A DISGRACED former deputy head has been sacked from his position for gross misconduct and the head teacher has resigned, writes Alex Wellman. Dr Richard Evans, former deputy head of Copland Community School in Cecil Avenue, Wembley, was dismissed on the

A DISGRACED former deputy head has been sacked from his position for gross misconduct and the head teacher has resigned, writes Alex Wellman.

Dr Richard Evans, former deputy head of Copland Community School in Cecil Avenue, Wembley, was dismissed on the grounds of gross misconduct in relation to serious financial irregularities by the schools Interim Executive Board (IEB) on Monday November 2.

The disciplinary panel, made up of three members of the school's IEB, heard evidence from Brent Council's head of Audit and Investigation before reaching its conclusion.

Dr Evans, who chose not to attend the hearing, has the right to appeal against the board's decision.

The school's Bursar Columbus Odukoro is due to appear before a disciplinary panel in December.

The school's head teacher, Sir Alan Davis was also asked to appear before a disciplinary panel this week.

However, he formally resigned from his position on October 14.

The former head of human resources at the school, Michelle Bishop, also resigned following her suspension in August this year.

All four were embroiled in a scandal which saw thousands of pounds of school cash go on extravagant bonuses.

It is not possible to take disciplinary action leading to dismissal against staff once they have resigned.

The school is taking legal advice on further action to be taken.

Roy Evans, chairman of Copland's IEB said: "The school's prime focus is the welfare and development of the students.

"Despite the recent events, the school's board and acting head teacher are continuing to maintain good educational standards and have already made many improvements to the buildings and equipment.

"We have had strong positive support from Brent Council during this difficult period. Morale is high within the school and we will continue to move forward."

A Brent Council spokeswoman said: "Brent Council fully supports the decision of the Interim Executive Board to dismiss Dr Richard Evans from his post as deputy headteacher at Copland Community School.

"The council acted swiftly when it was made aware of the allegations of serious financial mismanagement at the school.

"We suspended four senior members of staff, took control of the school's budget, established an Interim Executive Board to oversee the running of the school and with them, installed a new Acting Head to take the school forward.

"We will continue to work with the school in achieving further progress.