Former Sir John Leman High School music teacher handed ban | Beccles & Bungay Journal

Key Events

James Middleditch, a 29-year-old music teacher, was dismissed from Archbishop Sancroft High School (now Harleston Sandcroft Academy) in Harleston due to conduct and behavioral issues. Months later, he secured a position at Sir John Leman High School in Beccles without disclosing his previous dismissal. His deception was uncovered when a former colleague recognized him.

The Revelation and Aftermath

Following the revelation, Mr. Middleditch was called into a meeting, where he resigned after becoming angry. The Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) conducted a hearing and determined that his actions demonstrated a lack of integrity and dishonesty.

The TRA Ruling

The TRA panel concluded that Mr. Middleditch's conduct fell significantly short of professional standards. His failure to disclose his previous employment and the reasons for his dismissal were deemed dishonest. Consequently, he received a prohibition order, preventing him from teaching indefinitely.

Key Findings

• Dishonesty and lack of integrity were central to the TRA's decision.
• The prohibition order is indefinite and applies to all educational settings.
• Mr. Middleditch's concealment of his previous dismissal was a key factor in the ruling.