Local Governing Body
Richard Annear - Chair of Governors
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
I joined the team of governors at Ilfracombe Academy originally as a parent governor and have continued because I admire the whole professional team at the school. They are all there with the intention of helping our wonderful young people “live life in all its fullness”. I feel most grateful that I am able to use my experiences in adding to this in a small way.
Alison Homa
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
I have been a resident of Ilfracombe for nearly 14 years, with my husband, running a small farm and accommodation business. We have been self-employed for most our adult life, use many varied skills in our daily lives. Our 3 children are currently at The Ilfracombe Academy, with one in year 9 and two in the 6th Form.
In my spare time I like to do various crafts, including knitting with our own wood and sewing. I am a prolific reader, and a big fan of the Harry Potter books and all of the works of Jane Austen. I have 3 beehives and love all things bee, including using our honey and wax.
I believe that every child matters and that all children deserve the best, regardless of where they live and I hope I represent them all. I am passionate about young people and I believe that every child has a right to fulfil their potential in a caring environment with professional staff, and love being part of the team at The Ilfracombe Academy.
As a governor I fulfil an important role, along with my colleagues, of holding the Academy to account, and helping to make us one of the best schools in Devon. I am also Vice Chair on the South West Schools Federation governing body.
Jan Gatley
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
I retired from 37 years of teaching in 2015, the last 17 years of which I spent at The Ilfracombe Academy. I held the position of Head of Department for PCRE for several years, being one member of a very strong department. In 2014/15 we achieved the RE gold quality mark, which recognised the importance of RE in the Academy and the wider educational community.
On a more personal note I have 2 grown-up sons, 3 grandchildren and 2 step-grandchildren. I am passionate about an excellent education being accessible to all, and teachers being fully supported. With this in mind I feel privileged to be part of the continued development of The Ilfracombe Academy.
Victoria Squire
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
I live in Lynton and my husband and I have two daughters, who are at The Ilfracombe Academy.
I am a graduate from Central Saint Martins College of Art with an MA in Communication Design and Oxford Brooks University with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.
My teaching career began at South East Essex College, later moving to North Oxfordshire College and School of Art, before I returned to the area in 1997 as a lecturer in Graphic Design at the University of Plymouth.
I am currently a lecturer on the BA Hons Graphic Design with Typography programme, Associate Head of School – Education and Student Experience for the School of Art, Design & Architecture and Partnership Manager for City College Plymouth, and Petroc. I also lead the Message visual communication design research group and I am a co-founder and co-managing editor of the Message Graphic Communication Design Research Journal, published by the University of Plymouth Press. My research/design practice has been exhibited in the USA, Denmark and Korea and I have more recently presented a research paper at the 8th International Conference of Typography and Visual Communication in Greece entitled, Visual Communication in a time of crisis: Insights into the relationship between visual communication and health.
I joined the Ilfracombe Academy as Foundation Governor in 2020. Having a background in education I wanted to contribute to the development of education provision for all children within the Academy. Being a Foundation governor is extremely rewarding as I endeavour to utilise my knowledge and skills whilst developing the Ethos and values; Hope, Kindness, Courage,
Integrity, Trust, Respect, Responsibility and Resilience and am passionate about actively supporting the school to achieve the very best education for all children
Christopher Galloway
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
Bio to follow.
Steve Rogers - Headteacher
Term of office: 1st September 2020 - N/A
Appointed by: Ex-officio
Bio to follow.
David Ludley
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
Bio to follow.
Father John Roles
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
Bio to follow.
Dan Law
Term of office: 19th February 2024 - 18th February 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board
Bio to follow.
For Trust wide information please visit www.athenalearningtrust.uk/governance
Minutes of meetings 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
Jon Whormsley
Term of office - left January 2024
Pam Cox
Term of office - left December 2023
Rachael Hughes
Term of office: 19th February 2024 - 18th February 2028
End of term: 9th September 2024
Appointed by: GB/Board
Bio to follow.