Eton Headteacher Issues Apology After Former Teacher Sentenced for Sexual Assault
The headmaster of Eton College has issued a formal apology and expressed his profound dismay following the sentencing of a former teacher for sexually assaulting a pupil. Jacob Leland, who taught Russian at the prestigious all-boys boarding school, was jailed for three years and three months at Reading Crown Court on Friday.
Details of the Assaults and Court Proceedings
Leland, who was 23 years old at the time, committed the assaults in 2012 while employed at Eton College. The court heard that he first assaulted the pupil after inviting him and his friends to his flat, where he provided them with alcohol and cigarettes. After the other students departed, Leland kissed the boy and placed the pupil's hands over his own groin.
He committed a further sexual assault by performing oral sex on the schoolboy during a trip away from the school premises. Leland, residing on Gatcombe Road in Tufnell Park, north London, was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault on a male last year following a trial at Reading Crown Court.
Headteacher's Statement and School Response
Simon Henderson, the current headteacher who was not in post during the time of the assaults, stated in an official release: "Eton needs to acknowledge not only that something this serious was able to take place at our school, but also that it took several years for the details of what happened to come to light."
He continued: "As headmaster, I remain appalled that this abuse happened at Eton. Leland's criminal conduct represents the most egregious breach of trust. Those who were directly impacted by Leland's actions had the right to be safe and secure in our care. I reiterate my unreserved apologies to them on behalf of the school."
Henderson emphasised that the welfare and wellbeing of pupils are the school's top priority, with safeguarding issues handled according to established processes and in close partnership with external authorities, as was done in this case.
Judicial Remarks and Impact on the Victim
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Kirsty Real addressed Leland directly, noting: "The relationship of teacher and student at a school gives rise, undoubtedly, to a significant level of responsibility towards the victim upon which the victim would be entitled to rely."
The court was informed that Leland had been trusted by a housemaster at one of Eton's 25 boarding houses to supervise students and adhere to school regulations. Judge Real added: "For the victim, the psychological effects of what you did to him have been long-lasting and serious."
Eton College, England's largest boarding school, counts numerous notable figures among its alumni, including Prince William, Prince Harry, and twenty former prime ministers, most recently Boris Johnson. This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding child protection and safety within educational institutions.
