Meet The Teachers
Our team are dedicated to progression and achievement of all of our learners. From our Centre Support Advisors, Learning Support Assistants and Teacher right through to marketing and management, every member is here to support you and help you find the right course at the right level for you.
Learn More,
Achieve More,
Be More.
Bradley Burton - Quality & Curriculum Manager
Michelle Matty - Quality & Inclusive Learning Lead Officer
Matthew Hughes - Curriculum Development Manager
- Arts & Crafts
- Creative Industries
- Food & Drink
- Floristry
- Languages
- British Sign Language
- Business & Finance
I have been teaching for 10 years, and my previous role was as the co-founder and Director of Spotlight Multimedia, a training company that offered qualifications in Graphic Design, Music Production, Video Production, and Web Design. My background prior to that was in academia, where I pursued a PhD in Film at Essex and Westminster University. I have made a wide variety of films, from experimental and narrative shorts to advertisements for companies and charities. My vocation is teaching the cinematic arts, and I find it immensely rewarding to help people realize their creative goals.
Cheryl Dower - Curriculum Development Manager
- Teaching Assistants
- Early Years Practitioners
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
- Family Learning
I have worked in education for 10 years in various roles, including TA, HLTA, Primary School Teacher, and Adult Education Teacher. I have completed a BA (Hons) Degree in Education and Professional Practice and a Master’s Degree in Education, Policy, and Society. I have taught teaching assistant students from level 2 to level 3 and higher education students from level 4 to level 6. My passion is to inspire students to achieve their full potential.
Emma Hodgkinson - Curriculum Development Manager
- English
- Maths
- ICT & Digital Skills
- Career’s Education & Employability
- Health & Social Care
- Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA)
I’m the Curriculum Development Manager at Havering Adult College. I oversee a diverse range of subject areas including Digital, English, Maths, Employability, Health & Social Care, and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). My role focuses on designing and managing high-quality learning experiences, while supporting our fantastic teaching team to deliver engaging, meaningful lessons.
I’ve been teaching since 2007, with experience ranging from general interest courses to Access to Higher Education Diplomas. Although I spend most of my time behind the scenes these days, I still love stepping into the classroom to share my passion for psychology. I occasionally deliver workshops on fascinating topics like memory and social influence.
What I love most about working in adult education is supporting those who may not have had the best experience with learning in the past. It’s incredibly rewarding to encourage people to be brave, take that first step, and rediscover the joy of learning. Whether it’s gaining a new skill, building confidence, or improving wellbeing, adult learning has the power to transform lives—not just for our learners, but often for their families and communities too.
Outside of work, I enjoy gardening and have recently taken up the challenge of growing my own vegetables—though the local wildlife seem to be enjoying the harvest more than I am! I also love trying out new crafts, from knitting and crochet to glass cutting and willow weaving.
Richard Priest - Specialist Teacher Assessor
For over 20 years I built a career in IT, with a strong focus on working with data and helping businesses make sense of the information they rely on. Over the years, I’ve worked on many projects that involved creating, organising, and managing databases to support everything from day-to-day operations to long-term decision-making.
For the past 10 years, I’ve been focused on teaching IT to adult learners, helping people from all backgrounds gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in today’s digital world. In my current role as a Specialist Teacher Assessor, I work closely with learners to support their individual needs, whether they’re returning to education, changing careers or building on existing knowledge.
My approach is friendly, supportive, and practical. I believe learning should be engaging and relevant, especially for adults juggling busy lives and real-world responsibilities. I aim to make technology accessible and understandable, breaking down complex ideas and showing how they apply in everyday situations.
I’m passionate about lifelong learning and committed to helping others achieve their goals—whether it’s mastering a new skill, gaining a qualification, or simply feeling more confident with technology. As both an educator and assessor, I’m here to guide, encourage, and empower learners every step of the way.
Carole Vuarrier - Specialist Teacher Assessor
I have been a teacher/assessor and moderator at Havering Adult College since 2008. I am a bilingual teacher whose specialist subjects are ESOL and French. I am an enthusiastic, effective, and passionate teacher with a proven record of helping learners progress, providing positive learning experiences, and building confidence in my students. I enjoy sharing knowledge, inspiring learners, and motivating them to achieve their goals. My wide experience in language learning has helped me develop a mature and responsible approach to manage and organize any cohort and level of study.
