Irene Tubbs has been working in the field of education since 1976, initially as a physical education specialist working with children and adults. In 1978 she was a founder-contributor of a rehabilitation programme set up to assist patients recovering from any condition that affects the heart, a programme which she still offers. In 1984 she became a senior lecturer in adult education, and was subsequently a head of department and then a head of area, being an initiator of many educational courses for all age groups. As well as performing a management role, she also continued to organize and run courses for all age groups. As well as performing a management role, she also continued to organise and run courses for trainers and students in coronary rehabilitation, relaxation, stress management, diet/nutrition, benefits of exercise, fertility counselling, appraisal and management skills. She has previously written books on coronary rehabilitation and fertility, plus many pamphlets and self-help guidelines for combating stress. As well as a teaching degree, Irene has diplomas in management, counselling, stress management, multi-modal psychotherapy and stress counselling.