Former PE teacher sexually abused pupils at multiple schools
A former PE teacher has been found guilty of sexually abusing a 16-year-old boy, after previously admitting sexual offences against two teenage girls.
Bronwen James, 30, of Chippenham, Wiltshire, admitted nine sexual offences against two girls, one of whom was a pupil at Bitterne Park School in Southampton and the other at Hardenhuish School in Chippenham.
Following a trial at Winchester Crown Court, James was also found guilty of three counts of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust involving a 16-year-old boy who attended Bitterne Park School.
The nine offences involving the two girls included six counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child, two counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child and one count of making indecent images of a child.
During the trial, prosecutors said James had developed a “flirty” relationship with the boy and communicated with him through Snapchat before having sex with him at her home. The court also heard that she told him she loved him and wanted him to move away with her.
Speaking about his experience, the boy told the court that at the time he thought James cared about him and initially viewed the relationship positively but now recognised that what happened was wrong.
Senior Crown Prosecutor Bethany Adams said James had been “trusted to educate and protect children” but instead used that trust to groom and sexually abuse three pupils.
This case is another deeply concerning example of the harm that can occur when someone in a position of trust abuses the authority they hold over a child or young person. Teachers have significant responsibility for the pupils in their care, and the relationship between a teacher and pupil carries an inherent imbalance of power.
It is also important to recognise that young people may not immediately understand that what is happening to them is abusive. Grooming can blur boundaries and make abusive behaviour appear normal or even make a young person believe they are in a consensual or caring relationship. The responsibility always lies with the adult in the position of trust, not the child or young person they have targeted.
If you are reading this as someone who has experienced sexual abuse, whether recently or many years ago, support is available. Speaking to someone does not mean you have to make a report. If you would like to talk through what happened or explore what support might look like for you, our abuse team is here to listen in complete confidence.
