The head teacher of an 'outstanding' infant school has been suspended from duty while an investigation into the management and financial practices of the school take place.

Following an internal audit carried out by Harrow Council and the governing body of Whitchurch First School & Nursery have agreed to launch an independent investigation into management and financial practices at the school in Wemborough Road, Harrow.

While the investigation is being carried out, the head teacher, Anne Winstrom has been suspended from duty.

A new interim executive board will temporarily take over the governing of the school.

Michael Baxter will become interim head teacher for the remainder of the summer term, he has 30 years experience in primary and infant education, including a decade as a head teacher and inspector.

Chris Spencer, Harrow Council’s Corporate Director for Children and Families, said: “We expect to conclude the independent investigation swiftly, and it is important to stress there will be no disruption to children or the outstanding education that they receive at Whitchurch.”

The school received an 'outstanding' in their most recent Ofsted inspection.