Former West Sussex teacher admits online child sex offence

A former assistant headteacher from West Sussex has admitted trying to engage in sexual communications with a child.

David Rogers, 48, of Eriswell Road in Worthing, came to the attention of police after exchanging sexual messages on social media and attempting to arrange a meeting with a 13-year-old boy in December, 2024.

He was identified as the user contacting the child’s profile, arrested on 23 January, 2025 and digital devices confirmed the accounts were operated by him.

Rogers used to be assistant headteacher at Littlehampton Academy, and chair of governors at Goring Primary School. Both of these posts were terminated in 2022, before this investigation began. Rogers no longer works in a position where he would have access to children.

He was subsequently charged with attempted sexual communications with a child and, at Lewes Crown Court on Wednesday, 30 April, he pleaded guilty.

He has been released on conditional bail, to appear at the same court for sentencing on 26 June.

Investigator Rose Horan said: “David Rogers’ behaviour showed a clear, predatory sexual interest in children. 

“His offending is made even more alarming by the positions of trust he once held in West Sussex.

“The local authority has supported our investigation and helped to ensure there were no wider safeguarding concerns. We will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure children are protected online and offline, while holding offenders to account.”