Ban for teacher who told pupils about drunken night
Ban for teacher who told pupils about drunken night
Natasha Blackmore, 36, head of design technology at Westfield Academy in Yeovil, Somerset, has been barred from teaching after sharing personal details with her students. A Professional Conduct Panel of the Teaching Regulation Agency reviewed her case, noting she disclosed intimate aspects of her life, including relationships and late-night outings, during class time.
Details of the misconduct
The panel learned that Blackmore shared texts in which she had criticized another person, and described a night out where she consumed alcohol, smoked, and vaped. She also arranged a meeting with students during school holidays, which was deemed a breach of professional conduct standards. Up to five pupils visited her in her room during breaks and lunch, according to the report.
“Blackmore admitted her behavior was unprofessional and could harm the reputation of the teaching profession,” the panel stated.
One student, referred to as Pupil A, claimed the teacher treated them as friends rather than students. Pupil A said conversations turned into personal exchanges, covering topics like behavior, home life, and even arguments. “It became a kind of weird relationship where we told each other everything,” they explained.
Support from students and parents
Blackmore defended her actions, stating that students had offered emotional support after her dog’s death. “Without their encouragement after I lost [REDACTED], I wouldn’t have been able to return to work effectively,” she said. A parent also praised her, noting, “She had always been a really good teacher and I never felt anything was being done behind closed doors.”
The panel determined her conduct fell short of professional expectations. She is now banned indefinitely but may petition for a review after two years.
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