Former Sefton School Teacher Pleads Guilty to Child Sex Offences

Robert Collins, previously an art teacher at Formby High School, has admitted to a series of child sex offences.

The 39-year-old Southport resident, of Banks Road, appeared in Sefton Magistrates Court today, June 12, where he pleaded guilty to nine charges.

Collins confessed to two counts of engaging in sexual communications with a child, two counts of attempting to engage in sexual communications with a child, four counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and possession of indecent category C images of children. These offences occurred between August 2019 and May 2023.

The court was told that Collins sent explicit images to a 15-year-old girl, expressing his love for her and inviting her to his home. Additionally, he attempted to send similar images to a 12-year-old girl, asking her to describe her legs and bottom, and stating his desire to kiss her.

Prosecutor Alex Farrow emphasized the gravity of the case, noting the number of victims and the nature of Collins' messages. Farrow remarked, "This matter will need to be committed to the crown court for sentencing, given the aggravating factors involved, including the defendant's profession."

Collins was granted conditional bail, with strict conditions prohibiting any unsupervised contact with children and barring him from working or volunteering in any setting involving children or vulnerable individuals. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender within 48 hours.

Collins is scheduled to appear at Liverpool Crown Court for sentencing on July 10.