Several written and verbal complaints about the teacher have been lodged with the school, which is nearing the end of its investigation into the male teacher’s conduct.

The school’s principal told The Courier he met with concerned parents last week to discuss the situation and outline the process being taken during the investigation.

A child psychologist has also been made available to assist with parents’ concerns.

The Courier has chosen not to name the school or the teacher, who has continued to work, while the investigation is ongoing.

Police have informed investigators that no criminal conduct has been alleged.

The principal said he decided to hold last week’s meeting with concerned parents and others who had heard the allegations, after speculation swept the school community.

“I think people are concerned and want to know what is happening,” he said. “I certainly don’t condone that sort of behaviour ... if these allegations are found to be true, then further action will be taken.”

The principal said the teacher was given time to respond to the allegations, which has occurred, but now “additional information and clarifications” were being sought.

He said the conduct and ethics branch of the Department of Education was assisting with the school’s investigation.

A spokeswoman confirmed the department was looking into the case.

“The department is aware of the concerns of some parents and is inquiring into the matter consistent with its guidelines and obligations,” she said.

A mother of two students at the school told The Courier her children voiced concerns about returning this year because of the teacher’s alleged conduct.

“He is encouraging children as young as five to massage him in class,” she said. “The children have been clearly affected by this.”

The mother said the school’s decision to inform only those parents who made complaints about the teacher, rather than all parents, was inappropriate.

“If I was a new parent to the school, I would want to know about this sort of behaviour,” she said.

But the principal disagreed, arguing such an announcement would have a negative impact on the school community.

“Any parent that hears of these allegations will be concerned, but I also have to do the right thing by the teacher,” he said. “We have been quite transparent to all parents who have raised concerns.”