Update April 2016: John Martin and the other teacher involved returned to the school after it was found there had been no wrongdoing.

FURIOUS staff at a rudderless Oldbury school have demanded the investigation into the suspension of its headteacher be concluded before the school’s reputation is irrevocably damaged.

In an unprecedented open letter signed by over 135 staff to Sandwell Council they claim pupils’ education is being adversely affected by the situation which “is casting a shadow over the school community.”

Oldbury College of Sport headteacher John Martin and deputy head Craig Moreton have been suspended since May when an allegation that Mr Martin headbutted a pupil was made.

West Midlands Police have conducted an investigation into the incident and found no evidence to prosecute and have ended their involvement in the mater.

The chairman of governors Sally Harvey has also stood down whilst the matter is dealt with.

The open letter from staff said: “The ongoing absence of the two members of staff and one governor is causing concern and uncertainty because we do not know how long they are likely to be away from their duties.

“We are also facing difficult questions from students and parents who are concerned and unclear about the length of time inquires are like to take.

“Clearly in situations such as these, rumours and hearsay are common place and we are concerned about the impact this will have on our reputation as a school, our students and their families.”

The staff added: “As a school, the education and well being of all our students is of paramount importance and we are pulling together as a team to ensure that the standard of education, care and guidance we provide continues to be nothing short of outstanding.

“We have a duty of care to our students and their families and we also have a duty to support our colleagues.”

The school’s current leadership team has backed the “three committed and dedicated professionals” and claim that key steakholder groups at the school, including parents and pupils, support the suspended teachers.

Oldbury College of Sport is entering a critical period of its history as staff and pupils are preparing to move into a multi-million pound new campus in Pound Road, built in the final phase of the Building Schools for the Future project.

A spokesman for Sandwell Council confirmed that the investigation into John Martin and Craig Moreton is still ongoing.