Welcome to our new website!
Welcome to our new website!
Connor Downs Academy

Our Staff

Mrs Eddy

Mrs Eddy

Head of School | SENDCO | Designated Safeguarding Lead

I am delighted to hold the post of Head of School at Connor Downs Academy. I am also the Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator, Designated Safeguarding Lead and Designated Teacher for Children in Care. I completed a BA (Hons) degree in English and Education Studies, obtained from the University of Worcester in 1990. I then went on to achieve a Post Graduate Certificate of Education, awarded by the University of Exeter, in 1991.Through Plymouth University, in 2017-2018, I achieved the National Award for Special Educational Needs Coordination at Masters level. I hold the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH), credited by the Department for Education. My teaching career began in 1991 and has spanned over thirty-four years, holding senior leadership posts for the past twenty-four years. The last ten years have been spent as Head of School in two primary schools; a large, urban setting in Cornwall and my current setting; Connor Downs Academy. I view teaching as a vocation, both embracing and advocating the inherently hugely rewarding and vital role which educators embody. Support is not only characterised through educational development, but furthermore, the holistic approach undertaken to ensure that children’s progression encapsulates an understanding and appreciation of the concept of ‘self-worth’, both on an individual and collective level. Purposeful and meaningful education is underpinned by nurturing positive relationships and caring for mental health. This is why I so passionately believe that achieving, and sustaining, the national award; Trauma Informed Schools UK (TISUK), is fundamental for both the academic success, and personal development and wellness, of children. Connor Downs Academy embeds the TISKUK ethos in all pedagogical practice, fostering positive emotional regulation and consequentially, embracing inclusive access to learning to enable positive learning outcomes. I was delighted to be invited to showcase the best practice work of Connor Downs Academy at a Westminster Insight Conference with a focus on Child Mental Health and Wellbeing in Schools. I am incredibly happy to have been a part of the Connor Downs family for the past eight years and am proud of the strong community links which have been established to collectively support our children. I look forward to continuing to build on our success.
Mr Pascoe

Mr Pascoe

Lead Teacher KS2 | Year 5 Teacher | Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

I am delighted to join Connor Downs Academy as Lead Teacher for KS2. I completed a BSc (Hons) degree in Genetics at Cardiff University. I then completed my Post Graduate Certificate in Education at Cambridge University. I hold the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH), credited by the Department for Education. I have worked at Penryn Primary Academy for many years where I predominantly taught Year 6. I have had a variety of coordinator roles and I have a particular interest in maths. Therefore, I was delighted to be offered the role of KS2 Lead Teacher and Maths Lead at Connor Downs Academy. In my spare time, I enjoy running. If you see me out and about on my training runs, give me a friendly wave as this always spurs me on.   I look forward to working with you all.
Miss Marshall

Miss Marshall

EYFS Teacher

I am so pleased to be the Reception teacher at Connor Downs Academy. I am passionate about supporting children in the Early Years, and inspiring children to be creative, inquisitive and confident. I trained to teach here in Cornwall, and love to see children exploring the outdoors, learning and playing in nature. Exploration is crucial in the Early Years, and at Connor Downs Acadmey, children are encouraged to ask questions, take risks, and develop a lifelong love of learning—both indoors and out. Starting school is an exciting milestone, and I will support your children to transition and thrive in their Reception year of school. I feel privileged to be part of this important step and am committed to creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn. Having studied a degree in English and Creative Writing, I understand and advocate for building a genuine love of reading and writing from a young age and will nurture this throughout the year. My favourite subject to teach is phonics, as the progress children make is incredible to watch and be a part of. Outside of the classroom, I love exploring our coastlines, reading as much as possible and swimming in the sea.
Miss Pedlar

Miss Pedlar

Year 1 Class teacher

I am delighted to be the teacher of Year 1, working alongside Mrs. Hackett, where we create a happy and exciting learning environment. I have completed a BSc Hons degree in Physiotherapy at Northumbria University and then completed my PGCE at the University of St. Mark and St. John Plymouth in 2013-2014. Over the years I have taught in all year groups and spent 3 years teaching in Year 1 and reception in Dubai. I have a particular interest in Year 1 and EYFS, I absolutely love teaching these age groups, as it is rewarding to see the amount of academic and social progress they make. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, exploring my beautiful home county of Cornwall. I am incredibly happy to be part of the Connor Downs family, working with a dedicated team and community. I am really looking forward to supporting, working with and creating lasting memories with the fantastic children at Connor.
Miss Medcalf

