Two survivors of sexual abuse at prestigious UK boarding schools have come forward to share their experiences, highlighting ongoing concerns about the vulnerability of pupils living away from their families. Their stories underscore the challenges institutions face in protecting children from peer-perpetrated abuse, even amid improved safeguarding measures.
Benji*, who was in his early teens when the abuse began, described a multi-year ordeal at an independent boarding school where a fellow pupil repeatedly sexually assaulted him. The abuse escalated from unwanted touching to forced oral sex, accompanied by threats and intimidation designed to silence him. Benji said he did not disclose the abuse for over a decade due to shame and fear. The psychological toll led him to struggle with substance misuse and suicidal thoughts. After eventually confiding in his mother, the matter was reported to the police, resulting in the conviction in 2021 of Christopher Brewer, the perpetrator, on multiple counts. Brewer was sentenced to three years in prison. Benji later pursued a civil negligence claim against the school, which was settled out of court.
Another former pupil, Sam*, recounted a similar experience at a different boarding school. After being sexually abused by an older student, Sam reported the abuse to school authorities. However, he said the school’s response was inadequate, allowing the alleged abuser to remain nearby and failing to refer the case swiftly to police, where the subsequent investigation did not lead to charges. Sam described enduring “a state of terror” and long-term impacts on his mental health and education, including withdrawing from university. He pursued a civil settlement with the school in response.
Legal experts involved in representing victims note that boarding schools pose particular risks due to pupils living on campus for extended periods, blending academic and private lives in unsupervised contexts. Richard Scorer, head of abuse law at Slater & Gordon, emphasized that a disproportionate number of child-on-child abuse civil claims relate to boarding schools. Andrew Lord, a solicitor experienced in abuse cases, acknowledged the lasting psychological impact victims often face.
While awareness and safeguarding procedures in UK boarding schools have advanced significantly over recent years, advocates caution that policies alone are insufficient. Gabrielle Shaw, chief executive of the National Association for People Abused in Childhood, stressed the importance of providing pupils with safe, confidential routes to disclose abuse and ensuring responses prioritize the child’s welfare over institutional reputation.
Representatives of boarding schools affirm their commitment to safeguarding. Robin Fletcher, chief executive of the Boarding Schools’ Association, stated that protecting young people remains a top priority. He cited ongoing efforts to enhance schools’ capabilities through training, guidance, and fostering cultures intolerant of abuse.
The testimonies of Benji and Sam underscore the complex dynamics of child-on-child sexual abuse in boarding environments, the delayed recognition and response to such abuse, and the profound effects on survivors’ lives. They and their legal representatives urge continued vigilance, support, and systemic improvements to better protect vulnerable pupils.
*Names have been changed to protect anonymity.