Teaching Assistant Banned from Profession after Inappropriate Behaviour with Children
Melanie Morgan, an experienced teaching assistant at Pantside Primary School in Newbridge, has been banned from the profession after a professional standards panel found her guilty of misconduct. The panel heard that Morgan had called vulnerable children in her care disparaging names, such as ‘little s****’, and used explicit language in front of the students, aged between five and eleven. Colleagues reported instances where Morgan locked children out of the classroom, including some who had autism and were non-verbal but understood her remarks.
The investigation revealed that Morgan had made derogatory comments about the children’s hygiene, with witnesses recounting incidents where she used inappropriate language and behaviour towards the students. Despite Morgan denying all allegations against her and claiming to have always acted professionally, former supply teaching assistants testified against her, highlighting her use of swear words and mistreatment of the children.
According to testimony presented at the hearing, Morgan’s behaviour included mocking crying children, using foul language, and making derogatory remarks about the students’ hygiene. Witnesses also reported instances where Morgan locked children out of the classroom and closed blinds to prevent them from re-entering. The panel found eight out of nine allegations against Morgan to be true, constituting unacceptable professional conduct.
During the proceedings, Morgan tried to defend her actions, stating that she had never sworn in front of children and had always prioritised safeguarding. However, the panel deemed her defence implausible, considering the evidence presented against her. The committee concluded that Morgan’s behaviour posed a significant emotional risk to the children under her care, leading to her immediate removal from the teaching profession.
Following the verdict, the panel decided that Morgan would not be eligible for re-admission for a minimum of two years from the date of the decision. Despite maintaining her innocence throughout the hearing, Morgan was found to have breached professional standards and failed in her duty of care towards the students. The panel emphasised the need for upholding ethical standards in education and ensuring the well-being of all students under the care of school staff.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect when working with vulnerable children. Educators are entrusted with the responsibility of providing a safe and nurturing environment for students to learn and grow. Any breach of this duty, such as the misconduct exhibited by Melanie Morgan, must be met with swift and decisive action to protect the welfare of children in educational settings.