THE leadership of a County Durham school has changed while the headteacher is absent.

Headteacher of Staindrop an Academy, Andrew Flint, has been absent from the school but parents say they have been left in the dark as to why.

In a letter to parents on February 5, chair of governors, Ken Dodd said: “I would like to share with you a change with regard to the leadership within Staindrop School.

“The headteacher is currently out of the school and this will continue for the immediate future.

“The Governing Body of Staindrop School are keen to ensure that the school is well led and managed during his absence, and that teaching is unaffected.

“To ensure the school continues to put in place improvements Mrs Carr will be acting headteacher in Mr Flint’s absence.

“I know that under Mrs Carr’s leadership all staff are determined to build on the existing good practice at the school and are committed to achieving the very best for every student.”

In its last Ofsted report in July 2015, the school was classed as 'Requiring Improvement' but Mr Flint said steps were already being made to improve it.

The school declined to comment on Mr Flint’s absence.