MATT PENDLETON FROM ALFRETON AND PINSTON JAILED FOR CHILD INDECENCY AT DERBYSHIRE SCHOOL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Matthew Pendleton, the head teacher of Kirkstead Junior School located in Pinxton, Derbyshire, was sentenced to 10 months in prison at Derby Crown Court. The charges stem from his covert filming of children during their changing times for swimming lessons, a breach of trust that has left parents, staff, and pupils deeply unsettled.

Detective Constable Simon English, who led the investigation, emphasized the gravity of Pendleton’s misconduct. He stated, "Pendleton was in a position of trust as head of Kirkstead Junior School and he gravely abused that position." The investigation was triggered when authorities discovered a computer in Alfreton, Derbyshire, being used to access indecent images of children. This led to a thorough tracing of the digital activity back to Pendleton, who was subsequently arrested.

During the police interview, Pendleton admitted to secretly filming children as they changed for swimming lessons. However, authorities clarified that there is no evidence to suggest he shared these images with others, nor that any physical abuse of children occurred. Detective Constable English further explained, "We seized computers and data storage devices from his residence to conduct detailed examinations. We have no reason to believe the children were physically harmed."

Matthew Pendleton, aged 37 and residing on Elmwood Drive in Alfreton, pleaded guilty to four counts of voyeurism and twelve counts of making indecent images. As part of his sentence, he is required to register as a sex offender and adhere to a sexual offences prevention order for the next ten years.

Following the sentencing, Alison Hardy, the acting head teacher at Kirkstead Junior School, expressed her and the school's collective response. She said, "We worked closely with the police to help them with their investigation and we’re pleased it has now reached a successful conclusion. This has been a difficult and upsetting time for everyone affected by what Matthew Pendleton has done." Hardy emphasized the school's commitment to safeguarding, stating, "Staff, governors, and parents were all shocked by his behaviour, his breach of trust, and the impact on the school and local community. We take the safety and interests of our pupils very seriously. Parents can be confident that we will take appropriate action where there is wrongdoing, and pupils know they can talk to us if they have concerns."

The school, which educates approximately 250 pupils aged between seven and eleven, suspended Pendleton immediately after the allegations surfaced. The school continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its students, reaffirming its dedication to providing a secure and nurturing environment for all children in its care.