Ann is PCET Networks FE Champion this month!

FE CHAMPIONS JANUARY 2007

Ann Gravells

Career History

Ann began teaching in FE in 1984. She taught business and office skills part time whilst also working in an office and taking teaching qualifications.  Ann progressed to full time once qualified and gained promotion after a few years to deliver staff training and development. She found a real interest in training new members of staff. Ann also became the Quality Systems Manager and produced a standardised system for assessment and internal verification, along with an ISO based system for all aspects of quality within a large college. Ann is still teaching in FE but only part time as she now has many other commitments as a consultant to City & Guilds. These include: training new External Verifiers, writing qualifications and exams and launching international teaching qualifications abroad, external verification, delivering training events and supporting new centres with their quality systems. Ann is currently teaching level 3 teaching/training qualifications such as the City & Guilds 7302 Certificate and Diploma and the new 7303 Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector.

Interview

PCET Network: How does your knowledge benefit FE Tutors?

Lots of knowledge and experience gained over the past 22 years which can be used to explain realistic instances of what happens in FE. Published a text book aimed specifically at level 3 trainee teachers; ‘Delivering Adult Learning’, which came out in 2006 and will be retitled ‘Preparing to Teach’ next year with the second edition.

PCET Network: Do you have any good advice that you wish to give to FE Tutors in regards to teaching, learning & assessment?

I would say ‘keep things simple’ don’t try to achieve too much too soon. Your learners don’t know what you know and need time to assimilate new learning.  Also, be prepared and always have a ‘plan b’ in case anything goes wrong. Treat your learners as individuals, using their names and involving them in activities to discuss their experiences and how they relate to the subject. Learners learn from each other as well as the tutor. When assessing, always begin your feedback with something positive and give comments that will help your learner develop.

Most of all, relax, stay focussed and enjoy what you do.

PCET Network: What would you say to someone that is thinking about becoming an assessor/ moderator or  level 3 Tutor?

I would say ‘go for it’. , it’s a very rewarding profession. You can make a difference to people, helping them to achieve a better future.  It’s also hard work, you need to be committed and patient, but it can be enjoyable if you approach it in a positive manner.

PCET Network: Do you have any interesting hobbies or pastimes?

I enjoy travelling, interior design and Feng Shui. I have recently received a lecturer medal of excellence and my group of learners taking the 7303 Preparing to Teach qualification are the first in the country to achieve.

PCET Network is pleased to introduce Ann Gravells as the PCET Network FE Champion for January 2007.

Note: If you feel that you, or a tutor that you know, deserves to be recognised as an FE Champion, then please submit their name and email address to info@pcet.net – quoting FE Champion in the subject field.