Investigations into Academy staff concerns under way

Orkney Islands Council has confirmed that an investigation into concerns raised by staff at Stromness Academy is under way.

The council has brought in an external independent education advisor, John Stodter, to lead the investigation and, according to a spokesman, all staff at the school will have the opportunity to contribute.

During the period of the investigation the headteacher, Hilda Learmonth, will be based elsewhere and not present at the school.

Mr Stodter started his career in education as a teacher. He was director of learning and leisure with Aberdeen City Council for ten years and, since 2006, has been general secretary of the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES).

OIC chief executive Alistair Buchan said: “I am pleased we have been able to bring in a senior and highly experienced education advisor.

“These are matters we take extremely seriously and Mr Stodter will carry out a thorough, fair and independent investigation. The aim is to complete this before the school closes for the summer holiday.”

He added: “Now that this process is under way, we do not plan to comment further in the best interests of everyone involved.”