Sheffield teacher admits rape and grooming of 13-year-old boy

Christopher Darler, 37, of Heyhouse Way, entered guilty pleas to two counts of rape, sexual grooming, possession of 47 indecent videos and 44 indecent still pictures, as well as prohibited images of a child, when he appeared at Sheffield Crown Court, on Wednesday.

He will be sentenced on February 3.

A spokesperson for Rawmarsh Community School, in Rotherham, where he worked, said: "It came as a great shock to us when we were informed Mr Darler had been arrested as part of a police investigation in October 2019 over non-school matters.

“He was immediately suspended and is now no longer employed by the school.

"Following the initial allegations of inappropriate behaviour, the school worked closely with the police and the local authority designated safeguarding officer to ensure that all appropriate action was taken in respect of this matter.

"At this stage of the inquiry there is no evidence whatsoever of any inappropriate contact between Mr Darler and any pupils from our school.

"Professional conduct concerns and safeguarding allegations within the trust are rare.

“Where allegations or concerns do arise, the trust works closely with the relevant agencies and authorities to ensure any allegation is properly investigated and formal action is taken.

"School life will continue as normal. We are offering support to the children in school, through our pastoral support systems and have informed parents so that they can be vigilant to any change in your child’s emotions and behaviour."