A Christian teacher who told pupils that being LGBT+ was a “sin” has lost a High Court challenge against a misconduct ruling
A Christian teacher who told students that being LGBT+ was a “sin” and that transgender individuals were “just confused” has lost her High Court challenge against a ruling of unprofessional conduct.
Glawdys Leger, 44, made the comments during a religious studies lesson at Bishop Justus Church of England School in Bromley in February 2022. The statements, made to year seven pupils, were later recorded by an 11-year-old student, whose mother subsequently filed a complaint with the school, describing the remarks as “very distressing” for her child.
Following the incident, Leger was suspended in March 2022 and dismissed two months later. The Professional Conduct Panel (PCP) later ruled that her comments amounted to unprofessional conduct, though she was not banned from teaching.
In her legal challenge at the High Court, Leger argued that the school’s duty to provide a broad and balanced curriculum should not apply to her as an individual teacher. She also claimed that the PCP’s decision to publish its findings violated her privacy, making it difficult, if not impossible, for her to find future employment.
Court Ruling & Justification
Mrs Justice Lang, delivering the written judgment, dismissed Leger’s challenge, ruling that the publication of the misconduct findings was a “justifiable and proportionate sanction” for her “unacceptable professional conduct”.
The judgment acknowledged that Leger’s comments lacked respect for others’ rights but concluded that they did not stem from a “lack of tolerance” or an “intention to cause distress”. However, the court found that her actions risked upsetting pupils and undermined the school’s efforts to provide a supportive environment for students exploring their sexual identity.
The decision reinforces the importance of maintaining inclusivity and respect within the classroom, particularly when addressing sensitive topics related to gender and sexuality.
With her appeal rejected, Leger’s case remains a landmark ruling in the ongoing debate over religious beliefs and professional responsibilities in education.
