Stephen has the skills and capacity to deal effectively with young people, specialist performing arts staff and most crucially non specialists. Stephen listens carefully to staff at all levels, communicates well and understands the conflicting demands of working in a school with all of the challenges that brings. Stephen always delivers and staff are confident working with him because they know they will be listened to and their concerns/ideas will be taken on board; his ability to enthuse non performing arts specialists to bring creativity into their work is a particular strength and there are many examples of it’s success. Stephen devised and directed the opening ceremony for the new York High School, it was an exceptional event which exceeded the expectations of everyone and helped set a new standard for performing arts in the school but also changed perceptions of the community about our school. Stephen has a wide range of experience and an extensive network of other colleagues who bring extra value to his projects.