Ian Cornish banned from teaching for life after sex offences

Ian Cornish, a former teacher at Ewell Castle School, has been banned from teaching for life. The decision follows his conviction for three sex offences involving a 13-year-old boy. The offences took place between May and November 2018.

Conviction and Sentencing

Cornish, aged 70, was convicted at Harrow Crown Court. The charges included meeting a child under 16 after grooming, arranging or facilitating a child sex offence, and engaging in sexual communication with a child. Following a police investigation, Cornish pleaded guilty. On January 10, 2023, he was sentenced to four years in prison. He was also made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 10 years and placed on the Sex Offenders Register.

Teaching Regulation Agency Decision

A Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) misconduct panel reviewed Cornish's case in August to determine his suitability to remain in the teaching profession. The panel concluded that Cornish's conduct was relevant to teaching and harmful to public confidence in educators. Despite the victim not being a pupil and the offences not occurring in a school setting, the panel stated that such behaviour is antithetical to a teacher's duties. They noted that any teacher aware of a child on an adult dating site should take safeguarding action, not engage in developing a sexual relationship. While acknowledging Cornish's previously unblemished career, the panel found the offences were deliberate, sustained, and posed a high risk of serious harm to a vulnerable child. Consequently, Cornish was banned from teaching in England permanently.

What Happens Next

The lifetime ban means Ian Cornish is prohibited from undertaking any teaching work in England. The Sexual Harm Prevention Order and his placement on the Sex Offenders Register remain in effect for 10 years from his sentencing date.