After a rigorous and inspiring selection process, we have successfully appointed a new Headteacher for the School, who will take up the role in September 2026 to lead us into an exciting new chapter as a fully integrated 3–18 school.
Introducing Mr Nick Belcher
Nick emerged as the outstanding candidate following an extensive series of interviews, presentations to students, staff, and Governors, and has formally accepted the position.
Originally from Yorkshire, Nick brings a wealth of international experience:
- Currently Headteacher at The International School at Park City, Kuala Lumpur
- Former Headteacher at The Perse School, Singapore
- Leadership roles as Deputy Head and before that SENDCO at The British School of Bahrain,
- Assistant Head at Hillcrest School (UK), and
- EYFS/KS1 Head of Department at Dulwich College
He is an English graduate and trained as a Primary specialist at York University. He began his career in Newcastle at Wingrove School prior to taking up his first leadership post at Dulwich College. His experience leading 3–18 schools was a key factor in his selection for this pivotal operational role.
The Governors and Mr Turner were deeply impressed by Nick’s vision for DLS, his proven leadership, and his commitment to Lasallian values. His appointment marks a significant milestone as we transition from two schools on one site to one all-through school. This is a transformative moment for our boys, staff, and wider community.
Student Voice
Our student representatives played an active role in the process, interviewing all candidates and sharing thoughtful feedback. Here are just a few of their comments about Nick:
- “I believe that Mr Belcher is the right person for the job, as he had a lot of charisma and engaged with the audience throughout his speech, he also acted like he had a relationship with the students and had a clear view of what he wanted to do in the future. Overall, a very positive presentation.”
- “I really like his values and the positive energy he brought. I believed he spoke well and thought that his priorities were valid and aligned with those of the school. I am also passionate about sport, he appeared to have an interest in that so he was correct for me. Finally, as someone who doesn’t know what they went to do professionally in the future, I believe that he is the correct person to help me. “
- “Nicholas Belcher because of his fun character bringing a happy environment to the school. His principles like having leaders/captains to guide houses. His religious belief in God would help me and others get closer to God and follow in his footsteps. He had a career that shows experience and respect to the school so that’s why I choose Nicholas belcher.”
- “I found all candidates strong, however Mr Belcher stood out to me the most and came across as more engaging and interesting.”
- “Heavily focused on community, and student empowerment which I believe will help the school improve their communal environment. An important pillar in our education is the feel of a strong community and ensuring the years before us will continue their journey feeling appreciated, respected and cared for, which I believe Mr Belcher will excel at.”
As leader of the student leadership team, our Head Boy provided invaluable insights regarding Nick to the appointment panel:
- As a leader of the student voice, I am thankful to be able to reflect my views and to speak proudly on behalf of our La Sallian community. This community is something I hold in the highest regard, as you know, as it is built on faith and the shaping of fine young gentlemen who carry forward values of integrity, service, and compassion. In considering the candidates for the role of Head Teacher, I was pleased that none proposed radical or disruptive changes. Each demonstrated respect for our ethos and an understanding of the central role of faith in our school. That said, one candidate stood out above the rest as the most fitting to carry forward our tradition and strengthen our future.
- Mr Nicholas Belcher is, in my view, the strongest candidate. His love of community was evident throughout his vision, particularly in his commitment to strengthening ties with our Old Boys and ensuring that past, present, and future students remain connected. This emphasis on continuity and belonging reflects the very heart of the La Sallian ethos. Moreover, Mr Belcher spoke passionately about his desire to take on a proactive teaching role. This is of great importance, as it complements Mr Turner, who is stepping into a more administrative focused position. Together, this balance would ensure that our leadership remains both engaged in the classroom and effective in governance. Mr Belcher’s views align closely with Mr Turner’s reputation for shaping not just good grades but good people, and he clearly wishes to carry forward that legacy. His personable manner, his respect for faith, and his emphasis on service resonated strongly with the student body, and he was unanimously favoured by the entire Head Boy team
- I am deeply proud of our La Sallian community, and I believe that the next Head Teacher must embody its values of faith, service, and community while continuing the tradition of shaping fine young gentlemen. I believe that Mr Nicholas Belcher is the candidate who best reflects them in practice. His alignment with Mr Turner’s legacy, his commitment to teaching, and his love of community make him the ideal choice to lead us forward with integrity, balance, and purpose.
75% of the student representatives voted Nick as their first choice – a clear endorsement of his ability to connect with young people and inspire confidence.
Nick Belcher says,
- My leadership is defined by an open‑door approach and a visible presence around school, ensuring colleagues feel supported, valued and able to thrive. I am known for being approachable and empathetic, balancing high expectations with genuine care. This style has built strong professional trust, encouraged innovation, and fostered a culture where staff feel empowered and valued. By modelling integrity and collaboration, I ensure that leadership is not remote but lived daily in classrooms, corridors and conversations.
- I believe passionately in the continuity of a through‑school, where each pupil’s journey is supported academically, pastorally and spiritually. At De La Salle, I will invest in strengthening this continuity, ensuring the boys experience a seamless journey from their earliest years through to Sixth Form, with faith, character and community identity woven throughout.
- At De La Salle, I will ensure every boy feels safe, supported and challenged to achieve his potential, with enrichment and aspiration embedded across the curriculum. I believe university and career pathways must be inclusive, global and skills-based. I have supported pupils in accessing Oxbridge, Russell Group, international and local universities, alongside apprenticeships and vocational routes.
- It is evident that a legacy of strong stewardship is in place, and my priority would be to honour and build upon this legacy. I believe effective change management is not about wholesale disruption, but about incremental enhancement: sustaining what is strong, while carefully introducing innovation that strengthens belonging, aspiration, connectivity and opportunity for staff and students. My leadership style is rooted in stability and continuity, ensuring that transitions are experienced as opportunities rather than upheaval.
- I am honoured to lead De La Salle’s next chapter, ensuring that every pupil not only achieves academically but leaves with the confidence, courage and compassion to shape their world.
Next steps…
Nick will officially join us in September 2026, following the standard notice period for senior leadership roles. Until then, Mr Turner will continue in his dual capacity as Executive Director and Operational Headteacher, supported by our exceptional Senior Management Team.
On a personal note, Mr Turner is “genuinely excited about the future Nick and I will build together. Nick’s operational leadership, combined with my executive direction, will shape the next era of excellence at DLS School.”
Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this exciting journey.