Testimonials
Parents
Arco Academy is transforming my son’s behaviour, attitude toward studying into a better young adult for the society . I am amazed in all happenings. My son look forward to school every day and I am sincerely happy for all the staff at Arco are doing to bring out the best out of my son . Really massive THANK YOU .
Mrs MF, Parent
My daughter attended Arco academy for 2 school years and has recently left after doing GCSEs . I have only good things to say about this school and the staff. The team are absolutely amazing and treat the children as individuals and make sure they grow and develop both academically and personally. My daughters confidence grew and she became so much happier within herself almost instantly from being there. She got all the support she needed to grow learn and develop into a young adult. I cannot fault them as a team and will miss her being a part of the Arco family.
Kellymay Hughes, Parent
Arco Academy has been outstanding! They have staff members who care about the students and provide limitless support to families. They understand that every child is not the same and some children may have more needs than others and are not what mainstream like to deem as ‘disruptive and difficult’. They are firm but fair all round and are great advocates for students to reach their best potential, whether it be preparing them back for mainstream or staying with them. Without their consistent communication with my family and support given I fear my child would not have been given a second chance at anything! Forever grateful to Arco Academy.
Tashan Bryan, Parent
This is only school where my child feels happy and safe and fits in perfectly
Arco Academy are second-to-none and a Camberwell (and Southwark) gem.
Anonymous, Parent
ARCO is very good school the teachers are kind and respectful always professional . Good job . I'm really happy for the school.
Anonymous, Parent
My child changed so much while at Arco. She became happy in herself more confident and gained understanding of others as well as a great education. The Arco team are absolutely fantastic with the children and the time and care they show them is amazing and extremely important to their time there. I will miss my child being part of Arco .
Anonymous, Parent
My child enjoys his time at school and the staff and teachers are work well to accommodate my child's needs.
Anonymous, Parent
Students
Arco Academy supported me when I was at my lowest, providing a blend of fun activities and learning that helped me thrive in a new environment. The teachers were there for me every step of the way. At first, I didn’t want to be there or take my education seriously, I was ready to give up on school entirely. But the teachers showed me that they genuinely cared, and that made all the difference. Their support helped me believe in myself. My exam results ended up being better than I expected, and now I’ve successfully enrolled in an Electrical Engineering course, which is going very well.
Fahad, Class of 2024
Attending Arco has truly been a blessing, offering me a second chance and teaching me invaluable life skills that have helped me grow into the best version of myself. I will be forever grateful to all the teachers who have dedicated their time and energy not only to me, but to all the students. What I appreciated most about Arco was that no matter how you felt coming into school, you’d always leave with a joyful smile. The school strikes the perfect balance between providing a solid education and fostering meaningful bonds between students and teachers.
When I first joined Arco, I thought it would be like every other school for “bad kids,” but I couldn’t have been more wrong. It was the complete opposite of what I expected. Every teacher seems genuinely passionate about their work, always going above and beyond to help us reach our goals. They’re constantly thinking of ways to help you achieve your dreams, no matter how big they may seem. If you wanted to be an astronaut, they’d find resources and connections to guide you on how to pursue that path. It feels like they never stop working to make us better.
So, on behalf of myself and every Arco student, past and present, being a part of Arco is a true blessing. We are all incredibly thankful for the opportunities you’ve provided us. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. What you’re doing is amazing, and I’m grateful to have been a part of it—and I’d love to continue being a part of the ‘Arco Family, moving forward.
Jeremiah, Class of 2024
I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the staff at Arco for their unwavering support throughout my journey. Your guidance has meant so much to me, and I know I wouldn’t have achieved all that I have without the amazing support system you provided. I used to be quite opinionated and stubborn, but my time at Arco has taught me to be more considerate of others' views, helping me grow as a team player and develop leadership skills, earning the respect of my peers. I’ve also gained the ability to better regulate my emotions and express my thoughts clearly, which has boosted my self-confidence and self-esteem. Arco has been a truly transformative experience, teaching me not to doubt myself or give up, and I’m incredibly proud of my exam results. I now believe in my ability to succeed in college and beyond.
Izzy, Class of 2024
I love it at Arco! Coming from my previous provisions, the environment and quality of education was a lot better. Everyone was so welcoming and the staff really helped me to achieve the grade I needed and to improve my overall behaviour in education.
Walaa Abrar, Arco Alumni
I loved my time at Arco. Everyone was so supportive and welcoming when I arrived. The staff were very helpful and encouraging and always pushed me to be the best version of myself. I thank Arco for helping become the young man I am today.
Xahir Durant, Arco Alumni
Referring Partners
Having worked in Lewisham for nearly 20 years I understand the challenges that young people face and the growing need to have the right support and intervention in place for children who struggle with the demands of mainstream education.
I have had the privilege of being one of Arco’s earliest partners and have incredible faith in the expert leadership of the academy. Arco academy prides itself on its high expectations for our students and I feel Arco students have a greater chance of success because of the belief the staff have in them.
Positive role models and strong relationships, along with a well constructed curriculum, give students a sense of belonging and purpose at Arco Academy. The standard of professionalism is second to none with top class communication with all stakeholders at all times.
As well as offering an outstanding provision for some of our most vulnerable learners. The impact of Arco’s work does not stop there. Since the start of the pandemic, Arco Tutors have been providing expert GCSE tuition, spanning across years 8-11 and reaching over 300 students. The impact can be evidenced in our outstanding results year after year.
I would not hesitate in recommending Arco Academy to any of my schools, students and families.
Jonathan Ronan, CEO, St Benedict Catholic Academy Trust
We’ve been working with ARCO for many years, and I’m always impressed with the provision they offer for the students we have referred. ARCO looks at each student holistically and individually, ensuring the provision is tailored to their specific needs.
ARCO has a deep understanding of the needs within the school system, which led to the creation of a specialised provision for girls who struggle with attending school and SEND provision for students requiring higher levels of support, in addition to their existing co-ed group.
They take the time to understand the challenges the students have faced, giving them the opportunity to reflect and have a second chance. ARCO helps students realise they are not defined by their struggles and sets clear expectations, offering a curriculum built around the students’ interests and life experiences.
They provide a safe space with a strong therapeutic programme that contributes to the positive mental health and well-being of each student — a space where students can truly thrive.
I’m particularly impressed by the sporting opportunities ARCO provides, ensuring all students have access to a wide range of sports.
ARCO continues to evolve, offering new provisions as needed.
We’ve been privileged to work with ARCO, and our school has greatly valued the relationship we’ve built with them.
We also collaborate on CPD that enables us to continue growing and learning from each other.
Zoe Deakin, Assistant Head, Elmgreen School
