STUART VALLANCE

A former educator has admitted to engaging in sexual activity with a student from the past while working at Campion School in Bugbrooke some years ago.

Stuart Vallance, residing in Ecton, Northampton, was a business studies teacher at the time.

He contacted a student via Myspace when she was 17, while he was in his late 20s.

Their conversation became sexual after Vallance provided his mobile number and expressed love for the girl.

This led to a sexual relationship that lasted over a year.

In 2021, the woman, now in her 30s, contacted Northamptonshire Police to report these incidents.

At the time of the abuse, the school was under new management, and Vallance had left more than ten years prior.

After an investigation, Vallance, aged 46, was arrested and charged.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust at Northampton Crown Court last week, on June 23.

Detective Sergeant Louise Seaber, leading the inquiry, stated: “This woman has shown extraordinary bravery in coming forward, and I am glad that her perseverance has led to this conviction.

She aimed to prevent Vallance from harming anyone else, and she succeeded.

“Vallance, as a teacher, held a role of trust intended to protect and educate students.

Instead, he made social media advances and convinced this girl that their relationship was normal and consensual.

“The impact on her has been substantial, but I hope this conviction provides some relief and closure for her.” Vallance is scheduled to be sentenced at Northampton Crown Court on September 5.