Science teacher denies rape of schoolgirl at Newham academy

Science teacher Darlington Nuwertey is on trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court facing allegations of raping a schoolgirl at Oasis Academy Silvertown in Newham. The prosecution claims Nuwertey, 32, exploited a position of trust with the student. He denies all charges.

Allegations in court

Prosecutor Richard Burrington told the court that Nuwertey is accused of calling the girl 'beautiful' and repeatedly raping her in a school storeroom. Mr Burrington stated that Nuwertey told the girl he wanted her to carry his baby. The court heard that Nuwertey allegedly began showing interest in the girl when she was in Year 10, approaching 16 years old. He would ask her to stay after lessons, and when they were alone, he would make comments described as 'overtly sexual nature', according to the prosecutor. The trial heard that Nuwertey allegedly locked a classroom door, pinned the girl against a wall, and kissed and groped her. A science technician reportedly witnessed part of an interaction and reported it, leading to an internal investigation. Nuwertey is accused of pressuring the girl to lie about the events.

Further allegations include Nuwertey asking the girl to send nude pictures via Snapchat and arranging to meet her after school in a storeroom. The prosecutor stated that Nuwertey raped her multiple times in these meetings. After leaving Oasis Academy, Nuwertey allegedly contacted the girl and invited her to his house, where he again told her he wanted her to carry his baby before allegedly raping her. The prosecution also detailed further alleged encounters at his home and in a car, where similar statements were made before further alleged rapes.

The court heard that Nuwertey later texted the complainant stating his wife had discovered their relationship and subsequently blocked her on Snapchat and Telegram. The complainant's father reportedly discovered money being transferred into her bank account from the defendant, which led to her disclosing the alleged abuse. Nuwertey was arrested and provided a prepared statement denying any sexual activity with a child, any sexual contact with the complainant, and the rape allegations. He maintained their relationship was strictly professional.

Trial continuation

Darlington Nuwertey denies all nine counts of rape and the single count of adult abuse of position of trust. The trial is continuing at Snaresbrook Crown Court.