Benjamin Phelps, a 31-year-old teacher at St Bede's School in East Sussex, faced disciplinary action and was struck off indefinitely after being found guilty of serious misconduct in relation to a student. The disciplinary panel indicated that Phelps's declarations of love and inappropriate texts to the student constituted a breach of professional ethics. It was especially alarming that the relationship escalated to a point where the pupil attempted to kiss him, highlighting the concerning nature of their interactions.

Phelps's misconduct included inappropriate texting with the pupil, and they were found to have met outside of lessons, sharing hugs and kisses on the cheek. Moreover, he encouraged the pupil to skip school to spend time together in secrecy, which raises further questions about his judgment and professional conduct. The report suggests that Phelps held a position of authority and breached the trust placed in him as an educator, thereby compromising the safety and welfare of the student.

As a senior figure in the boarding school system, Phelps was responsible not only for teaching but also for overseeing students in a boarding environment. The outcome of his case serves as a critical reminder of the responsibilities educators have regarding appropriate boundaries with students, particularly in settings like boarding schools where personal and academic lives often intertwine. Following an investigation, Phelps was dismissed in April 2024, with the disciplinary panel firmly deciding on the need to protect students from similar incidents in the future.