Southmoor Academy principal 'absent from work' while 'anonymous allegations' are investigated
The principal of a Sunderland secondary school is ‘absent from work’ as an investigation is carried out into ‘anonymous allegations’.
Steve Garrett, Southmoor Academy principal and chief executive officer of the Southmoor Multi Academy Trust, is ‘absent from work’ until the investigation is concluded, the trust has confirmed.
Professional advisers are investigating ‘anonymous allegations’ and it is hoped the probe will come to its conclusion shortly.
The academy, which has 1281 students on its roll, was rated ‘good’ by Ofsted at its most recent inspection in November 2017.
Dr John Brown, the chair of trustees, said: “The Trust has asked its professional advisers to investigate anonymous allegations it has received.
“The Trust is taking the allegations very seriously and it is hoped the investigation will conclude very shortly.
“The Trust feels it is in the best interests of the CEO and the investigation if he is absent from work until the investigation is concluded.”