SLT (ID 1187)

• Lisa Miller
  CEO
  Lisa Miller

  Hello, and welcome to Arco Academy!

  I am Lisa Miller, the CEO of Arco Academy, and I’m passionate about helping young people become the best version of themselves. Drawing from my own experiences, I believe sports can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth.

  As a former international athlete, I had the honour of representing Great Britain in the 400m and 4x400m relay, winning several major titles. My journey in athletics was built on hard work, dedication, and the support of my family and an inspiring Deputy Headteacher. This has shaped my commitment to provide similar guidance and opportunities for young people at Arco Academy.

  With 24 years of experience in both the sports and education sectors, I am proud to set high standards for our students. In addition to coaching badges in athletics and basketball, I founded an inclusive athletics club in Catford that has developed national champions and medalists since 2010.

  I hold a BSc Honours Degree in Sports and Exercise Science from London South Bank University, alongside a National Diploma in Leisure and Tourism and an IAO Level 4 in Education and Training. I attended Auburn University in the USA on an athletics scholarship and was honoured as an all- American. In 2023, I earned an ISA certificate in Advanced School Leadership. Additionally, I am a 10KSB alumna of Saïd Business School, Oxford University.

  At Arco Academy, I am dedicated to fostering the same sense of determination and resilience in our students, whether they pursue elite sports or use sport as a tool to develop life skills, improve well-being, and enhance educational success. Welcome aboard!

• Andre Bailey
  Principal
  Andre Bailey

  Welcome to Arco Academy! I’m Andre Bailey (Principal) and I have been a school leader for over 20 years. Throughout my teaching career I have been drawn towards children who find challenge in their educational experience. Many of these children have been ‘pushed out’ of the system but here at Arco Academy they find a home.

  I have joined the team to build on the outstanding offer that currently provides for small numbers of children with additional needs. At present, our children benefit from a highly tailored offer and high levels of support. They are able to learn about their special educational needs, including neurodivergence or learning difficulties and develop strategies to ensure future success. All of this is done in an environment where they can build on sporting excellence one second, one kilogram or one centimetre at a time.

  The Arco Academy vision demands that we unlock the potential within every student whilst empowering them to become the best version of themselves. Our values demand respect, integrity and always, high standards. I have always loved to learn and whether it was the study of Primary Teaching (where I specialised in Art and graduated with first class honours) or my engagement in amateur sport (I represented England at the Masters World Cup in Canberra back in 2016), these are values that chime with me.

  There is a national struggle to meet the special educational needs of countless children who cannot, at present, make the mainstream system work for them. I believe that Arco Academy has an inspirational model that can deliver for many more children and families. I aim to protect the integrity of that model whilst making it available to more of the children ‘pushed out’ by the system.

  Sporting communities helped to raise me, providing adult role models, physical challenge and lifelong friendships across the world. They taught me how to deal with failure, they built my resilience and they gave me a healthy respect for a wider community where educational success was far from given, and simply putting food on the table was a greater priority. Arco Academy is a gateway to those sporting communities and it offers families an educational experience that is designed to overcome their barriers to learning.

  We are always looking for like-minded partners so whether you’re a parent with a struggling child, a local authority seeking a specialist placement, or a volunteer sports coach with a commitment to the next generation, Arco Academy is here and we are growing. Come and say hello!

• Fisayo Dacosta
  Assistant Principal and SENCO
  Fisayo Dacosta

  Hello, my name is Fisayo Dacosta, and I am the SENCO at ARCO Academy. I support students with additional needs, ensuring they receive the right help at the right time, both in school and through external support. With a BA in Professional Practice - Child and Youth Studies and a PGCE (with QTS), I have developed extensive expertise in special educational needs, including safeguarding, social and emotional development, communication, and child mental health.

  My role involves working closely with students, parents, and staff to address each student’s individual needs, and I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. I am particularly drawn to ARCO Academy because of its holistic and student-centred approach, which aligns with my passion for providing tailored support and fostering each student’s potential. I also collaborate with local authorities, schools, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure that each student receives the comprehensive support necessary for their success.

  If you have any concerns about your child’s progress or needs, I am here to help and can be your point of contact at ARCO Academy. I look forward to working together to support your child’s educational journey.

Teachers (ID 1188)

• Shelly Ann Peddie
  Assistant Principal and QTS STEM Teacher
  Shelly Ann Peddie

  Hi my name is Shelly Ann Peddie and I am the Assistant Head in charge of Curriculum at Arco Academy where I strive to create a curriculum that fosters a learning environment that inspires curiosity, innovation, and critical thinking. My journey in teaching has been driven by a deep commitment to empowering students through STEM education, fostering both their academic success and personal growth.

  As a dedicated educator with a Bachelor of Science in Science and Education, specializing in Biology and Mathematics. I bring a unique blend of subject expertise and strategic insight into curriculum design. My goal is creating a curriculum that meets the needs of diverse learners, integrates STEM seamlessly across subjects, and prepares students for the dynamic world beyond secondary school.

  At Arco we believe that a diverse and inclusive curriculum is essential for preparing students to understand and appreciate different perspectives, building a school community rooted in empathy, respect, and mutual growth. As an educational leader, I am dedicated to working collaboratively with colleagues, students, and parents to nurture a culture of excellence, where high expectations are balanced with compassion and support, allowing every student to thrive.

  At Arco our curriculum is both rigorous and responsive to the needs of our school community. I am enthusiastic about contributing to a culture of academic excellence, where every student feels supported and inspired to succeed.

