Former students who claim to have been sexually abused by teachers in public high schools on Sydney's northern beaches will seek compensation from the NSW government, the high-profile law firm representing them has confirmed.

Multiple allegations of sexual abuse are currently being investigated by NSW police, with assistance from the NSW Department of Education.

The culture of student and teacher relationships at northern beaches high schools in the 1980s has been brought back to attention by the recent arrest of former Cromer High School teacher Chris Dawson for the murder of his wife Lynette Dawson. Credit:James Brickwood

Danielle De Paoli, a lawyer at Maurice Blackburn, confirmed that a number of the alleged victims are also seeking financial compensation.

"We have received instructions in several matters arising from historical abuse in high schools on Sydney's northern beaches," Ms De Paoli said.