Now boarding schools offer apologies for historic abuse

BOARDING schools across Scotland have offered an ‘unreserved apology’ for the alleged sexual, physical and emotional abuse pupils faced.

The latest phase of the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry is focusing on allegations in the sector.

A hearing in Edinburgh yesterday received evidence from seven schools facing accusations of historical abuse.

In a series of opening statements spokesmen for some acknowledged complaints were not dealt with ‘appropriately’ and encouraged other potential victims to come forward.

Jonathan Brodie, QC, representing Fettes College in Edinburgh, said: ‘We want to offer a full and unreserved apology to those who suffered abuse while at Fettes College.

‘While words of apology may have limited worth, we fully accept and recognise in the past there was sexual, physical and emotional abuse of pupils while at Fettes College.

‘That has been the result of certain members of staff and by failing to prevent peer-to-peer bullying. The school recognises that on occasions it did not act responsibly or appropriately, when evidence of abuse came to light. It is a matter of profound regret.

‘The school wishes that anyone affected by abuse should come forward to speak to them. The school wishes to listen and to learn.’

The £40million inquiry is being held into allegations of institutional abuse in living memory.

Angela Grahame, QC, representing Edinburgh’s Loretto School, said: ‘Loretto School wishes to offer an unreserved apology to those who have suffered abuse in the school.

‘By shining a light on the past – distressing as it may be – you will help to improve the experiences of children in the future.

‘Only by sharing your experiences can the school understand and enhance its layer of protection and reduce the risk of serious abuse.

‘This would not be possible without survivors coming forward to tell their stories.

‘Your courage is also your legacy to future generations.’

A representative for the now closed Keil School in Dumbarton said it was unaware of abuse allegations until a police investigation in 2015.

Rodger Harvey-Jamieson, a former trustee, said: ‘Police were investigating a teacher who had been at the school in the late ’80s and early ’90s.

‘At the time he had just been jailed for sexual offences against a boy at his previous school.’

He said two other former teachers were also considered by police, adding: ‘Police did not provide any feedback about the investigation, other than concerns about a possible paedophile ring may have been unfounded.’

Rory Dunlop, QC, representing Gordonstoun School, near Elgin, Moray, said it wanted to offer an ‘unequivocal apology’ to those who suffered abuse. He said: ‘Gordonstoun was shocked when it learned about the abuse allegations.

‘The school recognises that the excellent care it provides today was not always the case and is committed to learning from past mistakes.’

He added: ‘Individuals reported serious allegations of sexual abuse. Some experienced severe bullying, and adults neglected their responsibilities to protect them.’

The inquiry, before judge Lady Smith, continues.