A full investigation has been launched at a Basildon school after its headteacher was suspended.

Staff and pupils arrived at Barstable School, in Timberlog Close, Basildon, today (Thursday) to find deputy headteacher Jonathon Oddy temporarily in charge.

His colleague Paul Betts was suspended late yesterday (Wednesday) over concerns about management issues.

Chairman of governors John Puddefott took the decision to suspend the head of nine years while a full investigation was launched.

He refused to comment on the full details of his concerns.

However, in a statement to the Echo Mr Puddefott said: "In view of concerns about a number of management issues, I have temporarily suspended the headteacher with immediate effect.

"The procedure when any member of staff is suspended is that they are suspended without prejudice while an investigation is taken up by governors."

Mr Puddefott, a governor at the school for 20 years, added he was saddened to have to take the radical action but assured parents and pupils life at the school would continue as normal.

Angela Smith, MP for Basildon, today offered her full support to the school during what is a difficult time.

She said: "I hope what everybody wants is to give the best possible education to the children at the school - they deserve the very best.

"I will do all I can to help during what must be a very difficult time.

"I feel confident the school has some very good staff, pupils who want to achieve and parents who want their children to do well."

Mr Betts will remain suspended until the board of governors has completed its investigation and decided his fate. It is not known how long this will take.

Suspended - headteacher Paul Betts outside Barstable School

Picture: NICK ANSELL

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