Our Team
At Lumina Academy , education begins with the human connection between teacher and child. Our teachers are not just instructors—they are guides, storytellers, and companions on each child’s journey of discovery.
Rooted in the Waldorf philosophy, they nurture the head, heart, and hands equally—cultivating curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every moment of learning.
Each member of our team brings warmth, artistry, and a deep respect for the individuality of every child. Together, they create a classroom environment that feels more like a home for wonder—where learning is joyful, purposeful, and alive.
Clara
My name is Clara Isabel Rodríguez Ciero.
I hold a Teaching Diploma earned in 2009.
I began my journey in education working in summer schools, until I received my first contract at Maristas San Fernando School in Seville, where I spent several years. However, my vocation and deep desire to grow—and my belief that a different kind of education was possible—led me to explore new educational horizons.
I began working with various methods and approaches such as Reggio Emilia, Montessori, ABN, and Piaget’s constructivist theories (with Myriam Nemirovsky), until I discovered Waldorf Education. I was immediately captivated by it and went on to complete the official three-year Waldorf teacher training, specializing in both Early Childhood (ages 0–6) and Primary (ages 6–12) stages.
Becoming a Waldorf teacher has given me a new perspective and the tools to truly see the real needs of children according to their developmental stage—allowing me to respond with empathy, respect, and presence.
I worked for several years at Waldorf International School Sevilla Girasol as both an Early Childhood and Primary teacher. Over the past three years, I have been responsible for the direction and pedagogical coordination of two Waldorf projects—“Horizonte” and “El Ancla”—both located in El Puerto de Santa María, guiding mixed-age classes from first through fifth grade (ages 7–11).
I will be delighted to meet you in person and answer any questions you may have.
John
Meet Coach John – Inspiring Confidence, Character, and Team Spirit
We are delighted to have Coach John Gontier leading our football programme at Lumina Academy. With a deep passion for the game and decades of experience, John brings far more than athletic skill to the field — he brings a philosophy: to put “old heads on young shoulders.”
As the founder of Gibraltar Wave FC and Europa Point FC, John has dedicated his career to nurturing young talent, building strong teams, and creating opportunities for players to grow both on and off the pitch. With a Diploma in Sports Science, he combines technical knowledge with a thoughtful, psychology-based approach to coaching. His work focuses on helping children develop not only physical strength and coordination but also resilience, teamwork, discipline, and self-belief.
Through his leadership, Gibraltar Wave FC has become one of Gibraltar’s most exciting community clubs — competing in the Gibraltar Women’s Football League, partnering with European networks, and even representing Gibraltar in international beach soccer tournaments. John’s vision is always the same: to use football as a tool for growth, empowerment, and second chances.
At Lumina Academy, John brings that same energy and purpose to our students. Every session is more than a sports class — it’s an opportunity for children to learn about perseverance, fair play, and collaboration, all while discovering the joy of the beautiful game. ⚽🌟
Link:
Gibraltar Wave FC: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gibraltar_Wave_FC
Santiago
My name is Santiago Benítez, and I am a bilingual teacher with more than 20 years of experience working with children in Spain and the United States.
My journey in education began with a degree in Primary Education, specialising in English, and has taken me through bilingual, international and alternative educational settings. Throughout these years, I have had the opportunity to work as a class teacher, tutor, mentor, coordinator and specialist teacher, always looking for ways to make learning meaningful, creative and connected to the real world.
Over the years, I have worked with children across different age groups and educational approaches, including bilingual and international programmes and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. I have taught English, Spanish, Science, Mathematics and Social Studies, while also developing a particular interest in project-based and experiential learning.
My connection with Waldorf education grew from a desire to understand childhood beyond academics. Through my own training and experience in Waldorf-inspired environments, I discovered the importance of rhythm, storytelling, imagination, movement, nature and practical experiences in helping children develop as whole human beings.
I believe that education should leave room for curiosity and wonder. Children learn best when they are given the opportunity to ask questions, make things, tell stories, move, explore and discover connections for themselves.
For me, the teacher is not simply the person who delivers knowledge. A teacher is a guide, a storyteller and a companion — someone who observes carefully, recognises each child’s individuality and creates the conditions for them to become increasingly confident and independent learners.
