Reflections on My Time at Teddington School

A Troubled Time at Teddington School

My years at Teddington School were far from happy. Much of my time was spent rebelling and not conforming, largely due to the sexual abuse I experienced outside of school. Many of my friends were unaware of this dark secret, which I only disclosed to the police in 2019. The full horror of what transpired had been buried within me for years.

Friendship Amidst the Chaos

During my early years at Teddington, I had a friend named Dylan Roberts. Dylan was an exceptionally intelligent boy, top of his class in all subjects. Despite our different backgrounds, we bonded over a shared love for the BBC Micro computer. He was one of the few students who had one at home, and I was the other. It was unusual that no one questioned how my parents managed to afford such a luxury, given that we lived on a council estate, whereas Dylan resided in a large private home.

Most of our time was spent playing games on the BBC Micro in Dylan’s loft conversion. However, my computer came at a much higher price. The man who supplied it, Philip John Saunders, was also my abuser. The computer was a means to buy my silence and instill fear.

Unsettling Connections

Later, Dylan appeared in my life again when I was at Grafton Close Children’s Home. A social worker named Chris, who was also the local Cub/Scout leader, Dylan and his brothers attended these groups regularly and knew Chris well, Chris suggested we go out in his car a red Astra Mk1 GTE I recall to this day the music being played in the car, David Bowie the Tonight album and the Track Blue jean it resonates with me every time I hear it and reminds me of those days that I was locked away in more than just a children’s home. We ended up at his flat in Teddington, Elton Court just off Normansfield Ave, I had no idea if Chris was involved in any abuse at the home or anywhere else. However, considering his role in the community, one has to wonder if he knew or was.

Returning to my school days, a particular memory stands out. Mr. Andrews, my head of year and English teacher, (the one on the left arms folded in the image) once told me I would amount to nothing and be a nobody. His words still echo in my mind. At the time, I was being sexually abused; was he aware? Back then, I would have said no. Today, after hearing many stories about the school and associated homes, my suspicions have grown.

I have been told on more than one occasion that the school or should I say its staff had connections with Grafton Close Childrens Home my investigations into this continue.

Conclusion

This blog serves as a reminder that my time at Teddington School was far from fulfilling. It was a period of struggle and pain, overshadowed by the dark secrets I carried. I am determined to uncover the truth about Teddington School and its involvement in the abuse. Until then, sharing my story is an important step towards healing.