Primary school head arrested

Apr 3 2008 by Steffan Rhys, Western Mail

THE head teacher of a primary and nursery school has been removed from duties involving children following allegations made under the Sexual Offences Act.

David Thorley, 55, head teacher at Pembroke Dock Community School, was arrested after a complaint was made about him.

He was later released on bail but has been removed from all aspects of work involving children while a disciplinary investigation takes place.

In the meantime, Mr Thorley’s duties at what has been dubbed an £11.3m “super school” – the first in Wales to be part-funded by the private sector – are being undertaken by its acting head teacher.

A Pembrokeshire County Council spokesman said, “Pembrokeshire County Council’s policy is that any member of staff who is the subject of investigation following an allegation in relation to children, should be removed from contact with children.

“The council can confirm that certain issues are being investigated and that a senior employee has been assigned to duties that do not involve contact with children.”

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said, “A 55-year-old man has been arrested following allegations under the Sexual Offences Act. He has been released on bail pending further inquiries.”

Mr Thorley has been the school’s head since it opened in 2001. The school has around 570 pupils and provides education for three to 11-year-olds.