Case management discussion - Vulnerable witness agreement - Andrew Shanks
Vulnerable Witness – [redacted] - (Colleague F)
On 9 January 2025, a Case Management Discussion was held in relation to the case of Shanks 103890. The Presenting Officer (Gary Burton) and Teacher’s Representative (Claire Raftery) were both present.
Following representations made by the Presenting Officer, both Parties discussed and agreed on the requirement for witness, Colleague F, to be treated as vulnerable and for the below measures to be applied.
On 15 January 2025, the representation and agreement were confirmed in writing to the Servicing Officer.
In accordance with Rule 2.4.5 of the Fitness to Teach Rules 2017, the following Case Management Direction is issued:
- Colleague F is to be Treated as vulnerable
- The following measures are to be adopted in respect of her evidence: -
- (a) heard in private
- (b) anonymisation of her name in any written decision
Non compliance
Where a party fails to comply with a case management direction, this will have a detrimental impact on the hearing of the case and may cause delay as well as extra costs. Parties should be aware that non-compliance with case management directions is therefore taken very seriously. In accordance with rule 1.11.1 of the Fitness to Teach Rules 2017, a Fitness to Teach Panel may take such action regarding non-compliance as it considers just in respect of either party. This can include:-
- (a) Waiving or varying the direction(s) given;
- (b) Refusing to admit evidence or submissions presented;
- (c Barring or restricting the party’s participation in the proceedings
