Birmingham School Owners Banned for Running Unregistered Institution

Ekhuemelo and Sylvia Sams convicted of operating an illegal independent school

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:59am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a school uniform shirt repeated in a grid pattern, conveying the concept of an unregistered educational facility and the importance of upholding professional standards in the sector.The vibrant colors and repeated pattern of a school uniform shirt symbolize the complex issues surrounding unregistered educational institutions and the need for professional oversight.Today in Birmingham

Two individuals, Ekhuemelo and Sylvia Sams, have been banned from teaching after being found guilty of running an unregistered independent school in Birmingham. The school was discovered in 2024 with 26 students attending a full curriculum, leading to the owners' convictions for professional misconduct.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of upholding educational standards and regulations, as well as the role of regulatory bodies in maintaining the integrity of the teaching profession. It raises questions about the motivations behind such actions and the potential impact on the affected students.

The details

Inspectors found the unregistered school operating in February 2024, with 26 students attending classes and wearing school uniforms. Ekhuemelo, identified as the proprietor and principal, pleaded guilty to the offense, while Sams, the business manager, claimed she was not a teacher but was also convicted of running the illegal operation. The Teaching Regulation Agency took swift action, banning both individuals from teaching to uphold professional standards and protect students.

  • In February 2024, inspectors discovered the unregistered school.
  • In 2026, the Teaching Regulation Agency panels concluded their investigations and issued the bans.

The players

Ekhuemelo

The proprietor and principal of the unregistered independent school in Birmingham.

Sylvia Sams

The business manager of the unregistered independent school in Birmingham.

Teaching Regulation Agency

The body responsible for overseeing teacher misconduct in England, which took action against Ekhuemelo and Sams.

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What’s next

The decision to ban Ekhuemelo and Sams from teaching sends a strong message to the education community about the importance of adhering to regulations and maintaining ethical conduct. However, the impact on the affected students remains a concern, and the support systems in place for them will need to be addressed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical role of regulatory bodies in upholding educational standards and the integrity of the teaching profession. It serves as a reminder that professional misconduct, even in the form of operating an unregistered school, can have serious consequences for both the individuals involved and the students affected.