King Solomon High School has declined to deny reports that a controversial 'superhead' who "inappropriately" used cash meant for pupils is being lined up as its new headteacher.

Jo Shuter was named the country's best headteacher in 2007 for her work at the Quintin Kynaston Academy in St John's Wood, but was suspended for eight months while an inquiry took place into her use of expenses.

The 52-year-old resigned earlier this month, days after being disciplined by school governors.

According to the Camden New Journal a source close to the school said "governors know, some of the parents know and several of the staff know" that Ms Shuter will take over at King Solomon in Forest Road, Barkingside, in January.

Current headteacher Spencer Lewis is due to leave the school at the end of this term.

Ms Shuter has denied being in “specific talks about headship” at the school, raising speculation she could be being considered for another type of role.

The source said governors were “upset and angry” at the reports.

The Guardian approached King Solomon about the claims last week but it has only responded today.

A spokeswoman said: “the school has no comment to make - it is school policy not to comment on speculation and when the school has any announcement to make on any matter regarding the school, it will make it to all stakeholders simultaneously.”

The Department for Education's investigation into Ms Shuter, published in May, concluded that she had not exercised "proper financial control" while in charge at her school.

In two cases inspectors found travel expenses claims had been made more than once for the same thing, which "could amount to fraud".


The report revealed that in 2012 Ms Shuter and her senior leadership team spent more than £8,000 of the school's money on an "overnight meeting" at the up-market Grove Hotel in Chandlers Cross and £4,400 for a similar stay at the Landmark Hotel.


A further £3,474 was spent on flowers and birthday cakes for senior staff.


She was additionally criticised for failing to declare business interests despite having close links to school suppliers, and that some mobile phone claims “did not relate fully to Academy business.”


The report added: “Funding provided to benefit the needs of the Academy pupils has, in fact, been diverted for inappropriate purposes.”


Mr Lewis announced he was leaving King Solomon in November last year.


He is due to start a new job in charge of Yavneh College in Hertfordshire at the end of the current academic year.


A farewell party is due to be held at the school on Sunday evening to honour his 19 years there.