Hylands School in Chelmsford has said it swiftly co-operated with police after a 32-year-old teaching assistant's affair with a pupil came to light.
Married Charlotte Parker, 32, of Ravens Lane, Billericay, was handed a one year suspended sentence after admitting to four counts sexual activity while in a position of trust with a 14-year-old boy and to making indecent images of a child.
Basildon Crown Court heard yesterday (October 13) how the pair exchanged around 3,000 WhatApp messages after meeting at the school.
The relationship was only discovered after the student confided to a family friend, who in turn arranged a discussion with his parents who subsequently contacted police last September.
A spokesman for Hylands: "The safety of our pupils is our priority and we take safeguarding very seriously.
"This is an isolated incident which has been dealt with according to all correct procedures.
"As soon as the incident came to light, the academy acted to ensure the ex-member of staff had no contact with pupils and was not allowed on to school premises.
"The police were informed and full cooperation given to ensure full resolution."
