Meet Dr Jacqueline Yates

I was born and raised on the Isle of Man and have spent most of my life here. After studying in Leicester and Sheffield, I spent five years in Switzerland, where I began learning French and have continued to study it ever since.

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My career in Higher Education took me to Sheffield Hallam University, where I taught and managed undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, often focusing on Manx themes in my research. In 2001 the Island called me home, and I joined the Isle of Man Government’s HR team, later becoming Head of Learning at the Department of Health and Social Care.

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After taking early retirement, I enjoyed a period as Festival Secretary for the Manx Competitive Music, Speech and Dance Festival before training formally as a Manx Blue Badge Guide. The two-year programme deepened my knowledge of the Island’s architecture, wildlife, folklore, heritage and social history, and strengthened the teaching and communication skills I developed throughout my career.

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I have been a tour guide since 2022 and now focus on what I love most, helping visitors explore the stories, places and people that make the Isle of Man unique. Tours are available in English and French, and I’m always happy to tailor each experience to your interests and pace.