Meet the Team
At Arco Academy, our dedicated team is at the heart of everything we do. Our qualified teachers, skilled therapists, and supportive staff work together to create a nurturing learning environment. We also collaborate with leading experts and organisations to enhance our programmes. Our leadership team ensures that we remain focused on excellence and student success. Explore how our team makes a difference in our school community.
SLT Staff
SLT (ID 1187)
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Lisa MillerCEO
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!
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Ben AndersonVice Principal
Ben Anderson
Hi, my name is Ben Anderson, the Vice Principal at Arco Academy. My mission is to ensure all young people have the best start in life by developing a meaningful and relatable environment where they can thrive, using the mediums of sport and physical activity.
I have been working in education for 13 years in various roles, but my passion lies in Physical Education. I hold a QTS in Science and Physical Education, in addition to, a BA in Physical Education, Sport, and Activity from Kingston University.
My love for physical education stems from my own sporting experiences, having played semi-professional football and boxed at an amateur level when I was younger.
I also have coaching badges in football through the Football Association.
My extensive experience in sport and education has allowed me to develop a holistic, child-centred approach to young people’s education. This has enabled me to build positive relationships with students and empower them to become the best versions of themselves.
At Arco Academy, we focus on helping students build resilience and a lifelong love for physical activity. By encouraging perseverance and a growth mindset, we aim to instil confidence and determination in our students. We believe that physical activity is not just about fitness, but also about fostering mental well-being and social skills. Through sports, students learn valuable life lessons such as teamwork, leadership, and the importance of setting and achieving goals. My goal is to create a supportive environment where every student feels valued and motivated to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle
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Fisayo DacostaSENCO/Assistant Head
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.
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Benita HenrySchool Business Manager
Benita Henry
Hi my name is Benita Henry and as the School Business Manager at Arco Academy, I am deeply committed to providing our students with access to a wide range of opportunities that will support their growth both now and in the future. My dedication to the success and well-being of our pupils drives my passion for ensuring they are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in all aspects of life.
I have been working as a School Business Manager for over 8 years. Outside of my professional role, I am a dedicated fitness enthusiast and competitive bodybuilder. Having personally experienced the transformative impact that sports and fitness can have on one’s life, I find great fulfilment in working at a school that integrates sports and fitness into its core curriculum. This unique alignment allows me to seamlessly combine my professional expertise with my personal passion, fostering a positive and holistic environment for our students.
My goal at Arco Academy is to build upon the excellent work already achieved, while providing students, parents, and staff with enhanced resources and access to even greater opportunities. By doing so, I aim to lay a strong foundation for the future success of our pupils, shaping the next generation of accomplished and well-rounded adults.
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Shelly Ann PeddieAssistant Head
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.
Teachers
Teachers (ID 1188)
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Kelliece GoldsonQTS 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 allow me to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of students. This led me to my current position at ARCO, where the commitment to inclusivity and individualised learning mirrors the values I hold dear.
My passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom; I thrive on sharing captivating stories and insights that ignite curiosity and encourage a love for learning. My enthusiasm for English compliments my history background, as I believe that story telling is a powerful tool in education. I enjoy working with young people and guiding them through their educational journey and witnessing their growth and development. Each interaction is an opportunity to inspire young minds and help them discover their potential, making every day in the classroom a rewarding experience.
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Christina SarakanidiQTS SEN Teacher
Christina Sarakanidi
Hello, my name is Christina Sarakanidi, and I am a SEND Teacher at Arco Academy. With over 17 years of experience in education, I am committed to supporting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) through personalised teaching strategies that foster academic success and personal development.I hold a Master’s degree in Linguistics and Paedo-psychology, which has provided me with a deep understanding of language acquisition and child psychology—critical tools in addressing the diverse needs of SEND students. My international career includes co-founding and serving as Director at an international school in Athens, Greece. This role honed my leadership skills and deepened my expertise in education on a global scale.In addition to my leadership experience, I spent several years teaching primary and secondary students in Greece and more recently, England. This time was invaluable in shaping my approach to differentiated instruction and classroom management, particularly with students facing behavioural challenges.In the UK, I have worked in both mainstream and specialist schools, always prioritising tailored support to help students with conditions such as ADHD and ASD improve their focus, self-esteem, and academic performance. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive, structured, and nurturing learning environment where all students can thrive and achieve their full potential.
Support Staff
Support Staff (ID 1242)
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Sakeelah BanguraHigher Level Teaching Assistant
Sakeelah Bangura
Hi my Name is Keelah Bangura and I am one of the Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) 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. My experience in these roles has allowed me to guide students through challenges both inside and outside the classroom, ensuring they access and engage with their learning effectively. As a former Kent County Athletic Champion, I understand how physical health and wellbeing directly contribute to mental alertness and improved focus in lessons. I hold a Bsc in Sports Therapy, a National Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development, and a National Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools, which give me a holistic understanding of the connections between physical activity, wellbeing, and academic success. My role is to provide tailored support to students, ensuring they not only stay on track with their work but also develop the resilience and confidence to overcome obstacles. I am here to ensure that every student can thrive, both in their learning and personal development.
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Sharon SimpsonSchool Home Support
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 now bring to my role as Arco's School Home Support Practitioner. I am committed to building strong relationships with both students and their families, 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 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.
Facilitators
Facilitators (ID 1295)
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Kay DavisArt Facilitator
Kay Davis
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Tope AwotonaPhotographer Facilitator
Tope Awotona
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Ryan ReedChess Facilitator
Ryan Reed
Advisory Board
Advisory Board (ID 1294)
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Ron St LouisChairperson
Ron St Louis
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Ken AdamsEducation and Health and Safety Lead
Ken Adams
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Sandie QuinnSafeguarding Lead
Sandie Quinn
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Natalie RobertsSENCO Lead
Natalie Roberts
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Sochi Henry-UcheFinance Lead
Sochi Henry-Uche