Local teacher faces court on sex charges

A teacher who was stood down from a local high school over allegations she engaged in relationships with three female students has reappeared in court.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons,appeared in Rockingham Magistrate’s Court on Monday, with a duty lawyer confirming plea negotiations “were under way” with police and the Department for Child Protection in relation to the 71 charges.

The appearance comes after the Sound Telegraph first reported the charges, which include rape, “persistent sexual conduct” and indecent assault.

The offences allegedly took place in 2015 and 2016, and are related to three girls aged 13 to 17.

At her last court appearance, the woman, who was charged last August and stood down from her role shortly after being arrested, said she intended to fight the charges.

She will reappear next month.

At her last court appearance, the woman said she intended to fight the charges.