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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

Ilfracombe Academy

Ilfracombe Academy

Our Staff

Mrs Christina Medland - Head of School / Class 2 Teacher

Mrs Medland joined Altarnun Primary School in September 2017 with responsibility for EYFS, KS1 and English subject lead. Mrs Medland began her career in teaching following many years working within the Preschool sector and leading the Bude Early Years Forum. She gained a Bachelor of Education (Hons) from the University of St Mark and St John in 2006 and has worked in Cornwall throughout her teaching career, having experience of both small and large school settings and mixed aged teaching.

Mrs Medland has served on the Senior Leadership Team in a large primary as Mathematics and Key Stage 1 lead and Newly Qualified Teacher Mentor. She is passionate about early reading and enjoys leading English within the school as well as History.

Mrs Medland has lived in Cornwall since she was a young child. She has many interests including walking the local coast paths, travel, singing, reading, history, sewing crafts but mainly spending time with her family. In the summer she enjoys tractor rallies – sometimes exhibiting the family’s classic tractors and stationary engines. As well as enjoying short breaks around the UK, she has enjoyed holidays around Europe and North Africa, experiencing new cultures and making memories with her now late husband. Mrs Medland lives with her kitten Mabel.

Mrs Alicia Watson - Class 1 Teacher (EYFS/KS1)

Mrs Watson received a batcherlor’s degree in Media Arts and Sociology from Plymouth University. After this, she began working as a senior support therapist to adults with autism. In 2017, she decided to follow her lifelong dream of becoming a primary teacher and began a PGCE Primary course at Marjon’s University. In 2019, Mrs Watson joined the team at Altarnun Primary school as a KS2 teacher.

After Mrs Watson and her husband welcomed the birth of their son she returned to Altarnun to work with EYFS and KS1 and has now taught every year group.

In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, keeping fit and going for walks around the countryside.

Mrs Sarah Green - SEN & Inclusion Coordinator 

Mrs Green is the SENCO Inclusion Lead across our Primary Cluster. Following the completion of her BEd, Mrs Green went on to further her passion for education through completing a MA in Education whilst teaching. She also holds the National Award for Special Educational Needs Coordination.

Mrs Green has taught in a variety of schools, across all age ranges, in the West Midlands, Plymouth and Cornwall. Mrs Green has a passion for Early Years Education and supporting children with additional needs.

Never wanting to sit still for too long, she loves nothing more than being outside, looking after her range of animals and completing gardening projects.

Laura Flintoff - Class 1 Teacher (EYFS/KS1)

My journey in education has been a diverse and rewarding one, shaped by my passion for teaching and a desire for enriching experiences. Originally from the breathtaking county of Cornwall, my educational path has taken me far and wide, only to bring me back to my beloved roots.

After earning my degree in Business Economics from Reading University, I initially pursued a career in accounting in the bustling city of London. However, it wasn't long before I realized that my true calling lay elsewhere – in the world of education.

I followed my heart to Maine, USA, where I immersed myself in teaching young children the art of sailing. This unique experience allowed me to combine my love for the outdoors with the joy of nurturing young minds.

Seeking further expertise, I embarked on a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) program at Exeter, specializing in Primary Mathematics. My teaching career formally began in Farnham, Surrey, where I honed my skills and ignited a passion for guiding young learners.

My thirst for diverse experiences led me to Shanghai, China, where I taught in international schools. This experience not only broadened my horizons but also deepened my commitment to fostering global understanding in the classroom. While in Shanghai, I took the opportunity to immerse myself in Chinese culture and language, further enhancing my ability to connect with students from different backgrounds.

In 2019, my family welcomed our eldest daughter, marking a new chapter in our lives. We embraced the opportunity to live in Thailand, where I continued my teaching journey while indulging in my passion for surfing whenever the waves beckoned.

This summer, our family made the heartfelt decision to return to our cherished home county of Cornwall. I am thrilled to be back, ready to share my passion for education and the wealth of experiences I've gained from around the world with the Cornwall community. My teaching journey has been one of growth, understanding, and a deep appreciation for the potential within every student, and I am excited to continue this journey here at home.

Miss Vicky Hughes - Class 3 Teacher (KS2)

Having spent my childhood and teenage years split between rural Dorset and city life in Lyon (France), I embraced the opportunity of becoming fluent in both languages. I then pursued higher education at the University of Kent where I delved into the world of law. However, my passion for adventure soon led me to New Zealand. During my time there, I worked as an electric scooter mechanic all whilst visiting the breath-taking landscapes of New Zealand. 

Returning to England, I qualified as a primary school teacher and took on the role of Year 6 teacher at a local primary school in Hampshire. In 2023, I relocated to Cornwall, a place which I have always wanted to call home - the rugged coastline and stunning countryside perfectly complement my love for the outdoors. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking and baking, walking along the coastal path or exploring new destinations around the UK.  

Mrs Terri Daniel - HLTA

My journey in education began after three years of intensive training in childcare and education in my home town of Leeds. Nine years ago, I made a life-changing decision to move to the beautiful region of Cornwall, which opened up new opportunities in my educational career.

For the past seven years, I've been dedicated to Altarnun Primary School, a place where my commitment and tireless efforts have made a significant impact. During my tenure, I earned the status of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), which has further enhanced my role and responsibilities.

Beyond my career, I'm a devoted mother to two lovely daughters, Bella and Gracie. Being a mother has not only enriched my personal life but also deepened my ability to connect with and nurture the young learners I work with.

My passion lies in creating nurturing and stimulating learning environments for young minds, and I'm excited to continue this journey of fostering growth and development in children.

Mrs Anita Lawrence - Teaching Assistant

Coming Soon 

Mrs Paula Hearn - Teaching Assistant 

My role (Supporting Teaching and Learning), at Altarnun School, is for me the best job. For the past 15 years I have developed the skills to support  teachers and the pupils in making the most of their learning opportunities.  I have NVQs in supporting teaching and learning and Specialist support. I have trained in Nurturing for positive behaviours in learning and in 2019 I gained Higher level status. This year I have also gained a mentoring qualification. I love Cornwall and in my spare time I enjoy the outdoors lifestyle (Beach, countryside and my garden), crafting, painting and cooking or baking. I am also always looking for rainbows.

Lesley Bain - School Secretary 

Mrs Bain started her career in the RAF and spent several years at different locations in the UK and overseas.

After starting a family in 2008 she became a childminder for 6 years.

In December 2014 she returned to Cornwall and joined Altarnun Primary School in April 2015.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, running and walking on the moors.