The Department for Education is investigating concerns about the handling of Sats exams at a South Norwood primary school. 

Results from tests sat by Key Stage 2 children at Heavers Farm in Dinsdale Gardens last year have been withheld while they are reviewed by the department's Standards and Testing Agency.

It is understood the investigation relates to the conduct of staff.

The results of children in Year 6 have been withheld since July, when parents were expecting to receive them.

The school's headteacher Andrea Cousins and deputy head Ragini Shekar both left over the summer, although Croydon Council said their departures were not thought to relate to the investigation.

Parents were informed by executive headteacher Susan Papas of the departures upon pupils' return to school earlier this month.

A letter to parents said Mrs Cousins had "left the school to pursue her career elsewhere" and cited "personal reasons" for Mrs Shekar taking a period of leave.

Mrs Papas, who spends three days a week at Heavers Farm and two at partner school Selsdon Primary, is understood to be writing to parents about concerns over the exams.

 A Department for Education spokesman said: "The Standards and Testing Agency are currently conducting an investigation into the administration of the 2014 key stage 2 national curriculum tests at the school. 

"While these types of investigation are undertaken it is standard procedure to suppress a school’s results until the investigation is concluded.

"As no final decision on the case has yet been made the school’s results have not been returned to them."

A spokesman for Croydon Council added: "We are aware of the concerns of the Standards and Testing Agency and are working closely with them, the school and the Department for Education to ensure that the investigation is concluded as swiftly as possible."

Sixty-five per cent of pupils at Heavers Farm achieved level four or above in reading, writing and maths in 2013, down from 89 per cent the year before.

Did your child sit their Sats at Heavers Farm Primary last year? Call the newsdesk on 0208 722 6351 or email chris.baynes@london.newsquest.co.uk