Teachers are suspended at Knockmore

The South Eastern Education and Library Board has confirmed the staff have been suspended on full pay whilst an investigation into an incident is carried out.

According to Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson the allegation being made is of a non-sexual nature, however no further details have been released. It is understood a temporary principal has been appointed to the school, which continues to operate as normal.

A spokesperson for the South Eastern Education and Library Board said: “The SEELB has been made aware of an issue in Knockmore Primary School and is working, in collaboration with the Board of Governors, to address this matter.

“As a precautionary measure, three members of staff have been suspended from the school on full pay.

“It must be emphasised that the suspensions have been made solely on a precautionary basis to enable a full investigation of the issue to take place.

“In order to safeguard 
confidentiality, the SEELB and the Board of Governors are not in a position to provide further information.

“Appropriate arrangements have been made to ensure the operation of the school continues as normal, for the benefit of pupils and staff.”

MP Jeffrey Donaldson said he was deeply concerned about the situation at Knockmore Primary and urged the Board to carry their investigations as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

“I am very concerned about this situation at Knockmore,” said Mr Donaldson. “This is an excellent school with a very strong reputation, especially for children with special educational needs and we have fought hard to retain the school and the unit that provides educational support for children,

“Therefore, it is essential this investigation being taken forward by the Education Board is completed as soon as possible so that an outcome is achieved and the school can get back to a more normal situation.

“I do not want to prejudge any investigation but it is important that the strong reputation of the school is maintained.”