Primary School Teacher Banned Indefinitely for Drinking Beer During Lessons
A primary school teacher in South London has been prohibited from teaching indefinitely after a misconduct panel found he had likely been consuming alcohol during school hours, including while actively conducting classes. Steven Ward, aged 41, was employed at Southwark Primary School when the incidents occurred, leading to a thorough investigation and subsequent disciplinary action.
Concealed Drinking During School Time
The panel heard compelling evidence that Mr Ward was observed drinking from a bright blue can on multiple occasions while teaching. Witnesses reported seeing him take a drink approximately every fifteen minutes, after which he would promptly consume a mint, seemingly in an effort to mask any telltale odour. One account detailed how he discreetly retrieved the can from his bag on November 9, 2023, and continued to sip from it throughout the entire afternoon session.
"He would turn away from the pupils each time he took a gulp," one witness stated, highlighting the furtive nature of his actions. The panel concluded, on the balance of probabilities, that the beverage in question was Brewdog Punk IPA. In his own testimony, Mr Ward denied drinking alcohol during lessons but conceded that his behaviour while having a drink was indeed "furtive."
Morning Meeting Incident and Past Conviction
Further allegations emerged regarding Mr Ward arriving for an 8.30am staff meeting on November 13 smelling strongly of alcohol. A colleague described the scent as so potent it was noticeable "instantly when walking into a large two-person office." Although Mr Ward reportedly admitted to drinking the previous evening, he insisted he had not consumed any alcohol that morning.
The panel also considered Mr Ward's previous conviction for drink-driving without a license, for which he received a suspended sentence, a three-year driving ban, and was ordered to complete unpaid work and a rehabilitation programme involving alcohol abstinence. This history was deemed relevant to assessing his conduct and character.
Panel's Findings and Indefinite Ban
The teacher misconduct panel determined that Mr Ward's actions "fell significantly short of the standards expected of the profession" and that he was more than likely under the influence of alcohol during school hours. They noted a lack of remorse and insight into his behaviour, which they considered not to be out of character.
David Oatley, who issued the prohibition order, explained his decision: "In my judgement, the lack of insight and remorse means that there is some risk of the repetition of this behaviour, and this puts at risk the future wellbeing of pupils. I have therefore given this element considerable weight in reaching my decision."
As a result, Steven Ward has been banned from teaching indefinitely. He must wait a minimum of three years before he can even apply to have this prohibition reviewed or lifted, marking a severe consequence for his professional misconduct.
