Bronwen James, a 30-year-old former PE teacher, is on trial for four counts of sexual activity with a 16-year-old pupil, which she denies. In court, James stated that she was not a very good teacher and sought popularity among her students. She described herself as 'immature' when she began teaching at the age of 21, allowing students to use mobile phones and listen to music during lessons.
James, who taught at Bitterne Park School in Southampton, Hampshire, is accused of taking the pupil to her home for sexual encounters after arranging meetings via Snapchat. The pupil alleged they had sexual relations while watching Wimbledon, and he was instructed to call her 'Miss'.
James claimed the allegations were instigated by another pupil and expressed doubts about her readiness to teach when she started her career. She acknowledged her lenient teaching style and the importance of being liked by students.
An investigation into her relationship with the pupil began after a screenshot of their messages was shared in a group chat of 30-40 students. James initially told police the pupil had only visited her home once but later admitted to dropping him off.
Officer Francesca Mason testified that an analysis of James's phone revealed no evidence of Snapchat communication with the alleged victim. Prosecutors noted that James referred to the boy as 'Number 8' in her phonebook, suggesting he was a cover for previous relationships. Additionally, the court learned that James received a written warning for exchanging text messages at her previous school, Seaford College. The trial is ongoing, and the pupil's identity remains protected for legal reasons.