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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

Local Governing Body

 

Dr Alan Whittle (Chair)

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

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.

Lynsey Slater (Principal)

1st October 2018- 31st August 2023
Appointed by: Trust Board

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

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.

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.

David Humphries

6th July 2022 - 6th July 2026
Appointed by: Local Governing Body
End of Term: 1st September 2022

David's career began in 1976 as a mathematics teacher at a very large comprehensive school in London. In 1979, he moved to become Head of Mathematics at a comprehensive school in northeast England and was subsequently promoted to become Deputy Head teacher. In 1990, David became Head Teacher of Southfield School in Workington, West Cumbria and led the school successfully through the first round of Ofsted school inspections.

In 1997, David moved to North Devon as Principal of Ilfracombe College. During the following years standards rose markedly, culminating in a Department for Education Achievement Award in 2003 shortly before he left the College to join Ofsted as one of Her Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI). After gaining substantial experience as a frontline inspector, David became a member of Ofsted’s senior leadership team and in 2009 moved to a key role in the development of national school inspection policy and practice.

Following his retirement, David undertook a range of voluntary work before joining the Governing Body of Bideford College in 2014. When Bideford joined the Trust in March 2016, he was appointed Chair of the Local Governing Body and, in that capacity, is a member of the Trust Board. After a rewarding and successful career in education he is glad that he is still able to put something back into the system!

Zoe Watkins

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.