A TEACHER accused of child sex offences has appeared in court.

David Goodwin is alleged to have attempted to engage in sexual communication with a child while a teacher at Furness Academy.

The 38-year-old is also said to have attempted to cause a child under 13 to watch / look at an image of sexual activity.

Mr Goodwin of Broughton Road in Dalton, is alleged to have committed the offences in April.

Wearing a suit, he spoke to confirm his name and address during a short hearing at South Cumbria Magistrates' Court and offered no plea to all three charges.

His case was sent to Preston Crown Court, where he is due to appear on October 22.

Prosecutor Peter Bardsley confirmed Mr Goodwin was employed by Furness Academy at the time the allegations relate to.

The defendant was remanded on unconditional bail until his next court appearance.

Simon Laheney, Furness Academy head and chief executive, said: “I can confirm that David Goodwin was employed by Furness Academy until 31st May 2021. 

"It is not appropriate for the school to make any comments relating to an ongoing court matter and the school must respect the obligations imposed by data protection legislation. 

"The school takes the safeguarding of its students very seriously and can confirm that all regulatory and statutory obligations have been fulfilled and complied with proactively, comprehensively and consistently.”