In a case that has sent shockwaves through the education community, a religious education teacher has been permanently barred from the profession after orchestrating an elaborate web of lies about suffering from terminal cancer and other personal tragedies.
Rebecca Joynes, 32, who taught at various schools across Cheshire, fabricated multiple harrowing stories over several years, convincing colleagues and students she was battling aggressive cervical cancer that had spread throughout her body.
The Elaborate Deception
The Teaching Regulation Agency heard how Joynes spun an intricate tale of medical woe, claiming she required extensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment. She even went so far as to tell staff she needed time off for a full hysterectomy, all while appearing completely healthy.
Her deception extended far beyond illness claims. In one particularly cruel fabrication, she informed colleagues that her husband had died suddenly just weeks after their wedding. She maintained this charade for over a year, despite being unmarried.
Pattern of Manipulation
According to the tribunal findings, Joynes engaged in a sustained pattern of manipulative behaviour between 2019 and 2022. Her elaborate stories included:
- Claiming to have terminal cervical cancer that had metastasised
- Faking her husband's death shortly after their wedding
- Inventing multiple family emergencies and tragedies
- Manipulating colleagues' sympathies for personal advantage
Professional Consequences
The panel concluded that Joynes had committed "significant and deliberate dishonesty" and shown a "complete lack of insight" into her actions. They determined that her behaviour amounted to unacceptable professional conduct and brought the teaching profession into disrepute.
"The panel found the allegations proved and that the respondent's actions constituted conduct that may bring the profession into disrepute," stated the official decision. "There was a pattern of dishonest behaviour over a significant period."
Final Ruling
In their final judgment, the panel imposed a prohibition order, meaning Joynes cannot teach in any school, sixth form college, or youth accommodation in England. She has no right to apply for restoration of her teaching qualifications.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity within the education sector and the serious consequences of breaching professional trust.
