a Christian teacher in the UK who told students that being LGBTQ+ is a sin and that trans people are “just confused” has lost a High Court challenge against a finding of unprofessional conduct.
Glawdys Leger, formerly a teacher at Bishop Justus Church of England School in Bromley, south London, made the comments during a class discussion in February 2022. She was suspended in March of that year and later dismissed in May. A professional conduct panel (PCP) ruled in December 2023 that her remarks amounted to unprofessional conduct, with its findings published on the Teaching Regulation Agency’s website.
The Case Against Leger
The PCP report revealed that during a discussion on “allyship,” Leger stated that being LGBTQ+ is “not fine” and that students should prioritise God over the LGBTQ+ community. She also asserted that being LGBTQ+ is a sin and described trans people as “just confused.”
Following the panel’s decision, Leger took legal action against the Department for Education, arguing that her comments were not considered in context. She also contended that the school’s duty to provide a “broad and balanced curriculum” did not apply to her as an individual teacher. Additionally, she claimed that publishing the findings online infringed on her privacy, making it unlawful.
High Court Dismisses Appeal
On Thursday, 20 March, Justice Lang dismissed Leger’s case, ruling that her criticisms of the PCP finding “do not disclose any error of law, as opposed to mere disagreement.”
While Leger was not banned from teaching, she argued that the PCP’s decision being publicly accessible online would make securing future employment “difficult, if not impossible.”
However, Justice Lang upheld the publication of the findings, stating it was “justifiable and proportionate.”
“While Ms Leger’s comments lacked respect for the rights of others, this did not derive from a lack of tolerance, nor had she any intention of causing distress to pupils,” the judgment noted.
“That said, her actions were at risk of upsetting pupils in the lesson, and her choice not to present a balanced view undermined the school community’s aspiration to provide a supportive environment for children who may be exploring sexual identity.”
Leger’s Response
In October 2023, Leger defended her stance, expressing compassion for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those with gender dysphoria. However, she maintained that her faith prevented her from affirming same-sex relationships or gender identity outside traditional Christian beliefs.
“I cannot, however, in good conscience teach or say things I believe are contrary to my faith, for example, saying that same-sex sexual relationships are good and/or affirming people with gender dysphoria in their gender confusion,” she stated.
Leger insisted she had never shown hatred or a lack of love towards LGBTQ+ individuals.