King's School Canterbury Launches Review into Historic Abuse Claims

King's School Canterbury, believed to be the world's oldest school, has initiated an independent review into historical abuse allegations. The decision follows the sentencing of former boarding master Dennis Fletcher, 76, who was jailed for abusing boys at Junior King's over four decades ago.

Since Fletcher's conviction, former pupils have come forward with disclosures concerning other staff members, spanning approximately fifty years. In a letter addressed to former students, known as Old King's Scholars (OKS), headmistress Jude Lowson stated that the review will concentrate on the period from the 1950s to the late 1990s. The school aims to achieve a comprehensive understanding of events during this timeframe and to identify any lessons that can be learned.

In April, Dennis Fletcher received a sentence of 11 years and nine months for the sexual abuse of two boys at the school between 1978 and 1982, when they were under the age of 14. Fletcher resided in a flat adjacent to the boy's dormitories, and one victim recounted how Fletcher would patrol at night, punishing students for rule infractions.

Ms. Lowson expressed the school's dismay regarding Fletcher's actions and the harm caused, offering a sincere and unreserved apology to those the school failed to protect. The headmistress noted that this initial apology prompted several OKS members to contact the school. Some provided additional information about Fletcher, while others shared experiences involving different former staff members, dating from the 1950s through to the late 1990s.

She conveyed gratitude to those who have come forward, acknowledging the courage and trust involved. Following careful consideration of the accounts received, the governors and Ms. Lowson concluded that an independent review into past abuse cases and disclosures at both Junior King's and King's School is warranted.

Notable alumni of King's School Canterbury include playwright Christopher Marlowe, author Michael Morpurgo, and actor Orlando Bloom. Ms. Lowson indicated that individuals who have shared their experiences have been directed to appropriate support services.

"The School is not undertaking this review because it is required to do so," Ms. Lowson wrote. "The governors and I have chosen to commission it because we believe it is the right thing to do. We want to be open about this part of the school's history, to understand what happened as fully and honestly as we can, and to support those who choose to come forward."

The review will be independently led by Professor Mark Bailey, an educator with over 20 years of experience. Professor Bailey's most recent role was as headteacher at St. Paul's Prep School in West London. This school has also faced its own historical abuse scandals, including the conviction of former teacher David Samson in 2016 and again in 2022 for sex attacks against pupils.

The review also underscores the school's commitment to ongoing improvement and ensuring the strength of its current safeguarding measures.