WINDSOR MAN GRAHAM TATTERSALL JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE AT GARTH HILL SCHOOL IN BRACKNELL

In a case that has shocked the local community, Graham Tattersall, a 68-year-old man from Windsor, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for a series of disturbing sexual offenses committed against female pupils during his tenure at Garth Hill School in Bracknell. The crimes span a period from 1979 to 1991, during which Tattersall held the position of a physical education (PE) and mathematics teacher.

His misconduct came to light after a woman came forward in 2017, alleging that Tattersall had raped her in a cupboard at the school after she was asked to put away some sports equipment. Although he was acquitted of the charge of rape, the court found him guilty of attempted rape related to that incident. The woman also testified that Tattersall sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions, both in the cupboard and at his residence, during the trial proceedings.

Following this initial revelation, additional victims stepped forward, prompted by a police appeal, revealing a pattern of abuse that spanned several years. The court heard that Tattersall’s misconduct was not confined to a single location but occurred in various settings, including classrooms at Garth Hill School, his former home address, and even in his car when he was supposed to be transporting students home.

The court detailed some of the specific allegations, including accusations that Tattersall undid the bra straps of two pupils during gym classes and groped another girl who had injured herself and was lying on the floor. Further allegations included him putting his hand up a girl’s skirt during a school disco and kissing two girls on the mouth. These acts, the court was told, demonstrated a pattern of predatory behavior and abuse of his authority as a teacher.

During the trial, Tattersall denied the allegations, claiming that his accusers had “embellished stories” and “made things up.” However, the judge, Recorder Ryder QC, condemned his actions, stating that Tattersall had “exploited his position selfishly” and “shamelessly.” The judge emphasized that Tattersall had shown no remorse or regret for his actions and appeared to care little about his victims, both then and now.

The court also heard that Tattersall’s misconduct extended beyond the school premises. He was accused of groping a girl at a school disco and engaging in inappropriate physical contact with others. The judge’s sentencing reflected the severity of his crimes, highlighting the betrayal of trust and the exploitation of vulnerable students.

Garth Hill School, where Tattersall worked, has since undergone a name change and is now known as Garth Hill College. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding and the devastating impact of abuse by those in positions of authority.