A teaching assistant has been struck off after being caught driving under the influence of cocaine, alcohol, and cannabis shortly after leaving her primary school in Swansea. Jessica Picton, 33, was stopped by police at 4.45pm on December 11, 2023, less than two hours after finishing her shift at Clase Primary School.
Picton, who worked with pupils with additional educational needs, pleaded guilty at West Glamorgan Magistrates Court on June 14, 2024, to driving under the influence of controlled drugs and alcohol. She received a curfew, an electronic tag, a 17-month driving ban, and a community order.
The Education Workforce Council Wales (EWC) fitness to practise committee found Picton guilty of unacceptable professional conduct, stating she showed a 'reckless disregard' for the professional code. The committee noted that her actions 'fell far below' expected standards and that she failed to engage with proceedings, showing no insight, remorse, or regret.
The hearing also heard from former headteacher Sharon Hope, who said Picton did not inform the school of her arrest. Hope expressed concern that Picton might have been under the influence at work, though no evidence was found. Prior to the incident, Picton had an unblemished record and was described as kind, hardworking, and well-liked.
