Papamoa College principal Steve Lindsey is today warning against social media speculation about the identity of a college student who is the victim of sexual offending.

Gregory Allan Ross Sayers, 42, pleaded guilty in Tauranga District Court last week to sexual offending against a young person who was at the time a student at Papamoa College where Sayers worked there.

Papamoa College. File photo.

Sayers has been remanded on bail pending sentencing. The charges and details of offending against two other complainants are suppressed by court order.

The offending against the first complainant took place during 2015.

'Our priority has been to ensure the wellbeing and privacy of the student involved, and also the continued safety of all students, and provide support for staff and anyone who has been affected,” says Steve in an email to parents this week.

'As you can appreciate, the strict suppression orders around this case have meant we have been unable to discuss any aspects of this situation. It's important to state that a suppression order exists (and will always remain in place), regarding the identity of the student. We all need to abide by this suppression order, and any speculation and rumours, will undermine this directive from the judge.

The suppression orders in place until last Tuesday meant neither the media nor the college was able to communicate any aspects of the case.

Steve sent out his email after the facts of the case had been published.

'It's important to know that as soon as the school was aware of this situation at the start of the year, we responded immediately by supporting the student and family. This pastoral support has continued over the last two terms and will do so into the future.

'From the start of the year, we have also worked very closely with the Police, Ministry of Education, NZ School Trustees Association, counselling services and other consultants. The school has adopted the advice provided by these agencies, and has followed best practice policies and procedures.”

He expressed disappointment at media coverage so far, saying the nature of the reporting disregarded the well-being of the student in the way it portrayed the facts of the case.

He went on to say Papamoa College has always had high expectations for the conduct of all employees, which includes communicating acceptable standards of behaviour and providing professional development.

'The school does not condone in any way the actions taken by the former employee,” says Steve.

'Please be assured, that the Board of Trustees, leadership and staff have received and will continue to receive, very good advice and support from the appropriate professional agencies in dealing with this situation. Pastoral support for all students will continue to be provided.”

He advises parents to contact him by email if they have any questions or concerns.

'This is an upsetting and difficult time for everyone. We are committed to provide the pastoral support for anyone that requires it, and will continue at Papamoa College to strive to provide quality education, in a safe and positive learning environment for all students."