Cabin Hill report critical of school's response

A government report into allegations of the sexual abuse at Cabin Hill Preparatory School in the early 1990’s has been highly critical of the school's response to the claims.

The statutory inquiry, which was announced by Education Minister, Barry Gardiner, on 2 June 2004, investigated the events surrounding allegations of the sexual abuse of a boarding pupil at the School, by a fellow pupil, in 1992.

The report, published by the Department of Education on Tuesday, catalogued a history of mismanagement.

The Inquiry Team was specifically asked to identify any lessons which might have application for schools and child protection more widely. It concluded that there were multiple instances of serious sexual abuse, affecting at least six boys, between August 1992 and January 1993.

Commenting on the report, Education Minister, Barry Gardiner, said: “This report provides a balanced assessment of the events and the handling of the complaints made by pupils in 1993, and later by a parent in 1999.

“The findings reflect a thorough examination of all available documentation, from a range of sources and information provided by some 50 witnesses. The report does not make comfortable reading, and provides all who have a duty to safeguard and promote children’s welfare, with much to reflect on.

“I am particularly anxious to pursue the recommendation that the Department ensures that schools comply fully with guidance on child protection matters and in strengthening the role of the Board of Governors in safeguarding and promoting pupil welfare. We will also be developing advice for schools on the handling of retrospective complaints about child abuse.”

The inquiry found a need for schools to have “greater understanding and fuller compliance with existing guidance, and with principles of good management”.

“In particular, the lessons to be learnt are that all parties should be familiar with the relevant professional and interagency guidance; the best interests of the child should be at the centre of any action taken: and effective school management, including management of child protection, requires clear definition of roles and responsibility, clear lines of accountability and good communication between staff, governors, parents and outside agencies,” it added.

The fee-paying preparatory school on the Newtownards Road in east Belfast closed its boarding department in October last year.

(MB/SP)