Joanna Drew - Specialist Teacher Assessor
Julie Marsh – Essential Digital Skills & Functional Skills Maths Tutor
“For many learners, maths and ICT feel intimidating at first,” I explain. “But the moment they realise they can do it—that’s the best part. Watching them move from struggling to succeeding is incredibly rewarding.”
I particularly enjoy making maths feel relevant and engaging. “Fractions seem scary to a lot of people,” I say, “but really, it’s just sharing pizzas and cakes—though one of my colleagues never wants to share and insists on a whole one!” I joke.
I value the supportive environment at the college and enjoy working with a wide range of learners. “I’m part of a fantastic team, and we’re all committed to helping each other—and our learners—succeed,” I say.
Outside the classroom, I enjoy relaxing with chocolate and popcorn while watching films, and I love visiting new places whenever I get the chance. My enthusiasm and sense of humour help create a welcoming atmosphere for learners, where challenges are tackled with positivity and patience.
Tracy McAneny – ICT and ESOL Tutor
One moment that stands out was when a learner wanted to update a CV they had uploaded to a website. “By the end of the lesson, he’d done it. That sense of achievement meant the world to him—and to me,” I say. I enjoy solving problems with my learners: “What seems huge to them at the start becomes manageable, and they leave with a solution. You can see the relief—it’s no longer scary.”
Many learners bring in a list of questions each week, knowing they’ll get clear, practical support. One learner has even started volunteering at a local food bank after being inspired in my class.
I myself volunteer at the Havering Islamic Cultural Centre, where I run the food bank. My dedication to supporting others was recently recognised when I received a Mayor’s Civic Award—an achievement I’m extremely proud of.
I value working at the college because it gives me space to keep learning and to pursue my passions. In class, I encourage learners to get involved in the community, showing how volunteering can open doors to new skills, job opportunities, and confidence.
Abtar - Health & Social Care Tutor
Health and social care will test you, change you, and open doors you didn’t know existed. It can take you from supporting your local community to responding to international crises — and open doors you didn’t even know existed.
With over 10 years of experience in the NHS and a multidisciplinary background that spans clinical care, law, psychology, business and international humanitarian work, I’m here to help you explore what this sector really offers — and to push you toward the future you want.
I’m a Dual-Registered Nurse — both a Registered General Nurse (RGN) and a Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN). Academically, I hold a First-Class BSc (Hons) in Psychology with Criminology (BPS-accredited), a PG Cert in Medical Law, and a Distinction in ILSPA’s Legal Secretary and PA Diploma. I’m currently completing an MSc in Organisational (Business) Psychology, accredited by both the British Psychological Society and the Association for Business Psychology, with specialist training in coaching and workplace wellbeing — areas I use to help people grow personally and professionally.
My clinical experience spans dermatology, A&E, maternity, and public health — including being a team leader in a COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Centre in Westfield Stratford during the height of the pandemic. I now split my time between working in NHS maternity services and as a medical paralegal.
My work has also taken me overseas — volunteering in HIV orphanages and private hospitals in rural India, and helping set up emergency clinics in Turkey following the devastating earthquakes in 2023.
At the core of everything I do is a strong belief in the value of education as empowerment. Knowledge is something to absorb, giving you perspective, resilience, and the ability to challenge outdated systems and mindsets — including your own.
In my classroom, you won’t just memorise frameworks or learn policies. You’ll develop critical thinking, build professional confidence, and gain a practical edge. You’ll learn how to handle real-world pressure, navigate complex systems, and step into rooms with your best self.
Whether your goal is to deliver excellent care, drive change, or step into leadership — you won’t just leave my class work-ready.
You’ll leave world-ready — and ready to lead.
Kerry Manning - English Teacher
Before entering education, I worked in Theatre Marketing, gaining valuable insight into the professional arts industry. I also spent two years as a literacy mentor, developing targeted strategies to support students’ reading and writing skills. In my teaching career, I have held a range of leadership roles, including Specialist Lead English and Drama Teacher, Head of a thriving secondary English and Drama department, and Specialist Teacher with the Royal Shakespeare Company, where I helped bring Shakespeare’s work to life in the classroom.
