skills Tutor

kmyers@arden.ac.uk
London - Tower Hill

My name is Kevin Myers. I am one of your Academic Skills Tutors (AST) based in the Tower Hill centre. I hold a PhD in Sociology from the School of Sociology at University College Dublin (UCD) and an MA and BA from University College Cork (UCC). I have over 15 years of experience teaching in Higher Education (HE), much of which with various universities. As such, I have extensive experience supporting students in their path through HE, whether supporting post-graduate students or those returning to university after a long break away from formal education. My academic research interests surround meaning, mental health, well-being, mortality, grief, dying and all things subjective (earning me the unfortunate branding of ‘Dr Death’ by friends and family). I consider it a great privilege to support you here at Arden University and be available to assist you with your studies in any way I can. 

Laura Keneally image profile AST

Laura Kenneally

Academic Skills Tutor

lkenneally@arden.ac.uk
London - Tower Hill

Hi everyone! My name is Laura and I am a full-time Academic Skills Tutor with the Academic Skills Team based in Holborn and Tower Hill Arden University locations. I am an Irish native but having moved to London, I can honestly say that this beautiful, bustling city has truly captured my heart, and I am so happy to be a part of the team here at Arden University. My educational background is in its relative infancy, having returned to education later on in life, after working within retail management for over ten years. I have a first-class honours degree in Applied Psychology from the University College of Cork and am currently enrolled as a PhD psychological researcher at the same university. I am also working toward completing my clinical doctorate training within the NHS here in the UK and am enjoying the journey so far. My role here in Arden is a privilege as I get to be a part of the student journey for many of our amazing students. As an Academic Skills Tutor, I look forward to supporting our students in reaching and unlocking the best version of themselves and achieving their educational aspirations. I am also a passionate researcher and look forward to supporting students in their research journeys in the future. Arden University is not only on the forefront of education and distance learning but also a fantastic place to work and I look forward to working with our students and staff for many years to come. 

Lisa Farrant

Lisa Farrant

Academic Skills Tutor

lfarrant@arden.ac.uk
London - Holborn

My name is Lisa Farrant, and I am a Holborn-based Academic Skills Tutor (AST). In 2021, I completed my D.Phil in Media Studies from Nelson Mandela University in South Africa. My doctoral research focused on how radical environmentalists are using digital technology to spread their message and gain support for their cause. In addition to interests in cultural and media studies, I am passionate about working with university students to improve their understanding of academic discourse, as well as helping them to gain confidence within the university context. I have worked as a Writing Centre Co-ordinator and respondent, as well as a freelance ESL online tutor. More recently, I was a Programme Manager at the IIE’s Varsity College in Cape Town, South Africa, before moving to the UK, where I have worked as a tutor on Holmes Institute’s Pathways programmes. I am now happy to be a part of the Arden team. I look forward to working with you and improving your understanding of the world of academia!

Mariam

Mariam Settas

Academic Skills Tutor

msettas@arden.ac.uk
London - Ealing

Hello there! 😊 I’m Mariam and I’m one of your Academic Skills Tutors based at our wonderful Ealing centre in London. I have been involved in the teaching industry for almost ten years now and have taught both here in the UK and abroad - Spain, Turkey and Morocco. My experience involves teaching General English courses, Business English and English for Academic Purposes in Further and Higher Education. In my previous roles, I have also coordinated and managed staff in Higher Education. I have a strong academic background namely in Law and Business including a Masters in TESOL and PGCert in Digital Pedagogy and Practices. In my free time, you’ll find me either travelling and exploring the world, learning a new language or playing basketball within a professional team of females where we have a healthy, competitive game. I look forward to meeting you at our Ealing centre and assisting you throughout your learning journey at Arden University. See you soon!

Martin

Martin Marguerie

Academic Skills Tutor

mmarguerie@arden.ac.uk
London - Tower Hill

Hi there. My name is Martin Marguerie and I am an Academic Skills Tutor at Tower Hill in London. I am here to support your academic writing skills. I have many years' experience teaching English and various other subjects like maths, computing, business, employability, academic skills and personal tutoring. I have worked in London for many years and overseas in Japan and Hong Kong for several years. Previous to working abroad I taught in Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield. My original degree was in Design Technology and I am currently completing my doctorate in Special Educational Needs. I am very passionate about helping people and I look forward to meeting you and supporting your studies.

Mayowa Dada AST

Mayowa Dada

Academic Skills Tutor

mdada@arden.ac.uk
London - Holborn

Hi, I am Mayowa and I am one of the Academic Skills Tutors based here at Holborn Centre. My background is in engineering, and I have taught several subjects, including Maths, Statistics, Coding, Sciences and Engineering, to students of diverse ages and backgrounds. A lot of my experience has been on face-to-face and hybrid (face-to-face & online) learning across various disciplines including social science, management science and engineering. I am passionate about using Social Constructivism theory (learning through experiences and reflection) and interactive learning techniques in addressing students’ learning needs. I am looking forward to contributing to improving students’ learning experience and satisfaction through holistic academic skills support.

