‘Wonderful’ Williamstown Primary music teacher charged with assault

A teacher feted by Williamstown Primary has been suspended as he prepares to front court on assaulted-related charges.

AWilliamstown Primary School has been rocked by the allegations levelled at a former teacher.

A former state primary school teacher is facing assault-related charges and has been suspended by the teaching registration board, the Herald Sun can reveal.

Matthew John Scalzo, a teacher at Williamstown Primary until mid-2021, will face the Werribee Magistrate’s Court at the end of the month.

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.

A message farewelling Matthew John Scalzo in Williamstown Primary's newsletter.

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 grade 5/6 class although left midway through the year.

A police spokeswoman confirmed a man has been charged with assault-related charges.

The Education Department cannot comment on matters before the courts.