Debbi Hodson

Head of Learning Resources and Careers (Career Lead)

Qualification: Post Graduate Certificate in Careers Leadership. I also hold a National Professional Qualification for Middle Leadership and a Level 4 NVQ in Childcare and Education. 

My current role involves managing both the FYi and Futures team and I  am also one of the Student Safety and Wellbeing team members.

My favourite book is Desperation by Stephen King and I love climbing of any kind.

Helen Crowther

Library Manager

Qualification: BA Librarianship and MA Literature and the History of Ideas

I have been working at Blackpool sixth for over 30 years and have 

I specialise in reading recommendations, research skills, essay-writing, study support, EPQ, learning conversations and so much more. 

My interests include fungi, wild plants, veganism, how conspiracy theories develop and evolve, science, linguistics,  textual studies, and developing students’ discursive skills.

Outside of college I am currently reading Great Hatred, Little Room - a history of the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland.

Lyndsay Davies

FYi Study Advisor

Qualification: BA Honours Degree in History: Medieval to Modern. I went on to qualify as a Teacher of English as a second language.

I have worked at Blackpool sixth since 2019.

I currently specialise in critical analysis, essay writing and Research, and Referencing and provide support for students with revision. I also work with Helen to deliver workshops to classes around the college and I teach basic makaton to students. 

Out of work, I love camping with my family and spending as much time outdoors as possible. I like to test my limits on a regular basis and I am a total movie and reading buff.

Julie Halliwell

FYi Study Advisor

Qualification: Certificate for Secretarial Linguists.

I have worked at Blackpool Sixth since 2000. In 2021 achieved an Open Awards Level 3 National Certificate in Cultural Awareness of the LGBTQ+ Community.

I attended training courses on Transgender Awareness and Working with LGBT Young People which has developed my understanding and skills, enabling me to lead the student LGBT+ Group since 2015. The group provides support and a safe space for the LGBT+ community as well as raising awareness.

Outside of college I play table tennis, and enjoy reading, as well as the occasional camping trip.

Gill Hellewell

FYi Study Advisor.

Qualification: BSc International Business & French from Aston University.

I have worked at Blackpool Sixth since 2006, but prior to that worked in major brands including Mars Confectionery and Bass Brewers. I love helping students to get organised and set study goals. I also recruit and train the Student Librarian and Youth Literacy Champ teams, who work alongside the staff to help us deliver our outstanding library service and get more students reading for pleasure.

Outside of college, I love travelling, reading and TikTok.