A primary school teacher in Nottingham has been indefinitely barred from the profession after a professional conduct panel found him drinking beer in the classroom and under the influence of alcohol during school hours. Steven Ward, who taught at Southwark Primary School, faced the ban following multiple incidents observed in November 2023.
Details of the Misconduct
Witnesses reported seeing Mr Ward consume alcohol from a can resembling Brewdog's Punk IPA on several occasions. He was observed taking sips and then eating a mint after each one, in what appeared to be an attempt to mask the odour. One witness noted a strong smell of alcohol in a room he had occupied, further corroborating the allegations.
Teacher's Defence and Panel's Findings
Mr Ward denied all allegations, asserting that he was the victim of a 'witch-hunt'. However, the professional conduct panel found no evidence to support this claim. Instead, they highlighted his 'lack of insight' and failure to show remorse for his actions as key factors in their decision.
The panel concluded that this behaviour indicated a risk of further unprofessional conduct, justifying the indefinite ban. The prohibition is reviewable in January 2029, offering a potential path for reinstatement if conditions are met.
Impact and Context
This case underscores the strict standards expected of educators in maintaining a safe and appropriate learning environment. Incidents of misconduct involving alcohol in schools are rare but treated with severity due to their potential impact on student welfare and trust.
The ruling serves as a reminder of the professional responsibilities teachers hold and the consequences of breaching conduct codes, particularly in settings involving young children.
