25 October 2019
Dear Staff and Colleagues,
We are writing to provide you with information regarding a whistleblowing allegation which was
received by the school in July 2019.
Due to the allegation being received so close to the end of last term, it was decided that it would be
more appropriate to start the investigation in September 2019. Allan Morris & Steve Cox undertook
a full investigation, which the Trustees have now reviewed. The report itself is very thorough and
we wish to thank those who participated in providing statements. As you will all be aware, the
details of the report must remain confidential, however we are able to share the findings and key
recommendations.
On the key allegation of bullying, we can confirm that the allegation was not substantiated. The
investigation took the legal definition of bullying as the threshold and found that there was no
evidence of this. However, the investigation did find that the historical ‘tone from the top’ could lead
some staff to perceive or feel that they had been bullied. We appreciate that this is a nuanced
position, but the important thing moving forward is the recommendations.
The report makes several recommendations, which the Trustees have reviewed. We will be passing
the entire report to Avanti as part of the handover, but the key recommendations include , but are
not limited to –
Setting up a pastoral role so individuals are able to discuss personal concerns without the
need of going to their line managers;
Staff wellbeing survey to be run on a bi-annual basis;
Undertake a full review of all HR practices to ensure staff wellbeing matters are being are
properly maintained and appropriate support provided.
The Board of Trustees would hope that all staff feel safe, secure and respected in all aspects of their
work at SAB and in the future with Avanti. As such we would actively encourage all staff to ensure
they are familiar with the Whistleblowing policy and Prevention of Staff Bullying and Harassment
policy. We would also hope that staff would feel confident to put these policies in to action should
they need to.
We hope that the following information is helpful to you all. The Prevention of Staff Bullying and
Harassment Policy defines harassment as:
“Unwanted, unreasonable and/or offensive behaviour which adversely affects a person’s dignity and
well-being and which can create an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating environment adversely
impacting on the individual”.
The Prevention of Staff Bullying and Harassment Policy defines bullying as:
“A form of harassment. It is a range of repeated, undermining behaviours (actions, comments
and/or physical contact) usually vindictive, with the purpose of controlling individuals and making
them unhappy, unsure and insecure in their relationships and role”.
It is hoped that the transfer to Avanti will be completed within the next few weeks, which will bring
the school a new lease of life. In the meantime please look after yourselves and your colleagues as
we go forward. You have all done an amazing job over this very challenging period, we truly
recognise that and will continue to be a supporting role until the transfer..
Kindest regards
The Board of Trustees