THE head of higher education at Colchester Institute is being investigated after being accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a student.

Tom Toolan is understood to have temporarily left his position as Dean of Higher Education at University Centre Colchester.

The student is an adult mother aged in her 30s so no criminal offence has taken place and Essex Police is not investigating.

However sexual relationships between students and teachers, or those in positions of responsibility, can amount to professional misconduct or accusations of bias.

A spokesman for the educational centre based in Sheepen Road said: "Colchester Institute takes the safety of all of its students – regardless of their age – very seriously.

"An investigation is already underway, but matters of staff and student conduct are entirely confidential and therefore, no further comment can be provided.”

Mr Toolan and the student did not respond to requests for a comment however a source close to the student criticised the reaction of Colchester Institute.

She said: "It is a proper relationship. They are very much in love. This is not a sordid affair."

Mr Toolan is also a member of The Partnerships Education Committee at Essex University.

Essex University attempted to distance itself from Mr Toolan.

A spokesman said: "This does not relate to a University of Essex member of staff or any student taught at the University of Essex so we will not be commenting further."

Details of the rules surrounding staff and student relationships at Colchester Institute were not readily available.

However the rules at Essex University, which validates and accredits the degree courses at University Centre Colchester, states "staff are strongly advised not to enter into a sexual and / or romantic relationship with a student for whom they have this responsibility".

Mr Toolan had a professional responsibility for the student he is allegedly in a relationship with.

While the student did not respond to requests for a comment she has previously praised Mr Toolan publicly on social media.

She said: "Tom Toolan the Dean has huge passion for all the students education and stands by his 'open door policy' day in and day out ensuring that everyone feels welcome and at ease."