An accomplished teaching professional with over 30 years of experience, Mr. Martin Smithies teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) at AUBH. In addition to his work as an English language teacher, he has focused his work on helping new students entering university to study and conduct research in the English language. His courses has aided in improving students’ language skills, their academic abilities, as well as their critical thinking and collaborative skills.

Mr. Smithies has spent the majority of his academic career teaching in the Middle East and the Gulf Region. His vast experience includes positions at educational institutions such as King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia; Oman Technical Industrial College, Oman; and the University of Bahrain, among others.

In addition to teaching ESL, Mr. Smithies’ academic expertise includes teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes. He has extensive experience in assessment, serving as an examiner for the Cambridge English language exams, and as a speaking and writing examiner for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). He has delivered preparation courses for IELTS and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), while also conducting workshops and short courses on English language, and soft skills to local companies and communities. His interests further include blended learning. His recognition as a 21st Century Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE) demonstrates his value as a resource for student achievement of academic excellence.

Mr. Smithies’ educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in French and German from the University of Westminster, and a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics and English Language Teaching from the University of York.