A housemaster at a top independent boys school in Hampstead has appeared in court charged with indecently assaulting two former pupils, including a boy under the age of 16.
Languages teacher Dr Geoffrey Plow, a master at University College School (UCS), has appeared before magistrates charged with historic allegations of sexual assault and indecent assault on two former students.
The 58-year-old is accused of two counts of sexual assault on a male and one count of indecent assault on a boy under the age of 16.
He pleaded not guilty to all charges at Highbury Magistrate’s Court during a short hearing yesterday.
Dr Plow has been a master at UCS’s senior school, in Frognal, for approximately 30 years and taught modern languages including French and German.
He was also a master of Flooks Deme, the name given to one of UCS’s traditional school houses.
UCS headmaster Mark Beard today sent a letter to parents informing them of the court proceedings.
He said: “I regret to advise you that Dr Geoffrey Plow, a member of staff at the senior school, appeared before magistrates yesterday charged with allegations of indecent assault of two former pupils during their time at UCS.
“Dr Plow has pleaded not guilty and is due to attend a pre-trial hearing at a crown court in April.
“So as not to prejudice proceedings, and to respect the confidentiality of the alleged victims, I hope you will understand that I am unable to provide any further details at this stage.
“School governors and staff are working with the relevant authorities to provide information and assistance required for the investigation.
“Since the start of this investigation, and with no pre-judgement, Dr Plow has been suspended from his post.”
Mr Beard continued: “I would like to reassure you that the welfare and protection of pupils, past and present, is a matter if the utmost importance to us.”
Pupils were informed of the court proceedings at assemblies this morning.
Mr Plow, of Granville Place, Middlesex, will next appear at Blackfriars Crown Court on April 4.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here