LEICESTERSHIRE TEACHER JOHN PHILLIP SMITH PERMANENTLY BANNED FROM EDUCATION AFTER SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

A teacher from Leicestershire, John Phillip Smith, has been permanently prohibited from working in the teaching profession following a misconduct investigation related to a sexual relationship with a former pupil. The misconduct panel found that Mr. Smith had sent explicit images, including one of himself in his underwear, and made sexual comments through messages. The panel described these messages as being 'more likely than not' motivated by sexual intent.

The inappropriate relationship took place between 2015 and 2021, after Mr. Smith had left the school where the pupil, identified as Pupil A, was enrolled. Her exact age at the time was not disclosed publicly. After reviewing the evidence, the panel concluded that Pupil A’s account was more credible. It was noted that Mr. Smith had admitted to contacting her via messages and emails following his departure from her school, including social calls and meetings.

While Mr. Smith denied engaging in sexual activity, evidence suggested that he was involved in a sexually charged relationship. The panel highlighted that his conduct was inappropriate due to the power imbalance and the emotional dependency of the pupil. Specific instances cited included Mr. Smith asking Pupil A to touch herself while he touched himself, a late-night phone call with sexual connotations, and comments of a sexual nature indicating that the relationship was sexual in nature.

Mr. Smith denied the allegations but acknowledged some improper actions, such as maintaining contact after leaving his teaching role and seeking emotional support from Pupil A. The panel emphasized that the relationship posed serious risks to the pupil, who was described as vulnerable and emotionally dependent.

Ultimately, Sarah Buxcey, the decision maker, imposed an indefinite ban on Mr. Smith’s ability to teach, stating he would not be able to regain his eligibility due to the severity of the proven allegations. During the proceedings, Mr. Smith expressed feelings of shame and remorse but accepted that he had made mistakes that should not be repeated.