Overview
- The TRA concluded that supply teacher William Garwood made discriminatory and curriculum‑irrelevant remarks to Year 11 pupils during a history lesson in October 2023, including statements about gay and transgender people and Ukrainians.
- A May 2026 professional conduct panel found multiple allegations proven, ruled the conduct likely to bring the profession into disrepute, and recommended a prohibition order to protect pupils.
- Decision‑maker Marc Cavey, acting for the Secretary of State for Education, accepted the recommendation and imposed a prohibition order that bars Garwood from teaching in England with review eligibility from June 23, 2032.
- The panel found Garwood showed only limited insight or remorse and rejected his defence that his religious and philosophical beliefs under Section 10 of the Equality Act justified the classroom comments.
- The case underscores how the TRA balances teachers’ freedom of belief against their duty to keep lessons impartial and safeguard pupils, and it may influence future disputes over what teachers may say in class.