A former teacher at Shirebrook Academy has been permanently banned from teaching after hiding her relationship with a registered sex offender and inappropriately involving a vulnerable pupil in gardening duties. Natalie Surr worked at the Nottinghamshire school since 2016, but her employment ended in July 2024 following an internal investigation.
The Teacher Regulation Agency (TRA) report revealed that Ms Surr knew her partner was a sex offender from July 2023, yet failed to inform her school about this information when questioned by a colleague in January 2024. Concerns were initially raised with the school by a member of the public in January 2024, prompting an investigation.
During an interview in June 2024, Ms Surr confirmed her relationship with the sex offender but claimed she had not disclosed it because she was unsure if it would continue. She also stated she had researched online and believed disclosure was only necessary if they were cohabiting, which she said they were not.
The TRA report highlighted an incident in September 2023 where Ms Surr arranged for a vulnerable pupil to tidy her garden at an empty property without any adult supervision. The panel found this arrangement to be inappropriate, noting risks associated with handling dog faeces and the possibility of injury or harm.
Ms Surr admitted that her conduct was "unacceptable professional conduct and/or conduct that may bring the profession into disrepute" via a signed statement of agreed facts. As a result, she has been banned indefinitely from teaching in any school, sixth form college, relevant youth accommodation, or children's home in England.
The prohibition order will remain in place until 10 July 2029, when Ms Surr may apply to have it lifted after three years from the date of issue. The findings have left the education community reeling, with concerns raised about the safety and well-being of students in similar situations.