My teaching is enriched by my passion for literature—particularly dystopian and fantasy genres—which I integrate into my curriculum to inspire a love of reading. I value creativity, student voice, and critical thinking, aiming to create inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.
In addition to my academic and theatrical pursuits, I am also a qualified yoga teacher. I often incorporate mindfulness and well-being practices into my teaching, supporting the holistic development of my students.
I am excited to be part of the college community, where I continue to foster a love for language, performance, and personal growth.
Ceiri Van Haeften - British Sign Language (BSL) Teacher
This led Ceiri to supporting deaf students at school and college and then into teaching BSL to both young and adult learners. “I love teaching BSL – I have a passion for the subject, and I love to pass that passion on to others. It’s very rewarding to see learners progress from knowing no BSL at all to holding intense and interesting conversations with other BSL users – deaf and hearing in a short space of time”.
Some of her learners go on to working with the Deaf, being able to communicate with deaf family members, joining deaf clubs and meeting new people.
Karen Riley - Family Learning Teacher
With over 30 years of experience supporting children and families, I am a qualified Adult Education teacher with a strong commitment to helping families and schools understand and support children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). My journey began as a Nursery Nurse and progressed to working in a residential school for children with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties. This pivotal experience deepened my interest in SEN and led to a role with the local authority as a family support worker, specialising in autism and SEN. In this role, I provided direct support in family homes, focusing on enhancing children’s play, development, and emotional well-being.
Throughout my career, I have remained dedicated to empowering families and professionals to better understand and support children with SEN. In addition to my SEN expertise, I am a qualified child and adolescent sleep practitioner. For the past 15 years, I have run a sleep clinic, working closely with parents and carers of children both with and without SEN to address sleep challenges. Over the last five years, I have taught at Havering Adult College, delivering training to parents, carers, teachers, and Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) with a focus on autism and related topics. My work is grounded in practical experience and a deep understanding of the unique needs of children and families.
I am passionate about teaching and believe in empowering others to support children more effectively through understanding, empathy, and evidence-based strategies.
Wahida Sheikh - ESOL and Health & Wellbeing Teacher/Assessor
My journey began in the world of complementary medicine, where I worked closely with people going through some of life’s toughest health challenges — especially those affected by cancer. That experience taught me how powerful care, empathy, and support can be. It also inspired me to take what I’d learned and share it in a new way: through teaching.
Now, at Havering Adult College, I teach English as a Second Language (ESOL) and Health & Wellbeing — two areas that can truly change lives. Whether you’re learning English to feel more confident in everyday life, or exploring ways to take better care of your mind and body, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.
My classes are warm, welcoming, and inclusive. I believe learning should feel safe, supportive, and even fun! You’ll find a space where you can ask questions, share your experiences, and grow at your own pace — surrounded by others who are on a similar journey.
Anastasia Pavlou - ESOL Teacher/Assessor
I’m friendly and supportive, creating a welcoming space where learners feel confident using English to enhance their everyday lives. I enjoy working with people from diverse cultures and aim to make lessons enjoyable, practical, and inspiring so everyone can succeed.
Chrissie Morris - Graphic Design Teacher
I am a passionate Graphic Designer and Teacher with over a decade of experience in the creative field. My journey began as a professional Graphic Designer, where I honed my skills crafting visual solutions for a variety of projects. While I gained invaluable experience, the traditional 9-to-5 desk environment didn’t quite resonate with my desire for connection and impact.
This led me to explore the world of education, and I discovered a true calling in sharing my expertise with aspiring designers. There’s immense satisfaction in witnessing students unlock their creative potential and develop the skills to bring their own visions to life. My courses are designed to empower you to master industry-standard software like Adobe Illustrator, guiding you through the process of creating exciting and original designs from the ground up.
Beyond the technical aspects, I believe in providing a real-world perspective. I love to share anecdotes and insights from my time working in the graphic design industry, giving you a tangible understanding of what it’s like to navigate a project from concept to completion. My goal is to not only teach you the tools but also to inspire your creative confidence and equip you with the practical knowledge to thrive in the dynamic world of graphic design.
Tayyaba Sabir - Textile & Fashion
I am a visual artist and educator with a background in Textiles. I hold a Master’s degree in Art & Design, specialising in Visual Arts, from Beaconhouse National University (BNU), Pakistan.
