PARENTS have been told an investigation is underway into a Basingstoke headteacher accused of contacting an escort on his school email account.

Carol Bode, chair of governors at The Costello School, in Crossborough Hill, has written to parents about the accusations against David Nicholson, the school’s new headteacher.

Mr Nicholson is accused of using his work email account to contact an escort, responding postiviely to a suggestion that she dress up as a schoolgirl.

He is disputing the claims.

Mrs Bode said Mr Nicholson had not been at the secondary school academy at her request since the school was informed of the allegations last week.

The governing body is “undertaking a full investigation”, she said.

In the letter released this morning, Mrs Bode wrote: “I am writing to inform you that some allegations have been raised by a national newspaper today relating to our Head Teacher Mr Nicholson’s personal life.

“I was made aware of these allegations last week and I can assure you that I, and the Governing body, are undertaking a full investigation and will take all appropriate steps as needed.

“Mr Nicholson has not been in school at my request since we first knew of these allegations.

“Meanwhile the school is being ably managed in his absence by the school’s experienced leadership team comprising: Mrs Leigh Adams, Head of School, Mrs Karen Hannaby, deputy headteacher and Steve Barnes, deputy headteacher.”

The education watchdog Ofsted confirmed this morning that it is looking into the story carried by The Sun this morning.

In a statement, it said: “Ofsted expects the highest standards from all those who inspect on our behalf.

“Mr Nicholson is not an inspector but was undertaking training for the role. We will be working with the inspection provider to establish the facts of this case urgently and will not hesitate to take appropriate action if required.”

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