Hi! How are you? If you’re here, you’re clearly interested in who I am, so allow myself to introduce … myself.
My name is Nathan Hawkes and I’m a website developer. I’ve been coding since 2002, coding professionally since 2006, and I’ve been working with WordPress since 2007. It’s one of my most used systems, and I probably use it on more sites than I should.
I am a certified digital marketer with the HubSpot Marketing Academy and Google Digital Garage. I am a qualified teacher (PTLLS Level 3, y’all), and have developed a number of courses from Internet Basics and Using WordPress as a CMS, to Content Writing and Online Marketing.
I am ...
... part developer
With close to two decades of experience in website development, creating online content is a deeply held passion of mine. I love developing, building, blogging, and publishing content to build the web and make it a place for everyone to learn, thrive, and communicate.
... part educator
Learning is a privilege and, with the continuous advances in tech, learning about new technology is important. Whether it’s open-source technologies, online platforms, or marketing strategy, I love passing on knowledge to those entering the field.
... part advocate
We live in a wide and varied world, with people, languages, tastes, landscapes, and cultures, and nowhere is this more visible than online. I am in a position of privilege that I can learn and help, and I do everything I can to lend my voice to those who can use it.
... part coffee drinker
I’m no aficionado when it comes to one of the most popular beans in the world, but there are few things better than sitting in a coffee shop and drinking a hot latte and enjoying a fresh pastry. Except maybe having two of them.
Brief history of my work
January 2007 - August 2024
Self-employed
Website Developer
As a web developer, I designed websites and publications for clients across various sectors, including non-profits and SMEs. I provided training to clients on managing their own sites and developed comprehensive training materials for the WordPress CMS. My work involved using industry-standard design tools like Adobe Creative Suite and emerging alternatives such as Lunacy. I integrated social media management systems like CoSchedule and PublishPress to streamline publishing schedules. Additionally, I utilized AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard to assist with content creation and worked with web-based CRM systems, including CiviCRM and HubSpot CRM.
July 2014 - November 2016
Wai Yin Society
Trainer / Assessor / Work Club Advisor
As a Trainer and Work Club Advisor, I delivered training in Basic ICT and financial management to learners with pre-entry ESOL needs. I developed a business development skills study programme for an EU exchange initiative, providing learners with valuable entrepreneurial insights. I also offered employability support, assisting clients with job searches, applications, and interview techniques. Additionally, I conducted assessments for accredited qualifications to help participants enhance their skills and qualifications.
March 2013 - November 2016
Wai Yin Society
Project Assistant / PA to Senior Management
As a PA to Senior Management in a voluntary capacity, I supported the Senior Management Team and Board of Trustees by submitting funding applications and reports to various funding bodies. I gained further experience as an Administrator while also designing and maintaining the organization's website. Additionally, I developed and implemented marketing strategies, including managing their social media presence to enhance engagement and outreach.
June 2005 - September 2010
Wai Yin Society
Centre Administrator / Administration Assistant
As a Centre Administrator, I handled administrative duties for various projects, the Senior Management Team, and the Board of Trustees. I provided first-line technical support to staff, managed facilities, ordered office supplies, and coordinated with external contractors. Additionally, I covered reception duties, answered telephones, and took minutes at meetings. I also oversaw organizational working groups, ensuring compliance with policies, health and safety regulations, and quality assurance standards.
September 2003 - August 2004
The Manchester College
Additional Learning Support (ALS) Tutor
As an Additional Learning Support (ALS) Tutor, I provided tailored support to students studying Creative Digital Media (Level 2). I offered both one-to-one and group assistance, ensuring students received the help they needed to succeed. I also led tutorial classes, developing handouts and demonstration materials to enhance learning and engagement.
And where I've studied
May 2017
Hubspot Marketing Academy
Inbound Marketing and Content Marketing Certification
Valid for two years, last renewed September 2024
September 2016
Google Digital Garage
Social Media and Digital Marketing Diploma
Revisited in July 2023
June 2015
Salford City College
Award in Education and Training
Level 3, previously "Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTTLS)"
September 2008
Open College Network
Understanding Peer Mentoring
September 2008
The Manchester College
First Line Management
Level 3
June 2003
The Manchester College
BTEC National Diploma in Creative Digital Media
Being a developer, I've spent ...
years in education
year in further education
years with charities and non-profits
years with ethnic minority communities