Former Surrey art teacher Terrence Waters jailed for 14 years for child abuse

A former art teacher who “stole” the childhood innocence of his pupils by waging a decade-long campaign of sexual abuse has been jailed.

Terry Waters, 82, of Beeford, East Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to 32 counts of indecency and sexual assault and was convicted of four additional sexual offences at Hull Crown Court.

According to Surrey Police, most of the abuse occurred between 1978 and 1984 in the Woking area and affected 12 of his former pupils. Waters also committed offences against two boys at various locations between 1984 and 1988.

He used his role as a teacher to gain the trust of young boys at the former Allen House Prep School in Hook Heath, Woking.

The abuse occurred in the art building, which was situated away from the main school premises. Waters would also arrange camping trips during school holidays, where further offences took place.

In a victim impact statement, one survivor described how the former teacher’s actions had “stolen an important part of my childhood innocence”.

The survivor said: “His actions have had a profound effect on my life that has lasted right up to this day.

“I have had to repeatedly relive those experiences over the last five years since giving my statement to police and giving evidence at this trial.”

After a lengthy police investigation, Waters was sentenced to 14 years in prison with a one-year extended licence.

It is important for the survivors to know that in addition to obtaining justice in the criminal process, they may be entitled to financial compensation for the harm they suffered, which can help them deal with what has happened and rebuild their lives. Bolt Burdon Kemp is committed to supporting survivors in their compensation claims.

If you or someone that you know has suffered abuse, they can contact me directly for free, no-obligation advice about their legal options.