Mystery surrounds the circumstances behind the suspension of a headteacher at one of Norfolk's most improved state schools.

Governors at Long Stratton High School yesterday confirmed that long-serving head Paul Adams had been put on gardening leave pending an investigation into 'management issues'.

The headteacher, who took over the reins at Long Stratton High ten years ago, helped the school achieve its best ever GCSE results earlier this year.

Dr Adams has been suspended alongside another member of staff whilst an investigation continues at the specialist maths and computing school, which has more than 650 pupils.

The news comes after students started a new term with deputy head John Wilson as their acting headteacher.

Deborah Sacks, chairman of the board of governors at Long Stratton High School said: 'I can confirm that our headteacher and another member of staff have been suspended pending an investigation into management issues at the school.'

'Suspension is to ensure a full and fair investigation can take place, in the interests of both members of staff and the school. John Wilson will continue as acting headteacher to ensure that the school itself continues to run normally. We are working closely with Norfolk County Council to ensure we follow all of the correct procedures. However, as this matter is ongoing, I am not in a position to comment further at this time.'

Dr Adams moved from a school in Plymouth to take over from Jim Chapman as head in 2001. The school's GCSE students achieved 88pc five or more A* to Cs this year, making it one of the top performing state schools in Norfolk.