The BBC Wales Investigates programme has uncovered allegations that convicted paedophile headteacher Neil Foden may have abused victims over a 40-year period, potentially impacting four times as many people as previously thought. Foden, 66, who was jailed for 17 years earlier this year for sexually abusing four girls in North Wales, allegedly targeted vulnerable pupils and colleagues throughout his teaching career, which began in 1979.
Several women have come forward in the investigation, sharing harrowing accounts of abuse, including grooming, inappropriate physical contact, and sexual assaults. The investigation revealed that warnings about Foden’s behavior existed for years, but action was not taken until his arrest in 2023. It is suspected that Foden’s abuse started long before his crimes were publicly known.
The programme also raises questions about how the educational authorities handled allegations and what might have been done to stop Foden earlier. As a result, an independent Child Practice Review has been launched to investigate potential failures. However, some victims, including “Jo” and “Nia,” have reported that they have not been contacted as part of this review.
There may be significant legal consequences for Cyngor Gwynedd, the local authority responsible for the schools where Foden worked, as solicitor Kathryn Yates is representing a group of individuals who suffered due to Foden’s actions, seeking compensation for the abuse. The case highlights the devastating and long-lasting effects of institutional abuse and the systemic failures that may have allowed it to continue unchecked for decades.
Tom Giffard MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Education Minister, said: “The council’s failure to act on early red flags, concerns from staff and repeated warning signs about Foden’s predatory behaviour has led to devastating consequences, with potential victims spanning decades.
“The fact that Foden served as an advisor to the Welsh Government raises serious questions about the thoroughness of the Welsh Labour Government’s vetting process. Were they aware of any of the accusations surrounding Foden before becoming an advisor?
“Cyngor Gwynedd and the Welsh Government have a duty to fully investigate, with immediate action and transparency required to ensure such horrific abuses never happen again.”
BBC Wales Investigates: My Headteacher the Paedophile airs at 8.30pm on Tuesday, October 8 on BBC iPlayer and BBC One Wales.
