Statement by NASUWT on the outcome of Peter Harvey’s disciplinary hearing
It is with deep regret that the NASUWT has to announce that the Governors of All Saints RC School in Mansfield, Nottingham have today summarily dismissed Peter Harvey from his post at the school.
Chris Keates, General Secretary of the NASUWT, the largest teachers’ union, said:
“I am shocked by the lack of compassion shown to a man who has dedicated the best part of his working-life to the school.
“No one has ever sought to minimise the wrong that Mr Harvey did when he assaulted the pupil, least of all Mr Harvey. He remains filled with remorse about his actions and will be so for the rest of his life.
“All those who have had any involvement in this case, including the jury and the judge, have, however, been prepared to recognise that here was an exemplary teacher, in a fragile mental state, brought to breaking point by a number of critical failures on the part of his employer.
“He has suffered imprisonment, endured a harrowing trial and been convicted. His career is in ruins and he has no income. His wife and two school age children, all with their own health problems, have had their world turned upside down.
“How much punishment should one person be expected to take? The summary dismissal meted out today is further punishment.
“The NASUWT argued for ill-health retirement which would be completely appropriate in the circumstances.
“His employers have not even allowed him to be dismissed with a period of notice and a modicum of dignity.
“The NASUWT has no alternative but to now take advice on any legal redress open to Mr Harvey.”
ENDS
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