THE Ministry of Education is conducting investigations into claims that a headteacher sexually assaulted a primary school student last month

The incident is alleged to have occurred two weeks ago and was discovered by the same school’s assistant headteacher.

Yesterday, Education Minister Dr Mahendra Reddy confirmed he was aware of the incident and that the headteacher had been transferred to another school pending investigations.

“I am aware of that matter and we are investigating it — the teacher has been transferred from that (school) awaiting report from the disciplinary staff board,” Dr Reddy said.

He said the teacher’s contract could not be terminated immediately because it had to be taken through a tribunal.

“You cannot terminate (contract) him like that,” Dr Reddy said.

“You have to take him through the tribunal because it will be thrown back.”

Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro said a report had been lodged and they were investigating the matter.