By Bonny Burrows
A teacher from Beaconshills College in Berwick has been arrested and charged with child sexual offences.
Investigators of the Greater Dandenong Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team arrested a 42-year-old Narre Warren South man on 28 March in relation to allegations spanning the past 12 months.
The man was charged with child grooming and sexual assault and was bailed to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 28 April.
College headmaster Tony Sheumack confirmed a teacher had been charged with the offences relating to a student at the school under the age of 16.
Mr Sheumack would not comment on the matter further as it was before the courts, but said the school was “deeply shocked and saddened by the news”.
“Our immediate priority is the wellbeing of the student involved, and, of course, the wellbeing of all our students,” Mr Sheumack said.
“This is the utmost concern to us.”
He said the college had a comprehensive wellbeing program and processes in place to ensure student safety, and encourage them to speak up about any concerns.
“We have communicated this information to all college families and staff members and provided advice for anyone in our community who may need further support,” Mr Sheumack said.
Beaconshills College Berwick is a Prep to Year 12 campus.
The exact age of the student has not been released.
The Education Department has been contacted for comment.
