Child Abuse Squad detectives have charged a Northern Beaches school teacher over alleged sex with a child.
Ella Clements was charged with intentionally sexually touch a child under 16 on two separate occasions in July and in May this year.
She was also presented with three charges of aggravated sexual intercourse with a child under 16 years of age in July and in September this year.
Clements taught drama at St Augustine’s in Brookvale. We understand that she lost her employment once the allegations were made clear to the school. Earlier this week the school sent a letter to families advising of the serious charges.
Principal of St Augustine’s College, Jonathan Byrne provided the following statement to Manly Observer:
“The College has been working with Police and authorities on a matter which has resulted in a former teacher being charged with child sex offences. The College is deeply saddened by this breach of trust and the impact it has on the community.
Upon becoming aware of the allegations, the College immediately notified Police and regulatory authorities, and immediately stood down then subsequently terminated the teacher’s employment.
We continue to work with Police and relevant authorities and, in the meantime, our focus is on ensuring the privacy and wellbeing of the impacted family and our broader community.”
Earlier this month, officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command commenced an investigation into reports the 24-year-old female teacher was involved in an inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old male.
The matter was referred to State Crime Command’s Child Abuse Squad, and following further enquiries, the woman was arrested in Brookvale on Tuesday 16 September 2025, before being taken to hospital for assessment.
About 1pm on Monday 29 September 2025, the woman was charged at Manly Police Station with three counts of aggravated – sexual intercourse child (15) and intentionally sexually touch child (aged 15).
She was refused bail to appear Downing Centre Local Court on 27 November 2025.
