Steve Crosthwaite
Steve Crosthwaite is a senior school leader with over 25 years’ experience in education and community work across Newcastle. Deeply committed to equality of opportunity, safeguarding, and social justice, he leads inclusive programmes that empower children and families—especially those facing disadvantage.
Steve believes in the transformative power of experiences that build social and cultural capital. By nurturing confidence, skills, and curiosity, he helps children navigate and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
With a particular passion for improving outcomes for children who have experienced the care system, Steve serves on the governing body of Newcastle’s Virtual School, supporting the education of children in care and care leavers across the city.
For the past 14 years, Steve has worked at Hotspur Primary School in Heaton, where he has seen the impact of creative partnerships first-hand—particularly through Cap-a-Pie’s work, which has inspired and engaged pupils across the school community.
Steve is passionate about the North East and spends much of his free time exploring its coastline, countryside, and cultural spaces with his children. An amateur photographer, he began documenting everyday moments during the pandemic and now uses photography to capture life at school and home.
His lifelong love of theatre and drama continues to shape his practice. He is a firm believer in their power to spark imagination, deepen empathy, and build confidence in children of all ages and backgrounds.
