LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY (UNITED KINGDOM)
The Comet [Bournemouth, UK]
March 12, 2026
By Dan Mountney
Herts police has reopened a case into historic sexual abuse at a school in Letchworth.
After a lengthy investigation, a Telegraph report featured testimony from former students who claimed to have suffered neglect, sexual, emotional and physical abuse at St Christopher School between the 1960s and 1990s.
Allegations include rape and sexual assault from both teachers and pupils at the boarding school, with staff even impregnating students before taking them to have abortions.
There were also claims of some staff making homemade films featuring children as well as prolific on-site drinking and drug use – sometimes with teachers – bullying, assaults and neglect.
Having originally confirmed that “no active investigation” was taking place, Herts police has now said it is once again looking into the claims of abuse.
“Following recent contact with the constabulary, we can confirm that we have re‑opened a case into historic abuse at St Christopher School, Letchworth,” a spokesperson said.
“We understand how incredibly difficult it can be for victims and survivors to come forward, especially after a long time has passed, but we have specialist officers to offer support every step of the way.
“If you wish to report any information which could help our investigation please contact us via 101, online at herts.police.uk/report or via web chat at herts.police.uk/contact.”
St Christopher is an independent mixed day-and-boarding school which educates children based on a mystical philosophy whereby pupils eat vegetarian food, do not wear uniforms and call teachers by their first names.
The alleged victims told the Telegraph that the school fostered a sense of being “one, giant family”, but its ethos led to it being “like a cult”.
It is claimed teachers and pupils were in permitted and normalised relationships, but nobody wanted to speak out and “ruin the family that was St Chris”.
In a statement to the Comet, St Christopher School headteacher Rich Jones said: “We are desperately sorry to learn of these profoundly distressing and shocking allegations, and we are grateful to those who have courageously come forward.
“We informed the police and relevant authorities as soon as concerns were shared with us and continue to co-operate fully with all ongoing investigations and legal processes,” he said.
“Our focus now is on supporting former pupils who have spoken about their past experiences and on ensuring the school remains a safe and nurturing environment for every child today.
“We would encourage anyone with concerns about the past culture of the school to contact Hertfordshire police or our safeguarding team, where they will be taken seriously and treated with discretion and care.”