A teaching assistant, who was supposed to be on sick leave, attended a football training course despite being denied leave, as revealed in a professional standards hearing. Jamie Harris, an employee at Ysgol Bryn Castell in Bridgend, was discovered attending the UEFA A license course through a social media post, leading to his dismissal. Harris, who had attempted for three years to secure a spot on the prestigious Newport-based course, had saved up for the £3,500 fee after completing UEFA B and C license courses. Notable figures like Thierry Henry have also completed the elite UEFA A license course.
Mr. Harris, a graduate of the University of South Wales and an experienced football coach, expressed his excitement at being accepted onto the competitive course. Despite facing personal challenges and taking sick leave from June 3 to June 17, 2024, he maintained that his attendance at the course was during a genuine sick leave period. He had initially requested unpaid leave for the course, which was denied, but later took paid sick leave due to personal reasons.
Encouraged by his family, Harris believed that participating in the UEFA course would benefit him during a tough time and enhance his skills in working with children with additional learning needs at the school. Upon his return to work, he was confronted by the headteacher about attending the course during sick leave, leading to his dismissal. Despite admitting to attending the course, Harris initially provided incomplete information about his attendance, citing panic as the reason.
During the hearing, Harris clarified that he felt more confused than resentful when his leave request was turned down. He acknowledged that attending the course while on sick leave appeared unfavorable and found it challenging to accept the late rejection of his leave request. However, he denied that the rejection influenced his decision to go on sick leave.
Presenting his case in person at the hearing, Harris disclosed his temporary job in construction and completion of the other parts of the UEFA course during that time. Former colleagues and friends supported his application for his current role as the sports development officer at Woodlands special school in Cardiff.
The ongoing hearing will continue to address the circumstances surrounding Mr. Harris’s attendance at the training course while on sick leave.