Some headteachers have been more focused on protecting their schools’ reputations than safeguarding children from sexual abuse, a report has concluded – The Telegraph reports.
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) looked at historic abuse allegations by both teachers and students at 13 state and independent residential schools, as well as eight which have since closed.
Many of the schools examined by the inquiry were found to have “responded inadequately” to allegations against staff and had a “culture which discouraged reporting”.
The report, the 19th to be issued by the IICSA, said: “Too often, the inquiry saw examples of headteachers who found it inconceivable that staff might abuse their positions of authority to sexually abuse children, were unaware of current statutory guidance or did not understand their role in responding to allegations against staff.
“It was clear that some staff were more focused on protecting the reputation of the school than protecting the interests of the children.”
Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council, responded to the findings, saying in a statement:
“We welcome the publication of IICSA’s report, which would not have been possible were it not for the brave survivors of abuse who came forward to support the inquiry.
“The abuse of trust by predatory individuals is shocking and unforgiveable, and the ISC, associations and schools are now reviewing this report in detail.
“Over the last 25 years, schools have taken a key and active part in developing detailed safeguarding procedures and regular inspection. The welfare and safeguarding of pupils is the absolute priority for schools and we fully support IICSA’s mission to strengthen this area of work.”