Ian Goy had denied communicating with the 15-year-old over the internet.

But a jury unanimously convicted the Heysham High School teacher of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

The judge called the offence a "a gross breach of trust".

Goy, 27, of Lockerbie Avenue, Cleveleys, was told by Judge Heather Lloyd: "You have been convicted on what appeared to me to be overwhelming evidence and I agree with the verdict of the jury.

"You must understand what you did was a gross breach of trust and all sentencing options are open. That includes custody."

Goy had insisted to the jury he had always conducted himself professionally at work and had never behaved inappropriately towards the girl who was said to have sent him three pictures of herself in her underwear.

Goy, who taught taught Information and Communication Technology, was remanded on bail for sentencing on March 22.

The judge told Goy he would have to sign on the sex offenders register.

FOR THE FULL STORY SEE THURSDAY'S GAZETTE