Overview

• The Education Workforce Council struck Ashton off the register indefinitely, stipulating she may reapply no sooner than two years after the decision.
• The panel examined multiple forms of evidence, including student statements, classroom CCTV and field testing that confirmed alcohol in Ashton's water bottle.
• Pupil accounts describe Ashton swigging alcohol, blasting loud music and calling students “little sh**s” as the January 2024 lesson devolved into a disruptive ‘mini rave.’
• Ashton did not attend her fitness-to-practice hearing and notified the council by email that she had moved to England and left teaching.
• The panel found Ashton showed no remorse or insight into her conduct, underscoring the regulator’s role in enforcing professional standards and safeguarding pupils.