I particularly enjoy bringing stories, creativity and a sense of play into academic learning. Whether we are exploring mathematics, science, language or the natural world, I look for opportunities to make children feel that what they are learning has meaning beyond the classroom.
I am especially excited to be part of Lumina Academy because its vision brings together many of the things I value most in education: small learning communities, bilingualism, creativity, connection with nature, hands-on experiences and a genuine respect for each child’s individual journey.
Outside the classroom, I am a lifelong fan of books, fantasy, games and storytelling. I have always believed that imagination is not something children should leave behind as they grow older — it is one of the most powerful tools they can carry with them into the world.
I am very happy to begin this new chapter in El Puerto de Santa María and to be part of a community that is building something meaningful from the ground up.
I look forward to learning alongside our students, sharing stories, exploring new ideas and discovering where our curiosity takes us.
Jo
Hello! My name is Jo. I’m Polish/Australian citizen and a mum of 3 beautiful children. I have been an English teacher for many years, with a background in TESOL —Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. My teaching journey has taken me from classrooms in England, China, Poland to online settings. I love helping students find confidence and joy in expressing themselves through language. I love creative teaching through play, games, books, conversation and activities that inspire confidence and curiosity in my students.
Alongside teaching, I also work as a doula — a trained companion who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to women and families during pregnancy, birth, and the early postpartum period. This work reflects my deep belief in the power of empathy, connection, and calm communication — values that I also bring into my classroom every day.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time in nature, hiking, travelling, cooking, chasing sunsets and engaging in meaningful conversations. I truly love what I do and feel grateful to support others in learning, developing, and discovering their potential. 🫶🏼
John
Meet Coach John – Inspiring Confidence, Character, and Team Spirit
We are delighted to have Coach John Gontier leading our football programme at Lumina Academy. With a deep passion for the game and decades of experience, John brings far more than athletic skill to the field — he brings a philosophy: to put “old heads on young shoulders.”
As the founder of Gibraltar Wave FC and Europa Point FC, John has dedicated his career to nurturing young talent, building strong teams, and creating opportunities for players to grow both on and off the pitch. With a Diploma in Sports Science, he combines technical knowledge with a thoughtful, psychology-based approach to coaching. His work focuses on helping children develop not only physical strength and coordination but also resilience, teamwork, discipline, and self-belief.
Through his leadership, Gibraltar Wave FC has become one of Gibraltar’s most exciting community clubs — competing in the Gibraltar Women’s Football League, partnering with European networks, and even representing Gibraltar in international beach soccer tournaments. John’s vision is always the same: to use football as a tool for growth, empowerment, and second chances.
At Lumina Academy, John brings that same energy and purpose to our students. Every session is more than a sports class — it’s an opportunity for children to learn about perseverance, fair play, and collaboration, all while discovering the joy of the beautiful game. ⚽🌟
Link:
Gibraltar Wave FC: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gibraltar_Wave_FC
Desiree
My name is Desiree, and I am the mother of Devi (10) and Amma (7). We are very happy to be part of the Lumina Academy community.
I have been practicing and teaching yoga since 2014, including Kundalini Yoga, pregnancy yoga and children’s yoga. As a mother, I love being able to contribute to the school and to the children by sharing something that has been an important part of my own life for many years.
I would love to give the children a playful and joyful moment each week to discover yoga in their own way. Through movement, breathing, using their voices and becoming more aware of their bodies, they can explore how it feels to slow down, connect with themselves and have fun together.
Whenever possible, I love taking yoga outdoors, where the children can connect with nature and experience the different elements around them. Yoga doesn’t have to be about sitting still or doing perfect poses — it can be about curiosity, play, expression, balance and discovering what your own body can do.
One of the things I love about Lumina Academy is that children are not only focused on learning by sitting behind a desk. They are given space to develop many different skills, to be creative, curious and independent, and to learn through real-life experiences. I feel very connected to that vision and am happy to be able to contribute to the school community in this way.
