Supply Teacher Banned After Being Found Under the Influence

A supply teacher who worked at Robert Smyth Academy in Market Harborough has been banned from the profession after being found under the influence of alcohol.

Julia Leith was investigated following concerns raised in 2018, a year after a similar incident at Judgemeadow Community College in Leicester.

The Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) found the 60-year-old guilty of unacceptable professional conduct.

The TRA report published this week said Leith was observed “swaying from side to side” at Robert Smyth Academy and “vulnerable to injury due to her state of inebriation.”

Witnesses described her as unstable on her feet, confused, emotional, slurring her speech, and emitting a distinct smell suspected to be alcohol.

Robert Smyth Academy

The panel also considered her previous incident in Leicester and her admission of long-term alcohol difficulties.

While no pupils were harmed, the panel noted that staff intervention was crucial to prevent potential risk.

Robert Smyth Academy said the incident was isolated and acted on immediately.

A spokesperson added: “The member of staff was removed from duty without delay, and the incident was reported to both the supply agency and the Local Area Designated Officer (LADO), in accordance with statutory guidance. The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority. We support the outcome reached by the Teaching Regulation Agency and will continue to uphold the high professional standards expected of all staff.”

The prohibition order can be reviewed after two years.