Former Welsh Headteacher Sentenced to 17 Years for Child Sexual Abuse

Institutional Failures and Ongoing Investigations

In 2019, senior staff members at Ysgol Friars raised concerns with the local authority, Cyngor Gwynedd, about Mr. Foden's inappropriate closeness with some teenage girls. These concerns were forwarded to a safeguarding officer, but no formal investigation was initiated. Instead, Mr. Foden received a phone call from the Head of Education at Cyngor Gwynedd, advising him to "maintain an appropriate distance" from pupils. During the trial and sentencing hearing, Judge Rowlands criticised the council for failing to investigate, suggesting that this may have encouraged Mr. Foden to continue abusing and exploiting both children and staff members.

There were also broader concerns about Mr. Foden’s character, following several bullying allegations made by staff at Ysgol Friars, which resulted in the Teaching Regulation Authority finding him guilty of unacceptable conduct. Despite this, he was promoted in 2021 to a strategic "super-head" role, overseeing both Ysgol Friars and Ysgol Dyffryn Nantlle. During sentencing, Judge Rowlands described Mr. Foden as "depraved", "arrogant", and a "bully" who believed no one would stand up to him.

Mr. Foden denied all charges and showed no remorse during sentencing for his actions or the impact on his victims.

Addressing Safeguarding Failures and Supporting Survivors

Following the trial, the North Wales Safeguarding Board initiated a review to identify lessons to be learned and improvements to prevent similar cases in the future. However, the BBC’s investigation has raised serious concerns about the adequacy of this review. Despite Cyngor Gwynedd’s commitment to provide all necessary information, former pupils such as "Jo" and "Nia" (not their real names, used to protect their identities), who have come forward with their stories, report not being contacted by the review panel.

"Jo," a former pupil, described being groomed by Mr. Foden over a five-year period, whilst "Nia" recounted abuse dating back to when she was a pupil in 1979. Both women have emphasised the long-lasting impact of Mr. Foden's actions on their lives. Whilst Cyngor Gwynedd has stated that the independent review will identify lessons to prevent similar cases, critics argue that more decisive action is needed.

How Simpson Millar Can Help

Our thoughts are with the victims and survivors of abuse, who have displayed immense courage in coming forward to share their experiences. We recognise how incredibly challenging it can be to speak about abuse, particularly when it involves a trusted authority figure, such as a teacher or headteacher. At Simpson Millar, we are committed to supporting and guiding survivors of child abuse in schools, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout the process.

We understand that the emotional impact of abuse can last a lifetime, and that talking about these experiences, whether they occurred recently or many years ago, can be a difficult and deeply personal decision. Every survivor’s journey is unique, and we believe in offering the time and space for you to seek justice or closure on your own terms. Our team of highly experienced Abuse Solicitors specialises in handling sensitive cases such as these, providing confidential, compassionate, and expert legal advice tailored to your individual needs.

We are dedicated to ensuring your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and you feel supported at every step of your recovery. We take pride in our partnerships with leading charities, such as the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC), which provide invaluable emotional support, resources, and advice for those who have endured the trauma of abuse. By working together, we ensure survivors have access to the care and guidance they need to rebuild their lives.

If you feel ready to explore your legal options, our team is here to listen. We offer a free, no-obligation, and completely confidential assessment of your case, so you can feel assured that your story will be handled with the utmost discretion and care. No matter how long ago the abuse occurred, and we are here to help you seek a sense of closure and peace of mind you deserve.

To speak with one of our specialist Solicitors or to find out more about how we can assist you, call us on 0808 239 5366.