A teaching assistant in Caerphilly has learned her fate after being suspended for dragging a shy pupil into the classroom. At Ysgol Gymraeg Gilfach Fargod, Cerian Williams, a seasoned staff member for 14 years, encountered a serious incident that led to her suspension by the Education Workforce Council Wales (EWC).
The incident took place in May 2022 when a pupil hesitated to enter the classroom. Witnesses and the pupil’s mum claimed Williams approached him briskly, grabbed his arm, and pulled him inside without a word. It was described as an excessive display, leaving the young boy distressed.
Williams defended her actions, suggesting she used a familiar control technique, the ‘Caring C’, to guide him gently. However, the committee’s findings contradicted her statement, as other witnesses consistently reported her being in front of the child, not beside or behind him as the technique requires.
The EWC panel found her actions amounted to an unnecessary use of force, breaching acceptable professional conduct. The committee, considering her spotless record until then, concluded it was a one-off incident likely stemming from an uncharacteristic loss of temper. As a result, Williams faces a 12-month suspension from the profession to reflect on her actions and ensure a safer approach in the future.
Her absence from the hearing didn’t stop the committee from proceeding, concluding with confirmed allegations of unnecessary force and unacceptable conduct. While no criminal action was pursued, as she was found not guilty of assault in court, the educational authority’s decision stands firm.
It’s a stern reminder of the importance of maintaining composure and adhering strictly to guidelines when handling sensitive situations, especially involving young, vulnerable pupils.