A former teacher at Rydens Enterprise School and Sixth Form College (RES) has been charged with alleged sexual activities with an ex-pupil.

Paul Shorter, previously head of mathematics at the Hersham school, was suspended from his position more than a year ago once school governors became aware of the allegations against him.

Mr Shorter, thought to be a father-of-one, has now been charged by police with alleged offences relating to abuse of position of trust and sexual activity with a 13 to 15-year-old girl.

Surrey Police confirmed Mr Shorter, 31, from Addlestone, was charged with two offences on Tuesday, February 10.

In a statement issued on Thursday, February 12, Nikki Shephard principal of RES said: “Following the allegation, the teacher was immediately suspended from his position, is no longer employed by the school and RES has co-operated fully with the police, family and external agencies over the past 12 months from the time of disclosure.

“In addition, RES and Ofsted conducted a thorough review of the safeguarding procedures, child protection and staffing policies and Ofsted reported that ‘the school leaders have detailed knowledge of all aspects of safeguarding procedures and this is reflected in robust procedures to ensure the safety of staff and students’.

“The matter is following due process and is under judicial consideration.”

Mr Shorter has been bailed to attend Staines Magistrates’ Court on March 4.