An Oakdale music teacher who shared a shower with some of her teenage pupils has been struck off for four years.
Debbie Lloyd-Jones, head of music at Oakdale Comprehensive denied having inappropriate relationships with girls aged 13 to 16.
A tribunal hearing in Cardiff was told Mrs Lloyd-Jones sent one of the girls more than 1,100 texts and bought teddy bears, perfume and jewellery for others.
The General Teaching Council of Wales said no sexual activity took place but the ban reflected the case’s “seriousness.”
Yesterday the disciplinary panel was told she shared a shower with some of her pupils after a school musical show.
A statement on the school’s website from headteacher Chris David said: “I would like to reassure all parents that at no point did the school shy away from its responsibilities to protect and care for its pupils. It is also important to stress that Mrs Debbie Lloyd-Jones has not taught at the school since September 1 2007.
“Parents approached me in June 2007 with concerns about Mrs Debbie Lloyd-Jones. I spoke to the member of staff and the LEA immediately about the allegation and a Strategy Group Meeting was set up without delay. Also at this time an independent investigation was undertaken and she was suspended on the September 1 2007.
“Following an extensive investigation the member of staff was taken to the Governors Disciplinary Committee in March 2009 and was dismissed. An appeal followed and the second Governors Disciplinary Committee upheld the first decision in May 2009.
“I assure you that if an issue of this nature ever occurs again, which I am glad to say is very rare, we as a school will not hesitate, as in this case, to take swift action in the interests of our pupils and the whole school community.”