Finchley teacher denies seven indecent assaults on pupils in 1980s

A former chemistry teacher at Christ’s College in Finchley has denied seven counts of indecent assault against two teenage pupils in the late 1980s. Sally-Anne Bowen, 65, told Harrow Crown Court she was 'just friendly' with boys at the school and never behaved inappropriately.

Bowen is accused of indecently assaulting two boys when they were aged 14 or 15. The alleged offences took place while she was in her mid-20s and teaching at the all-boys school. She denies all charges.

Allegations and defence

One alleged victim told the court he had sex with Bowen 'about 20 or 30 times' over several months. He said he visited her at her home, considered her his girlfriend, and had fallen in love with her. Bowen denied the claims, stating, 'There was no sexual activity, he’s made this story up.'

The second alleged victim said Bowen kissed him and allowed him to touch her breasts. Bowen denied this, telling the court she did not recognise him even after seeing him give evidence. Judge Karim Ezzat directed the jury to acquit her on one count related to this complainant.

Bowen told the court she believed she had been 'too friendly' with students but denied any sexual or inappropriate behaviour. She said she wore modest clothing, including a fitted black skirt and tights, and never flirted with pupils.

Bowen said she had felt 'harassed' by the first alleged victim and insisted there was no relationship beyond that of teacher and pupil. She told the jury she had a medical condition that made sexual intercourse difficult and painful, which was undiagnosed at the time of the alleged offences.

Trial continues

The trial at Harrow Crown Court is expected to continue. Bowen denies seven remaining counts of indecent assault, contrary to section 15(1) of the Sexual Offences Act 1956. No date has been set for the jury to retire and consider its verdict.