Miss Medcalf

Year 2 Teacher

I love being a teacher and I am thrilled to be the Year 2 class teacher here at Connor Downs Academy. It is a privilege to work with such enthusiastic and curious learners, helping them grow in confidence and develop a love for learning. I am committed to cultivating a growth mindset within my classroom, promoting that anything can be achieved through dedication and effort. I encourage my pupils to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and persist in the face of difficulties. I am enthusiastic about creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment where every child feels valued, inspired, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Before becoming a teacher, I had the incredible opportunity to play football (soccer) in America. I gained a scholarship at Winnipeg University. This experience taught me the value of dedication, teamwork, and resilience—qualities I now bring into the classroom every day. Following my football career, I ran my own dance business and worked as a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant, which deepened my passion for supporting children’s growth and creativity. These diverse experiences have shaped my approach to teaching, inspiring me to help every student build confidence and enjoy their learning journey. Alongside this, I completed a BSc Hons degree in Sports Science, Nutrition, Coaching and Fitness at Plymouth University and then completed my PGCE at Bath University in 2022. Over the years, I have taught across all year groups, with a particular focus on Year 6, which has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the skills and support students need as they prepare for the next stage of their education. I am now excited to bring my experience and passion to Key Stage One, where I look forward to nurturing young learners as they begin their educational journey. When I am not teaching, you will usually find me surfing, skateboarding, running, or playing football. I love staying active and having fun outdoors. I also enjoy walking around our beautiful Cornish coastlines. I am delighted to be part of the Connor Downs family that fosters a positive and inclusive learning environment for all. Being a part of this school community is truly rewarding.
Ms Speight

Ms Speight

Year 3 Teacher

I am currently teaching in Year 3, alongside Mr Foulds, supported by Mrs Ridge as teaching assistant. I have a Post Graduate Certificate in Primary Teaching and also a BA Honours Degree in Fine Art. At Connor Downs Academy, I am the Art and Design and also Design Technology Coordinator for the school.  Extra-curricular wise, I am responsible for running an Art club for children from Year R to Year 3.   I began teaching in 1994 and have had the pleasure of working in a range of different schools in West Cornwall. I have experience of teaching across all year groups from Early Years to Year 6. I am really proud of Connor Downs Academy especially our children’s excellent behaviour.   Cultivating Futures has made our learning and play so exciting. Now working outside the school grounds is a real thrill whatever the lesson might be.  I enjoy creating artwork with the children and also growing flowers and vegetables (not to mention eating them).  It is important to enable children to take risks and learn independent skills every day.  I enjoy seeing children’s happy faces when they have persevered and succeeded in learning a new skill in writing or hitting the ball in cricket …. The list is endless
Mrs Crease

Mrs Crease

Teacher

I am excited to be returning to live in Cornwall and work at Connor Downs Academy as class teacher covering a day a week in Years 1, 3 and 5. I am also Music and Computing subject leader. I obtained a BA (Hons) degree in Education Studies and Geography from University College Worcester in 2000. Then, I completed my Post Graduate Certificate of Education at the Institute of Education, University of London, in 2002. After spending a year in Los Angeles, I began my teaching career in 2003. I taught in junior and primary schools in Sunbury for 14 years and have spent the last 4 years working at a primary school in Sandhurst. I have held a range of subject leader roles (Computing, Geography, History, Reading, RE and DT) as well as being year leader and Key Stage 1 lead. I count myself so lucky to be able to do a job that I love. I enjoy teaching all aspects of the primary curriculum and particularly relish seeing children blossom as they gain confidence in their abilities. I agree wholeheartedly with the ethos of Connor Downs Academy that puts children's needs as the main priority of the school. I am looking forward to sharing my enthusiasm and love of learning with the pupils at Connor Downs Academy.
Mr Foulds

Mr Foulds

Year 4 teacher

My name is Mr. Foulds and I teach in Year 4 as well as being Religious Education subject leader and Co-Music lead. I lead the singing assembly every Thursday afternoon and can often be found around school teaching music. I trained as a teacher at Rolle College in Exmouth where I gained a BEd (Hons) degree. I started my career in Surrey and then taught in Buckinghamshire for a few years before moving back to Cornwall in 2012, when my wife and I decided to start a family. Prior to joining Connor Downs Academy, I worked at St Uny Primary Academy in Carbis Bay. In my spare time I like to spend time with my family, write and record music as well as make my own electric guitars. I have a passion for enabling children’s creativity, especially in music and so I am delighted to be able to work with the children of Connor Downs Academy and help them flourish.
Miss Norton

