Seven day improvement notice served at National deaf school

A senior member of staff at Scotland’s national deaf school has been suspended as police explore allegations of misconduct.

The specific details of the allegations at Donaldson’s School in Linlithgow have not been revealed, but police are believed to be assessing a number of concerns before deciding whether to launch a formal investigation.

On Monday, an unannounced inspection took place which led to the Scottish Government giving the school seven days to come up with a plan for improvements.

In a statement the school principal, Laura Battles, said: “I received allegations against a member of staff within the school, who was immediately suspended. As a result, an unannounced inspection took place.

“Our first priority is always the safety and wellbeing of pupils and we are working with Education Scotland, the Care Inspectorate and others to ensure this.

“It would be inappropriate for us to make any further comment while this process, including Police Scotland’s assessment of the concerns raised, is ongoing.”

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Ministers have served a Preliminary Notice under Section 66C of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 on Donaldson’s School, Linlithgow, following concerns raised by Education Scotland as part of an on-going inspection.

“Immediate steps have been taken, and will continue to be taken, to ensure the safety and well-being of pupils. A team of inspectors and key partners returned to the school on Monday to continue working with the school to secure improvements.

“This has included meeting with the board of governors, the parents of pupils and liaising with Police Scotland.”