Abigail Blackman
Wellington
Summary
With experience in both academic and professional departments within the tertiary education sector, I have developed strong student support, administrative and communication skills that support both the academic and operational aspects of higher education. I am deeply passionate about academia as a tool for promoting global equality, diversity, and equity. Committed to continuous professional and personal growth, I ensure that my work evolves alongside emerging trends and practices within the sector, while always prioritising institutional development. My objective is to advance my career in the higher education sector by utilising my experience gained in the UK, while embracing and applying a Te Tiriti-led approach to enhance student and community engagement in Wellington.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Academic Advisor
Massey University | Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa
03.2025 - Current
- Assisting students in understanding and resolving academic difficulties.
- Monitored student performance and provided guidance for improvement where needed.
- Coordinated with other campus services to support student needs.
- Participate in committees related to curriculum development and student success initiatives.
Admissions and Enrolment Advisor
Victoria University of Wellington | Te Herenga Waka
11.2024 - 03.2025
- Manage a large caseload while maintaining a high standard of detail and efficiency
- Undergo extensive training and understanding of new University systems and processes
- Leverage strong problem-solving and time management skills
Senior Student Advisor
Falmouth and Exeter University
Falmouth
01.2020 - 01.2024
- Lead a small team in supporting a large caseload of international students, ensuring efficient case management and high-quality service delivery
- Foster a collaborative environment by sharing team successes and challenges in regular knowledge-sharing meetings
- Cultivate and maintain strong working relationships with various departments across the university to facilitate seamless student support
- Develop and implement workflows and communication strategies to streamline processes for both students and staff, contributing to system development for enhanced efficiency
- Committed to continuous professional and personal development, actively participating in relevant training to enhance performance within the role
Recovery Pathway Co-ordinator
First Light
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Oversee the completion of case notes and data management to ensure accuracy
- Co-developed a highly effective recovery program for service users impacted by domestic abuse and/or sexual violence in the Southwest of the United Kingdom, ensuring tailored support and positive outcomes
- Managed payroll for self-employed counsellors across the county, ensuring accurate and timely processing of payments
- Established and nurtured collaborative relationships with multi-disciplinary services, including a variety of therapeutic and national organisations, to enhance the overall support network for service users
- Strengthened self-sufficient working skills through the successful management and execution of a solo project, demonstrating initiative
Further education teacher
Coleg Y Cymoedd
South Wales
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Provided pastoral care and support to students within tutorials, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment
- Planned, delivered, and assessed educational sessions in alignment with Estyn standards
- Managed a conducive learning environment, adapting to students’ needs and maintaining an atmosphere that promotes engagement and academic success
Education
MA - Education Policy and International Development
University of Bristol
Bristol01.2018
PCET - Post-compulsory education and training
University of South Wales
Cardiff, Wales01.2014
BA(Hons) - Film theory and English Studies
University of South Wales
Cardiff, Wales01.2014
Skills
- Digital literacy
- Communication
- Data management
- Data protection
- Handling of sensitive information
- Safeguarding training
- Empathy
- Nonjudgmental approach
- Team collaboration
- Autonomous work
- Team management
- Supporting team members
- Effective communication
- Engaging with stakeholders
- Cultural competence
- Respect for Te Tiriti
- Student advising
Hobbies and Interests
- Staying informed on current affairs and political developments.
- Devouring sci-fi and historical fiction.
- Tramping and biking around beautiful Aotearoa as often as I can.
- Working towards my yoga teaching qualification.
References
Available on request.
Community And Volunteer Experience
- Volunteer, Foodbank, Cornwall
- Volunteer, WaterAid, Community based role during the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Volunteer, Completed the 'Three Peak Walking Challenge' to raise money for chosen charity.
Affiliations
● I have a keen interest in staying informed on current affairs and political developments, as well as devouring sci-fi and historical fiction.
● Tramping and biking around beautiful Aotearoa as often as I can.
Working towards my yoga teaching qualification
Timeline
Academic Advisor
Massey University | Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa
03.2025 - Current
Admissions and Enrolment Advisor
Victoria University of Wellington | Te Herenga Waka
11.2024 - 03.2025
Senior Student Advisor
Falmouth and Exeter University
01.2020 - 01.2024
Recovery Pathway Co-ordinator
First Light
01.2018 - 01.2020
Further education teacher
Coleg Y Cymoedd
01.2016 - 01.2018
MA - Education Policy and International Development
University of Bristol
PCET - Post-compulsory education and training
University of South Wales
BA(Hons) - Film theory and English Studies
University of South Wales
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