Richard Fitton resigned from Heathside School in July 2023 following safeguarding concerns and a misconduct panel ruling. The panel found that Fitton showed favoritism towards female pupils, evidenced by his interaction patterns in class. His behavior included physical contact with female students, which contradicted professional boundaries. However, he was acquitted of more severe accusations, with the panel stating no evidence of sexual intent. It concluded that Fitton preferred teaching female students due to better compliance. The context of a small independent school setting influenced the panel's perception of his conduct's severity, leading to no prohibition order being issued.
The panel concluded that Mr Fitton's conduct was at the less serious end of the severity scale, and no prohibition order was made.
Mr Fitton showed favoritism towards female pupils, which was noted by others in the class, pointing to a lack of professionalism.
Despite showing favoritism, Mr Fitton was cleared of serious accusations, the panel finding no evidence of pursuing a sexual relationship.
The conduct occurred in a small primary school with informal practices, which the panel felt mitigated the seriousness of Mr Fitton's behavior.
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