A teacher has been banned from the profession indefinitely after admitting to lying about his age and qualifications, including falsely claiming a master's degree from the University of Cambridge. Nicholas Martin, former head of sixth form at St Edwards School in Cheltenham, was found to have fabricated documents and misrepresented his credentials.
An investigation by the school revealed that Martin had provided inconsistent dates of birth on job applications. In 2024, he claimed to have been born in 2012, which would have made him 12 years old. He later stated his birth year as 1987, despite official records showing 1982. Martin initially blamed handwriting confusion but later admitted to dishonesty.
Martin also claimed to hold a master's degree in history from Cambridge in his 2025 application, whereas his 2024 application cited a degree from Lancaster University. When asked for proof, he provided a fabricated certificate, saying the original was at home as he 'liked to show it off to friends on weekends'. Cambridge confirmed the certificate was false.
Additionally, Martin falsely claimed to be a magistrate, using the post-nominals 'JP' in his signature. HM Courts and Tribunals Service found no record of him serving as a magistrate in recent years. He admitted to the lies during a disciplinary hearing, stating he wanted to appear 'more younger, more dynamic and more fun'.
A professional conduct panel ruled that his conduct 'fell significantly short of the standards expected of the profession'. Martin has been banned indefinitely from teaching, with a review possible after two years.
