A 46-year-old Hove school teacher has been suspended while police investigate claims that he had an affair with a 17-year-old pupil.
Cardinal Newman Catholic School, in the Upper Drive, Hove, said that a member of staff was suspended as soon as the allegations were made known.
Sussex Police said: “A 46-year-old Brighton man was arrested on Friday 26 June 2015 on suspicion of abuse of position of trust, as an adult, by engaging in sexual activity with a 17-year old girl known to him.
“He is currently on police bail until (Tuesday) 1 March while inquiries continue.”
The school said that “a teacher … has been suspended following accusations of improper conduct with a 17 year-old girl”.
Head teacher James Kilmartin said: “I regret to have to confirm that a member of staff was indeed suspended last year.
“I would like to reassure you that the suspension took place with immediate effect as soon as we were made aware of the allegations.
“Suspension is a neutral act to allow an investigation to take place.”
Dr Kilmartin added: “The matter is currently the subject of a police investigation and we are co-operating fully with this investigation.
“At this stage no charges have been brought against our member of staff.
“Because of the police investigation we are unable to give further details about this matter.
“I would like to take this opportunity to emphasise that the safety of our pupils will always be our first and most important consideration.”
The teacher’s identity is protected by law although this is believed to have led to teachers who are not subject to investigation having been falsely named. It is not clear whether the naming of unconnected teachers was the result of malice, ignorance or speculation.
