Gym teacher on trial for sexual encounters with 16-year-old student during Wimbledon
A 30-year-old physical-education teacher is accused of having sex with a 16-year-old pupil while they watched Wimbledon, and the trial was paused when the jury was discharged.
Bronwen James, a 30-year-old gym teacher at Bitterne Park School in Southampton, faces charges of sexual activity with a 16-year-old student. According to the Crown Prosecution Service, the relationship began after the boy obtained her Snapchat handle during a lesson, leading to flirtatious messages and a meeting at Weston Shore. While Wimbledon tennis was on, they reportedly watched the broadcast at James’s residence, removed their clothing, and had unprotected intercourse.
Prosecutor Edward Culver emphasized that James insisted the student address her as “Miss.” The trial in Winchester Town Court was interrupted on Wednesday when the jury was discharged, and a new jury is expected to be sworn in on Thursday.
Why it matters
The case highlights serious breaches of professional boundaries and child protection concerns in schools.
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