150 teachers disciplined over sexual misconduct
Figures show 150 teachers were sacked or disciplined over sexual misconduct over last two years
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By Tom Powell. |  |
Saturday, 26, Sep 2009 09:23
Almost 150 teachers in England have been disciplined or sacked for sexual misconduct over the last two years, according to government figures.
A Freedom of Information request from More4 shows 49 out of 56 of the sacked teachers were reported to the police.
Sexual misconduct can range from sexual assault, to sex with a pupil, or showing students pornographic material.
Barry Sheerman, chairman of the Commons school select committee, said: "I feel very strongly that any sexual relationship between a teacher and a pupil is absolutely unforgivable.
"Under the 2004 Children's Act it is illegal and children should be protected in that educational environment, and most parents look to teachers to be custodians of the child's protection and rights."
The figures, provided by 100 local authorities in England, show 52 teachers were disciplined in 2007/08, and 40 were disciplined in 2008/09.
In 2007/08, 31 teachers lost their jobs for sexual misconduct, while 25 were sacked in 2008/09.