Qualifications:

1972: 'A' Levels in Maths, Physics, Chemistry and English, Tonbridge School, Kent; 1978: MA in English Language and Literature, Wadham College, Oxford University; 1979: Black belt in Aikido, Aikikai Hombu, Tokyo; 1985: RSA Diploma in TEFL, British Council, Tokyo; 1986: Graduate, Japanese/English interpreting programme, Simul Academy Tokyo; 1987: MITI, Institute of Translation and Interpreting, London.

Experience:

1972-74: Volunteer work in Israel; 1978-80: Taught English in Japan as member of first JET programme; 1981-86: Trained as technical writer and translator at the Japan Translation Center, Tokyo; 1986-8: Regular co-presenter of NHK's Japanese-language ‘World News’ satellite service in London; 1988-93: Freelance production manager for Japanese media in UK; 1991-94: Network coordinator for the Japanese Network of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting; 1993- : Established Simon Prentis Associates.