A TEACHER from Beaconhills College in Berwick has been arrested and charged with child sexual offences relating to a student.
Parents today received a letter from the headmaster of the independent Christian school, advising that police had arrested the man yesterday.
Police told Leader the teacher is a 42-year-old man from Narre Warren South, with the allegations spanning over the past 12 months.
In the letter to parents, headmaster Tony Sheumack said the teacher was charged with one count of grooming and one count of an indecent act with a child under the age of 16.
“We are doing everything we can to fully co-operate with Victoria Police in this matter,” he said.
“As it is now before the courts, for legal reasons we are unable to discuss any detailed information about this case.
“However we are deeply shocked and saddened by this news.
“Our immediate priority is the wellbeing of the student involved and of course the wellbeing of all the students at the school.”
The headmaster said the college has a comprehensive wellbeing program and processes in place to ensure all feel safe and supported to speak up about concerns about themselves or others.
In a statement released to Leader today, Mr Sheumack said information about the arrest and charges had been provided to all college families and staff, along with advice to school community members who might need support.
The school was founded by the Anglican and Uniting Churches and caters to students from early learning to Year 12.
It is believed the teacher has been suspended.
The man has been bailed to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on April 28.
Source: Heraldsun