A primary school headteacher has been permanently removed from the teaching profession after alcohol was discovered in her office.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Leanne Grove, 44, was caught when a teaching assistant spotted an empty gin and tonic can in her handbag at Hazeldene School in Bedford.
Further investigation revealed a stash of opened and unopened alcoholic beverages stored in cupboards and containers within her office.
Grove later admitted to drinking on school premises, including before a governors’ meeting and after a parents’ evening.
The Teacher Regulation Agency (TRA) ruled that her conduct was unacceptable and permanently struck her off the teaching register.
The disciplinary proceedings revealed that Grove had been suspended in March 2023 following the initial discovery of the drinks.
The case highlighted her lack of judgement, particularly because pupils with special educational needs frequently used her office.
The TRA panel noted that there was a “not remote” possibility that children could have accessed the alcohol.
Panel chair Richard Young emphasized that Grove’s occasional failure to lock the office represented a serious breach of responsibility.
Young added that even empty cans being visible to pupils was highly concerning.
Grove resigned from her role in May 2023 and admitted to drinking in her office on two occasions when no students were present.
She stated that she had “moved on” in her career and had no intention of returning to teaching.
Grove further admitted that her actions had “let down the whole school community.”
The TRA described her behaviour as “misconduct of a serious nature” that fell far below the standards expected of educators.
David Oatley, signing off on behalf of Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, warned that there was a risk of repeated misconduct.
Oatley noted that her actions could have endangered the future wellbeing of pupils.
The panel stressed that Grove held a position of trust as headteacher and was expected to be a role model for both staff and students.
It was deemed entirely inappropriate to bring and consume alcohol within a school setting outside of strictly controlled circumstances.
Grove now faces a ban from reapplying to the profession until 2027.
She has 28 days from the ruling to appeal the decision.
Education experts say this case serves as a cautionary tale for school leaders, emphasizing the critical need for professional conduct and safeguarding in schools.
The ruling has sparked debate about accountability for senior school staff and the safeguarding measures necessary to protect vulnerable students.