We are a company built on expert staff

As our Headteacher, Alessandro is committed to ensuring that all Academy21 learners have a brilliant student experience. He began his career as an English teacher and worked his way up to Head of Department, and later to senior leadership positions. In his previous roles, Alessandro oversaw curriculum, teaching and learning, and inclusion and barriers to learning. He’s also been a Deputy Headship in charge of pastoral standards and behaviour. Throughout the years, Alessandro has amassed invaluable experience in ensuring that all learners have access to high-quality learning experiences and enjoy their schooling.  

At Academy21, he’s particularly proud of working with diligent and invested colleagues who are passionate about providing enriching learning opportunities for all students. He also enjoys seeing students’ positive outcomes, not just in terms of academic achievement, but also improvements on engagement, attendance, and general wellbeing. He believes that online alternative provision can be a fantastic solution to reconnect students with their learning and assure that young people start to thrive again.  

Clare is the Head of Academy21 and has been with us for 10 years. After completing her degree in French and German, Clare started teaching English to international students, and has been a university lecturer for most of her career. She later undertook a master’s degree in AI and moved to teaching ICT in secondary schools in South Yorkshire, where she found a passion for online teaching.  

At Academy21, Clare is responsible for the day-to-day running of our school, overseeing timetables and courses for each year, and liaising with our customer partnership managers to ensure that our clients are happy with our services. For Clare, the best thing about Academy21 is that we offer a highly flexible approach for vulnerable learners. Her biggest motivation at Academy21 is growing and maintaining a team of innovative, expert practitioners, for whom helping reengage vulnerable students is the main driving force. 

Laura is our Head of English. She has over 13 years of experience in teaching roles, 11 of which in online education. Prior to teaching online, she has also led the E-learning and ICT in English department at a secondary school. She loves the exciting innovation and creativity of working online, and particularly enjoys seeing her students realise that they can “do it” and make progress – educationally, socially, and emotionally. Outside of the virtual classroom, Laura enjoys yoga, reading, and crafting.  

Fiona is our Head of Maths and has been at Academy21 since the very start. Before joining us, Fiona was a Maths teacher at mainstream schools. Having now amassed over 13 years in online teaching, Fiona is highly experienced in reengaging students with education. She particularly loves to reignite the love of mathematics within students who have lost interest in this subject. Outside of the virtual classroom, Fiona enjoys reading science-fiction books. Her favourite book is Assassin’s Fate by Robin Hobb. 

Mel is our Head of Humanities and IT. Embarking on her teaching journey more than twenty years ago through a Graduate Teaching Programme, she swiftly ascended to the role of leading IT for Key Stage 3 as a newly qualified teacher. Her career further flourished as she undertook the position of Assistant Head of Year 8 in a truly comprehensive mainstream school, prior to transitioning into online education. Boasting 17 years of expertise in this innovative educational space, Mel is an enthusiastic advocate of Academy21’s vision to ensure education is universally accessible, catering to learners at every stage. She is dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere where students can rediscover their passion for learning. 

As our Deputy Head of English, Jenny is responsible for ensuring all Academy21 students have access to a comprehensive and adaptive English education. Jenny‘s career spans over 25 years in teaching and in middle and senior leadership roles. Aside from her extensive experience in UK secondary schools, Jenny has also taken leadership roles in independent international schools in the Gulf, Middle East, and across Europe. At Academy21, she is determined to contribute to a low-stress and nurturing educational environment where all students have their learning needs met.  

Becky Innes is our Deputy Head of Maths. She has over 6 years of teaching experience across mainstream secondary schools and has also been a course writer for Oxbridge and a private tutor for 10 years. Aside from her Bachelor’s degree and PGCE, Becky is fully qualified in Mental Health First Aid, Educational Psychology Level 3, and Team Leading Level 2. She enjoys leading the Maths department at Academy21 and ensuring that it is continuously meeting and exceeding our ambitious standards. Outside the virtual classroom, you can find Becky Cross stitching, reading or baking.