Orlando
Dance is not just what Orlando does—it is who he is. Born in Africa, where he spent his childhood and youth surrounded by rhythm and movement, Orlando carries the pulse of his roots deep within him. He grew into adulthood in Germany, where he founded his own dance school and built a vibrant community of dancers. Now, enjoying the Spanish sun, he continues to live his passion each day—sharing his joy for dance as a true citizen of the world. He inspires others not only through his technical skill, but through his heart: encouraging students to discover their own confidence, joy, and self-expression through movement
Experience & Professional Work
With decades of experience teaching students of all ages, Orlando has developed a deep understanding of how to connect through movement and music. He is especially passionate about working with children and youth, adapting to different learning styles and creating safe, supportive environments for growth. At Lumina Academy, he brings eyes to shine and bodies to move—infusing the class with joy, creativity, and positive energy. As the founder and director of “Orlando’s Dance Studio” in Germany—one of the region’s most vibrant and diverse dance schools—he offers classes in Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue, Zumba, and more, welcoming dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Through his workshops, performances, and community events, Orlando continues to share his deep passion for dance across cultures, making it accessible, joyful, and inspiring for everyone he teaches.
He also hopes to inspire adults here in El Puerto de Santa Maria—helping them rediscover their natural joy and channel it into the movement of dance. He has big plans ahead…
Teaching Philosophy & Strengths
-
Believes that dance can nurture the head, heart, and hands, helping children grow in body, emotion, and spirit.
-
Focused on being more than an instructor — a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration.
-
Dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and self-awareness in each student.
-
Deep empathy, patience, and a genuine love for working with children define his teaching style.
Mission
To awaken in each child a love for movement, a sense of possibility, and the courage to express themselves fully. Orlando seeks to leave a lasting, positive imprint: that dance is not just an activity, but a way of being, a source of joy, and a path to personal growth.
Orlando
Dance is not just what Orlando does—it is who he is. Born in Africa, where he spent his childhood and youth surrounded by rhythm and movement, Orlando carries the pulse of his roots deep within him. He grew into adulthood in Germany, where he founded his own dance school and built a vibrant community of dancers. Now, enjoying the Spanish sun, he continues to live his passion each day—sharing his joy for dance as a true citizen of the world. He inspires others not only through his technical skill, but through his heart: encouraging students to discover their own confidence, joy, and self-expression through movement
Experience & Professional Work
With decades of experience teaching students of all ages, Orlando has developed a deep understanding of how to connect through movement and music. He is especially passionate about working with children and youth, adapting to different learning styles and creating safe, supportive environments for growth. At Lumina Academy, he brings eyes to shine and bodies to move—infusing the class with joy, creativity, and positive energy. As the founder and director of “Orlando’s Dance Studio” in Germany—one of the region’s most vibrant and diverse dance schools—he offers classes in Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue, Zumba, and more, welcoming dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Through his workshops, performances, and community events, Orlando continues to share his deep passion for dance across cultures, making it accessible, joyful, and inspiring for everyone he teaches.
He also hopes to inspire adults here in El Puerto de Santa Maria—helping them rediscover their natural joy and channel it into the movement of dance. He has big plans ahead…
Teaching Philosophy & Strengths
-
Believes that dance can nurture the head, heart, and hands, helping children grow in body, emotion, and spirit.
-
Focused on being more than an instructor — a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration.
-
Dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and self-awareness in each student.
-
Deep empathy, patience, and a genuine love for working with children define his teaching style.
Mission
To awaken in each child a love for movement, a sense of possibility, and the courage to express themselves fully. Orlando seeks to leave a lasting, positive imprint: that dance is not just an activity, but a way of being, a source of joy, and a path to personal growth.
Orlando
Dance is not just what Orlando does—it is who he is. Born in Africa, where he spent his childhood and youth surrounded by rhythm and movement, Orlando carries the pulse of his roots deep within him. He grew into adulthood in Germany, where he founded his own dance school and built a vibrant community of dancers. Now, enjoying the Spanish sun, he continues to live his passion each day—sharing his joy for dance as a true citizen of the world. He inspires others not only through his technical skill, but through his heart: encouraging students to discover their own confidence, joy, and self-expression through movement
Experience & Professional Work
With decades of experience teaching students of all ages, Orlando has developed a deep understanding of how to connect through movement and music. He is especially passionate about working with children and youth, adapting to different learning styles and creating safe, supportive environments for growth. At Lumina Academy, he brings eyes to shine and bodies to move—infusing the class with joy, creativity, and positive energy. As the founder and director of “Orlando’s Dance Studio” in Germany—one of the region’s most vibrant and diverse dance schools—he offers classes in Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue, Zumba, and more, welcoming dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Through his workshops, performances, and community events, Orlando continues to share his deep passion for dance across cultures, making it accessible, joyful, and inspiring for everyone he teaches.
