A boarding assistant at d’Overbroeck’s, a private school in Oxford, has admitted to stealing thousands of pounds worth of belongings from pupils over a four-month period. Jack Martin-Harley, 33, who held the position of senior boarding assistant, pleaded guilty to nine counts of burglary at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court.

Martin-Harley’s thefts occurred between December and April while he was responsible for supervising boarders at Westway House, which accommodates around 50 sixth-form students. During this time, he exploited his access to students’ dormitories, taking cash, jewellery, and electronic devices.

The school, which charges £37,000 annually for boarding, sent a letter to parents notifying them that Martin-Harley was no longer employed but did not disclose the nature of his offenses. A source within the school described the situation as distressing for families and expressed disbelief over the scale of the thefts and the fact that Martin-Harley misused his position to supplement his income.

Not all stolen items have been recovered and returned to students. Martin-Harley was highlighted in the school’s welcome materials as part of a “great team of boarding staff,” and the school promotes its boarding facilities as modern and secure. d’Overbroeck’s is a co-educational institution serving students aged 11 to 18 and is located in the affluent Summertown area of Oxford.

Martin-Harley appeared at Oxford Crown Court for sentencing but the hearing was postponed to November 26 after he attended without legal representation. The school confirmed that the case was reported to the police and stated that it cannot provide further comment due to ongoing legal proceedings.