Sharon Freeman

I am currently a PhD researcher at University of Leicester and also have the privilege of supporting volunteer teachers providing community ESOL in Old Trafford. I have about twenty years’ experience of working with migrant English language learners, both with children learning through English as an Additional Language (EAL) and their families in primary schools, and adult learners of ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), including as an EAL Local Authority Advisor and ESOL Advice Service Coordinator in Greater Manchester.

Additionally, I have developed a new ESOL programme for mums with bumps and babies 'ESOL Baby Steps' to be delivered in community settings, coproduced with the NHS and midwifery students. Previously, I worked as a research assistant at the University of Manchester designing and developing the 'ESOL Stepping Stones' programme, which was shortlisted for a British Council ELTon Award for Local Innovation in 2019.

I have a MA in Education with Distinction from Manchester Metropolitan University and a Trinity CertTESOL.