Ban for teacher who told pupils about drunken night

Ban for Teacher Who Shared Personal Details with Students

Westfield Academy, Somerset

A teacher at Westfield Academy in Yeovil, Somerset, has been barred from working after sharing aspects of her personal life with students. Natasha Blackmore, 36, who led the design technology department, discussed her social activities, including relationships and occasions involving alcohol, during class time. The Teaching Regulation Agency’s Professional Conduct Panel reviewed the case and determined her actions constituted professional misconduct.

Unacceptable Conduct Identified

Blackmore admitted to engaging in behavior that violated professional standards on March 24. The panel noted she revealed “significant inappropriate details” about her private life to pupils, such as her habit of smoking, drinking, and vaping during a hen night. She also shared texts in which she criticized someone in a negative light. According to the report, several students would visit her room during breaks and lunch periods, with one describing her as a friend rather than a teacher.

“It had developed into ‘some kind of weird relationship’ where we told each other ‘everything’.”

The report highlights that Blackmore spent excessive time with students, participated in social media group chats with them, and organized a meeting during school holidays. One student mentioned she was invited to meet Blackmore’s dog at the Yeovil Recreational Centre. The teacher explained that the students provided emotional support after her dog’s death, helping her return to work. “Without their support, I don’t think I would have come back properly,” she stated.

Parent’s Perspective

A parent defended Blackmore, saying they never felt any hidden issues. “She was a really good teacher,” they said. The panel concluded that her conduct fell far below professional expectations, leading to an indefinite ban. The decision allows for a review after two years.