November 05, 2025 - 208 views
A report has found that there were over 50 missed opportunities to stop a school head teacher in North Wales who sexually abused girls for years.
Neil Foden from Old Colwyn was jailed for 17 years after being convicted of multiple charges.
The review from the North Wales Safeguarding Board calls for significant changes to safeguarding in schools and highlights historical allegations against Foden dating back to 1979.
The report also criticises agencies for inadequately addressing repeated warnings about Foden.
Following the publication of the report, Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans said on behalf of North Wales Police:
“Firstly, I would once again recognise the bravery and strength of the young people who came forward and spoke out against Neil Foden’s appalling crimes.
“Their courageous actions, throughout the criminal investigation and now this review, have no doubt prevented further victims of Foden’s abuse. They also enabled our dedicated team of officers to leave no stone unturned to ensure he faced justice for his offending.
“However, we recognise there were missed opportunities to safeguard these young people through the multi-agency safeguarding response and we apologise for this.
“It is inconceivable that these children experienced such harm at the hands of someone who should have protected and safeguarded them.
“It is clear that over many years Neil Foden manipulated systems, processes and those around him, including professionals, to facilitate his abhorrent crimes against the most vulnerable of children.
“His actions have doubtlessly resulted in a long-term impact on all those young people who witnessed and were subjected to his behaviour over a long period of time.
“Having proactively sought this Child Practice Review, we welcome its publication today and fully support the findings.
“We have played an active role in the process and are thankful to the review team for their thorough investigation.
“Despite being no specific recommendations for North Wales Police, this is an opportunity for us to enhance our multi-agency safeguarding response and therefore we are committed to working with our partners to ensure the range of recommendations are fully implemented.
“We will do everything we can to ensure the safeguarding of young people in North Wales is at the heart of our work and our paramount consideration.
“We are committed to following any further line of enquiry to shine a light on Foden’s criminality.
“I would urge anyone who experienced abuse at the hands of Neil Foden, or anyone who has wider concerns about a child’s safety to make a report to the police. We will listen to you, support you and fully investigate.”