He also hopes to inspire adults here in El Puerto de Santa Maria—helping them rediscover their natural joy and channel it into the movement of dance. He has big plans ahead…
Teaching Philosophy & Strengths
-
Believes that dance can nurture the head, heart, and hands, helping children grow in body, emotion, and spirit.
-
Focused on being more than an instructor — a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration.
-
Dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and self-awareness in each student.
-
Deep empathy, patience, and a genuine love for working with children define his teaching style.
Mission
To awaken in each child a love for movement, a sense of possibility, and the courage to express themselves fully. Orlando seeks to leave a lasting, positive imprint: that dance is not just an activity, but a way of being, a source of joy, and a path to personal growth.
Orlando
Dance is not just what Orlando does—it is who he is. Born in Africa, where he spent his childhood and youth surrounded by rhythm and movement, Orlando carries the pulse of his roots deep within him. He grew into adulthood in Germany, where he founded his own dance school and built a vibrant community of dancers. Now, enjoying the Spanish sun, he continues to live his passion each day—sharing his joy for dance as a true citizen of the world. He inspires others not only through his technical skill, but through his heart: encouraging students to discover their own confidence, joy, and self-expression through movement
Experience & Professional Work
With decades of experience teaching students of all ages, Orlando has developed a deep understanding of how to connect through movement and music. He is especially passionate about working with children and youth, adapting to different learning styles and creating safe, supportive environments for growth. At Lumina Academy, he brings eyes to shine and bodies to move—infusing the class with joy, creativity, and positive energy. As the founder and director of “Orlando’s Dance Studio” in Germany—one of the region’s most vibrant and diverse dance schools—he offers classes in Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue, Zumba, and more, welcoming dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Through his workshops, performances, and community events, Orlando continues to share his deep passion for dance across cultures, making it accessible, joyful, and inspiring for everyone he teaches.
He also hopes to inspire adults here in El Puerto de Santa Maria—helping them rediscover their natural joy and channel it into the movement of dance. He has big plans ahead…
Teaching Philosophy & Strengths
-
Believes that dance can nurture the head, heart, and hands, helping children grow in body, emotion, and spirit.
-
Focused on being more than an instructor — a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration.
-
Dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and self-awareness in each student.
-
Deep empathy, patience, and a genuine love for working with children define his teaching style.
Mission
To awaken in each child a love for movement, a sense of possibility, and the courage to express themselves fully. Orlando seeks to leave a lasting, positive imprint: that dance is not just an activity, but a way of being, a source of joy, and a path to personal growth.
Orlando
Dance is not just what Orlando does—it is who he is. Born in Africa, where he spent his childhood and youth surrounded by rhythm and movement, Orlando carries the pulse of his roots deep within him. He grew into adulthood in Germany, where he founded his own dance school and built a vibrant community of dancers. Now, enjoying the Spanish sun, he continues to live his passion each day—sharing his joy for dance as a true citizen of the world. He inspires others not only through his technical skill, but through his heart: encouraging students to discover their own confidence, joy, and self-expression through movement
Experience & Professional Work
With decades of experience teaching students of all ages, Orlando has developed a deep understanding of how to connect through movement and music. He is especially passionate about working with children and youth, adapting to different learning styles and creating safe, supportive environments for growth. At Lumina Academy, he brings eyes to shine and bodies to move—infusing the class with joy, creativity, and positive energy. As the founder and director of “Orlando’s Dance Studio” in Germany—one of the region’s most vibrant and diverse dance schools—he offers classes in Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue, Zumba, and more, welcoming dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Through his workshops, performances, and community events, Orlando continues to share his deep passion for dance across cultures, making it accessible, joyful, and inspiring for everyone he teaches.
He also hopes to inspire adults here in El Puerto de Santa Maria—helping them rediscover their natural joy and channel it into the movement of dance. He has big plans ahead…
Teaching Philosophy & Strengths
-
Believes that dance can nurture the head, heart, and hands, helping children grow in body, emotion, and spirit.
