Author Biography
Jay Dale is the lead author and consultant for Engage Literacy. Jay comes from a teaching background, having taught in both Australia and Japan. She is also an experienced editor and publisher. An accomplished children's book author, Jay has written extensively for leading educational publishers and has many successful titles currently in print. Jay has also authored and published electronic products including teaching objects for interactive whiteboards and digital activities for children. Born 1985 in Birmingham, Natalie Ball grew up with a real passion for art and design. Formal training provided her with experience in a range of different art disciplines, including Illustration, Graphic Design, Visual Studies, Fine Art and Photography (using both traditional and digital methods). She is a confident computer user, having used a range of programmes including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Natalie achieved a first-class honours degree in Scientific and Natural History Illustration, at Blackpool and the Fylde Collage. Clients consist of Templar Publishers, Dorling Kindersley, Cat's Pyjamas, Hinkler, Oxford University Press, Centre of Ecology and Hydrology, Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Blithfield Education Centre. Natalie has also successfully exhibited and sold work at NEWA (National Exhibition of Wildlife Art). Natalie enjoys a challenge and always perseveres with projects even when they do not have an easy solution, pushing herself further, trying new solutions and learning both from the experience and from her achievements. Natalie also works as a lecturer in Art and Design. Her interest in the natural world is evident within her work. Enthusiastic and reliable, Natalie puts great importance on providing clients with the type of art work that they require.
