Education bosses are refusing to reveal the reason for the long-time absence of an Ashford primary school’s head teacher.

Kate Harper, the head of St Mary’s Primary School, in Western Avenue, has been away from the school for several months.

Parents however say they have been left in the dark over the reason for her long period of leave.

One parent, who did not want to be named, said: “Parents are furious about the lack of information being provided by the school.

“The school refuses to comment.”

When contacted for a comment, governor Canon Colin Preece, the Vicar of St Mary the Virgin Church in Churchyard, Ashford said he was unable to comment while an “investigation” is carried out.

Now, Kent County Council (KCC) say they will not be revealing the reasons for her absence, adding that is in confidential between employer and employee.

They did however say that she has not been suspended but could not confirm when she would be returning to the school.

Miss Harper is still listed on the school sign, and website, as head teacher however.

KCC have confirmed that an “experienced former head” has been brought in to help the two deputies, Heather Grady and Ruth Roberts, run the large school, which has 420 pupils, in Miss Harper’s absence.

David Adams, KCC’s Area Education Officer, said: “At present we are not able to say when Mrs Harper will be returning.

“However, in the meantime we are giving extra support by asking Andrew Crossley-Holland to assist the two deputy heads, Mrs Grady and Mrs Roberts, for two days a week in leading the school, with other support from the county council as required.”

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