Libby Summers

Experience

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  The Relationships Foundation

  Jul 1996 - Nov 1998

  Research Asssistant

  The Relationships Foundation is a Cambridge-based think-tank which studies and promotes the benefits of healthy relationships. I was part of a team marketing and implementing an entrepreneurial program of ‘relational auditing’ .

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  Self-Empoyed

  Nov 1997 - Apr 1998

  FREELANCE RESEARCH CONSULTANT

  I was commissioned by a leading charity to investigate the strengths and weaknesses of a social program in HM prisons.

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  Croham Hurst School

  Nov 1998 - Dec 2001

  Teacher

  I taught the violin to pupils aged 3 - 16 in individual lessons

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  Bourne Westfield Primary Academy

  Sept 2007 - Jul 2012

  Teacher

  I set up a pioneering group scheme, managed and organised the teaching, and taught pupils in groups and one to one.

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  Self Employed

  Dec 2009 - now

  I designed hand knitted patterns and products, including garments, accessories and homewares for companies and for self-publication. I authored a book 'Anyone Can Knit' published by Arcturus Publishing, and contributed to a book called 'Chunky Knits' by Ashley Little (formerly of Martha Stewart). I designed for Artesano, Knitcrate, John Lewis, Selina Lake and others.

  • Teacher

    Jun 2016 - now

  • Knitwear Designer

    Dec 2009 - Sept 2019
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  Libby Summers

  May 2010 - May 2016

  Owner, Libby Summers Ltd

  Libby Summers was a contemporary knitwear brand. The business reflected my twin passions for wool and Anthropology. The manufacture of my yarn supported the Quechuan people of The Andes, bringing my two passions for cultural studies and knitting together.In addition to my knitting designs, I was involved in the manufacture of ready made knitted goods and am proud to have brought the skills of UK knitters to the attention of the British public with the sale of my hand knitted hot water bottle covers in John Lewis in 2010 and 2011. My designs had high profile attention include featuring as Number One of The Financial Times Magazine Top Ten Valentine Gifts in February 2012, as Best Buy in Living Etc. in February 2012, and in The Independent newspaper.My first book on knitting, 'Anyone Can Knit' was published by Arcturus Publishing in Autumn 2014 and distributed worldwide with a print run of 10,000 copies. Show less

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  COPTHILL SCHOOL LIMITED

  Sept 2010 - Jul 2011

  Teacher

  I taught the violin in group lessons to beginners

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  Oundle School

  Sept 2011 - Dec 2012

  Assistant Press Officer and Admissions Assistant

  I assisted the Press Officer in managing the School's public profile and liaison with the Press. I also played a key role as front of house manager for visitors.

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  Self-Employed

  Feb 2014 - now

  My working week combines private tutoring and peripatetic work with studying business analytics, business writing and violin making. I currently teach at Empingham School, Rutland, Chuter Ede, Newark and St Gilberts, Stamford. Anyone Can Knit provides step by step tutorials and knitting patterns for the absolute novice knitter, progressing from beginner to more advanced knitting techniques and providing everything you need to know not only to get started, but also to complete a range of garments and accessories.

  • Teacher

    Jun 2016 - now

  • Author

    Feb 2014 - now
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  Stamford Strings

  Nov 2018 - now

  Founder and Director

  Stringed instruments for all budgets. Specialist set-up. Servicing, repairs, restoration and more.

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  Stamford Strings Ltd

  Sept 2019 - now

  Director, Stamford Strings Ltd