Ban for teacher who told pupils about drunken night
Banned for Sharing Personal Details with Students
A secondary school teacher from Yeovil, Somerset, has faced an indefinite ban after discussing her private life with pupils. Natasha Blackmore, 36, previously served as head of design technology at Westfield Academy, where she shared personal information that went beyond professional limits. A Professional Conduct Panel of the Teaching Regulation Agency reviewed the case and found her actions to be unacceptable.
Details of the Conduct
Blackmore revealed details about her relationships and social activities, including nights out involving alcohol and vaping. The panel heard that she had shown students texts where she criticized another individual in a negative light. One student described her as a friend rather than a teacher, indicating a close bond formed outside classroom expectations.
“Up to five students would visit Blackmore during breaks and lunchtimes, and one pupil said she saw them as friends, not students.”
Reports stated that Blackmore spent excessive time with pupils, exchanged messages in social media group chats, and arranged a meeting with them during school holidays. A student, referred to as Pupil A, claimed she had invited a group to meet her dog at Yeovil Recreational Centre. Pupil A also noted that Blackmore described her drunken hen night as “getting really drunk and she was vaping and smoking.”
“Initially, it felt okay, but it turned into a weird relationship where we shared everything.”
Another pupil mentioned that four students regularly joined Blackmore in her room during breaks, discussing topics like their daily experiences, behavior, home lives, and personal conflicts. Blackmore admitted to joining a pupil’s Instagram group chat and arranging the dog meeting, which violated staff conduct guidelines.
Parent’s Perspective
A parent defended Blackmore, stating she had “never worried anything underhand was happening” and praised her as “a really good teacher.” Despite the criticism, the panel concluded her conduct fell short of professional standards, labeling it as serious misconduct.
“The panel was satisfied that Ms Blackmore’s actions amounted to misconduct of a serious nature.”
Blackmore acknowledged her behavior breached professional boundaries and admitted to being at fault. She explained that students had supported her emotionally after her dog’s death, which helped her return to work. However, the panel’s decision stands, with the ban remaining in effect until she can apply for review after two years.
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