A headteacher has been struck off after using school payment cards for personal expenses, including fuel and a Costco membership. Ian Carroll, 61, was executive head of three primary schools in County Durham when the misuse occurred in 2018.
A disciplinary investigation found that Carroll used, or permitted the misuse of, school funds for personal expenditure or items unconnected with the schools. The purchases included train tickets, a hotel booking, fuel, a Costco membership, and an Apple Pen.
Carroll, who resigned in 2019, did not attend the misconduct hearing or admit the allegations. He stated that the proceedings had been 'extremely damaging' to him. The panel noted he had expressed no remorse for the upset caused to colleagues and others affected by his actions.
The misconduct panel recommended a prohibition order with a review period after five years. The Secretary of State agreed, stating the order was 'proportionate and in the public interest'. Carroll is now banned from teaching in any school, sixth form college, or children's home in England. He may apply for the order to be set aside, but not until January 30, 2029.
