A former senior teacher at Botany Public School has been accused in a civil lawsuit of sexually abusing a boy multiple times on school grounds in the late 1980s, as lawyers hunt for witnesses.

Law firm Slater and Gordon has launched proceedings in the Supreme Court of New South Wales on behalf of the alleged victim, an unidentified man who is currently undergoing treatment for bowel cancer while he searches for justice.

The proceedings allege the state of New South Wales, through the Department of Education, failed in its duty to protect students from foreseeable risk of harm.

News.com.au understands the alleged abuser is still alive.

Slater and Gordon Senior Associate Emily Clarke said the firm is seeking anyone with information about the school during that period to come forward.

“We’re urging former students, staff or anyone connected to Botany Public School in the late 1980s and early 1990s to contact us if they have any information that could be helpful,” Ms Clarke said.

“Our client was a child at the time and was entitled to feel safe in the school environment.

“The allegations involve serious breaches of trust and authority within the school grounds.”

Ms Clarke said cases like this often relied on witnesses coming forward.

“It’s not uncommon for people to only feel able to speak about their experiences many years later,” she added.

“We know that coming forward can be difficult, but it can be an important step in seeking accountability.

“If you were at the school during that time and have any information, we encourage you to reach out on 1800 565 892.”

A NSW Department of Education spokesperson said: “If anyone has information about historical allegations of abuse, they should contact the Department of Education and report the allegations to the police.

“We have the highest standards for our employees and will not hesitate to take any action required.”  

Located in Sydney’s southeastern suburbs, Botany Public School has a coeducational roll of 250 students and is one of the country’s oldest schools.

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