Teacher censured after assault in a bar…

The Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal has decided not to cancel a registration of a teacher who was convicted of punching another patron in a bar.  The teacher had pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to pay reparation.  The teacher took full responsibility for the offending and outlined his personal circumstances including being on anti-depressants following a suicide attempt. 

The Tribunal considered that this was a case where cancellation was not necessary because of the teacher’s remorse and low risk of a repeat offence.  He was also engaged with and taking advice from medical professionals and was supported by his Principal.  In addition the teacher had self-reported his conviction.

Instead of cancelling his registration the Tribunal ordered that the teacher be censured and directed to inform any employer or prospective employer of the findings and this will be noted on his record for two years.

Alan Knowsley

Education Lawyer
Wellington