Ex-head teacher denies child sexual abuse charge

A former head teacher has denied alleged non-recent child sexual abuse dating back to his time as an educator.

James Rouse, 48, of Lowford Hill Close in Southampton, appeared at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on Thursday charged with sexual activity with a child.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary said the case follows allegations of child sexual abuse, by those in a position of trust, against former pupils at St. Anne's Catholic School and Sixth Form College between 2004 and 2006.

Another former teacher at the school has also been charged with child sexual abuse this week, whilst three other educators remain under investigation.

Mr Rouse pleaded not guilty, and was released on conditional bail.

He will next appear at Portsmouth Crown Court on 3 March.

On Tuesday, Edward Waller of Winter Road, Southsea, was charged with rape, abuse of a position of trust and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

The 65-year-old, who was also a teacher at the Southampton school, is due to appear in court on 10 February.

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