A mathematics teacher has been permanently barred from the profession after being discovered in an inappropriate relationship with a 16-year-old student at a Northamptonshire secondary school.
Gurwinder Singh Bhachu, who taught at Weston Favell Academy, was dismissed following an internal investigation that uncovered his misconduct with the sixth-form pupil. The relationship, which involved exchanging messages and meeting outside school premises, constituted a serious breach of professional boundaries.
Pattern of Inappropriate Conduct
The Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) heard that Bhachu's actions extended beyond a single incident. Evidence presented showed:
- Exchanging personal mobile numbers with the student
- Engaging in extensive messaging via WhatsApp
- Arranging meetings outside school hours
- Attempting to conceal the relationship from colleagues
Despite the student being above the age of consent, the power imbalance and breach of trust were deemed unacceptable for someone in a position of authority.
School's Immediate Response
Weston Favell Academy, part of the East Midlands Academy Trust, acted promptly upon discovering the relationship. School administrators:
- Immediately suspended Bhachu pending investigation
- Reported the matter to relevant authorities including the TRA
- Implemented additional safeguarding training for staff
- Provided appropriate support to affected students
A spokesperson for the academy stated: "The safety and wellbeing of our students is our highest priority. We have robust safeguarding procedures in place and take immediate action when these standards are not met."
Professional Consequences
The TRA panel concluded that Bhachu's actions amounted to "unacceptable professional conduct" and potentially brought the teaching profession into disrepute. Their decision ensures:
- Permanent prohibition from teaching in any school in England
- Inclusion on the official list of banned teachers
- No right to apply for restoration of teaching credentials
This case serves as a stark reminder of the professional boundaries educators must maintain with students, regardless of their age.
