Celebrating a Key Publication Supporting Entry-Level Students at Birmingham Newman University
Birmingham Newman University continues to reflect proudly on the publication of Essential Skills for Entry Level Education and Humanities Students, co‑authored by Dr. Linda Enow, Senior Lecturer in Education and Multi-Professional Practice, and Karima Kadi-Hanifi, Director of Studies and Research Supervisor for EdD and PhD students.
Originally launched in March 2025, the book represents a significant contribution to the support offered to students beginning their academic journeys in education and the humanities. Drawing on many years of teaching, research, and experience across secondary, further, and higher education, Dr. Enow and Dr. Kadi-Hanifi created a guide designed to build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and demystify the expectations of university-level study.
The publication provides a practical foundation for learners, with strategies that help develop core academic competencies. It remains a valuable resource for students preparing to enter higher education or embarking on their first year of study within the field.
Reflecting on her aims for the book, Dr. Enow shared at the time:
“My aim is to equip students with the foundational skills necessary for academic achievement. By fostering these competencies, we empower them to navigate their educational paths confidently.”
Dr. Karima Kadi-Hanifi added:
“This book is an essential companion for entry-level higher education students, equipping them with the core academic skills needed to thrive in university life. With a supportive and accessible approach, it builds confidence, demystifies academic expectations, and empowers students to excel in their studies.”
Current staff and students can access the book, for free, here: Studying at University Level: Essential Skills for Entry Level Education and Humanities Students
The book is also available from Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
About the Authors
Dr. Linda Enow
Dr. Enow is a Senior Lecturer in Education and Multi-Professional Practice at Birmingham Newman University. Her career began as a secondary English teacher before she moved into Academic English teaching within higher education. Following completion of her doctorate in Education, she has taught across foundation degrees, undergraduate education programmes, postgraduate courses—including the MA and EdD—and has supervised doctoral students.
Dr. Karima Kadi-Hanifi
Dr. Kadi-Hanifi serves as Director of Studies and supervises doctoral students (EdD and PhD) at Birmingham Newman University. Specialising in Education Studies, her research applies critical theory across a range of educational contexts. She holds a PhD in linguistics from the University of Sheffield, followed by postdoctoral work in speech science, before moving into roles across Adult, Further, and Higher Education. She has published widely, including co-authoring books on EAL for secondary teachers and study skills for postgraduate students.
