Ex-music teacher faces court on assault charges

A popular former Williamstown Primary music teacher has faced court after his teaching licence was suspended over assault charges.

A former state primary school teacher who was suspended by the teaching registration board has fronted court over assault-related charges.

Matthew John Scalzo, a teacher at Williamstown Primary until mid-2021, appeared at Werribee Magistrates’ Court on Thursday facing a number of charges.

No details of the allegations against Mr Scalzo were revealed during the brief administrative hearing.

Prosecutors flagged they were seeking to amend and withdraw some of the charges against the former teacher.

Mr Scalzo, who was wearing a grey hoodie jumper and a mask, represented himself and told the court he would seek legal advice before his next hearing.

He was suspended on an interim basis by the Victorian Institute of Teaching on June 7, 2022.

Mr Scalzo was a music teacher at the school for several years and was responsible for the school’s disco, which has always been a very popular event.

In 2016 the school’s Facebook page acknowledged the “wonderful” Mr Scalzo. He also took part in the school’s musical 140th birthday celebrations in 2013.

In 2017 the then principal announced Mr Scalzo – or “Scalzo” as the kids called him – would be leaving the school.

“We wish Matt and his family all the best of health and happiness for this next adventurous chapter in his life as Matt takes up a position with the company,” the principal wrote.

“From the classroom, to the Music room and back to the classroom again, Matt has been a wonderful big “Willy Kid” and always will be. Thank you, Matt. All the very best.”

Mr Scalzo returned to the school at the start of 2021 after a period of extended leave.

He taught a 5/6 class although left halfway through the year.

Mr Scalzo will return to Werribee Magistrates’ Court on August 4.