Black Country secondary school head is suspended

The headteacher of a Black Country secondary school has been suspended along with a senior member of staff, it emerged today.

John Martin, headteacher at Oldbury College of Sport, was suspended yesterday along with a senior colleague, who has not been named.

It is understood to follow a complaint to police about an alleged physical assault on a pupil.

Chair of governors Sally Harvey has also stepped down while allegations are investigated.

Sandwell Council confirmed two members of staff have been suspended pending an investigation, but declined to confirm details of the allegations.

Councillor Bob Badham, cabinet member for children and families, said: "Suspension is a neutral act which carries no presumption of wrongdoing. The chair of governors has not resigned but has stood down while the investigation is carried out."

"The day-to-day running of the school will not be affected as there is a strong management team in place with three able deputy heads."