Girton Grammar teacher Dean Norris suspended by the Victorian Institute of Teaching on interim basis

Furious parents are demanding to know why a well-known PE educator at the prestigious Girton Grammar School in Bendigo was removed from the classroom.

Dean Norris, who was Girton Grammar School’s head of the Physical Education department, has been suspended on an interim basis by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT).

The suspension of a PE educator at a prestigious grammar school in Bendigo has sent shockwaves throughout the school community.

The Herald Sun can reveal Dean Norris, who was Girton Grammar School’s head of the Physical Education department, was suspended on an interim basis by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) on July 10.

Several parents have come forward saying they are “shocked” and “angered” amid Mr Norris’ suspension.

Families are desperately seeking more answers as to why the well-known sports teacher was removed from the classroom.

One mother, whose daughter attends the school, said Mr Norris’ suspension was concerning.

“We were only advised of his suspension yesterday but he left the school months ago, it’s very unsettling,” she said.

“As a mum I’m very upset about this.”

Dean Norris, who was Girton Grammar School’s head of the Physical Education department, has been suspended on an interim basis by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT).

Another mother said families wanted more answers about the suspension.

“We would like to know what’s happened, parents are in shock by this news as he was very well-known through many year levels,” she said.

“The school is very good and we are hopeful that they conduct a proper investigation into this.”

Girton Grammar School principal Dr Emma O’Rielly sent an email to parents on Wednesday night notifying them of the Herald Sun’s report about Mr Norris’ suspension.

“I am writing to inform you that a media outlet has this evening reported on a decision by the Victorian Institute of Teaching that a teacher employed by the school is currently not permitted to teach,” Dr O’Rielly wrote.

“I can confirm that concerns were brought to my attention earlier this year which required the school to implement its student protection framework, and as a consequence a staff member was immediately stood down pending further enquiries.”

Dr O’Rielly said the school immediately responded as soon as allegations were brought to its attention including notifying relevant authorities.

“You will appreciate that there are legal and privacy reasons that limit the information schools can share during ongoing investigations.

“The school continues to consult with the staff member and other relevant members of the school community as part of its enquiries, and I will continue to update the school community as and when appropriate.”

It is unclear why Mr Norris has been suspended from the Bendigo school.

Mr Norris also previously taught years two and three classes and worked as an integration aide.

It is unclear as to why he has been suspended, but when the Herald Sun made inquiries about his suspension on Tuesday, the school immediately removed his profile.

Mr Norris’ profile revealed he had taught at the school since 2014.

He was quoted as saying: “Teaching provided an opportunity to reach a significant amount of young people to support them in navigating the emotional rollercoaster of life.”

“I also love teaching students to be physically active and adopt healthy lifestyles, as I believe it is the foundation to a long and healthy life and addressing the growing concern for youth mental health,” he added.

Before he arrived at Girton, he studied a Bachelor of Physical and Health at La Trobe University in Bendigo.

He also undertook a Bachelor of Human Services and a Master of Social Work at La Trobe University in Wodonga.

Under the VIT rules interim suspensions need to be reviewed every 30 days.

Mr Norris is the 42nd teacher to face disciplinary action by the VIT in 2024.

Girton Grammar School principal Dr Emma O’Rielly said the school required all teachers to be registered with the VIT.

“The school has policies and procedures that provide a robust framework for immediate action, liaising with appropriate authorities and investigation when concerns are raised. Student learning and wellbeing are at the forefront of all decision-making,” Dr O’Rielly said.

“For legal and privacy reasons, the school cannot provide further comment at this time.”

Registration of a teacher can be suspended on an interim basis where the VIT has formed a reasonable belief that the teacher poses an unacceptable risk of harm to children.

Under these arrangements the VIT is required to review the basis of the interim suspension every 30 days.