The HEADTEACHER of a failing school is to take a leave of absence.

The news comes as Blackburn with Darwen Council confirmed a meeting for parents at Pleckgate High School has been cancelled.

A meeting at the school to discuss the recent Inadequate Ofsted report had been due to take place at 5.30pm today.

A joint statement from Linda Clegg, Director of Children’s Services, Blackburn with Darwen Council, and Aziz Hazari, Chair of Governing Body, Pleckgate High School Mathematics and Computing College said: “In the best interest of the students at Pleckgate High School Mathematics and Computing College, through mutual agreement with the Local Authority, the headteacher has agreed to take some extended personal time off.

“In light of this development and the fact that other key staff are not available, the meeting of parents and carers planned for this evening to discuss the recent Ofsted report has been cancelled.

“The meeting will be rescheduled when the new interim executive board – which is replacing the governing body – is in place. This will take place shortly after half term.”