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.
On a more personal note, I have 2 grown-up sons, 4 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.
Father John Roles
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
Appointed by: GB/Board
Bio to follow.
Amy Fisher
Term of office: 26th June 2025 – 25th June 2029
Appointed by: GB/Board
I am the mother of two boys, one at the Ilfracombe Academy and one joining soon.
I believe that a great school can make a huge impact on the future prospects and quality of life of its students.
I've been inspired by what the Academy management team and staff have achieved over the past few years, and I hope that I will be able to contribute to the school's continuing success.
I come from a business background, having worked as an analyst in the financial services industry. I hope that my experience will complement that of my colleagues on the Academy governance team.
Kevin Squire
Term of office: 26th June 2025 – 25th June 2029
Appointed by: GB/Board
I have lived in Ilfracombe all my life, and I attended this school - all be it a very different looking school - when I was young. I have 2 girls attending the academy now.
I enjoy spending time with my family and attending concerts and sporting events. I love all sports.
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
Rachael Hughes
Term of office: 19th February 2024 - 18th February 2028
End of term: 9th September 2024
Appointed by: GB/Board
Bio to follow.
David Ludley
Term of office: 1st November 2023 – 31st October 2027
End of term: 3rd March 2025
Appointed by: GB/Board
Dan Law
Term of office: 19th February 2024 – 18th February 2025
End of term: 30th May 2025
Appointed by: GB/Board