AN investigation into Cardigan Secondary School has been expanded following further complaints from staff and parents.

An independent inquiry has been set up by Ceredigion County Council after initial complaints were lodged by three former members of staff in what is understood to involve allegations of bullying and harassment.

Now that remit has been expanded, while there is also a threat of possible strike action by teachers at the school, with a ballot due to take place among members of the National Association of Schoolmasters and Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT).

Union representatives have met with education chiefs to discuss the situation.

A spokesman for Ceredigion County Council said: “The independent investigation instigated at Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi is still on-going. This will continue until all of the concerns raised have been considered.

“Members of the NASUWT have called upon a further ballot, and union representatives have met with local authority to discuss a resolution-focused outcome.

“Since the investigation began, the local authority has received other complaints that include staff and parents at the school. These complaints now form part of the current investigation.

“Every complaint received, including those of parents and pupils, will be considered by an independent investigation.”

Cllr Elaine Evans told a meeting of Cardigan town council that she had been approached by several people who had voiced concerns to her after it was revealed that the local education authority had launched the inquiry into the school.

“I have had a meeting with Barry Rees, the strategic director of learning and partnership at Ceredigion, after several people came to talk to me about Cardigan Secondary School,” said Cllr Evans.

“I asked him to include concerns from parents and pupils as well as teachers.”