The Inclusion Team

Abi Waters
Deputy SENDCO

My role as North Oxfordshire Academy's Deputy SENDCO means that I work within the Inclusion team to ensure students have access to reasonable adjustments based on their individual needs. I am also responsible for organising the school's phonics scheme, working to ensure every learner leaves us with fluency and confidence in reading and writing. I have been teaching since 2009 (my degree is in English with a PGCE in Primary teaching and learning) which enables me to support our Year 7s as they transition onto their NOA journey with us. The best part about my work is seeing students believing in themselves and achieving their full potential. 

Carly Roberts
Deputy SENDCO, ELSA Lead, Forest school and animal care lead, Communication & Interaction Learning Coach, Duke of Edinburgh manager

Qualifications: BA and MSC in ancient history and environmental archaeology and palaeoenvironments. Post-graduate diploma in trauma informed practice. ELSA.

My main professional experience is in ASD, anxieties, behaviour, mental health and school avoidance. I teach outdoor practical skills, animal care and the natural environment.  I studied at the University of Birmingham and obtained BA and MSc in ancient history and environmental archaeology and palaeoenvironments. I have lots of experience in woodland and remote environments, bush craft and wild food foraging. I’m obsessed with the outdoors, the natural world and promotes importance of exploring outdoors for positive mental health and local environment awareness.  I also have a background in art and design, a black belt in jujitsu and an interest in exotic animals. 

Kirsty Sims
Link Manager (ELSA), Key Worker for Children We Care For

I joined NOA in November 2020, previously working at a local primary school.  Since joining NOA I have been supporting pupils in class to be able to access their lessons through my capacity as a Learning Coach. I run the gardening club at school as I believe fresh air is important for well-being. In my spare time I like to run and have completed Wolf runs and marathons. 

Louise Penfold-Colledge
Learning Coach for Year 7

I like working at NOA because I know I can help make a positive impact and support our students through their years at secondary school. I have always worked within environments that uses key skills to understand change and help people develop the skills to adapt and support them to achieve the best in their future.  

Dominika Danieleska

I have completed my Bachelor's degree in Special Educational Needs and Inclusion (0-25).  I like that in my job I am able to use the skills I have developed while studying my degree. Each day is different and very flexible. I love being able to work with young people and support them to achieve their potential. 

Alex Cook
Learning Coach

I have worked at Noa for 1 year now and it’s been unlike any job I’ve ever had. Every day comes with a new challenge and the students motivate me to be better every single day. Before working at NOA I worked as a personal trainer straight out of college following a Level 2 Sports and exercise Diploma, I started in a small gym teaching classes and working my way up to becoming a 1-2-1 trainer. Alongside my job at NOA I also serve as an On-call Firefighter for Oxfordshire Fire & Rescue stationed here in Banbury. My favourite part about working at NOA is seeing students realise their potential, the moment they realise what can be achieved through having ambition and determination is a special moment. 

Claire Ewens
Learning Coach for Year 11
Zainab Ahmed
Learning Coach for Year 9