-
Focused on being more than an instructor — a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration.
-
Dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and self-awareness in each student.
-
Deep empathy, patience, and a genuine love for working with children define his teaching style.
Mission
To awaken in each child a love for movement, a sense of possibility, and the courage to express themselves fully. Orlando seeks to leave a lasting, positive imprint: that dance is not just an activity, but a way of being, a source of joy, and a path to personal growth.
Orlando
Dance is not just what Orlando does—it is who he is. Born in Africa, where he spent his childhood and youth surrounded by rhythm and movement, Orlando carries the pulse of his roots deep within him. He grew into adulthood in Germany, where he founded his own dance school and built a vibrant community of dancers. Now, enjoying the Spanish sun, he continues to live his passion each day—sharing his joy for dance as a true citizen of the world. He inspires others not only through his technical skill, but through his heart: encouraging students to discover their own confidence, joy, and self-expression through movement
Experience & Professional Work
With decades of experience teaching students of all ages, Orlando has developed a deep understanding of how to connect through movement and music. He is especially passionate about working with children and youth, adapting to different learning styles and creating safe, supportive environments for growth. At Lumina Academy, he brings eyes to shine and bodies to move—infusing the class with joy, creativity, and positive energy. As the founder and director of “Orlando’s Dance Studio” in Germany—one of the region’s most vibrant and diverse dance schools—he offers classes in Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue, Zumba, and more, welcoming dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Through his workshops, performances, and community events, Orlando continues to share his deep passion for dance across cultures, making it accessible, joyful, and inspiring for everyone he teaches.
He also hopes to inspire adults here in El Puerto de Santa Maria—helping them rediscover their natural joy and channel it into the movement of dance. He has big plans ahead…
Teaching Philosophy & Strengths
-
Believes that dance can nurture the head, heart, and hands, helping children grow in body, emotion, and spirit.
-
Focused on being more than an instructor — a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration.
-
Dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and self-awareness in each student.
-
Deep empathy, patience, and a genuine love for working with children define his teaching style.
Mission
To awaken in each child a love for movement, a sense of possibility, and the courage to express themselves fully. Orlando seeks to leave a lasting, positive imprint: that dance is not just an activity, but a way of being, a source of joy, and a path to personal growth.
Orlando
Dance is not just what Orlando does—it is who he is. Born in Africa, where he spent his childhood and youth surrounded by rhythm and movement, Orlando carries the pulse of his roots deep within him. He grew into adulthood in Germany, where he founded his own dance school and built a vibrant community of dancers. Now, enjoying the Spanish sun, he continues to live his passion each day—sharing his joy for dance as a true citizen of the world. He inspires others not only through his technical skill, but through his heart: encouraging students to discover their own confidence, joy, and self-expression through movement
Experience & Professional Work
With decades of experience teaching students of all ages, Orlando has developed a deep understanding of how to connect through movement and music. He is especially passionate about working with children and youth, adapting to different learning styles and creating safe, supportive environments for growth. At Lumina Academy, he brings eyes to shine and bodies to move—infusing the class with joy, creativity, and positive energy. As the founder and director of “Orlando’s Dance Studio” in Germany—one of the region’s most vibrant and diverse dance schools—he offers classes in Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue, Zumba, and more, welcoming dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Through his workshops, performances, and community events, Orlando continues to share his deep passion for dance across cultures, making it accessible, joyful, and inspiring for everyone he teaches.
He also hopes to inspire adults here in El Puerto de Santa Maria—helping them rediscover their natural joy and channel it into the movement of dance. He has big plans ahead…
Teaching Philosophy & Strengths
-
Believes that dance can nurture the head, heart, and hands, helping children grow in body, emotion, and spirit.
-
Focused on being more than an instructor — a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration.
-
Dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and self-awareness in each student.
-
Deep empathy, patience, and a genuine love for working with children define his teaching style.
Mission
To awaken in each child a love for movement, a sense of possibility, and the courage to express themselves fully. Orlando seeks to leave a lasting, positive imprint: that dance is not just an activity, but a way of being, a source of joy, and a path to personal growth.