A Queensland teacher who engaged in a violent sadomasochistic sexual relationship with a 17-year-old student has been banned from teaching for eight years. The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal imposed the maximum ban, describing the level of violence and abusive material sent to the girl as among the worst offending.
The relationship began in October 2008 when the English teacher, then in his late 30s, was directing the Year 12 student in a school play. After late rehearsals, he drove her home and kissed her. Despite rumours that nearly ended the affair, an investigation by the school principal found no evidence of impropriety, allowing the teacher to continue.
The pair used secret email accounts to exchange pornographic and violent sexual images. The relationship escalated after the student graduated, with the teacher using sadomasochistic sex toys and engaging in rough sex while she sobbed. The tribunal heard that during one incident, she sustained vaginal bleeding, a swollen lip, and bruises, while the teacher continued despite her crying.
The former student suffered a nervous breakdown in 2015 and later reported the relationship to police. The tribunal found the teacher had manipulated her, exploiting her youth, family circumstances, and lack of life experience. The judgment stated his behaviour fell well below community standards expected of a teacher.
The man will need approval from a psychologist before he can return to the education sector after the ban expires.
