Hi I’m Laura! I’m the Education Manager here at the Welsh Refugee Council.

I have worked in post-16 education for over 20 years as a teacher, trainer, materials writer, and manager. My specialism is ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) but I have also taught literacy, numeracy, digital literacy – and art history! I am still a practising teacher, working part-time at Cardiff and Vale College as well as at WRC.

I was drawn to the role at WRC having observed on the front line the many barriers faced by learners seeking sanctuary. In this role, I organise classes, strengthen our partnerships across Wales, and advise our clients on their options. I also advocate for the needs of refugees and asylum seekers in the wider education system.

One of my main goals is to promote the use of more participatory approaches when teaching learners seeking sanctuary. Such approaches are trauma-informed, and they give learners greater agency in what and how they learn.

Outside work, you will find me walking the streets photographing mundane things like walls, signs, and manhole covers! I am also an enthusiastic reader, Welsh learner, and visitor of exhibitions.