News

‘Evil’ school teacher banned for life

Published

11 years ago

March 14, 2014

A VETERAN primary school teacher has been banned from the classroom for life for physically assaulting pupils as young as five.

Margaret Wood-Robinson was so feared by one of her six-year-old victims, he branded her an “evil” teacher.

Other pupils were pinched, pushed, slapped, bruised and routinely dragged around during a five-year classroom reign of terror.Wood-Robinson, aged in her late 50s, worked at St Mary’s Roman Catholic VA Primary School in Pembroke Dock for 35 years.

The General Teaching Council for Wales panel heard evidence that pupils regularly returned home with bruises and red marks on their arms after a day at school and were allegedly even hit for asking for help, it was claimed.A joint police and social services investigation in 2011, carried out while she was suspended, interviewed pupils, parents and teaching staff, but stopped short of a criminal prosecution.

Mrs Wood-Robinson was suspended from school in mid-2012 when an internal inquiry into her conduct was launched. Wood-Robinson failed to attend a General Teaching Council of Wales hearing into her professional conduct, sitting in Cardiff, which concluded after two days.

It found nine allegations of physically assaulting or inappropriately touching nine pupils to be substantially proved. The GTCW panel found her behaviour collectively amounted to unacceptable professional conduct and passed an indefinite prohibition order. It means her name will be removed from the teaching register in Wales for good, effectively a ban covering the rest of her life.

The headteacher of St Mary’s School in Pembroke Dock declined to comment, but a spokesman for Pembrokeshire County Council said: “Pembrokeshire County Council welcomes the decision by the General Teaching Council for Wales.

“The authority takes the safeguarding and well-being of its school pupils extremely seriously.

“We are pleased to have assisted in this investigation and played a part in bringing it to a successful conclusion.”

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11 Comments

Gertie Grumbles

March 15, 2014 at 11:01 pm

This is incredibly sad. No teacher is evil. Many teachers are stressed beyond endurance by badly behaved pupils and management that will not manage. Also by having to work incredibly long hours with impossible demands. I wonder how much support this lady had, in her difficulties, from the school\’s management team? Probably none. Sack the head, too! Obviously not doing her job!
Stephanie brown

March 15, 2014 at 11:20 pm

Gertie grumbles… In reply to your comment..yes this teacher is evil! Perhaps you don\’t have children but any person that abuses a child which is what she did to many children is evil end of! I am a nurse, work under pressure and long hours with patients with dentist who hit and spit and punch, would that make it ok for me to hit them?? No it wouldn\’t!
shelley Hawkridge Jones

March 16, 2014 at 8:06 am

She was a professional and had a personal accountability to do her job properly, regardless of the support available to her, but there should also be an investigation into why this was allowed to go on the head should have knowledge of what is going on in every classroom and turning a blind eye would make them as guilt. I to am a Nurse and at present work with neonates, trusted with parents most prized possessions as she was it should be a privilege not a chore.
anon

March 16, 2014 at 8:26 am

In response to the lovely ladies above – I am a primary teacher and while I agree with the teacher above being suspended because of alleged physical abuse with the children, I also wonder why teachers are not protected too. If pupils have the right to be safe then so do teachers yet many of my staff and myself regularly go home with bruises and other marks due to children hurting us. They never seem to get reprimanded!!!! The government has taken away any real form of ‘punishment’ so the children from a very early age realise that if they are naughty nothing happens other than being spoken to!

Everyone in a school or educational establishment has the right and basic need to feel safe.
anon

March 16, 2014 at 8:45 am

Gertie Grumbles (above comments) “no teacher is evil”, rubbish! this woman is evil, these children were aged 5 – 6 years old, there are no excuses for the fear pain and upset she has caused. We entrust our children into the care of teachers, and she abused that trust.
Mrs mole

March 16, 2014 at 10:08 am

I can not believe gertie grumbles is trying to stand up for this evil teacher yes teachers work hard and are under stress but they also get a lot more holidays than a nurse who has a lot more stress so I think u should of thought a bit harder before u left your comment as a mother myself I think this teacher is disgusting us as parents trust teachers to care for our children she certainly did not care. And we as parents get stressed out with the behaviour of our children but it would be wrong of us to treat our own children like that yet u are condoning a teacher doing it . The sad bit is your view these were vaunreble children of 5-6 she is a very evil woman and deserves everything she gets
Sophie

March 16, 2014 at 3:01 pm

Stressed out by badly behaved kids? These kids were 5 years old. Can’t handle 5 year olds? Don’t teach!! Do not blame such horrible actions in the victims!
Anon