I have taught a range of art and textile subjects at both undergraduate and secondary levels. My teaching experience includes positions at Beaconhouse National University (BNU), the University of Management and Technology (UMT), and four years as a permanent faculty member at the Institute for Art and Culture (IAC). Currently, I teach Art at a secondary school in London and work as a Sessional Lecturer in Textile and Fashion at Havering Adult College, where I develop and deliver practical coursework.
My creative practice explores personal narratives and material processes, working across video, painting, sculpture, photography, and installation. I have exhibited my work internationally and continue to research the work of women artists—particularly those who engage deeply with materials in their practice.
In addition to teaching and creating, I bring industry experience as a senior textile designer with leading textile companies in Pakistan. I have also contributed to heritage preservation as a Fresco Conservation Artist with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (AKCSP), where I helped restore 400-year-old fresco murals at the historic Royal Baths in Lahore.
Michelle Safo - Digital Marketing Teacher
I’m a consultant, strategist, and trainer with over 20 years of experience supporting founders and organisations. I founded a systems consultancy that helps organisations streamline their operations, strengthen communications, and embrace digital tools for growth.
I hold a BA in Business Administration and a CIM postgraduate qualification in Marketing. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on turning complex challenges into practical, actionable solutions. My expertise spans project management, digital marketing, and business development, and I’m especially passionate about helping individuals and teams gain the clarity, confidence, and systems they need to succeed.
As a trainer, I bring a practical and engaging style to my sessions, drawing on real-world experiences as a business leader and mentor. I believe learning should be both accessible and immediately useful, so I ensure that learners walk away with tools they can apply straightaway. Whether it’s planning and managing projects effectively, marketing services as self-employed professionals, or building strong foundations to start and grow a new business, I make complex concepts simple and relatable.
I’m deeply committed to equipping the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders to create sustainable businesses and lasting impact.
Tracy Giles - Sugarcraft & Cake Decorating Teacher
I’m 60 something, mother of 5 children, who are now fully grown and all but one has left the nest, 4 cats and 2 dogs. I’m passionate about teaching and dog welfare, especially snow dogs.
Started teaching almost by accident, had been baking since a child. Like a lot of people, I bought a sugarcraft book, followed the instructions and totally fluffed it up.
In 2000 I joined a cake decorating class doing the first NCFE offered by Southend Adult Community College, I continued learning, gaining 1-3 in cake decorating and 2&3 in sugar art. As well as NOCN in art & design and gcse in psychology. I started assisting my tutor, then was given classes of my own, that was 17 years ago. During my studying days I was diagnosed with dyslexia, which answered a lot of questions on how and why I do things the way I do.
I got my certificate in education in 2012.
The cake decorating world has changed drastically since I first started, the popularity of using sugarpaste as opposed to the traditional royal icing, cake pops, buttercream cakes, cartoon cakes, mirror glazes just to name a few. With each new technique comes a new set of skills to learn. This is an ever-evolving craft.
If it wasn’t for my tutor, who encouraged me to proceed forward and share my abilities, I would not have had the courage to start teaching. I had anxiety issues, low confidence and low self-esteem, I can’t say I am over them but once I’m in a teaching environment, I’m at home, I relax and all of those things disappear.
Sarah Murphy – Early Years & Teaching Assistant Tutor
I have worked in education since 2007, with most of my career spent in Early Years. Before joining Havering Adult College, I was Head of Early Years at an independent preparatory school, where I had the privilege of leading a wonderful team, mentoring apprentice practitioners, and supporting children and families throughout their early education journey.
Helping others to learn has always been at the heart of what I do, which is why I am so excited to begin this new chapter in adult education. I teach Early Years and Teaching Assistant qualifications from Levels 1 to 3 and love supporting learners as they build their confidence, develop new skills, and take the next step in their careers.
I believe that everyone has the potential to succeed when they feel supported and encouraged. My aim is to create a welcoming and friendly learning environment where learners feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and challenging themselves to achieve their goals. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone grow in confidence and realise what they are capable of.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, crocheting, and going for walks. I look forward to meeting my learners and being part of their journey into what I hope will be a fulfilling and rewarding career in education.

