A TEACHER has been sacked after allegedly texting a pupil from his bath 'wish you were here'.

The male teacher from Richmond School is facing disciplinary action for having inappropriate contact with a female student who was aged over 16.

It is understood it is not suggested the pair were having a physical relationship, although it was claimed the teacher sent a text to the girl from his bath saying he wished she could join him.

Laws protecting teachers from malicious accusations by pupils prevent The Northern Echo from identifying the teacher.

However, sources have confirmed the teacher was sacked by the North Yorkshire school shortly after a complaint was made.

North Yorkshire Police said they were not investigating the incident, but it is believed the case has been referred to the National College for Teaching & Leadership, which has the power to ban teachers from working in schools in the future.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire County Council said: “Richmond School takes its duty of care towards staff and children very seriously.

"The school consistently follows all appropriate policies and procedures whenever concerns are raised.”

The Department for Education said all teachers were expected to demonstrate consistently high standards of personal and professional conduct.

A spokeswoman added: "All matters relating to the safeguarding of children are taken very seriously and procedures are in place to make sure anyone who may pose a risk to children is not able to work with them.

“Employers must review applicants' criminal records before making a decision about whether to allow them to work in a school.”

The Northern Echo attempted to contact the teacher, but he did not reply.

The teacher's social media profiles were deleted shortly afterwards.