March 16, 2014 at 9:27 pm

my wife was was hit over the head with a big book bye this Teacher 20 years ago in the same school, how has this been un detected for so long
Anon

March 16, 2014 at 9:34 pm

Sad thing is as a pupil who was taught by her I have vivid memories of not only the physical abuse, but also the way she would clearly have “favourites” that she would be a lot nicer to. It has probably happened so often that many kids felt disliked and made to feel like the bad children of the class.
Male Anon

March 21, 2014 at 4:29 pm

Now that the truth has finally been revealed, it is inevitable that the others who complained in the 90’s but were refused an investigation by the then Headmaster will have their complaints properly investigated. I was a pupil of this teacher in 1987 – her recorded misconduct is only a small timescale of her actual offending.
Teifion

March 22, 2014 at 7:59 pm

couldn’t but help but think that’s what ALL teachers were like 30 or more years ago

Business

Fresh flavours at new eatery in St Davids

Published

2 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A NEW brunch spot has opened its doors in St Davids, promising a delicious twist on classic dishes in a welcoming and vibrant setting.

The Brunch House, a passion project by hospitality duo Hannah Bowie and Adam Sawyer, opened at Oriel Y Parc Visitor Centre on Saturday (Nov 16), drawing over 250 visitors on its first day.

With more than two decades of combined industry experience, Hannah and Adam have transformed the space through extensive renovations, creating an inviting environment for locals and visitors alike.

Hannah, who previously ran 35 Main Street in Solva, shared her excitement: “Brunch is my favourite meal of the day, and bringing The Brunch House to life has been a dream come true. We’re thrilled to offer something fresh and unique to St Davids.”

The menu features an inspired blend of Middle Eastern flavours from Hannah’s heritage alongside brunch staples like the Full Welsh and Pancake Stack. Standout dishes, such as chicken and waffles drizzled with house-made hot maple sauce, have already earned rave reviews.

Ben Richardson, one of the first customers, said: “The chicken and waffles were absolutely delicious. We’re already planning our next visit.”

The eatery’s warm atmosphere and quality cuisine have struck a chord with the community. Bethany Ellison, a local customer, remarked: “What Hannah and Adam have created here is phenomenal. The ambience, combined with the exceptional food, makes this place truly special. I wish them every success.”

Adam added: “We’ve worked hard to make The Brunch House our own, and the support from locals and holidaymakers has been incredible. It’s been amazing to see so many people walk through our doors already.”

The Brunch House is open daily from 9:30am to 4:00pm, with food served until 3:00pm.

Pictured above – Brunch with a twist: The Brunch House in St Davids run by Adam Sawyer and Hannah Bowie is the newest spot to enjoy freshly made dishes

Community

Kick off the festive season in style at the Riverside Winter Fair

Published

3 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

GET ready to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as Haverfordwest hosts its inaugural Riverside Winter Fair on Saturday, November 30th.

This free, family-friendly event promises a day of festive cheer with food, arts, crafts, games, music, and a big dose of community spirit.

The festivities will kick off at 11am with the opening of Haverhub’s Winter Market. Visitors can browse a variety of stalls 11am to 5pm, offering unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food.

Alongside the market, Haverfordwest’s Business Circle are hosting a “Taste of Pembrokeshire” food and drink market on Castle Square 11am to 5pm, offering a delicious selection of local produce.

For families with younger children, Fair Play will be hosting a Board Game Sketch Fest at the Edge Youth Centre / Picton Centre from 11am to 5pm. This event will feature a variety of games, activities, and art projects, providing a fun and engaging experience for children of all ages.

At 12noon children from Haverfordwest’s primary schools will be showing off banners they’ve been making as part of a community arts project, telling the story of the history of their school’s ward area.

They will take part in a vibrant parade led by the South Wales Police Band, marching through the town centre from Swan Square to the Old Quay. Join us at 11:45am on Swan Square to join the parade!

Once the parade reaches the Old Quay, the real fun begins. The main stage will host a variety of performances throughout the day from 12-5pm and Bristol Trader will be hosting an outdoor BBQ and bar for revellers.

Entertainment on the main stage will include a brand-new cantata performed by Fenton School’s children’s choir, the Cantabile Singers of Pembrokeshire, the County Orchestra and the South Wales Police Brass Band.

This captivating performance will tell the story of Haverfordwest’s rich history, drawing inspiration from recent archaeological discoveries.

