Anna Cook

BA, MA, PGCE

English Literature and English Language are both living, breathing subjects. It’s exciting to think that there has not been a word invented yet that can describe what we will be doing in the future. Indeed, a time-traveller from only twenty years ago would probably think ‘hangry’ an extreme sport and be baffled that we were all ‘tweeting’ like birds.

Moreover, how we use language is also changing. No longer must we seek an agent for our creative and literary efforts – we can all self-publish for free online. We are in a global community of writers and speakers of a multitude of English languages, and the change is exhilarating.

I am unashamedly a subject geek, having obtained a first class BA in English Literature with English Language and an MA in English Language amongst other qualifications. I have taught in high schools and Further Education colleges in the UK since 2005, holding managerial positions in both pastoral and academic areas. I have examined for two major UK examination boards and have had articles published for an exam board magazine. I write daily, read at any opportunity and talk constantly, even in my sleep.

Experience has taught me that the traditional school environment is not always the best in which to study. I myself completed my MA at Lancaster University via online distance learning and have also qualified as a Clinical Aromatherapist in much the same way. Online study allowed me to contextualise my learning and go at my own pace. I had experienced tutors who could differentiate and scaffold lessons to make my experience personal and enjoyable. I endeavour to emulate these positive experiences with my own online students.

Lately, I have taken a different direction in my career in order to raise my family and pursue other, albeit related, ambitions. I look forward to working with you on your journey to achieve your own.