Language graduate living in France and teaching at university offers French lessons to children and adults online

As a full time member of staff at the University of Portsmouth Students’ Union, I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Hannah Skilton in her remit as Course Rep Chair.

This role required Hannah to work very closely with the Union and University, including senior staff members such as the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education & Student Experience). She represented over 1,000 Course Reps, trained over 400 of these students, and supported the ten Faculty and Deputy Faculty Reps. Hannah also sat on the Union Actioning Body - the highest student decision making committee in the Union.

Throughout her time as Course Rep Chair, Hannah has been incredibly mature and professional, and is particularly skilled at adapting her communication style for different audiences. Her training is engaging and informative, and in a formal meeting she will calmly share her views whilst always considering those she represents. Hannah has also been fantastic at utilising social media to communicate with students and celebrate the successes of Course Reps. Hannah was asked to be both keynote speaker and host at the annual Teaching & Learning Awards 2017, and was very successful in this. At this ceremony, Hannah was also recognised as the Most Engaged Academic Officer due to her hard work.

Hannah’s time management skills are excellent, and she has impressively balanced her academic work, her role as Course Rep Chair, and her external employment. She is able to prioritise these varied responsibilities, and negotiate her time to suit everyone she works with. This work can be carried out independently or as a team, and I am always secure in the knowledge that anything Hannah does will be of a high standard.

It has been delightful to watch Hannah’s personal and professional development throughout the year. She has thoroughly engaged in the role in order to provide opportunities and improvements for all students, whilst simultaneously learning new skills that will be transferable to any workplace.

Outside of this role, Hannah has a wonderful personality. She is incredibly approachable and caring, with a passion for adventure, and a willingness to challenge herself at every new opportunity. I am delighted to recommend Hannah.