Headmaster at 'inadequate' school kept boa constrictor and tarantulas in his office

A private school headteacher has been slammed for keeping a seven-foot long boa constrictor and tarantulas in his office without checking if they could pose a potential risk to his pupils.

Reverend Chris Oakey was heavily criticised by schools watchdog Ofsted for keeping the exotic animals in his office at Luton Pentecostal Church Christian Academy, Bedfordshire.

The report, which slapped the £240-a-month school with an ‘inadequate’ rating, also claimed that no risk assessment had been made about the creatures dwelling in Mr Oakey’s office.

‘The proprietor has not ensured that all necessary risk assessments are carried out and that they are updated regularly’, the report said.

‘For example, a seven-foot-long boa constrictor and a number of tarantulas are kept in the principal’s office.

‘No risk assessment has been made to ensure that keeping such animals in school does not pose a risk to children.’

The report also claimed that a number of other animals were found on the premises to ‘enhance the work of the school’ – but they have not been revealed.

The school was previously rated as ‘good’, but the Ofsted inspection in November last year found it to be ‘inadequate’ – with improper safety checks carried out on staff.

‘It has not ensured that all the necessary pre-employment checks of staffs’ suitability to work with children have been carried out’, the report added.

MORE: Weetabix’s unusual serving suggestion has not gone down well

MORE: Woman shares recipe for ‘rare chicken strips’ and people are feeling pretty sick

‘For example, prohibition from teaching checks have not been done. The approach to employing new staff is lax and relies too heavily on personal connections and the surety of already knowing prospective employees.’

But it wasn’t all bad news – with the report also singling the school out for ‘promoting harmony’ and praising the ‘polite, friendly and well-mannered’ pupils.

The school is yet to respond to the claims.