The former finance manager of Wapping High School, E1, has been told the three criminal charges against him must be dealt with at the Crown Court, a district judge has ruled.
Gurjit Sidhu, 45, of Dock Head Road, Chatham, appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court earlier today and spoke to confirm his name, date of birth, and address.
Mr Sidhu outside Thames Magistrates’ Court
Sidhu’s lawyer, Mr Sinclair, told the court no plea indication would be given today.
Reporting by freelance journalist Daniel Cloake
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The three charges are:
Between 02/01/2024 and 20/03/2026 at LONDON in the Borough of Tower Hamlets committed fraud in that, while occupying a position, namely Finance Manager, in which you were expected to safeguard, or not to act against, the financial interests of Wapping High School, you dishonestly abused that position intending thereby to make a gain, namely £206,000, for yourself.
Contrary to sections 1(1), (2)(c), (3) and 4 of the Fraud Act 2006.
Between 02/01/2024 and 20/03/2026 at LONDON in the Borough of Tower Hamlets concealed, disguised, converted, transferred or removed criminal property, namely £206,000, by means of transferring payments from Wapping High School into your personal account
Contrary to sections 327(1) and 334(1) of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Between 02/01/2024 and 20/03/2026 at LONDON in the Borough of Tower Hamlets committed fraud in that you dishonestly made a false representation, namely creating fake invoices, intending to make a gain, namely £206,000, for yourself.
Contrary to sections 1 and 2 of the Fraud Act 2006.
Wapping High School is “a co-educational secondary school located in Wapping, East London” which provides “an exciting and innovative curriculum for 11-16 year old boys and girls”.
Earlier this year it was reported that the school would be closing in 2027.
District Judge McIvor adjourned the case to Snaresbrook Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on 4th December 2026.
Mr Sidhu was granted unconditional bail.
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