Barnet Teacher Banned Indefinitely for Crystal Meth Use

Charles Miles, 64, who taught at Dwight School in Barnet for nearly four decades, has been banned from the profession indefinitely. The decision by a Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) panel followed Mr Miles admitting to using crystal meth to 'relax' on weekends. He had stated he was not addicted to the drug.

Discovery of Drug Use

Mr Miles' drug use came to light in November 2024 when police attended his home in Hackney for an unrelated matter. During the visit, social workers indicated it was evident that the English and learning support teacher was using crystal meth. A TRA panel was informed that Mr Miles was impacted by ongoing Class A drug use, though no harm to pupils was reported.

School Meeting and Admission

In January 2025, Mr Miles attended a meeting with Dwight School. Notes from this meeting, reviewed by the TRA panel, recorded Mr Miles stating, "They’re concerned about that crystal meth use but as I am trying to explain - I am not addicted to it." He maintained that his use was 'pretty controlled' and a private matter separate from his professional duties. The panel found his insight and remorse to be limited.

Ruling and Future Review

The TRA panel ruled that Mr Miles' conduct amounted to serious misconduct and was unacceptable professional conduct that could bring the profession into disrepute. The panel highlighted the strong public interest in safeguarding pupils, maintaining public confidence, and upholding standards. Although Mr Miles retired at the end of the summer 2025 school year, the panel banned him from teaching indefinitely. He is eligible to apply for a review of the ban in five years.