Press Statement on Behalf of Cllr David Pearson

Please find beneath a press statement on behalf of Cllr David Pearson in relation to the ongoing investigations at the school.

Statement from Cllr David Pearson, lead member for Children:

"I am the Lead Member for Children's Services and along with the Director, Penny Penn-Howard, I am responsible on a statutory basis for the welfare of children on the Islands. I believe it will now help the whole community and in particular the school, for me to clarify, that I have seen the evidence provided by the Auditors from the school. The evidence justifies the suspension from duty of the former headmaster, Bryce Wilby, and the beginning of a full investigation. I was briefed by the Director, ahead of her presenting the information to Governors, which led to their decision to suspend Mr Wilby. I agreed with her actions and that the Governors' decision was correct in the circumstances to ensure any investigation was not impeded.

"Serious issues have been raised in terms of financial irregularities and the presence of inappropriate content on the school computer which was solely used by Mr. Wilby. The work of the auditors continues and it is intended that a report will be presented to Full Council at the end of September. I believe that this report will give the community the fullest information possible in legal terms and allow any rifts which have been caused in our community to heal. As this is the first day of the New School Year, I would also wish to assure School Staff that I take seriously their concerns on the mismanagement within the school and will ensure that they receive the continuing professional support of our partners and independent expertise where required. Their professionalism and commitment towards the education of our Islands' children is greatly valued."