A former teacher at Mayville High School in Portsmouth, Stuart Smith, has been dismissed from his position following a series of inappropriate comments and sexual advaances towards a female student. Smith , 48, described the student as his 'Mona Lisa friend' and 'little kid hugger', and sent her messages on WhatsApp after a school trip. His actions escalated to rubbing the student's legs and inviting her to put them over him, culminating in charges of sexual assault.

The 'Premier League' remark and its implications

According to the report, Smith referred to the female pupil, known only as Pupil A, as his 'Premier League' friend. This remark, along with other 'uncomfortable' comments, was deemed highly inappropriate and unprofessional. The PE teacher, who had worked as a sports coach for over 25 years, sent the pupil a string of messages after returning from a school trip with her.. She became upset when tarvelling home, and Smith invited her to put her legs over him, beginning to rub them.

A pattern of inappropriate behaviour

The report details a pattern of inappropriate behaviour from Smith, including sending messages to the student on WhatsApp and making uncomfortable comments. The student became upset during a trip home, and Smith's actions escalated to physical contact.. According to the report, Smith's behaviour was not limited to this incident, as he had previously described the student as his 'Mona Lisa friend' and 'little kid hugger'.

The consequences of Smith's actions

As a result of his actions, Stuart Smith has been struck off from teaching. The report states that his behaviour was 'highly inappropriate and unprofessional', and that he had breached the trust placed in him as a teacher. The dismissal serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professional boundaries in the teaching profession.

Unanswered questions and concerns

While the report provides details of Smith's inappropriate behaviour, there are still unanswered questions. For instance, it is unclear whether there were other incidents involving Smith and other students. Additionally, the report does not specify what measures the school has taken to enusre the safety and well-being of its students in the wake of this incident.