A teaching assistant facing a professional standards hearing allegedly attended a football training course while on sick leave despite being denied permission to do so. Jamie Harris, employed at Ysgol Bryn Castell in Bridgend, was reportedly dismissed after a colleague discovered his participation in the UEFA A license course through a social media post. Although Harris denied being deceitful, he admitted that his initial response lacked integrity.
During the Education Workforce Council Wales hearing, it was revealed that Harris had been attempting to enroll in the Newport-based course for three years before finally securing a spot. He had saved up £3,500 to cover the course fee after already completing UEFA B and C license courses. The prestigious UEFA A license course has been completed by renowned figures such as Thierry Henry.
Having started at YBC in 2021, Harris, a University of South Wales graduate and football enthusiast, expressed joy at being accepted onto the competitive course. Despite dealing with personal issues during his sick leave period from June 3 to June 17, 2024, Harris maintained that his attendance at the course was genuine and supported by his family’s encouragement.
Upon returning to work, Harris was confronted by the headteacher, Helen Ridout, who informed him of the discovery of his course attendance during sick leave. Harris confessed to his actions and expressed regret at the situation. He later clarified the number of hours spent at the course and admitted to feeling panicked initially. Despite refuting allegations of dishonesty, Harris acknowledged the lack of integrity in his initial response.
At the hearing, Harris explained that his request for unpaid leave had been rejected, leading him to take sick leave instead. He denied feeling unfairly treated but admitted to being confused by the circumstances. Despite the unfavorable optics of attending the course while on sick leave, Harris maintained that the rejection of his leave request did not directly influence his decision to take sick leave.
Harris, currently employed at Woodlands special school in Cardiff, presented evidence during the hearing regarding his employment history and completion of the UEFA course. Former colleagues supported his application to Woodlands, where he now serves as the sports development officer.
The hearing is ongoing.