The NCTL disciplinary process
Investigation
Wherever a claim is raised, an investigation will be made to examine and assess its status. An interim prohibition order will prevent the accused staff member from continuing to teach if the claim isn’t deemed to be of serious enough nature.
The accused staff member will have 28 days to supply evidence of their defence, once a formal investigation has been carried out.
If, in accordance with all facts, the case is judged to be valid by the National College for Teaching and Leadership, it will then be referred to the Professional Conduct Panel for a hearing.
Hearing
3 members, inclusive of professional and lay members, will make up the Professional Conduct Panel. Evidence may also be provided by any witnesses called to attend the hearing.
Decision
In regard to the case and the accused member of staff, a decision will be reached by the panel on the balance of probabilities. The result will dictate the recommendation of a prohibition order to the Secretary of State, and if agreed, the accused will be added to a prohibition list and no longer allowed to teach.
Appeal
Appeals against the prohibition order can be made by the teacher to the High Court. Appeals must be made within 28 days of the order being served.
Reviews
After a period of 2 years, and if the prohibition order is suitable for review, the subject of the prohibition order may apply to reverse the order. This is dependent on the term of the order.
ESL offer specialist representation in any case within the teaching profession, under investigation by either:
