Story perspectives

Former Teacher Found Guilty of Inappropriate Behavior

3/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

James Coltella, a former English teacher at Tonbridge School in Kent, faced allegations of inappropriate behavior, including touching students and instructing them to sing suggestive lyrics.
At a Teaching Regulation Agency hearing, the panel found nine of 25 allegations proven, affecting two pupils.
The panel found professional standards unmet but did not ban him from teaching.
Coltella attributed his behavior to his Italian heritage and expressed remorse.

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Story summary

James Coltella, a former English teacher at Tonbridge School in Kent, faced allegations of inappropriate behavior, including touching students and instructing them to sing suggestive lyrics.
At a Teaching Regulation Agency hearing, the panel found nine of 25 allegations proven, affecting two pupils.
The panel found professional standards unmet but did not ban him from teaching.
Coltella attributed his behavior to his Italian heritage and expressed remorse.