New Ludlow College Principal Chris Conoley

The principal of a south Shropshire college has been suspended, it emerged today. Chris Conoley, principal of Ludlow College, was suspended from his post on March 8, college officials have confirmed.

They added that an external investigation would be carried out by an independent person. When contacted by the Shropshire Star today, Mr Conoley said he was unable to comment at this time.

Melissa Critchley, spokeswoman for Ludlow College, today said: “On March 8, the principal of Ludlow College Chris Conoley was suspended from his post to enable an investigation to take place in response to a number of complaints and concerns reported to the governing body.

“It is stressed that suspension is a holding measure and a neutral act.

“The investigation will be carried out by an independent, external person to ensure a full and thorough investigation is undertaken.

“Temporary management arrangements have been put in place to ensure the continuation of business across the college and learning/students are not affected,” she added.

She said that during this period, Jonathan Davis, one of the assistant principals, would be taking on the role of acting principal.

Ewart Carson, chairman of the college governors, said that he could not give details of when the complaints had been received.

Mr Carson added: “An investigation is being carried out and we expect to have the independent, external person in place in the next few days to ensure that it’s a full and thorough investigation.”

Mr Conoley was appointed as principal at the College in April 2008, taking over when Ann Brown retired.

He was previously director of the North Bristol Post 16 Centre.

He has also taught at Wilberforce College in Hull and Gosforth High School in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Dubbed one of the oldest educational institutions in the English-speaking world, Ludlow College can trace its history back to about the year 1200.

By Hannah Costigan