Headteacher of secondary school in Harlesden is suspended

Newman Catholic College (Image: Archant)

The headteacher of a struggling secondary school in Harlesden has been suspended from his post.

Richard Kolka was removed from his role at Newman Catholic College in Harlesden Road, by the school’s chair of governors, in consultation with the Diocese and Brent Council.

A source told the Times the action was taken following a complaint by a member of staff about his conduct, however a council spokeswoman said concerns had been raised over ‘management issues’ at the school.

She added: “This is a neutral act and should not be seen as a pre-judgement of the issues by the governing body. Nor does it imply any guilt or wilful misconduct on the part of the suspended employee.

“The school, Diocese and council are unable to comment on the details of the suspension or on what, if any, action may need to be taken in the future. It would be inappropriate to do so until the governing body have considered the issues and any possible disciplinary action has been completed.

“Staff, parents and carers have been informed of the actions taken and appropriate support for the school has been identified to ensure the best possible education and care continues to be provided for the pupils.”

Mr Kolka joined the school, formerly known as Cardinal Hindsley, in 2004.

The boys’ school could be forced to become an academy following a series of poor GCSE results.

Last year only 39 per cent of pupils achieved the five A* C grades, including maths and English, falling below the government’s benchmark of 40 per cent.

Mr Kolka said at the time: “We will have to see what the future holds, you do hear about failing schools being made to become academies and that is something we would have to address if it came to down to it.

“Our aim to continuously improve and we wouldn’t necessarily rule it out, any decision has to be one that benefits everyone.”