WILLIAM GIBSON BANNED FROM BOURNEMOUTH SCHOOLS AFTER SEX OFFENDER CONVICTION

In a case that has sparked significant controversy and concern within the Bournemouth community, William Gibson, a 59-year-old man with a history of sexual assault convictions, was recently dismissed from his position as a supply teacher at Portchester School. The incident unfolded over the weekend when education officials identified Gibson's past, leading to his immediate removal from the school premises.

Gibson's background includes a conviction from 1980 for indecency involving a 15-year-old girl, a relationship he claims was genuine and amicable at the time. The relationship was uncovered when he sent flowers to her home, which raised suspicions and led to his conviction. Despite this, Gibson maintains that he is not a pedophile and insists he is not a threat to children. In an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo, he expressed his desire to clarify his position, stating, “I am not a paedophile. I am frightened and I just want the chance to put my side of the story.”

His employment history in the North East includes being ordered to leave three different schools since 2003 due to his criminal record. However, he was cleared by the Department for Education to work in schools as recently as January 2005. This decision has now come under scrutiny, especially as it was announced that ministers will soon lose the authority to make such determinations, potentially affecting future cases.

Following the discovery of his past, the school’s governing body, led by Chairman Keith Mitchell, responded swiftly. Mitchell stated, “The school acted within hours and Mr Gibson will not be returning. Portchester is an excellent school with excellent teachers and I don’t want anything to detract from that.”

Gibson’s presence at Portchester School was intermittent last term and full-time during the current term. Headteacher Chris Brady confirmed that all necessary procedures were initiated promptly on Friday, emphasizing the school’s commitment to safeguarding.

It is noteworthy that William Gibson’s name does not appear on the sex offenders register nor on the Department of Education’s List 99, which contains individuals banned for life from working with children. Bournemouth Council has ordered a comprehensive review of the procedures that allowed Gibson to be employed despite his past.

Gibson expressed remorse for his actions in 1980, acknowledging that he knows what he did was wrong. “I regret my actions,” he said, “but it’s not as black and white as everyone thinks.” His case continues to evoke debate about the balance between rehabilitation, public safety, and the criteria used to determine employment eligibility for individuals with past convictions.