Mr Locke said he had raised his concerns with a school inspector who told him to refer the matter to the police and social services, after which he was told no crime had been committed and the matter should be dealt with internally.

BBC: Howell's girls school in Denbigh

After a tour of the school we attended a meeting with the headteacher and governors, who had invited the chief inspector to visit the school and make his own judgement.

BBC: graphic text box

The school has appealed to a government inspector and a hearing has opened but a decision is not expected for weeks.

BBC: Enforcement notice against Bedford Free School withdrawn