Ban for teacher who told pupils about drunken night
Ban for Teacher Who Shared Personal Details with Students
A teacher from Westfield Academy in Yeovil, Somerset, has faced an indefinite ban after revealing personal information about her private life to pupils. Natasha Blackmore, 36, who was the head of design technology at the secondary school, admitted to breaching professional boundaries by discussing relationships, social habits, and even a drunken night with her students.
Professional Conduct Panel Findings
The Teaching Regulation Agency’s Professional Conduct Panel reviewed the case and determined Blackmore shared “significant inappropriate details” about her personal life. This included exchanging messages with students on social media group chats and arranging a meeting during school holidays. The report noted that up to five students often visited her in breaks and lunchtimes, with one pupil stating they viewed her as a friend rather than a teacher.
“The panel was satisfied that the conduct of Ms Blackmore amounted to misconduct of a serious nature which fell significantly short of the standards expected of the profession,” the report stated.
Blackmore admitted to joining a pupil’s Instagram group chat and organizing a meeting with them to see her dog. She described the interactions as a way to share personal experiences, including her hen night where she “got really drunk and she was vaping and smoking.” One student, referred to as Pupil A, said they initially thought the exchanges were harmless but later felt a “weird relationship” had formed, where they shared everything about their lives.
Support from Students
Blackmore mentioned the emotional support she received from students after her dog’s death, stating, “If it hadn’t been for those students and the support they showed me after I lost [REDACTED], I don’t think I would have come back to work properly due to the way I was feeling.” Despite this, the panel found her actions violated the staff code of conduct.
A parent of one of the students expressed confidence in Blackmore, calling her “a really good teacher” and noting no concerns about her behavior being improper. However, the panel concluded that her conduct was unacceptable and brought the teaching profession into disrepute.
The ban on Blackmore can be reviewed after two years, as she is now prohibited from working indefinitely. Follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Submit story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630.