• Kelliece Goldson
  QTS English and Humanities Teacher
  Kelliece Goldson

  Hello! My name is Kelliece Goldson and I am an English and Humanities Teacher at ARCO Academy.

  With a BA in History and having recently completed a postgraduate degree in education (PGCE), I bring a unique blend of academic expertise and teaching experience in my work with young people. It was whilst completing my PGCE that I had the invaluable opportunity to work in both a mainstream school and an independent provision for children with SEND. This experience was not only enjoyable but also critically enhanced my understanding of how to effectively address and accommodate the diverse needs of all students. Recognising the importance of providing specialised and compassionate education, I sought a role that would

• Suzan Henry
  QTS STEM Teacher
  Suzan Henry

  Hello! I’m Suzan Williams-Henry, a dedicated STEM teacher at Arco Academy. With a BA in Education and over 20 years of experience, I have developed a strong commitment to fostering student growth and success. Throughout my career, I’ve cultivated a deep understanding of diverse learning styles, allowing me to create an inclusive and engaging classroom environment where every student feels supported.

  I am passionate about encouraging critical thinking and personal development, helping students build skills that extend beyond academics. My teaching approach is centered on adaptability, ensuring that each learner’s unique needs are met while promoting independence and a lifelong love of learning. Committed to continuous professional growth and educational excellence, I strive to empower my students to succeed in both their academic and personal journeys.

• Sharon Simpson
  QTS Teacher
  Sharon Simpson

  Hi, my name is Sharon Simpson. With 35 years of teaching experience in challenging schools across Greenwich, Southwark, and Lambeth, I've held rewarding leadership roles. My pastoral leadership experiences have deepened my knowledge, understanding, and passion for supporting young people and their families, which I brought to my previous role as Arco's School Home Support Practitioner. In addition to my teaching role, I am committed to building strong relationships, providing practical help and emotional support.

  What makes Arco special is the dedication of SLT and staff, who are fully committed to every student's growth. Personal development is at the core of every decision, laying the foundation for academic success. With a personalized curriculum focus and support, Arco ensures students get the attention they need to thrive.

  Supporting students in becoming the best versions of themselves is a goal every parent shares. Working closely with students and families to achieve Arco’s mission, has been a truly rewarding experience, and empowering students while collaborating with their families has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.

Support Staff (ID 1242)

• Sakeelah Bangura
  School Home Support Practitioner
  Sakeelah Bangura

  Hi, my name is Keelah Bangura, and I am the School Home Support Practitioner at Arco Academy. With a background as a Behavior Manager and Head of Year, I am deeply committed to supporting students’ academic progress and personal wellbeing, as well as working closely with parents, families, and carers. My experience in these roles has enabled me to assist students in overcoming challenges both inside and outside the classroom, ensuring they engage effectively with their learning.

  I provide personalized support to students and their families, ensuring that any barriers to learning whether related to home life, attendance, or emotional wellbeing are addressed. I work closely with parents and carers to create strategies that support students’ academic success and overall development. By offering guidance, advocating for resources, and connecting families with relevant support services, I help ensure that students not only stay on track with their work but also thrive in all areas of their lives.

  I am passionate about creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can reach their full potential, both academically and personally. I look forward to working with you all.

Therapists (ID 1296)

• Claudia McGowan
  Psychotherapist
  Claudia McGowan

  Hello! I’m Claudia, an experienced mental health professional and clinical supervisor with a passion for enhancing the well-being of children and young people.

  As an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I adhere to high ethical standards while providing therapeutic support. My journey began with a Bachelor of Arts (First Class Honours) in Fine Art and History of Art from Goldsmiths University. It was there that I discovered the power of creative expression and its therapeutic potential. I later pursued a Master’s degree in Practice and Research Based Play and Creative Arts Therapy, gaining specialist skills to address the emotional and psychological needs of young people.

  I have enriched my practice with further training in evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). I tailor my approach to suit each individual child, ensuring that their unique needs are met.

  My professional experience spans various educational settings. I served as the Therapy Lead and then as Assistant Principal for Inclusion and Therapies at a large special education provision, where I successfully established a multidisciplinary therapy department. My focus on inclusion has helped create an outstanding therapeutic offer that ensured comprehensive support for all students. Before this, I worked as a Child Psychotherapist in mainstream school settings and provided essential support to children facing a diverse range of challenges. I also worked in the NHS where I spent seven years in two CAMHS teams, supporting children and adolescents experiencing complex mental health issues. I strongly believe that involving parents and caregivers in the therapeutic process, equips them with strategies that foster emotional resilience within family units. This has been a central part of my delivery, wherever I have practised.

  My commitment to mental well-being is not limited to children and families. For several years, I have been training school teams and other professionals to improve their understanding of attachment theory and trauma-informed practices. I have also mentored and supervised postgraduate psychotherapy students during their clinical placements in schools. I am qualified to lead a number of whole school approaches including Emotion Coaching and Youth Mental Health First Aid where I am a certified trainer.

  I have dedicated my professional life to the early identification of emotional difficulties, aiming to create supportive and inclusive environments where every student can thrive. I am particularly passionate about celebrating neurodiversity in society and in education. I believe that by embracing the individual strengths of the neurodivergent, we can deliver benefits for pupils and the wider community; it need not be a binary choice.

• Louis Prime
  Occupational Therapist
  Louis Prime

• Connor Lang
  Speech and Language Therapist
  Connor Lang

Facilitators (ID 1295)

• Kay Davis
  Art Facilitator
  Kay Davis

• Ryan Reed
  Chess Facilitator
  Ryan Reed

• Roger Brown
  Photography Facilitator
  Roger Brown

Advisory Board (ID 1294)