A grammar school’s head teacher has left after just under a year in the post, it has been confirmed.

Maureen Wolloshin, who took over at Maidstone Grammar School for Girls in Buckland Road, Maidstone, last April, left the school shortly before the Easter break, Kent County Council has confirmed.

Bosses had denied rumours that she had been suspended back in February.

In a letter to parents, the chairman of governors, Molly Tipples said she had left the Buckland Road school for personal reasons.

“We understand that an opportunity has arisen for Maureen to travel, with her daughter, in South East Asia for an extended period this year,” she said.

“Maureen has asked that we pass on her gratitude and appreciation to all of the students, their families and the staff for their support.

“The governors and staff would like to wish Maureen well for the future.

“During Ms Wolloshin’s absence the deputy head teachers, together with the assistant head teachers, have done an excellent job in maintaining the ethos and high standards expected at this school and they will continue to fulfil this role for the time being.”

She added: “I would like to reassure parents that the governing body has the students’ best interests at the very core of everything we do and are looking to recruit a replacement head teacher as soon as we can.”

She had joined the school from Dane Court Grammar School in Broadstairs, after long-serving head Mary Smith retired following eight years at the school.