A former teacher from a prestigious Perth Anglican school has faced court over allegations she sexually abused a teenage student, with the court hearing the relationship resulted in a pregnancy.
Serious Charges Laid Against Former Educator
Naomi Teke Craig-Frederick Irwin, 29, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Thursday, 27 March 2025. She is charged with three counts of sexually penetrating a child over 13 and under 16, who was under her care, supervision, or authority. The alleged offences are said to have occurred between July and December 2023.
The court was told the alleged victim was a 15-year-old male student at the time, and Ms Irwin was employed as a teacher at the school. The relationship allegedly began when she was 27 and the boy was 15. Police prosecutor Senior Constable Craig Parkin opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the charges and the need to protect the community, particularly children.
Allegations of Grooming and a Resulting Pregnancy
The prosecution outlined disturbing details of the alleged conduct. It is claimed Ms Irwin engaged in grooming behaviour, including sending the student explicit photographs and videos. The court heard the pair allegedly had sexual intercourse on multiple occasions, both at the teacher's home and in her car.
A central and deeply concerning aspect of the case presented to the magistrate was that the sexual relationship allegedly resulted in a pregnancy. Ms Irwin is reported to have given birth to a child. The prosecution argued this fact demonstrated the "extreme" nature of the breach of trust and the profound consequences of the alleged actions.
Defence Arguments and Bail Decision
Defence lawyer Seamus Rafferty made an application for bail, arguing his client was not a flight risk and had strong community ties. He stated Ms Irwin was receiving mental health support and had no prior criminal record. Mr Rafferty also noted she was the primary carer for her newborn child.
However, Magistrate Andrew Maughan ultimately refused bail. He acknowledged the defence arguments but found the prosecution case appeared strong. Magistrate Maughan stated the allegations involved a "significant breach of trust" and that there was a risk Ms Irwin could interfere with witnesses, including the alleged victim. He also expressed concern about the potential for further offences given the nature of the charges.
The matter was adjourned until 17 April 2025 for a committal mention. Ms Irwin was remanded in custody until her next court appearance. The school involved has not been named in all reports to protect the identity of the alleged victim.
