Meet the Leadership Team

Mr S Bird, Headteacher

Mr Bird has over 24 years of teaching experience. During this time, Mr Bird has taught and enjoyed successful leadership roles in both local authority schools and an independent school. Mr Bird has achieved the National Professional Qualification for Headship, as well as the National Award for SEN Co-ordination. He has worked at St Mark’s school for over 13 years, initially as deputy headteacher and then becoming headteacher in January 2018. Mr Bird is committed to developing children that are flourishing, building strong foundations, making excellent all-round progress, and reaching their potential. At St Mark’s we Aspire, Believe, Succeed.

Mrs R Crane, Deputy Headteacher

Mrs Crane has been in teaching since graduating from university in 1997.  In that time, she has specialised in Early Education and Key Stage 1 where she has been able to combine her love of children's literature, creativity and desire to encourage curiosity in young children.  Mrs Crane has a huge passion for working with children special educational needs, supporting both them and their families.  Since joining St Mark's she has undertaken the NASEN qualification required to work as a SENCo in schools.  She is our school Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Mrs S Mitcheson, Assistant Headteacher

Mrs Mitcheson has a degree in Modern Foreign Languages from Exeter University and gained Qualified Teacher Status in 2009. Before teaching, she worked in the recruitment industry as a consultant and Business Development Manager. During her teaching career she has been a Middle Leader, a coach and mentor to teaching students and fellow teachers and a maths leader. Mrs Mitcheson also spent two years teaching in northern Spain.  She could have chosen to teach Modern Languages at secondary level, but rather than teach a subject, she opted for Primary teaching in order to teach children how to learn. Her passions lie in developing Childrens’ confidence and their love of learning, and in mentoring and coaching fellow teachers and teaching students.  

Mrs T Coton, SENCO

Tracey has a degree in History and Archaeology (BA Hons) from Birkbeck College, University of London and has Qualified Teacher Status (Q.T,S.) from the University of Greenwich.  Prior to becoming a teacher, Tracey, was a Civil Servant for fifteen years.  In 2006 she qualified to become a teacher at a school in London.  During her teaching career, Tracey has been an Associate Assistant Headteacher; an English Regional Lead for some schools in Hastings and has taught in most year groups across the primary phase.  Tracey's passion for teaching is the importance of reading and how reading for pleasure can have such a huge impact on children's lives.

Mrs M Coveney, School Business Manager

Mrs Coveney is an experienced School Business Manager with 17 years’ experience across both state and independent education sectors. With a strong background in financial management, operations, and strategic planning, she works closely with school leaders to ensure resources are managed effectively to support high‑quality teaching and learning. Mrs Coveney is experienced in supporting academy conversions, and has helped guide schools through complex change, ensuring smooth transitions, strong governance, and financial compliance. She is passionate about creating sustainable, well‑run schools where staff are supported and pupils can flourish. She brings a collaborative, proactive approach and a deep understanding of the operational challenges facing education today.