Mr Nicholas Dyer - Headmaster
B.A. (Hons) (Nottingham) MA NPQH
(Teacher of Government & Politics)

As Headmaster of the School since April 2015, Nicholas set out a vision to create an inclusive school environment and culture, in which all students can truly flourish in their academic work, in their personal development and in all else that they do. Nicholas remains committed to ensuring that students receive an outstanding academically focussed education, as well as being able to benefit from a wide range of enrichment and extra-curricular opportunities through which they can develop crucial skills and personal qualities, develop friendships, their own sense of who they are and that they can also have fun!  Nicholas is determined to ensure that all students continue to be educated within a supportive, inclusive and caring school community and it is that sense of community and belonging, as well as care, that lies at the very heart of a Crypt education.

Mr Phil Stanlake - Senior Deputy Headmaster
B.Ed. (Hons) (St. Paul and St. Mary)
(Teacher of Sports Studies, Games)

Phil, as Senior Deputy Headmaster, is responsible for the day to day running of the school. This includes routine activities in and out of the classroom as well as the school’s public events such as Founders Day, prize giving and open days. Phil works with both the staff and students when setting the academic standards and behavioural expectations for all involved at the Crypt. Phil works closely with the Headmaster and the staff in making sure that the vision for the school is delivered. Phil continues to teach sports studies at A level and supports the PE department with their extra-curricular activities.

Ms Susan Glock - Deputy Head – Academic
MSc (Hull)
(Teacher of Biology)

As Deputy Head (Academic), Susan is responsible for the academic success of the school and she ensures we continue to drive for excellence in all areas.  Susan leads our Heads of Department to deliver a curriculum that supports all our pupils achieve their academic potential at The Crypt.  She provides detailed analysis of how our students are progressing, and then works with Heads of Department and Heads of Year to support those that need some extra support.  In addition, Susan completes the annual timetable, ensuring that we continue to maintain a broad and balanced curriculum that suits the needs of our pupils

Mrs Gemma Hargraves - Deputy Head – Safeguarding, Inclusion & Wellbeing (Designated Safeguarding Lead)
B.Sc. (Hons) (Cardiff)
(Teacher of History)

Gemma oversees the pastoral life of the school to promote positive wellbeing and a sense of belonging for all students. The Crypt School prides itself on being a happy and inclusive community and Gemma leads a strong and approachable team of Heads of Year and Pastoral Support Workers to ensure all students are recognised as individuals. Additionally, Gemma oversees SEND, Pupil Premium provision and attendance to ensure all students feel supported, safe and fulfilled at school. Pastoral and academic elements of a student’s life are intertwined and Gemma works closely with other members of the Senior Leadership Team to ensure students develop resilience, integrity and gratitude and make excellent progress both personally and academically. Importantly, Gemma is also Designated Safeguarding Lead. 

Mr Rob Biggs - Deputy Head - Director of Post 16 Education and Personal Development
B.Sc (Hons) (Wolverhampton)
(Teacher of Geography)

As Director of Post 16 Education and Personal Development, Robert’s role is to lead and manage both the academic and pastoral life in the Sixth Form. Robert is committed to ensuring that students receive a high quality education from staff who genuinely know, care and support them. Robert is also responsible for the personal development of students from Years 7-13. He is determined to ensure that students receive a holistic approach to education through a wide range of experiences both inside and outside of the classroom. Robert is determined that all students progress from us with a real sense of direction and purpose, with a responsibility to society and strong academic qualifications to realise their ambitions and dreams beyond life at the Crypt.

Mrs Paulina Bright - Director of Outreach and Scholarship
MEd, BSc (Hons) University of Extremadura, Lancashire, Gloucs.
(Head of Economics)

Paulina has led the School’s Teaching and Learning as well as Behaviours and Attitudes. She has also worked as a Local Leader in Education with other primary and secondary schools to implement positive change.  Paulina is currently further developing our outreach programme and leadership opportunities for our students by working with several local primary schools and our Sixth Form centre.  Her vision is that all students should have access to excellent education regardless of their background and so she offers support to primary schools and, in particular, underprivileged children .  Paulina is committed to developing her knowledge of Education and Leadership and has achieved a Master’s in Education and a NPQH.

Mrs Jo Hitchings - Bursar
MA (Hons) (Cantab)

Jo has worked at the school since 2010 and as School Bursar is responsible for the challenging job of  managing the school finances during a time of ever tightening budgets.  Through the careful management of funds the school has been able to  maintain its focus on teaching and learning, whilst expanding its roll to 5 forms of entry. Jo is committed to improving the school site and together with the Headmaster and Operations Manager has been instrumental in the successful application for several capital bids.  This has also led to significant improvements in the school’s buildings, grounds and facilities. Jo also has overall responsibility for the Professional Support Staff all of whom play a vital part in the educational support of pupils and the smooth running of the school.

Mrs Lesley Smith – Operations Manager

BEng Hons Mechanical Engineering

Lesley joined the school as Operations Manager in November 2020, having worked in the Aerospace industry for 18 years in technical, project management and managerial roles. Together with her estates team, Lesley will continue to work hard to make the school a safe, healthy and welcoming environment for its students, staff and visitors. Lesley will plan and manage estate improvements, as well as managing the school lettings and all contracts which relate to the estate.