Sniper Claims Cost TA His Job

A teaching assistant in Wales has been prohibited from working in schools for a period of two years following serious misconduct allegations. The professional standards hearing found that John Trigg-Turner, 44, had made numerous unsubstantiated claims to pupils, including that he had served as a US Marine sniper and was responsible for over 250 fatalities.

Further claims attributed to Mr. Trigg-Turner involved stating he still owned a gun, had shaken hands with the King, and had participated in the Paralympics. His explanations for his wheelchair use were also inconsistent, raising further concerns among colleagues and school investigators. He denied the allegations, stating his anecdotes were misinterpreted.

The Education Workforce Council Wales panel concluded that the sustained and deliberate nature of his untruths indicated deep-seated attitudinal problems. Consequently, he was struck off the register, with a two-year period before he can seek reinstatement, though he has the right to appeal this decision.