Taunts row teacher is back in classroom
Published Date:
05 September 2008
A TEACHING assistant accused of standing by as insults were hurled at a 15-year-old girl is back working at the school.
Kevin Leedham returned to his job at The Ridings, Ovenden, Halifax, after the summer holidays.
He allegedly organising an end-of-term game where other pupils taunted Danielle Bone, of West Bank, Illingworth, Halifax.
She was called a host of degrading names during the lesson, leaving her humiliated and upset.
Head teacher Stuart Todd told the Courier he had spoken to all parties involved and had assured Danielle's family the matter had been laid to rest. He said: "Much of the investigation was held on the last day of term when it was first brought to my attention.
"The individuals responsible have been spoken to and I have taken reports from them."
Mr Todd responded to Danielle's mum, Wendy, in writing.
He said he did not condone Mr Leedham's decision to play games in the final minutes of the class, instead of continuing with work.
He said: "In such cases classrooms should carry on with more practical work.
"However, I am satisfied with the action taken."
Mr Leedham, who was working as normal this week, has been taken through the disciplinary procedure.
A report into the investigation will be given to the school's interim executive board.
Mrs Bone, 44, said: "I think Mr Todd has dealt very fairly with the situation.
"The only request I would make is for Mr Leedham to apologise to Danielle.
"It is one thing making an apology in writing but I would like to see him say it in person and admit his mistake."
Last month the school board promised a full investigation.
Anne Gregory, acting chairwoman of the board, assured parents the school remained a safe environment for pupils.
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Last Updated:
05 September 2008 2:01 PM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Halifax