School sacks its headmaster

Oliver Price, known as Buster, served as headmaster at the independent school for nine years and was a leading voice in the battle to save it from closure last April.

Newlands went into administration due to rising debts and it was thought the school would close in May 2006 until two parents, Mike Holland and John Summers, stepped in with a 2.3 million rescue package.

n January 11, Mr Price was informed by Mr Holland and Mr Summers that he had been suspended on full pay over allegations of gross misconduct.

Last week it was confirmed he had been dismissed alongside his wife, Patricia, who was sacked from her post as head of performing arts.

Mr Price said: 'I am appealing against this extraordinary decision and I have every faith I will be fully vindicated in the future.

Both myself and Patricia would like to thank the many, many people, from staff to parents and pupils, who have offered us their support during this difficult time.'

Until last week the couple lived at the Eastbourne Road site with their two children Briony and Alex. They have since moved out of the area.

Mr Holland said Mr Price was dismissed due to a total breakdown of trust with the governors of the school.

Mr Holland said: 'The governors tried without success to work with Mr Price since the school closure in April of last year.

'It is a pity that a trusting relationship between the governing body and Mr Price proved impossible to achieve.

'However, none of this affects the well being of the school. Indeed far from it.

'The school continues to grow and flourish.'