Melanie Becket

Melanie Beckett

Academic Skills Tutor

mbeckett@arden.ac.uk
Manchester

I’m Melanie and I’m an Academic Skills Tutor based in Manchester. I completed my PhD in student transition from FE to HE in 2020, which I undertook at Staffordshire University. This project better enabled me to see the barriers students encounter when transitioning into new learning environments, as well as what factors facilitate learning. This knowledge has subsequently shaped the way in which I teach and has enabled me to help students reach their potential and perform to the best of their abilities. I am currently in the process of turning the thesis into a monograph with Palgrave Publishing. My previous role was in the sixth form of an FE college (NSCG) where I predominantly delivered A level content for English Language and Literature and taught the extended project qualification (EPQ). My knowledge and experience in these areas will enable me to confidently help you with your writing abilities, whilst also assisting you to navigate the journey towards becoming a more autonomous learner as you transition into, and through, the HE environment. I look forward to helping you successfully achieve your academic goals. 

Metin Esen

Metin Esen

Academic Skills Tutor

mesen@arden.ac.uk
Berlin

Hi, I’m Metin, and I am an Academic Skills Tutor based at Arden University's Berlin campus. I have an MA degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and I am currently doing a PhD on English Language Teaching. My professional background includes mostly teaching English for Academic Purposes in the higher education context, so I am quite familiar with all the skills, especially in terms of academic writing, that someone studying in higher education might need. I enjoy cycling and long nature walks in my free time, and I am a devoted fan of J. R. R. Tolkien. I’d be more than happy to assist you in anything concerning your academic studies in our one-to-one sessions or workshops. Please feel free to make an appointment, pay a visit, or write an email!

Mohamed Hassanien.png

Mohamed Hassanien

Academic Skills Tutor

mhassanien@arden.ac.uk
London - Tower Hill

Hello, I'm Mohamed, a specialist academic skills tutor in Computing. My expertise in the field stems from my PhD in Advanced Telecommunication Engineering from Swansea University, which I completed in 2011, and my ongoing research interests in heterogeneous networks, signal processing, and data analysis. I have a diverse background that includes experience in industry as a system engineer and in academia as a lecturer, researcher, and tutor. I have extensive teaching experience covering subjects such as programming, networking, math, statistics, and engineering at multiple levels. I enjoy helping students achieve their goals and overcome any academic challenges they may face, and I'm excited to continue doing so as an academic skills tutor at Arden University.  

AST Phil Simmons - profile image

Phil Simmonds

Academic Skills Tutor

psimmonds@arden.ac.uk
Manchester

I am an Academic Skills Tutor (AST) based in Manchester. I completed my MRes in Sport and Exercise Science in 2019 at Liverpool Hope University, my research focussed on motor learning and the impact of enhanced expectancies (your perceived ability) on skill retention & eye gaze behaviour, in normal and stress induced situations. This work was on display at the ECSS conference in Prague 2019 and I have also published in Motor learning Journals and aim to continue my research portfolio.  

Previously, I have worked as an AST at Liverpool Hope University and have taught Psychology & Sport at undergraduate level. I am passionate about helping students reach their university goals, I believe everyone is able to complete their studies, it just takes the correct motivation paired with advice and guidance when different hurdles appear; That is why I am happy to join the Arden team as an AST.  

Saima Javed

Saima Javed

Academic Skills Tutor

sjaved@arden.ac.uk
Birmingham

I am an Academic Skills Tutor based in Birmingham. I completed a Masters in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages in 2017 at University of Aston, Birmingham. My research focused on the role of motivation in learning English as a second language, within a higher education setting. This project facilitated me in understanding that every student, under the correct guidance and motivation can overcome any barrier and transition into autonomous learners. My academic studies and experience working at multiple levels and institutions,’ including South and City College, Birmingham City University, Coventry University, University of Aston, University of Greenwich and Northampton University, has equipped me to swiftly adapt and cater to the needs of a wide variety of learners and deliver high quality teaching. Furthermore, I have acquired the knowledge to assist students in reaching their ultimate University goals. I aspire to use the skills and knowledge that I have gained to ensure that learners are engaged, challenged and supported in order to achieve the best possible outcomes on their course at Arden University.

Simon Reilly

Simon Reilly

Academic Skills Tutor

sreilly@arden.ac.uk
Manchester

Hello, I’m Simon and I’m an Academic Skills Tutor (AST) based in Manchester. My qualifications include a BA in English Literature and an MA in Translation and Interpreting from the University of Manchester in 2015. Even though I discovered an interest in languages and reading later in life, it is a passion that has continued, and it is now interesting to work in a team that is part of the wider library team at Arden University. Before joining the AST team, my background was in teaching English for Academic Purposes (EAP) at Universities and Colleges throughout the North West and Yorkshire. When outside of work, I can be found playing the guitar (on my own and with friends), supporting Manchester City (which is much nicer now than it used to be in the past), reading and walking in and around Derbyshire. We are a friendly and welcoming team, so do not suffer in silence if you are confused about anything academic skills-related and consider booking a 1:1 with a member of the team. 

Ya-chien Huang AST

Ya-chien Huang

Academic Skills Tutor

yhuang@arden.ac.uk
London - Tower Hill

My name is Ya-chien and I am one of your Academic Skills Tutors (AST) based in Tower Hill. I completed my PhD in Communication Studies from Loughborough University in 2007.  My passion towards culture and society has led me to a career in social research and international education. I was as a researcher at the National Centre for Social Research and the University of Kent, focussing on projects funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as well as the European Union. Following that, I worked in higher education in Taiwan and Kaplan International College in London, teaching academic English and writing skills to students from foundation courses to pre-doctoral programmes. Away from work, I enjoy crafts, gardening and home improvement. Feel free to ask questions and I look forward to supporting you in your studies.