PORTSMOUTH (UNITED KINGDOM)
BBC [London, England]
December 5, 2024
By Curtis Lancaster
A former head teacher has been charged with non-recent child sexual abuse offences at a city school.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary said the charges against James Rouse, 48, followed allegations of child sexual abuse, by those in a position of trust, against former pupils at St Anne’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College in Southampton, in 2006.
Four former teachers currently remain under investigation following similar reports of non-recent child sexual abuse at the school.
Mr Rouse, of Lowford Hill Close in Southampton, will appear at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on 13 January.
‘Deeply disturbing’
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the allegations of historic sexual abuse linked to former members of our staff body,” a spokesperson for St Anne’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College said.
“This is clearly deeply disturbing news for all of our community.
“We have only ever wanted St Anne’s to be a place of aspiration, education and sanctuary, and our thoughts and prayers are with victims.”
They said it was continuing to assist police in their investigation and had “extensive support” in place for students.
“This has included a number of external reviews of our safeguarding, which have found that our culture, leadership and processes are effective,” the spokesperson continued.
“We would encourage people to reach out to those that they trust if they have anything they would like to share.”
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary said it was carrying out a “thorough and robust” investigation over allegations of non-recent sexual abuse perpetrated within institutions or by people of prominence.
The force has urged anyone who has been a victim of child sexual abuse to get in touch.