A TEACHER has denied committing a string of sexual offences against children.

Brahmo Chellakooty is accused of three sexual assault on girls, assaulting a girl aged under 13 by touching and inciting a girl aged under 13 into sexual activity.

The charges allege the 62-year-old hugged and kissed a complainant and touched a girl on her leg and breast.

They are said to have taken place while he was working at a school in the Colchester area.

During a short hearing at Colchester Magistrates’ Court, Chellakooty spoke only to deny all charges against him and confirm his personal details.

The South African national, who was dressed smartly in a grey suit, was warned his sentence and costs would be greater if he was convicted following a trial.

A plea and trial preparation hearing was scheduled for Ipswich Crown Court next month after magistrates decided the matter was too serious for them to deal with.

Louise Maples, prosecuting, said: “The crown say this is not suitable for summary trial.”

Selena Dines, representing Chellakooty, confirmed that he understood the nature of the proceedings against him.

Chellakooty, now of Burdett Avenue, Westcliff, was granted bail until his court appearance next month.

Until then he must report to Southend Police Station every Tuesday between noon and 5pm as part of his bail conditions.

He is also barred from applying or starting any process to gain employment either paid or voluntary at any educational establishment.

Chellakooty is also banned from entering the ground or building of any school for any reason.

He must also not have any unsupervised contact with anyone under 18. If there is contact then the supervising person must be aware of the allegations against him.

Chellakooty is also not allowed to have any contact with any prosecution witnesses.

Magistrates warned Chelakooty he should have detailed conversations with his solicitor about his defence case and that if he was to comment any offences while on bail was likely to be dealt with more severely.

He was told failing to answer bail is a criminal offence.