It said: “Peter Shotton’s breach of the special trust placed in him as a teacher has shocked everyone connected with Bewbush Community Primary School. The school deeply regrets this case.
“As soon as the allegations against him emerged, he was not allowed to return to the school, and was subsequently suspended.
“Prior to this had his behaviour in the school raised any concerns during his employment, immediate action would have been taken.
“The impact of this case has been very distressing for all involved. The school hopes the conclusion of this trial will allow it to move forward and that it can be left in peace to concentrate on the well-being and education of its pupils.