A racist headteacher who called a colleague a "Polish slapper" and criticised Muslim members of staff for taking time off work for the festival Eid was found guilty of misconduct.

Anupe Hanch, 49, headteacher of Gearies Junior School in Waremead Road, Barkingside, for seven years from 2005 to 2012, is a serving independent parish councillor for Abridge in Epping Forest.

A National College for Teaching and Leadership panel heard from 11 witnesses over two weeks, with a report published this week.

The report says that while reviewing CVs for a job, Ms Hanch said: “If we have any more Muslims in here it’s going to start looking like Al Jazeera.”

Ms Hanch made racist remarks over Muslim colleagues taking leave during the religious holiday of Eid in September 2010, saying: "I’m not going to be like those f***ing Muslims taking a day off for Eid."

She also called a colleague a "Polish slapper", the panel heard.

Ms Hanch denied all allegations but the panel decided she "was not a credible witness".

Finding her guilty, the report said: “Ms Hanch’s conduct continued over a period of seven years, involved NQTs, teaching staff, senior leaders, non-teaching staff at all levels, pupils and parents.

“Some of her actions could have had a long term detrimental effect on those involved, including teachers and pupils, and she showed a concerning attitude to race and belief.”

A spokesman for Redbridge council said she was immediately suspended when the allegations were made in July 2012.

He said: “Ms Hanch was immediately suspended and an independent investigation was organised.

“Following this investigation Ms Hanch’s contract was terminated and we passed the findings to the National College for Teaching and Leadership so they were able to take further action.”

The panel is set to decide whether any further action should be taken on June 3.