gastonmarie

Throughout my teaching career, as a Head of Department/Faculty, I had to keep writing numerous documents in either French or English: examination papers, departmental schemes of work, review documents, development plans, staff appraisal statements etc. as well as chairing meetings and liaising with governors, parents and the Local Education Authority representatives.

In parallel to my teaching career, I was an active member of the local branch of my teaching Trade Union, the National Association of Schoolmasters and Womenteachers. I served as local Negotiating Secretary for several years and was then elected President of the Middlesbrough branch, a position I held for four years until I retired. It goes without saying that, in both capacities, I had to be in regular contact with local education officials, attend Council Meetings, make speeches, chair high-profile meetings and again produce high-quality documents which were always closely scrutinised both by my peers and my employers. 

Last but not least, as a French national, I have always kept in close touch with my native country. I have brought up my three children to be fully bilingual; the youngest is currently doing his final year of a French/Business Studies degree at Newcastle University. I pay regular visits to France, either to see my elderly father and my numerous relatives, or to stay in a property I own in the South of France. I am an avid reader of both French and English literature and keep myself informed of all aspects of French politics and current affairs by reading either Le Monde or Le Figaro online and listening to French radio broadcasts.

Most people would agree that I am fully bilingual, and I can translate equally well from/into either language and my clients always comment on the quality of my work. They also value my quick turn around times and my willingness to work at weekends if necessary.

 D.Stéphany