How Educating Manchester teacher went from ‘breath of fresh air’ to being struck off

Former teacher who appeared in the Channel 4 documentary “Educating Manchester” was once referred to as “a breath of fresh air,” but he has since been barred from the entire profession.

For his charm and kindness, Drew Povey received praise in numerous character reviews. In the first episode of Educating Manchester, which aired in 2017, the headteacher showed up, holding onto his or her GCSEs throughout the course of their education. He even persuaded one Year 11 to complete her exams when she wanted to leave Harrop Fold School in Salford, Greater Manchester, early.

However, Mr. Povey resigned in the second series after being accused of off-rolling students, making Harrop Fold School subject to special measures from Ofsted. Following the findings, Channel 4 later confirmed that these episodes would not be broadcast. The Lowry Academy was established in 1981 as The Lowry School.

And, on Wednesday, it was confirmed Mr Povey and his brother Ross, who was assistant head, have now been banned from teaching altogether – at schools, colleges, youth accommodation or children’s homes in England. They can apply to have this ban lifted, but not until October 30, 2026.

The off-rolling allegations were proven, although the teacher had denied them. Following allegations that pupils were being removed from the school register in a practice known as “off-rolling,” the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) charged the brothers with “unacceptable professional conduct.”

A panel concluded that the school’s performance data, including GCSE results, was likely improved by eliminating students. Despite denying all allegations, Mr Povey, who resigned in 2018 following his suspension, has now had all charges against him proven by the TRA. This includes keeping up up up to date records, which could put students at risk. His actions were deemed ‘ deliberate’.

Off-rolling is when pupils are removed from the school register. Off-rolling is a controversial practice. Sometimes, students who may be struggling in school or from a disadvantaged background are removed for the sake of the institution rather than the benefit of the student’s welfare. Sometimes parents experience pressure to remove their child from the classroom.

Source: Mirror