Former deputy head jailed for 18 years for sexual offences against children

A former deputy head teacher at a secondary school in Cornwall has been jailed for 18 years for sexual offences against children.

Terry Burke, aged 79, engaged in unlawful sexual relationships with two pupils, commencing when they were both 15 years of age, and lasting for an extended period of time. The offences took place between 2000 and 2005.

Burke was convicted of 16 offences against the two pupils by a jury at Truro Crown Court yesterday, 12 July, and was sentenced today.

The trial heard important background information from a third student who had received inappropriate advances and gifts from Burke which echoed the pattern of grooming. This was fortunately detected before it could progress further.

Beth Wycherley, of the CPS, said: "The defendant was a trusted and well-respected teacher and deputy head who was held in high regard by colleagues and popular with pupils.

“He used this popularity to ingratiate himself with the victims in this case, lavishing them with gifts and attention in order to gain their confidence and facilitate his offending. In doing so, he abused the trust placed in him by students, staff, and parents in the school community.

“I would like to commend the tremendous courage shown by these young women in coming forwards to report what happened to them and for showing such bravery in speaking out to bring Burke to justice. The effect of this offending has been long-lasting for Burke’s victims and I hope that the jury’s verdicts will allow them some closure.”