Neil Foden: Sex abuse head teacher ‘could have been stopped’

An independent Child Practice Review will now be held to establish what lessons could be learnt.

In a statement, Gwynedd council said it was “appalled” by Foden’s crimes and paid tribute to the courage and resilience of his victims.

The chair and vice-chair of the current board of governors stood down in the wake of the trial. In a letter announcing their resignation they said the trial verdict was a “significant milestone” for them.

After the sentencing, Councillor Beca Brown, the council’s cabinet member for education, said it was “clear” the victims had been “let down” and said she would welcome a public inquiry if one was held.

She added: “Whatever the outcome of the review that is underway, at the centre of all this are young girls who have suffered a horrific experience – and what happened to them should never happen again.

“I am eager to collaborate with the review and would welcome any early recommendations or ideas of lessons to be learned going forward from here.

“I welcome the appointment of the independent chair and investigators, who are very experienced in this area, and I want the remit of the review to be broad and thorough with evidence provided by all as needed.”