Ban for Teacher Who Shared Personal Details with Students

A teacher from Westfield Academy in Yeovil, Somerset, has faced an indefinite ban after sharing personal stories with pupils. Natasha Blackmore, 36, was the head of design technology at the school, and her actions were deemed to breach professional conduct standards.

During an investigation, a Professional Conduct Panel of the Teaching Regulation Agency found Blackmore had disclosed “significant inappropriate details” about her private life, including relationships and social events. She admitted to engaging in unacceptable professional behavior on March 24, which included failing to maintain appropriate boundaries with students.

“I don’t think I would have come back to work properly due to the way I was feeling,” Blackmore said, referencing the emotional support she received from students after her dog’s death.

According to the report, up to five students would visit Blackmore during breaks and lunchtimes, with one pupil describing her as a friend rather than a teacher. She also participated in social media group chats with pupils and arranged a meeting with them during school holidays, which violated the staff code of conduct.

One student, referred to as Pupil A, stated that Blackmore had invited them to meet her dog at Yeovil Recreational Centre. This encounter included discussions about her drunken night out, during which she “got really drunk and was vaping and smoking,” as the pupil recalled.

A parent noted that they were never concerned about anything improper, calling Blackmore “a really good teacher.” Despite the misconduct, the panel concluded that her actions represented serious lapses in professional standards.

Blackmore can request a review of her ban after two years. Follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Send story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630.