Miss Norton

Year 6 Teacher

I am thrilled to be the teacher of Year 6 at Connor Downs. I like to ensure all the children in my class feel included, love what they are learning and know what success feels like. I went to The University of Glasgow and graduated in 2006 with a degree in History. I completed my teacher training in York, which is close to my hometown. Since qualifying, I have taught in schools in Luton and Leeds before relocating to Cornwall in 2015. Most recently, I have been teaching in Upper Key Stage 2 at Probus Primary School, leading Maths and Science. I am passionate about the arts, language and stories; to me, these all contribute towards developing children’s ability to communicate orally and through their writing. As a result, I am thrilled to be leading English across KS2, as well as guiding the support of our Pupil Premium children in school. I love going to the theatre and seeing big Westend shows, as well as cooking and reading as many books as I can find the time…and bookshelf space… for.
Mr Costello

Mr Costello

Outdoor Learning Leader

I love my job as the outdoor learning leader at Connor Downs Academy. I have a Bachelor of Science degree from my studies in core science, environmental science and design for the environment. I am also a qualified teaching assistant and have a Diploma in Horticulture. Before moving to education, I used my chemistry background by working in a pharmacy, dispensing medication and I was a trained health-care advisor.  I have a special interest in atmospheric science, especially meteorology and climate change.  I am also very interested in zoology and use this in my work every day. My role at Connor Downs involves me planning learning activities to enrich the science national curriculum from Year 1 to Year 6.  I work with small groups of pupils, carrying out practical investigations to support their scientific knowledge and understanding.  I teach all pupils across the school and focus on environmental studies, science, sociology and geography themes such as globalisation, weather and climate change, living things and habitats, plants science and horticulture. I work with Reception children each week in 'Muddy Mondays' where I support the EYFS curriculum and help pupils develop their  their early scientific awareness through fun, practical activities. I also run an outdoor learning themed 'nurture group' over lunchtimes and an after school club called Nature Detectives. We are very active in our aim to reduce, reuse and recycle.  We make our own water filters from recycled materials and create habitats for visiting wildlife, including in our large pond. We grow our own vegetables and fruit from seed and then the children use their produce in their food technology sessions with Mrs Pedley. 
SCHOOL OFFICE
Mrs Gallagher

Mrs Gallagher

Finance Officer/School Secretary

I began working at Connor Downs Academy in January 2015 in the office as Finance Officer/secretary.  Previously I had worked for fourteen years at a firm of chartered accountants and qualified as an Accounting Technician, dealing with accounts preparation and payroll, amongst other duties. My current role on a morning encompasses dealing with the school finances basis, involving ordering, paying suppliers and liaising with members of staff and outside agencies.  I am also in charge of all personnel and payroll within the academy and the Single Central Record, a key part of safeguarding. I am front of house dealing with telephone calls, visitors to school and the general running of the school office. I really enjoy the challenges that this very busy and varied role brings every day and love the fact that I can get to know the children and will see them grow and progress during their time at  school.
CATERING
Mrs Allan

Mrs Allan

Cook

TEACHING ASSISTANTS
Miss Abel

Miss Abel

EYFS Teaching Assistant

My choice of profession was mainly influenced by my desire to help support and develop children’s skills and encourage them to learn new things.    Before I had my own children, I discovered my love for helping and supporting others. Therefore I studied the CACHE Diploma (NVQ level 3) in Child Care and Education. In addition, I then completed a period of teaching experience by completing a work experience placement within Connor Downs Academy. I shadowed various teaching staff, observing their teaching techniques and the ways in which they support the children. I found each day a new challenge as new faces, new personalities were emerging which brought various obstacles my way as different methods of teaching were needed. The most enjoyable aspect of this work environment is that no day is ever the same - new lessons, new people. It was exciting to know I had the opportunity to assist in someone’s learning, gaining satisfaction from seeing the new skill acquired.    I have had experience in working as a Special Educational Needs teaching assistant for Key Stage 1 and 2 within the academy and I also gained a distinction on a sensory processing disorder awareness diploma. I am very committed with a strong awareness and passion for children’s learning and development.  I enjoy being part of and encouraging inclusive education and promoting good positive learning techniques.  I have always had a passion for primary teaching and geared my studies and career in this direction as I feel it is extremely valuable to be helping children develop skills they can continue to use throughout their lives. I have completed training with Penhaligon Friends and am equipped to support children, parents/carers and staff following bereavement. In addition, I have completed training to offer bespoke support to children who are identified as having ADHD.
Miss Pedley

Miss Pedley

SEND Teaching Assistant and Outdoor Lead.

