A veteran English teacher at a London private school has been banned from teaching after admitting to weekend crystal meth use. Charles Richard Miles, 64, a primary teacher at the Dwight School, told bosses he used the drug to 'relax' and believed his usage was 'pretty controlled.'

The Dwight School, which charges up to £37,500 annually for tuition, reported Miles to the Teaching Regulation Agency after police discovered evidence of his habit at his flat in November 2024. Miles had worked at the school, which has international branches, since 1985, most recently as an English as an Additional Language and Learning Support Teacher.

A professional conduct panel heard that police attended Miles's flat after he reported concerns about water damage. Officers subsequently informed social workers, who noted in a report that it was 'clear that he... smokes crystal meth.'

Following this, Miles met with school administrators, stating they were concerned about his crystal meth use but that he was not addicted. Concerns persisted into 2025, and in April of that year, Miles began informing colleagues of his intention to retire. The following month, the school sent him letters regarding his 'Crystal Meth usage on weekends' and acknowledged his retirement.

Although there was no evidence that pupils were harmed by his drug use, the panel found indications of repeated use that affected his fitness to teach and care for children. School officials had observed a decline in his presentation and behavior, culminating in an incident on November 5, 2024, for which he was asked to leave the school. The specifics of this incident are redacted.

The regulatory panel concluded that Miles's ability to provide a safe environment for pupils was 'seriously compromised.' Miles reportedly told regulators that his drug use was a 'private matter' separate from his teaching career, but the panel disagreed, finding he lacked insight and remorse. No evidence was presented of him seeking help for his drug use.

A report from the panel stated that knowledge of a teacher consuming crystal methamphetamine would likely diminish public confidence in their suitability for the role. The panel recommended prohibiting Miles from teaching to protect pupils and maintain public confidence. This recommendation was accepted.

Miles, who is also an amateur poet, has retired. He can apply to have the ban reviewed in five years.