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Athena Learning Trust

Launceston Primary School

Launceston Primary School

Launceston College

Launceston College

Altarnun Primary School

Altarnun Primary School

Egloskerry Primary School

Egloskerry Primary School

Atlantic Academy

Atlantic Academy

Bideford College

Bideford College

Pool Academy

Pool Academy

The Ilfracombe Academy

The Ilfracombe Academy

Camborne Science & International Academy

Camborne Science & International Academy

Local Governing Body

 

Dr Claire Ankers (Principal)

1st January 2024 - N/A
Appointed by: Ex-officio


Dr Ankers has a degree in Environmental Science from the University of Reading and a PhD in Physical Geography from the University of Exeter. She also completed a PGCE in teaching Secondary Geography at Exeter University and has been awarded the NPQH, the National Practitioner Qualification for Headship. Dr Ankers has taught Geography at Bideford College since 2004 and has held a number of middle and senior leadership positions at the college.

Having grown up and been educated in the North Devon area Dr Ankers is passionate about ensuring that young people living in coastal and rural communities have the same employment and education opportunities as those living elsewhere. She is committed to ensuring that the young people of Bideford have access to the best teaching, curriculum, advice and guidance based on the best practice internationally and latest research.

Outside of college Dr Ankers enjoys spending time in the local area with friends, family and the school dog Orlagh, she also likes to travel having visited many countries in 6 of the 7 continents

Amanda Burden

8th November 2021 - 8th November 2025
Appointed by: Governing Body

I have worked in sports and leisure for 18 years first starting as a casual Lifeguard while at college, then offered a full-time position. Trained as gym instructor and swimming teacher. I was fortunate enough to work with organisations, children, and adults with a range of disabilities, social difficulties, and domestic difficulties, trying to get as many children as possible to access sports within a deprived location. I have undertaken many qualifications to help children with SEN challenges and additional commination methods.

In 2014, I joined the PTA at my children’s local primary school, 2015 became vice chair until 2017. I then joined a local family centre helping residents access information and service they need to improve their own circumstances.

My family relocated to Cornwall in 2020, I am currently setting up my own craft small business.

Zoe Watkins (Interim Chair)

28th October 2021 - 28th October 2025
Appointed by: Local Governing Body

Zoe works in the finance industry after graduating with her masters in International Relations from the University of Exeter. Doing her undergrad specialism in economics, Zoe is looking to bring her skills obtained through education and work into her role as the SEND governor. Zoe also plays football for Exeter City Women and has previously played for the likes of Tenerife and West Brom.

Charlotte Vanstone

2nd November 2023 - 2nd November 2027
Appointed by: Local Governing Body

Charlotte has served as a Governor at another school for an extended period and derives great satisfaction from her role, where she has recently attained a promotion as the vice chair of their local governing body.  Additionally, she has a background as a reading tutor and has completed numerous courses in children's mental health, well-being, behaviour, and special educational needs. Charlotte holds a strong passion for reading, with a particular focus on aiding Dyslexic children in reaching their full potential.

Jade Sienkiewicz-Parkes

3rd January 2024 - 3rd January 2028
Appointed by: Local Governing Body

Entranced by the beauty of the South West, Jade decided early in life to make it home.

Following a career spanning Design, Packaging, FMCG, ID, Fashion, Events, Lifestyle and Blue Chip companies, Jade retrained as a teacher of Design and Technology in 2020, combining her passions of strategy, design and nurture. 

Viewing through a traditional and creative lens to get to the heart of the matter, Jade has always built strong, positive and lasting relationships across a range of people groups and outlooks.

Inclusion is at the centre of Jade's ambition. To offer a safe and fulfilling environment for all, within a duty of care. In Jade's classroom and wider offering, feeling safe to share is a standard. The individual is seen, and their voice is heard. Jade believes in the power of ultimate pupil progress: through holistic, stimulating, care.

Minutes of meeting can be requested by contacting the Trust's Head of Governance and Compliance, Georgina Fahey: gfahey@athenalearningtrust.uk  

History - Left within the past 12 months 

Lynsey Slater (Principal)

1st October 2018- N/A
Appointed by: Trust Board

End of Term: 15th December 2023

Born in Devon, Lynsey studied at Royal Holloway, University of London, achieving a first class honours in Environmental Biology. She completed her teaching qualification in 2004, and went on to successfully gain a Masters in Education in 2013.

Lynsey has taught science at a variety of schools within the Trust, holding a range of positions from Head of Year to Deputy Principal at Launceston College and acting Principal of Egloskerry Primary School during Emma Kerr's maternity leave.

Lynsey's vision for Atlantic Academy as it develops is to create a safe, caring and supportive learning environment that allows for individual differences and learning styles to be celebrated. As Nelson Mandela stated, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world', Lynsey believes that all young people should have the opportunities and support to become the best that they can be.

Catherine Clawley

9th March 2021-9th March 2025
Appointed by: School Staff

End of Term: 4th October 2023

Catherine is the Lead Science Teacher and Pupil Premium lead at Atlantic Academy and has taught at Atlantic Academy since 2018, joining the governing body in March 2021. She has lived in Devon since 2004 and has taught Science in a variety of educational settings including a private school and a school focusing on emotional and behavioural difficulties, which has given her a deeper insight in the need for education to be focused on the needs of the individual students.
Catherine's teaching addresses the content of Key stage 2, 3, 4 and 5, and she uses a variety of techniques to ensure students maintain their curiosity and develop their understanding. As the Pupil Premium lead, she is committed to the ethos that education and support is for all, both students and staff; and that with the correct support everyone can achieve their best regardless of their background or circumstance and her role as governor will help to raise the profile of those students that may fall under the radar.

Dr Alan Whittle (Chair)

25th March 2020- 25th March 2024
Appointed by: Trust Board

End of Term: 14th March 2024

Alan has worked in the scientific industry since graduating from University with a PhD in Chemistry. Specialising in chemical synthesis and project management, Alan has worked for many organisations and in different locations both in the UK and abroad. Since retiring, Alan has chosen to support a range of organisations where he feels his skills will be useful, including RHS Rosemoor, the National Trust and the Parish Council. Alan will also be undertaking the role of Health and Safety Governor as well as Chair.