Lowri Mair Williams Faces Misconduct Allegations Over Pupil Head Injuries at Llandovery College
Lowri Mair Williams, former girls' rugby lead at Llandovery College, is currently at a fitness to practise hearing in Cardiff, addressing nine allegations of unacceptable conduct. These claims include permitting pupils to continue playing rugby despite sustaining head impacts, in apparent disregard for Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) concussion protocols. Ms Williams, who joined the Carmarthenshire private school in September 2023 before being suspended and resigning, denies all charges.
One pupil, identified as Pupil A, testified regarding a tournament in March 2024. She recounted a 'head clash' during a match and stated that Ms Williams was 'more interested in congratulating try scorers rather than checking injured players'. Pupil A also alleged that after the team captain, Pupil F, was stood on the head by an opponent, Ms Williams told her, 'Good, because captains should not come off and should carry on', leaving Pupil F 'in slight hysterics'.
However, Pupil A admitted to holding a 'grudge' against Ms Williams for not selecting her for a significant match. In contrast, Sophie Hands, the head of girls' sport at Llandovery College, described Ms Williams as 'professional and enthusiastic', maintaining a positive rapport with pupils. Ms Hands stated that Ms Williams followed WRU concussion protocol and that no head injuries were reported during the tournament, with pupils being in good spirits on the journey home.
The day after the tournament, five pupils presented to school medical staff complaining of tiredness and headaches. Johanna Edwards, responsible for pupil welfare, initiated a formal investigation. Ms Edwards confirmed that the college had 'a very rigorous process' for assessing injuries, and while pupils 'presented to the medical centre with injuries', the sports department initially stated there were 'no injuries'.
The hearing is scheduled to continue on Wednesday.
