AustraliaTeacher Charged with Sex Assault
A teacher at Melbourne's Methodist Ladies' College has been charged with the sexual assault of a student. The school says it immediately stood him down when concerns were raised in September.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Kam Kenny-Jones, 32, was arrested on Friday and charged with three counts of sexual assault of a child under 17. The alleged assault took place in July at Mont Albert, police said.
The school's principal, Julia O'Shea, wrote to parents on Monday to inform them of the charges. She said the news was confronting and unsettling, but she felt it was important to update the school community in a clear and timely manner.
Kenny-Jones taught students in years 7 to 12 at the school until his employment was terminated in September. The school said its focus was on caring for students and staff, ensuring support was available for them.
The school's wellbeing teams have been briefed and support will remain available to students. Principal O'Shea has also personally contacted the parents of students who had classroom contact with Kenny-Jones to check on their welfare and offer support.
Kenny-Jones has been granted bail and will appear at Ringwood Magistrates Court in December. The school said it would not comment further while the matter was before the courts.
The alleged assault is believed to have involved one senior student. The school has asked families with any concerns relating to Kenny-Jones to contact its senior child protection officer.
Kenny-Jones had worked at the school for five years, and formerly worked at Vermont Secondary College. He has been charged with three counts of sexual assault of a child aged 16 or 17 under care, supervision or authority.
Key facts
- Kam Kenny-Jones, 32, charged with three counts of sexual assault of a child under 17
- Alleged assault took place in July at Mont Albert
- Kenny-Jones taught students in years 7 to 12 at Methodist Ladies' College
- He was granted bail and will appear at Ringwood Magistrates Court in December
Three perspectives
Neutral
The school has taken steps to support students and staff affected by the allegations. The matter is now before the courts, and the school will not comment further. The community is waiting for the outcome of the court proceedings.
Positive
The school's prompt action in standing down the teacher and reporting the matter to the authorities shows its commitment to student safety. The school's wellbeing teams are available to support students and staff.
Negative
The allegations have caused concern and distress among the school community. The fact that the alleged assault was able to occur raises questions about the school's supervision and protection of students.
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