Former Terra Nova teacher jailed for indecent assault

A pensioner who indecently assaulted boys at a private school in Cheshire in the 1970s has been jailed.Keith Cavendish-Coulson, of Crookham Court in Berkshire, pleaded guilty to 42 counts of indecent assault at Chester Crown Court on Wednesday 5th November. Today (Thursday 6^th November) he was sentenced to 6 years and 9 months behind bars.

Police investigating sexual abuse at Terra Nova School near Holmes Chapel in the 1970s arrested Cavendish-Coulson in August 2013.

The 71-year-old had previously worked at the school teaching French during the 1970s.

As the investigation progressed and the number of victims that came forward to report sexual abuse increased the investigation focused upon Cavendish-Coulson′s employment – both as a public school teacher at establishments across the country and a private tutor over the course of his working life.

The investigation by a dedicated team of officers from Cheshire Constabulary′s Major Investigation Team was complex and lengthy with a large volume of evidential material painstakingly sifted through and links to potential victims and witnesses followed up.

As new information came to light, Cavendish-Coulson was re-arrested twice − once in December 2013 when he was subsequently charged with further offences − and, again, in July 2014.

As the case unfolded it became clear that the 25 victims in this case had been subjected to regular abuse by Cavendish-Coulson either at the school or at their home if they were being privately tutored. These incidents took place between 1973-1975.

DI Steve Beddows, who led the investigation, said: “Cavendish-Coulson showed a blatant disregard for the pupils he was teaching − abusing his position of trust for his own sexual gratification.”He clearly had no regard for the impact that his actions would have on these young boys who were all under the age of 14 at the time.

“They have had to live with what happened to them and many have struggled to come to terms with this and have suffered greatly over the years.”

“I hope that Cavendish-Coulson admitting his guilt and serving his time in prison will help his victims in some way − and bring about a degree of closure for them.”

“His victims have shown great courage in coming forward and reporting what happened to them − and subsequently encouraging other victims to come forward. Some have chosen to come to court today to see Cavendish-Coulson sentenced.”

“I thoroughly commend those who came forward for their bravery and for speaking out about what happened – helping to put a prolific and predatory paedophile behind bars.”

He added: “I hope that this case encourages other victims of sexual abuse to come forward and report what happened to them − no matter how long ago the incident took place. A sexual offence is a devastating crime and has a long-lasting impact on the victim.”

“We are committed to tackling this type of crime and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice. Victims of non-recent sexual offences can have the confidence in coming forward.”

“Cheshire has a Dedicated Rape Unit with specialist officers to tackle rape and sexual offences and provide support for victims. We work with a number of agencies to ensure victims of sexual offences have all the help and support they need.”

Anyone who has been a victim of this type of crime, who may need support or has information can contact Cheshire Police on 101. Information can also be left anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.”