ISWA principal takes leave following WorkSafe investigation

International School of Western Australia principal Maria Coate has taken a period of leave following the opening of a WorkSafe investigation.

Ms Coate’s leave was confirmed in a letter sent by ISWA chair Gerrit Gödecke, who said Ms Coate and the board had agreed she would take leave until the matter was resolved.

As a result, Ms Coate will not engage in normal duties and will have no contact with staff, students or parents.

ISWA’s head of primary school Paul O’Brien will step in as the main contact for operational matters.

A spokesperson for WorkSafe confirmed to Business News that an investigation had been opened in September after having received complaints regarding psychosocial and OHS issues at the school.

Founded in 2004 with the assistance of Chevron, ISWA is one of seven schools in WA that teaches the International Baccalaureate program from kindergarten to year 12.

ISWA has been reached for comment.