Teacher sacked over claims she had sexual contact with students

A female music teacher has been sacked by her school after alleged "inappropriate contact of a sexual nature" with students.

The teacher, named as Laurie Softley, was fired from her post at Ecclesbourne School in Derbyshire after two allegations of contact with male sixth form pupils.

She was suspended in March last year when police first informed the school about the allegations and was sacked six months later in September.

The school said a professional conduct panel "made findings against her of unacceptable professional conduct, and conduct that may bring the profession into disrepute".

A letter has been sent to parents by headteacher James McNamara and chair of governors Richard Lindop, explaining the situation.