Following the cantata, local band Sorted will take to the stage, delivering a high-energy performance of Ska and Two-Tone classics. Their energetic and breakneck live sets are guaranteed to get you up on your feet and skanking.

And for the grand finale Pure West Radio Riverside Shopping Haverfordwest will be hosting its annual Christmas Lights Switch On event. The celebrations begin at 12noon, leading up to the grand moment when the town’s Christmas lights illuminate at 6pm. As the town illuminates with festive lights, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky.

For those seeking thrills, there will be fairground rides to enjoy. Thrill-seekers of all ages can experience the excitement of the various rides.

To add to the magic, Santa Claus will be making a special appearance, along with Sparkle the Elf and Friends a Giant Snow Globe and Bouncy Castle!

Artists Neil Musson and Jono Retallick will also be launching their model hot air balloon, a floating gallery and homage to the people of Haverfordwest. Find them floating through the town throughout the day.

The Riverside Winter Fair is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Local businesses and volunteers coming together to create a memorable experience for everyone.

Visit the website and sign up to the mailing list for full information delivered to your inbox ahead of the big day: www.riversidewinterfair.co.uk

Programme of events

11am-5pm Winter Market @ Haverhub

11am-5pm Taste of Pembrokeshire food and drink market @ Castle Square

11am-5pm Board Game Sketch Fest @ Picton Centre

11:45am Banner Parade assembles with South Wales Police Brass Band @ Swan Square

12noon Children’s Banner Parade from Swan Square to Old Quay

12:10pm Entertainment on Main Stage @ Old Quay

12-5pm BBQ and outdoor bar @ The Bristol Trader

12-6pm Family fun & Entertainment, Pure West Radio @ Riverside shopping Centre

6pm Switch on of the lights and fireworks display.

Charity

Pembrokeshire charities shortlisted for Welsh Charity Awards

Published

3 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THREE Pembrokeshire organisations have been shortlisted for this year’s Welsh Charity Awards, set to take place on Monday (Nov 25) at the National Museum Cardiff.

The event, which coincides with the start of Welsh Charities Week, celebrates the contributions of charities, community groups, and volunteers across Wales. Representing the county are Milford Haven’s Megan’s Starr Foundation and Milford Youth Matters, alongside Narberth-based SPAN Arts.

The awards, organised by WCVA (Wales Council for Voluntary Action), are the only event dedicated to honouring the voluntary sector in Wales. A record 239 nominations were received this year.

Megan’s Starr Foundation

MEGAN’S STARR FOUNDATION, founded by Nicola Harteveld, is nominated in the Health and Wellbeing category, sponsored by Leaderful Action. The charity supports young people in Pembrokeshire facing mental health challenges, providing free counselling, peer support, and skill-building programmes.

The team said: “This nomination celebrates the heart and soul of our work. Every young person, volunteer, and family member who finds hope and belonging at Megan’s Starr is part of this incredible journey.

“Winning would inspire us to dream bigger, support more, and build a stronger, compassionate future together.”

Harteveld was Volunteer of the Year at last year’s awards.

Milford Youth Matters

MILFORD YOUTH MATTERS has been shortlisted for Fundraiser of the Year, co-sponsored by Thomas Carroll and Zurich Municipal. A fundraising team of seven young individuals, aged 15, has raised £10,000 annually through events such as a charity golf day, reshaping perceptions of young people in Milford Haven.

A spokesperson said: “This nomination recognises the dedication and hard work of our team, who have raised vital funds while developing skills and confidence to reach their full potential. We are extremely proud of their commitment.”

SPAN Arts

SPAN ARTS, based in Narberth, is a finalist in the Welsh Language category, sponsored by Mentrau Iaith. The organisation delivers bilingual arts programmes that celebrate community identity, inclusivity, and accessibility.

Director Bethan Touhig-Gamble said: “SPAN is based in an incredible bilingual county, where the Welsh language is part of the shared culture and identity. To have the work of our volunteers, trustees, staff, and creatives recognised is truly rewarding.”

WCVA Chief Executive Lindsay Cordery-Bruce said: “We’re delighted to have had a record number of nominations this year – 239 in total. That’s testimony to the quality work undertaken by volunteers, community groups, and charities across Wales. I couldn’t be more excited to meet the finalists on Monday and find out who’s scooped the top awards.”

The Welsh Charity Awards highlight the difference made by charities and volunteers across the country. For a full list of finalists, visit the Welsh Charity Awards website.

(Cover image: Milford Youth Matters receive a cheque from Tesco)