I am delighted to hold the postion of teaching assistant and Outdoor Lead at Connor Downs Academy. I support pupils in the class setting, to enable them to flourish and to access all areas of the curriuculum. This is a very rewarding postion to hold and I greatly value working in partnership with the parents to support their children. I have a strong passion for caring for animals and understand the important benefits that working with animals can bring to children's development. I am have achieved the Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management, through Duchy College. Outside of school, I am a qualified Community First Responder and support South West Ambulance Service to provide first aid care to the local community. I am able to use knowledge learnt in this role, to support First Aid teaching and learning in school.

Mrs Anderson Smith

Year 1 Teaching Assistant.

Mrs Hackett

Mrs Hackett

Year 2 Teaching Assistant

Hello my name is Mrs Hackett. I am a teaching assistant in Year 2 working alongside Miss Medcalf. I hold a Level 2 certificate in the Children and Young People’s workforce. Before joining Connor Downs Academy I worked at a GP’s surgery for 14 years. I knew I wanted to work within a school setting for a long time so when my children started at Connor Downs Academy I attended the parents sessions to see the topics the class were learning and I also volunteered for school trips and the school disco’s. I loved being in the school setting which gave me the motivation to start a career in Early Years. Whilst studying at Cornwall College, I gained my work experience at a local nursery and this is where I discovered my passion to work with Early Years. I feel very privileged to be part of an amazing team.
Mrs Ridge

Mrs Ridge

Year 3 Teaching Assistant

My name is Mrs Ridge and I work as a teaching assistant in Year 3, alongside Ms Speight and Mr Foulds  Prior to joining Connor Downs Academy, I worked for a Building Society for 17 years and, once I had my children, I became the Chairperson of Hayle Pre School Playgroup until my children joined Connor Downs Academy. My passion for this school, the children and staff is very strong and I am extremely proud of what has been achieved here. All that we do at Connor Downs Academy is for the children, so that they can learn in a happy, safe and encouraging environment. Coming to work every day is a pleasure and I think we are so lucky to have the best job in the whole world, watching the children grow and develop as lifelong learners.
Mrs Smith

Mrs Smith

SEND Teaching Assistant

Hello. My name is Mrs Smith and I am a SEND Teaching Assistant supporting a pupil on a one to one basis. I love working at Connor Downs Academy and helping the children to grow and learn. Every day is special and rewarding. I am very happy to be part of such a supportive team. Outside of school, I am Mum to three children. I believe that education is so important to prepare our children for their future lives.
Mrs Holmes

Mrs Holmes

Teaching Assistant.

Mrs Talbott

Year 4 Teaching Assistant.

Ms Scaife

Ms Scaife

Year 5 Teaching Assistant, Pastoral Support Advisor, Trauma Informed Schools Practitioner and Senior Mental Health Lead

I have worked at Connor Downs Academy since 2009. My journey at the school began as a classroom volunteer and, in time, I was fortunate enough to become a teaching assistant, supporting children across both KS1 and KS2. During my time at Connor Downs Academy, in my capacity as the Trauma Informed School's practitioner, I have successfully led a number of intervention groups including FunFit, Nurture and additional phonics support. I support the children by planning and delivering bespoke, play-based activities; these activities support our children's personal, social and emotional development. In addition to this, I am also a lunch time supervisor. Professionally, I have completed a Level 2 qualification in Teaching and Learning and also been awarded Accreditation in Language for Learning and Behaviour Therapy. In addition to this, I hold both a Certificate of Higher Education and a Foundation Degree in Primary Teaching and Learning. I am also first aid trained. I have completed mental health training to support children, parents/carers and staff. I hold the qualification of 'Senior Mental Health Lead.' In addition, I have undertaken training with Penhaligon Friends and am equipped to support children, parents/carers and staff following bereavement. I am proud to work alongside such a great team and with the children, watching them develop in all areas, especially seeing them grow more confident and develop their own individual personalities.
Mrs Smitherham

Mrs Smitherham

Year 6 Teaching Assistant

Currently, I am the teaching assistant working in Year 6. I have held this position for the past 7 years. I also hold the position of, SENDCo and Academy Administrator. Professionally, I hold a Foundation Degree in Teaching and Learning as well as an ILM Level 3 in Leadership and Management. I began my career in education 19 years ago at Connor Downs Academy as a Special Needs Teaching Assistant, supporting several pupils throughout their academic journey. After 4 years, I became a general teaching assistant, gathering experience working within both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Throughout my time at Connor Downs Academy, I have also held the position of lunchtime supervisor, supporting pupils within their play and enabling them to develop socially as well as emotionally. Building bonds with fellow peers that they will always remember. As a parent and a professional, I am a strong believer that children should be taught skills that they can use within their day to day lives as well as within their chosen career paths. This is something that we strongly encourage at Connor Downs Academy and an achievement that I am very proud of.