A SCHOOL teacher who gave students the answers to national tests has been found guilty of unacceptable professional conduct.

Gordon Collinson was said to have helped children to identify the answers to a key stage 2 SAT science test at St Margarets Junior School, Rainham, in May, 2004.

The General Teaching Council ruled his behaviour to be dishonest and unprofessional and imposed a conditional registration order which bans him from invigilating any exam without another person present for three years.

He was also ordered to take training on the rules of invigilating exams and to notify future employers of these conditions.

Evidence from Mr Gabbett, a governor at the school in Orchard Street, Rainham, was heard at the trial in Birmingham. Students taking the Government tests had reported receiving help.

Mr Collinson did not deny the allegations and, in a written statement, said: “The pupils were beginning to look stressed. I decided to indicate a route out of this.”

A General Teaching Council spokesman said: “We are satisfied that Mr Collinson’s behaviour in providing assistance to a number of pupils in identifying correct answers whilst invigilating a test amounts to unacceptable professional conduct.

“He failed to exhibit appropriate standards of honesty and integrity by failing to carry out the requirements of statutory bodies relating to examination of pupil achievement.

“We have determined that a reprimand is not appropriate because of the serious nature of the allegations and the need to uphold the standards in the profession.

“Mr Collinson has not expressed any regret or apology or recognised the seriousness of the allegations.

“We consider it necessary to impose conditions on his registration to uphold the standards of the profession and maintain public confidence in the profession.”