A MAN who taught at a Plymouth school for three decades is facing charges in connection with the alleged sexual and physical abuse of children.

Paul Kelly is one of six men accused of a series of assaults and indecent assaults over a five-year period in the 1970s and 1980s.

The former head of Year 9 at St Boniface’s Catholic College was due to appear at Dundee Sheriff Court in Scotland, last week.

But the case against the 61-year-old was postponed due to what police said was an administrative error.

Kelly, who lives in Plymouth, is facing charges over abuse alleged to have taken place at the former St Ninian’s School in Falkland, Fife.

None of the charges relate to his time at St Boniface’s.

Kelly quit the Manadon-based school in July 2012 when he was head of Year 9 and a French teacher. He had been at the college for 27 years.

At the time he told The Herald: “It has been a pleasure to see so many students journey through life.

“I still see so many past pupils who have become successful in career and family.”

St Boniface’s told The Herald no allegations had been made against Kelly during his time there.

Headteacher Andrew Davies said: “There have been no allegations associated with the college, but as Paul Kelly was a former employee, the CAST (Catholic and Anglican Schools Trust) chief executive has oversight of the matter, and any further enquiries should be directed to him.”

In a letter to parents issued yesterday, Mr Davies wrote: “I wanted parents to be aware and to confirm that St Boniface’s robust procedures relating to safeguarding and child protection have been consistently validated by both Ofsted and the local authority.

“Please be assured that there have been no concerns of misconduct regarding Mr Kelly during his time at our school. As this is an ongoing police enquiry, it would not be appropriate to speculate on the potential outcome.”

Mr Davies also said the school would offer support to those upset by the news.

Devon and Cornwall Police said it had not received any allegations of physical or sexual abuse in connection with Kelly.

Also charged with assaults and indecent assaults are Michael Murphy, 74, of Dunfermline, William Don, 60, of Leven, Edward Egan, 76, of Altrincham, and Timothy Foxall, 63, of Hexham. The four faced 68 charges but made no plea and were bailed at Dundee Sheriff Court.

The cases against Kelly and John Farrell, 71, of Coatbridge, were adjourned due to an administrative error.