A relief teacher who worked across numerous schools in Adelaide has been charged with child sexual offences, triggering a widespread communication to thousands of parents and guardians.
Widespread School Notification
The 51-year-old male teacher was employed at a variety of public, private, and Catholic institutions, primarily within the Adelaide metropolitan area. His work included both primary and secondary school settings.
Authorities arrested and charged the man in November. In a significant move this week, principals from at least eight affected schools dispatched formal letters to inform their communities. The correspondence confirmed that a relief teacher previously engaged at their schools now faces serious child sexual offence charges.
Legal Restrictions and Departmental Response
Under strict legal conditions, the accused teacher is now prohibited from any child-related work or volunteering. School authorities have explicitly directed him not to attend any of the campuses where he was previously employed.
A spokesperson for the South Australian Department for Education stated that issuing such letters is standard procedure. This policy ensures a school community is informed at an appropriate time whenever allegations of sexual misconduct arise against anyone involved with a school.
The spokesperson confirmed the department acted in accordance with established protocols, specifically those outlined in the Debelle Report, which was commissioned after previous child protection failures in the state's education system.
Ongoing Legal Process and Community Support
7NEWS understands the teacher remains on bail and is scheduled to make his first court appearance early in the new year. Meanwhile, the letters sent to parents emphasised that support is available for any students who may need it following the distressing news.
The case has sent ripples through the affected school communities, highlighting the rigorous protocols now in place for temporary staff and the handling of such allegations. The Department for Education reiterated that the individual has been directed away from all school sites indefinitely.
