A TEACHER with a string of driving convictions who was jailed for carrying a knife has been banned from the profession.

Peter Clemenson, 47, of Shoebury Road, Southend, was a teacher at South Essex College until 2011 before he moved to the Lower Basildon Academy.

The National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) noted how Clemenson picked up his first conviction, for failing to stop at the scene of an accident, in October 2007.

He was also convicted for failing to provide a sample for analysis, resulting in a two year disqualification, a £750 fine and an order to pay £90 costs.

In September 2012, Clemenson was convicted of drink-driving and banned for three years, and fined £450 with £85 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

However, it was his conviction in March last year for possession of a knife in a public place on July 15, 2014, that led to a jail sentence of eight weeks, a £500 costs order and an £85 victim surcharge.

Clemenson also received another two weeks, concurrent, because he failed to surrender to bail.

The NCTL panel found he had failed to uphold public trust in the profession and maintain high standards of ethics and behaviour.

In a report, Jayne Millions, NCTL decision-maker, said: “The panel noted that the behaviour involved in committing the offences could have had an impact on the safety of members of the public, particularly in relation to driving whilst under the influence of excess levels of alcohol.

“The panel has also taken account of how the teaching profession is viewed by others.

“The panel considered that Mr Clemenson’s behaviour in committing the offences could affect the public confidence in the teaching profession given the influence that teachers may have on pupils, parents and others in the community.

“The panel has noted that Mr Clemenson’s behaviour has ultimately led to him receiving a sentence of imprisonment which is indicative of the seriousness of the offences committed.”

Clemenson worked for the school between September 2012 until March 2013.

The report said Clemenson’s five convictions suggested a “repetitive pattern of behaviour.”

It said: “The panel has found that the seriousness of the offending behaviour that led to the convictions is relevant to Mr Clemenson’s ongoing suitability to teach.

“The panel considers that a finding that these convictions are relevant offences is necessary to reaffirm clear standards of conduct so as to maintain public confidence in the teaching profession.”

Although Clemenson admitted all the offences, he said he was suffering from poor health at the time and is now receiving treatment.

He can apply for a review of the decision in 2021.