Sharon is PCET Networks FE Champion this month!

FE CHAMPIONS DECEMBER 2006

Sharon Abbott

Interview

PCET: What is your job role?

Sharon: I am the founder and Managing Director of PCET Network! I answer all the queries, ensure the site is current and I boss the writers around! :-) My background is FE. I specialise in teaching Basic Skills, Keyskills and ESOL, to Adult Learners, within Training Providers, FE Colleges and Prisons.

PCET: Why did you set up PCET Network?

Sharon: In 2005, I went on Maternity Leave and due to personal circumstances; I was unable to return to my teaching role. I missed teaching terribly and wanted to continue supporting adult learners and my fellow teaching colleagues. I noticed that there was very little focused assistance for FE Tutors on the internet and I decided to create a website that offered valuable help and support to Adult Educators of all disciplines by offering networking opportunities.

PCET: What part of the site are you most proud of?

Sharon: I am proud of the entire site! This was quite a bold move for me as my IT expertise was particularly limited; however, I have learnt a lot about systems, web design and writing in html along the way! The “Teachers Lounge” Live Chat was developed to encourage networking opportunities for Tutors around the Country. When the chat room is “Live” it provides an avenue for Tutors to discuss problems, ask questions and off load their bad day! There have been some great conversations in there!

PCET: What does the future hold for PCET Network?

Sharon: I would like to see the site continue to grow. There are so many disciplines in FE that we do not currently focus on and I would love the site to expand to cover an exhaustive range of FE subjects. It would also be great to see the “Teachers Lounge” Live 24 hours per day. I’m sure that will come in time!

PCET: Do you have anything you would like to say to the PCET Network Members?

Sharon: Yes! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! This site is for Tutors, by Tutors and the response from members has been fantastic! This site has only been “Live” since June 2006 and the Members input has been relentless! Without their resources, articles and feedback, PCET Network would not continue to exist. So Thank you! Please keep your contributions flowing!

PCET: Do you have any interesting hobbies or pastimes?

Sharon: I spend most of my time with my husband and my baby daughter. I do play classical and jazz piano though, and I tend to “tinkle the ivories” in between uploading free resources, sending emails to my team of writers and joining in the Live Chat!

PCET Network would like to wish all of our members and contributors a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!