Kelly Ray James, 37, pleaded guilty to one charge of break enter and steal in Nowra Local Court on Monday, March 11.

Court papers said some time between July 7-8 last year Jones, whose home backs onto the school property, broke into a demountable classroom within the school grounds and stole 12 iPads, a computer monitor, a laptop and a hard drive.

Police said a number of lollies had been eaten during the break-in and a wrapper had been left behind.

Fingerprints found inside the classroom were also matched those of Jones.

When police searched his home they discovered nine of the iPads, the laptop, monitor and hard drive in his bedroom, which were eventually returned to the school.

Jones said he had disposed of the other three iPads.

The court heard Jones had been caring for his ill father and also admitted he had a drug problem and was seeking help for his habit.

Magistrate Gabriel Fleming placed Jones on a 18-month intensive corrections order, meaning he can serve his sentence within the community, during which time he must also undertake 100 hours of community service and attend alcohol and drug treatment.

Read more: Crime/Court