Hi, my name is Annie Deakins
If you need a trained proofreader then you’re in the right place.
You might be an author or publisher.
I am a Professional Member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP at ciep.uk). Here is my proofreading entry in their directory.
Think of me as your fairy godmother sprinkling publishing confidence.
Proofreading qualities
You are guaranteed:
- training and professionalism – see the link to my qualifications below
- consistency – your writing style is checked for all matters of inconsistency
- quality – a high standard of efficient error-checking
- integrity – you are offered fair Terms & Conditions, within the CIEP Code of Practice.
Training and courses
Here is the list of the training courses I have completed in order to provide a professional proofreading service.
Who are my clients?
Find out who my ideal clients are by going to my Clients page.
Understanding mental health
In 2024 I did a course with The Skills Network called Understanding Mental Health First Aid. It helped me to understand how to promote good mental health and to support those (fellow freelancers and clients) with mental ill health. (Note: as I was sponsored financially, the course used my official first name.)
When I began freelancing …
As a retired classroom teacher, I started my freelance proofreading business in January 2017 when I suffered health issues after 30 years in the classroom.
I joined the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) in 2017 and upgraded using training and experience as a proofreader and editor. I am the coordinator of the CIEP Essex local group.
My background …
I graduated in the late 80s with a BEd degree (Primary Education), having grown up in Paisley, near Glasgow. Hence the Scottish name for my blog. Have you read any of my blog posts yet?
On graduation, I ventured ‘South of the Border’ – eek – to begin teaching. I taught in classrooms in Essex, until 2015.
Blogging
Now I use my marking and marketing skills to freelance with my own business. With MUCH enthusiasm.
If you are a fellow editor or teacher, I post a monthly blog called Tall Tartan Talks about my business experiences. Read my weekly tips about my experiences on LinkedIn by searching for the hashtag #TallTartanTips. See my newsletter for freelancers and indie authors called Tall Tartan Times.
Tutoring
Another part of my portfolio was tutoring primary school children. See my page on Primary Tutoring.
I also needed little people in my life as I live with two strapping sons and an artistic husband, all over 6 feet tall. Stroking the cats helps too.
