A teacher who shared inappropriate details about her personal life with pupils, including details of her relationships and a drunken hen night, has been banned from the classroom.
Natasha Blackmore, 36, was head of design and technology at Westfield Academy in Somerset. A Teaching Regulation Agency panel found she disclosed significant inappropriate details about her personal life to pupils, spent excessive time with them, and exchanged messages on social media group chats.
The teacher told pupils about her romantic partners and break-ups, showed them text messages where she described another person in derogatory terms, and discussed a social event where she had been drinking, vaping, and smoking. Up to five pupils would visit her during breaks and lunchtimes, with one pupil saying she saw them as friends rather than students.
Blackmore admitted unacceptable professional conduct. The panel found she had failed to provide a safe environment, relying on pupils for emotional support after her dog died. She arranged a meeting with pupils during school holidays at a recreational centre, breaching the staff code of conduct.
One parent described Blackmore as a good teacher and said they were not worried about any underhand activity. However, the panel ruled that the ban may be reviewed after two years, noting Blackmore's insight and remorse.
