A primary school headteacher has been suspended from his job over allegations of misconduct.

Phil Mercer was removed his role at the Hayes Primary School in Kenley last week just months after taking charge.

The Hayes Lane school and Croydon Council both refused to comment on the nature of the allegations but said no child had been harmed.

It is understood the teacher was suspended on January 5 at the start of his second term at the helm.

The school confirmed the suspension and said it had launched an internal investigation.

A statement from the school said: "Phil Mercer, headteacher of The Hayes Primary School, has been suspended from normal duties pending an internal investigation into issues concerning conduct at the school.

"The governing body is following standard procedures and the outcome of their findings will be used to make a decision on the next course of action.

"None of the allegations received involve any harm to a child and the governing body are committed to concluding this process as soon as possible to minimise any impact on the school.

"We cannot prejudice the investigation process by commenting further at this stage."

Mr Mercer took over as headteacher in the summer after his predecessor David Wilcox retired following a 28-year stint at the school.

Ofsted inspectors judged the school judged the school to be "good" in December, following their first visit since the change of headteacher.

The school currently has 407 pupils enrolled.

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