Local News · Chippenham
Former Chippenham teacher found guilty of child sexual offences
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
A former PE teacher has been convicted of sexual offences against students at multiple schools, including a secondary school in Chippenham.
A former teacher who worked at a school in Chippenham has been found guilty of a series of sexual offences involving students. Bronwen James, 30, was convicted by a jury at Winchester Crown Court of three counts of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust. She was acquitted of one further count.
The trial heard that the offences took place while James was employed as a PE teacher. The jury heard that she targeted students at schools where she held a position of influence. The offences considered by the jury involved a 16-year-old pupil at Bitterne Park School in Southampton.
Prior to the trial, James had entered guilty pleas to several other serious charges. These included sexual offences against a female pupil at Bitterne Park School, who was aged 13 when inappropriate communications began, and sexual activity with a 14-year-old pupil. She also admitted to similar offences against a girl at Hardenhuish School in Chippenham, who was also 13 at the time the inappropriate contact was initiated. In total, her admissions included two counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of sexual communication with a child, and one count of making indecent images of a child.
Detective Investigator Francesca Mason, of the Wiltshire Police Child Abuse Investigation Team, described James as a sexual predator who exploited her status as a role model. She stated that the victims, who were at a pivotal stage of their emotional development, were cynically manipulated by the teacher for her own gratification.
"Bronwen James was employed as a teacher at a number of schools, a role in which she held a position of trust," DI Mason said. "The children under her supervision had every right to look to her for support and guidance. Instead, she betrayed that trust."
DI Mason also praised the survivors for their bravery in reporting the offences and their patience during the legal process. James has been remanded in custody following her conviction and is awaiting sentencing.
Wiltshire Police has reiterated that support is available for victims of abuse. Anyone affected by these issues or who wishes to report similar concerns is encouraged to visit the official Wiltshire Police website for guidance on how to access specialist support services and report information to the authorities.
Source: Gazette & Herald — Chippenham · View original