Former St Anne’s School Teacher Jailed for Non-Recent Sexual Offences

A former teacher at St Anne’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College has been jailed after admitting sexual offences against three teenage girls.

Leo Norman, 46, of Peartree Avenue, Southampton, was sentenced to 14 months in prison at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday, 17 October. The offences took place between 2014 and 2019, while Norman was employed at the school.

Norman had previously pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 17 – abuse of a position of trust – at the same court in August.

During the hearing, two impact statements were read from victims detailing the lasting effect of Norman’s actions. The offences included sexual touching on school premises, including in his office, and inappropriate comments that caused discomfort to pupils.

The case was investigated by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s specialist Operation Marmion team, which handles allegations of non-recent sexual abuse within institutions or by people of prominence.

Norman has been placed on the sexual offenders register and made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years.

Detective Constable Laura Hardie said: “This is a shocking case where a teacher has abused his position of trust to sexually abuse three teenage girls. These offences took place on separate occasions over a period of a number of years.

“I want to commend the women in this case for the bravery they have shown in talking to police and recounting their experience. In doing so, they have helped bring Norman to justice.

“We know how difficult reporting incidents of this nature can be, and I hope this case shows that no matter when the offence took place, you will be listened to and the matter will be investigated thoroughly.

“As a survivor of sexual abuse, you are also entitled to support whether you report the crime or not. You can access different types of support depending on how you’re feeling and what you decide to do next.”

Survivors of sexual abuse can access confidential support by contacting the Victim Care Hub at 0808 178 1641 or Hub.hiow@victimsupport.org.uk. Outside Hampshire, support is available via 0808 168 9111 or live chat at www.victimsupport.org.uk/livechat.

For non-emergency police reports, contact 101. More information and guidance are available on the Hampshire Police website.