St Peter’s College teacher Brian Wallwork charged with child sex offences

A music teacher at St Peter’s College in Melbourne’s southeast has been stood down after being accused of evil child sex offences.

A teacher accused of evil child sex offences has been suspended from a Catholic high school in Melbourne’s southeast.

The Herald Sun can reveal Brian Wallwork, 47, is facing 17 charges relating to depraved acts on children aged under 16 and 17.

Wallwork worked as a performing arts and music teacher at St Peter’s College, Clyde North campus in Cranbourne East.

St Peter’s College principal Chris Black sent a newsletter to parents on Thursday afternoon after inquiries from the Herald Sun.

Mr Black said the alleged sex assaults were not related to Wallwork’s time at the college.

“Upon learning of the charges, the staff member immediately commenced a period of leave and is absent from the college,” he said.

Maria Kirkwood, Diocese of Sale Catholic education director, said Wallwork had been stood down as soon as it was made aware of the claims.

Brian Wallwork is facing 17 charges relating to sex acts on children under 16. Picture: Facebook

“(The school) made reports to the appropriate authorities immediately upon receiving details of this matter, and will co-operate with their investigation,” Ms Kirkwood said.

“Our highest priority remains the health, safety and wellbeing of our students.

“As the issue is now being investigated we are unable to make any further comment.”

Parents have told the Herald Sun they were “unaware” of the allegations and recent suspension.

“It’s really concerning that the school hasn’t advised us of this yet, we should be in the know considering it involves child safety,” one mother said.

Knox Sexual Offence and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT) detectives said they charged Wallwork after an investigation into allegations of sexual assault.

“The 47-year-old Mount Evelyn man was charged with 17 offences, including indecent act with a child under 16, sexual penetration of a child under 16 and sexual penetration of a 16 or 17-year-old under care or supervision,” a Victoria Police spokesman said.

Wallwork was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 4.

His provisional teachers’ registration was suspended by the Victorian Institute of Teaching on April 23 until the court case is resolved.

Paul Vale Criminal Law, who is representing Wallwork, declined to comment.