Former Eton College teacher guilty of sexually abusing pupil – legal help available for survivors

A former teacher at Eton College has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a pupil he taught at the school.

Jacob Leland, 37, who taught Russian in Eton’s modern languages department between 2010 and 2012, was convicted of three counts of sexual assault against the pupil. He performed oral sex on a boy, kissed him and put his hand on his groin.

Leland is the fourth former Eton teacher to have been implicated in serious misconduct since 2010.

Reading Crown Court heard Leland had abused his position of trust and authority. Eton’s current headmaster, Simon Henderson, issued an unreserved apology to those affected, describing the conduct as “an egregious breach of trust” and confirmed an independent review will be carried out.

He added: “As headmaster, I am appalled that this abuse happened at Eton.”

As well as teaching Russian at the school, Leland was the housemaster’s assistant at Common Lane House, one of the 25 boarding houses.

Support and legal options for survivors

At Bolt Burdon Kemp, we represent survivors who have suffered sexual abuse in educational and institutional settings. We understand the courage it takes to come forward and speak about what happened, and we are committed to supporting survivors with compassion, discretion and expertise.

Civil claims can provide an opportunity for survivors not only to seek compensation for the harm suffered, but also to hold institutions accountable for failings in safeguarding and supervision. Each case is handled with the utmost sensitivity, and survivors are fully supported throughout the process.

How we can help

If you were affected by Jacob Leland’s actions, or if you experienced abuse while attending Eton College or any other educational institution, our specialist abuse team can offer a confidential, no-obligation discussion about your experience and legal options, as well as guidance on available support services and counselling.