Teachers

My name is Claire James and I joined Chacewater Primary school in 2012, having moved back to Cornwall after many years away! I have been teaching for over twenty years (which is shocking when I think about it), mostly in the Bristol area where I was the Deputy Head of Paulton Junior School. Since graduating from Cardiff University with a BA in Education and Psychology I have never wanted to do anything else but teach; helping children to learn still gives me the same joy as when I first began. It has always been an inspiring profession and continues to be so.
I currently teach Year 6 pupils in the Mighty Oaks class. My aim is to provide the children with a varied and engaging curriculum, where they can develop as individuals as well as life long learners. I am particularly interested in art, science and maths. I lead 'Cooperative Learning' within the school: an approach which enables the children to use specific structures to support their teamwork skills. I also mentor students and Early Careers Teachers. In addition, I am the science coordinator - a role I thoroughly enjoy as I love encouraging practical learning and critical thinking.
Having grown up in Cornwall it is fantastic to be able to give my own two boys the same experiences and freedom that I had as a young girl. It is also wonderful to be part of a close community, an added bonus to being a member of the Chacewater team.
When I am not working I like to spend time with my family, especially if it involves a beach trip, although most weekends are spent cheering on my boys at football matches these days. I also enjoy swimming, yoga, and running (and any activity that includes eating cake!)

My name is Sophie Laskowski and I am pleased to be continuing my teaching career at Chacewater School as the Year 5 class teacher. I recently completed both my undergraduate degree in Education and PGCE at Bath Spa University where I worked in a variety of schools and settings. I aim to provide the children with engaging and creative lessons which enable all children to reach their full potential.
When I am not in school, I enjoy playing hockey, badminton and going to the gym, and I hope to use my sporting interests to motivate and inspire children throughout the school.
Having grown up in Cornwall, I am excited to be working at Chacewater School this year and look forward to watching the ‘Red Oaks’ progress and grow!

My name is Shelley Hoare and I am so proud to teach at Chacewater school. I previously worked at Chacewater school as a Teaching Assistant and I was also a pupil at this wonderful village school as a child. I trained to teach at the University of Gloucestershire, completing my BEd Hons in Primary Education in 2012. After this, I worked as a Nanny, Tutor, Teaching Assistant and now as a Primary School Teacher. I lead P.E and now also computing at the school, two areas of the curriculum which I am really passionate about. When I'm not working, I love spending time with my young daughter, paddle-boarding and doing zumba.

My name is Georgia O'Callaghan and I am delighted to be able to start my teaching career at Chacewater School as the Year 3 class teacher. I recently completed my PGCE through Exeter University, where I worked at a number of local schools in the Falmouth area. I aim to create a enthusiastic, creative, and safe learning environment, encouraging children to try their best in every aspect. When I am not in school, I enjoy going to the gym, and spending time exploring new Cornish beaches. I am so lucky to have the opportunity to start my career at such a lovely community school, and can't wait to learn with the children in Young Oaks this year.

Hello, I am Laura Glanville- Thomas and I have the wonderful privilege of teaching the reception class - ‘Acorns’. This is my fifth year at Chacewater and I honestly couldn’t be more proud to work in such an incredible school. This is my forth year leading the foundation stage, but before teaching in the foundation stage, I taught in the Seedlings class - year 1. I specialise in teaching Early Years and KS1 and I love the creativity, enthused learning space and the progression you see in the children.

Ever since I was a little girl, my dream was always to become a teacher. My dream finally crept closer in September 2012 when I finally took the plunge and started my BA (hons) degree in Education Studies. After a wonderful 3 years at Plymouth University, I decided to come home and broaden my educational knowledge by working in 2 local schools as a Teaching Assistant and completing my PGCE in Early Years Primary Teaching. I am very proud and fortunate in finding such a wonderful school to work in, with brilliant members of staff and such a community ethos.

When I am not in school I enjoy socialising with my friends, which mostly consists of going out for food. I also enjoy spending time with my wonderful daughter and husband’. I enjoy running and exploring the beautiful countryside and beaches Cornwall has to offer.

My name is Katie Cookson and I qualified as a Teacher in 2020, but I have 15 years of experience of working with children between the age range of Birth- 7 Years. I do love working in the Early Years because the level of enthusiasm that children show towards their learning is fantastic and you help them to start their journey in Education. I am excited to be teaching at Chacewater school in the Acorns Class.

In my free time, I like to explore beautiful Cornwall with my family and sometimes like to take a dip in the sea.