Teacher sacked for telling pupils that Santa isn't real

A supply teacher has been sacked for telling a class of nine and 10- year-olds that Santa does not exist.

The woman, who has not been named, told them: "All of you are old enough to know there is no Father Christmas or fairies. If you ask your parents to tell you, they will say there is no such thing."

Several of the year five pupils were devastated. One unnamed child said: "We were really upset because we still believe he is real."

Headteacher Diane Thomas Wood said: "We have followed up the matter with the teacher concerned and the agency who provided her to the school."

Deputy head Nicky Silverwood said: "One or two children were upset but I have spoken to them and they have been reassured."