New claims have emerged regarding an alleged sexual assault involving three students from the elite Scots College in Sydney. The students, aged 13 and 14, were charged last week in connection with the incident involving a 14-year-old girl in a Bondi Junction alleyway on July 22.
Two of the accused students face charges of aggravated sexual assault in company and aggravated sexual touching, while the third teen is charged with one count of aggravated sexual assault in company and one count of aggravated sexual touching. Source claims suggest the boys allegedly surrounded the girl, removed her pants, and sexually assaulted her before placing their hands into her mouth. Police allege the incident occurred after the group met and began drinking in Bondi Junction.
In response to mounting criticism from the school community, Principal Ian Lambert and Chairman Glen Pather issued a letter to parents. The letter stated that sexual violence is never acceptable and that the alleged behavior is inconsistent with the college's standards and values. It also emphasized that commentary minimizing sexual violence or blaming individuals is unacceptable.
The school leaders noted that the allegations occurred away from the college and outside of school hours, and that the school cannot presume guilt. The letter confirmed that staff were engaging with students about the matter. "All students in Year Five and above have now been spoken to about this matter in age-appropriate ways and in settings suited to their stage of development," the letter read, addressing parental concerns about consent, dignity, and relationships.
Parents have voiced significant frustration with the school's handling of the situation. Some have called for the expulsion of the accused students and for Dr. Lambert's resignation. Parents of students in the same grade as the accused have been particularly vocal, with one father stating, "It's not good enough." Another parent described "huge anger amongst the students" who feel they are being unfairly associated with the alleged actions.
Reports indicate that some students were advised by the school not to speak to the media. A petition is circulating among parents demanding an extraordinary meeting.
Scots College, known as Sydney's most expensive private school with annual fees up to $50,000, also postponed its annual 'Giving Day' less than 24 hours before the boys were charged, citing the news affecting the college community.
The three teens remain on bail and are scheduled to appear in a children's court on August 25. Police investigations are ongoing.