A staff member at Brentwood County High School has been arrested on suspicion of sex crimes.
Dale Morris, who has been a caretaker at the school for ten years, was arrested on April 30 for what police have described as "historical allegations of a sexual nature".
The 45-year-old was suspended as soon as the Seven Arches Road school became aware of the arrest and the allegations facing him.
The Gazette is unable to reveal the exact nature of the claims, but Brentwood County High, which has about 1,400 students enrolled, has sought to ease parents' fears by confirming that the police investigation is focusing on events off the school premises.
The Gazette understands that Mr Morris was a well-liked member of the school's staff and a daily visible presence.
Stephen Drew, head teacher at Brentwood County High School, told the Gazette: "Dale Morris was suspended the moment we were made aware of the situation by police.
"All members of staff have to go through child protection checks and Criminal Records Bureau checks, but we have never had any reason to believe there could have been any issues.
"It is important to note that there is no suggestion the police investigation is focusing on the school. All matters are focusing on matters outside the school."
Mr Drew, who took over as head teacher in September, later released a statement, which read: "A member of the school's support staff has been suspended following the launch of a police investigation.
"This suspension was put in place as soon as the information regarding the investigation was received by us from the police.
"I can reassure all members of our school community that the investigation does not focus on the school, other adults in the school, or any of our young people.
"Brentwood County High School continues to be a safe place for students and staff, and we continue to vigorously uphold all of our safeguarding and child protection systems."
The Gazette asked Essex Police for a comment in respect of Mr Morris.
In response, a spokesman said: "A 45-year-old man from the Brentwood area has been arrested following historical allegations of a sexual nature.
"He has been released on police bail until June."
The spokesman refused to confirm what Mr Morris was arrested on suspicion of.