Welsh Teacher Banned for Drunken Classroom Behavior

Alice Ashton, a teacher at Ysgol Bro Caereinion in Welshpool, Wales, was banned from teaching after a fitness-to-practice hearing found she drank alcohol during a Personal and Social Education lesson on January 17, 2024. Ashton, who had previously been convicted of drink-driving, was reported by students to be intoxicated, swearing, making rude gestures, and turning the class into a 'mini rave' with loud music and dancing instead of the scheduled substance awareness lesson. Her behavior was supported by CCTV footage and witness testimonies, showing a marked departure from her usual demeanor. Ashton resigned the same day an independent investigation was commissioned and did not attend the disciplinary hearing or offer an apology. The Education Workforce Council banned her indefinitely but allowed for the possibility of reapplication after two years. The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about teacher conduct and safeguarding in schools.