Teachers resign after Facebook row

Two teachers have left a primary school at the centre of a Facebook row in which derogatory remarks about some of the pupils were allegedly posted, a council confirmed today.

Former head Debbie Johnson and teacher Nyanza Roberts have left Westcott Primary School following an investigation, Hull City Council confirmed.

Mary Wallace, the chair of governors, said in a letter to parents, that the two had "decided to relinquish their posts".

Print-outs of the Facebook comments were posted on fencing near the primary School and word quickly spread among the 250 pupils.

One said: "No wonder everyone is thick... inbreeding must damage brain development." Another referred to seeing pupils queuing in a discount store.

The online exchange, allegedly between teachers at the school, prompted anger among parents.

In a letter to parents, Ms Wallace said: "Further to my last letter in which I promised to keep you updated with any developments at the school I write to inform you the investigation into the Facebook matter which affected a number of staff within the school has now been concluded. The details will remain confidential for legal reasons.

"However, I am able to inform you Ms Johnson and Miss Roberts have decided to relinquish their posts at Westcott Primary School from December 2011 and will pursue other opportunities.

"For the other members of staff involved in this matter, this has now been concluded under the school's disciplinary procedure. Again, no details can be given for legal reasons.

"I can assure you that the children's education and welfare continue to lie at the heart of everything we do and the school is running smoothly under the leadership of Mr Roe, the deputy headteacher who will take over as acting headteacher until a new headteacher is recruited.

"All classes are being covered by qualified teaching staff and everyone is working hard to ensure that the children's education and well-being are not affected in any way."

A council spokeswoman said: "We are continuing to support the school and will now focus on moving forward to ensure that children get the best possible standards of education. For legal reasons we are not able to go into any more detail."

PA