Australian female high school teacher fired after allegations of 'unprofessional interactions' with student

A teacher at a high school in Melbourne, Australia has reportedly been terminated from her position after allegedly having “unprofessional interactions” with a senior student years ago. The Daily Mail reported that Eleanor Yorke, who taught at Carey Grammar School, was barred from teaching after accusations have come out against her.

However, the details of what she has been accused of are not currently known. The principal of the school, Jonathan Walter, said that Yorke is barred from teaching after investigations carried out by the school and the Victorian Institute of Teaching. The authorities in Victoria have said that they are still looking into the situation. 

Up until two weeks ago, Yorke taught senior-level biology and chemistry. 

Walter reportedly sent a message to the parents of the school, writing that the prestigious school had “recently received a report regarding Ms Yorke’s compliance with the school’s expectations regarding professional boundaries.”

“This report concerned her interactions with a Year 12 student some years ago.”

“Upon becoming aware of the concerns, the school immediately implemented its student protection framework; this includes Ms Yorke being stood down whilst the matter is investigated.”

“I can also indicate the School’s understanding that whilst a mandatory report has been made to Victoria Police, the police are not pursuing an investigation at this time.”

Walter went on to say that the matter was “not taken lightly,” and that the actions carried out were “necessary to demonstrate the seriousness with which the school treats the professional responsibilities of all staff who support our students.”

“The school will now continue with its investigations, including making any further reports required by law.”

Yorke had apparently written in a school’s publication: “I’ve been lucky to have done a range of amazing things: I have spent a vomit-inducing week on a tall ship with students battling the wild Tasman seas and I have travelled overseas on a community service trip where I met individuals with boundless generosity and witnessed, first-hand, students undergoing life-changing experiences.”

The piece was published after she had been welcomed into the Carey Grammar community after completing her Masters of Teaching at the University of Melbourne and finishing her university placement with the school.