A teacher has been jailed for ten years for raping a 14-year-old-girl.

Subir Chakravarty, 38, now unemployed and of Kenneth Road, Chadwell Heath, Essex, raped the girl twice at his home while a teacher at Ratton School, Eastbourne, in March 2014.

He was jailed this morning at Hove Crown Court after being convicted by a jury in July.

The court heard how the former IT teacher groomed the girl before inviting her back to his rented home and raping her. 

He had already handed in his notice to quit his job at Ratton School at the time of the offence and was working at another school in London by the time he was arrested. 

Sentencing, Judge Anthony Niblett said he was sure Chakravarty thought he would get away with his crime by leaving his job and the area. 

He was described as a popular teacher of previous good character of whom many people had thought highly. 

The court heard how the girl, whose identity is protected by law, has suffered post traumatic stress disorder since the attack. 

Speaking after the conviction, Huxley Knox-Macaulay, head teacher at Ratton School, said the school had acted swiftly in line with child protection procedures when the allegations emerged.

He added: “We are pleased this abuse came to light, and commend the victim for having the bravery to speak out.

"However, even though it will do little to help the victim as she comes to terms with the abuse she suffered, we are also pleased that he has been held to account for his crimes.”

Sussex Police Detective Constable James Hookway said: "This man denied throughout the investigation and trial that he committed any offences, and the victim was very brave in giving evidence against him, having previously summoned up the courage to report what had happened. 
 
"She should also be commended in remaining patient and putting her faith in the justice system, waiting two years for this matter to come to trial." 

Mr Chakravarty continues to deny the offences. 

More soon on this breaking story...