A former teacher at prestigious school Knox Grammar will fight allegations he groomed a 15-year-old for sexual activity in online chats.
William Roberto Gulson, 27, appeared in Sydney Downing Centre Local Court on Monday after pleading not guilty to procuring or grooming a minor for unlawful sexual activity.
He was arrested in September after NSW Police launched an investigation into reports a man had groomed a child online.
Police allege the grooming occurred over a 48-hour period in August when Mr Gulson knew the complainant was 15 years old and in year 9.
Former Knox Grammar School teach William Gulson has pleaded not guilty to grooming a 15-year-old for sex. Picture: NewsWire/ Gaye Gerard
He will fight the charges in a hearing later this year. Picture: NewsWire/ Gaye Gerard
The court was previously told Mr Gulson allegedly messaged the minor: “Sorry dude, I feel super conflicted, do you find it hot that you are as old as some of my students?”
Police claim evidence of the communications was found on the teacher’s phone, which was seized when he was arrested.
On Monday, deputy chief magistrate Michael Antrum set the matter down for a three-day hearing later this year.
Mr Gulson will fight the allegations against him from September 15-17.
He will remain on bail until he returns to court.
His bail conditions prohibit him from contacting anyone younger than 18, loitering around Knox Grammar or approaching an airport.
Mr Gulson is on bail. Picture: NewsWire / Max Mason-Hubers
He is barred from entering Knox Grammar School grounds under the conditions of his bail. Picture: NewsWire / Max Mason-Hubers
The teacher wore a white shirt, navy tie, and dark pants and did not speak as he strode out of the courthouse flanked by his lawyer and a supporter.
His employment with Knox Grammar School was terminated in September after the allegations came to light.
Knox Grammar is a private boys school located in Wahroonga, on Sydney’s upper north shore, which offers boarding facilities for more than $30,000 a year.
The school also encompasses Wahroonga Prep, which teaches both boys and girls from pre-kindergarten to year 6.