A Shropshire PE teacher was today jailed for two years after admitting having sex with a 15-year-old pupil.  

Neil Batkin, of Prees Green, Whitchurch, sent the girl flowers and took her to the cinema in Birmingham where there was less chance of them being recognised – before dumping her by text message.

Shrewsbury Crown Court heard that Batkin, 25, was in a relationship with another teacher at the school at the time.

Philip Lowe, prosecuting, told the court Batkin had taken the girl to his home where they had sex.  

Batkin admitted charges of sex with the girl, engaging in sexual activity with her and inciting her to carry out a sexual act.

Judge Robin Onions also ordered Batkin to register as a sex offender for 10 years and banned him from working with children for that time.

Sentencing him, Judge Onions said: “Teachers are in a position of trust and are expected to safeguard children’s interests.

“You were in a position of trust at this school in charge of a number of children who were at a difficult time in their lives, including puberty.

“You abused that trust and those who fall below accepted standards can expect no mercy from the courts.”

Batkin started to show interest in the girl during a cross-country run and spoke to her in private, the court heard.

Joanne Wallbanks, for Batkin, said her client had faced temptation and failed to reject it. She said he had lost his job and his career.

“He is a young man who was on his way to a good career and all his aspirations have been lost,” she said.

“His biggest problem was he did not turn away and act the way he should have done. He has already lost a substantial amount.

“He has lost his job, his reputation in the community and his relationship has been affected. This is a tragedy for Mr Batkin. It is an even greater tragedy for the young lady concerned.”

The Shropshire Star is not allowed for legal reasons to name the girl or the school.

By Deborah Collins and Andy Walker