Teacher denies raping pupil at Newham school

Darlington Nuwertey, a 32-year-old science teacher from Bexleyheath, stands accused of raping a schoolgirl in Newham. The alleged offences occurred within a school storeroom at Oasis Academy Silvertown and at Nuwertey's home. He is currently on trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court, facing nine counts of rape and one charge of abuse of position of trust.

Allegations detailed in court

Prosecutor Richard Burrington told the jury that Nuwertey allegedly exploited an imbalance of power, telling the girl she was "beautiful" and "mature for her age" before engaging in sexual activity. The court heard that Nuwertey offered the girl extra help with science when she was in Year 11. On one occasion, the prosecutor stated, Nuwertey locked a classroom door, pinned the girl against a wall, and began kissing and groping her over her uniform. A science technician reportedly witnessed part of this interaction, prompting an internal investigation. Nuwertey is alleged to have pressured the girl to lie about the encounter and to send him nude pictures. He also allegedly asked her to meet him in a storeroom after school, where he is accused of raping her multiple times. Mr Burrington informed the court that Nuwertey has denied any sexual activity with the complainant while she was a pupil at Oasis Academy and he was her teacher.

Following his departure from Oasis Academy to work at Bexleyheath Academy, the complainant alleges that Nuwertey contacted her. She claims he invited her to his house, where he told her he wanted her to carry his baby before raping her. Further allegations include Nuwertey picking her up on subsequent occasions, taking her to his house, and again stating his desire for her to carry his child before allegedly raping her. On another occasion, they remained in his car, where he is accused of making the same statement before another alleged rape.

Defendant's denial and discovery

The prosecution stated that Nuwertey later texted the complainant, claiming his wife had discovered their relationship, and subsequently blocked her on social media platforms. The complainant's father reportedly became aware of unexplained money entering her bank account, which was allegedly provided by Nuwertey. Upon being confronted, the complainant disclosed the alleged abuse to her father. When arrested, Nuwertey provided a prepared statement denying all allegations of sexual activity with a child, any sexual contact with the complainant, and the rape accusations. He maintained that their relationship was strictly professional.

The trial is continuing.