The headteacher of Eton College has issued a formal apology and expressed profound dismay following the sentencing of a former teacher for sexually assaulting a student. 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 Breach of Trust
Leland, who was 23 years old at the time, committed the assaults in 2012 while employed at Eton. 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.
A third sexual assault occurred during a school trip away from the premises, where Leland performed oral sex on the schoolboy. These actions represented what the headmaster described as "the most egregious breach of trust" in an educational setting.
School Leadership Response and Apology
Simon Henderson, the current headmaster of Eton College who was not in post during the 2012 incidents, 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."
Henderson continued: "As headmaster, I remain appalled that this abuse happened at Eton. 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."
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Leland, residing at Gatcombe Road in Tufnell Park, north London, was found guilty last year of three counts of sexual assault on a male following a trial at Reading Crown Court. During the sentencing hearing, Judge Kirsty Real emphasised the significant responsibility inherent in teacher-student relationships.
"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," Judge Real stated. She further noted that Leland had been "trusted" by a housemaster at one of Eton's 25 boarding houses to care for students and adhere to school regulations.
The judge added: "For the victim, the psychological effects of what you did to him have been long-lasting and serious."
School Safeguarding Policies and Procedures
In his statement, Henderson affirmed that pupil welfare and wellbeing represent the institution's "top priority." He explained: "When safeguarding issues arise they are dealt with in accordance with our established processes. We work in close partnership with external authorities, referring matters to them where appropriate, as we did in this case."
Eton College, England's largest boarding school with alumni including Prince William, Prince Harry, and twenty former prime ministers such as Boris Johnson, now faces scrutiny over historical safeguarding failures despite current protocols.
