The NAHT, representing Mr Paul Davies, Head Teacher Cwmdare Primary School, confirms that Mr Paul Davies is to return to his post as Head Teacher of Cwmdare Primary School, with effect from 4
th September 2008.
The Disciplinary Appeal Committee of the Governing Body met on the evening of 3rd June 2008 and unanimously overturned the decision of the first Disciplinary Committee to dismiss Mr Davies. The decision of the first committee had been taken solely in light of the prohibition order imposed on Mr Davies by the Professional Conduct Committee of the GTCW on 4th February 2008. The judgement of Mr Justice Blair in the High Court, delivered on 23rd May 2008 quashed the prohibition order and made it possible for Mr Davies’ position to be re-considered by the Appeal Committee of the Governing Body.
Mr Davies expressed his delight and thanks. He said :
‘It is a wonderful outcome. I am so happy that I can resume the career which I love. I wish to pay tribute to the remarkable and overwhelming support which I have been privileged to receive from my governing body. When I return to duty, I will work hard and in time I hope to repay the confidence and trust which the governing body has been good enough to place in me. I am really looking forward to being back with the children staff, pupils, governors and parents in September.
I will always remember the serious mistake and error in judgement which led to the punishment which I have had and which I have accepted. I will always be so very sorry for that single but dreadful mistake and especially for its consequences for Mr Palmer. I hope that I will now be allowed to move on with my life and I thank the governors, Justice Blair and the NAHT and all those who have supported me, especially my family and friends.
I am delighted that I have been given a second chance.’
Anne Hovey, Regional Officer NAHT Cymru, representing Mr Davies, added:
‘We are delighted that Mr Davies’ career is to resume in September. The strength and commitment of the Governing Body of Cwmdare Primary School in taking decisions on the basis of a man whom they know and whose leadership they value, has been remarkable. The governing body has kept the interests of both the school and Mr Davies at the forefront of decision-making.
The governing body has taken a measured and considered approach to the difficult decisions which have had to be made over the past twelve months. At all times the governing body has acted within the law and with great care. Procedures have been conducted with probity. The governing body has taken advice from the local authority and at no time have the decisions of the governing body exceeded the lawful authority vested in such a body.
The judgement of Justice Blair enabled the Governing Body of Cwmdare Primary School to take the decision which it did last night. We thank the governing body of Cwmdare Primary School and we wish the school every success now and in the future.
I am sure that Mr Davies will repay the trust placed in him, with interest. He is a good head teacher and leader whom we are delighted has not been lost to the profession.’
For further information contact:
Anne Hovey
Swyddog Rhanbarthol / Regional Officer
NAHT Cymru
9 Columbus Walk
Brigantine Place
Cardiff
CF10 4BY
Mobile No: 07976 920094.
