The Claimant in AB v Chethams School of Music sought damages against her school for sexual abuse by her music teacher and guardian in 1996-7. The abuse happened on school premises as well as in his flat and car. The court had to decide whether the abuse had taken place and if the school was vicariously liable, but also whether to disapply the limitation period, given the claim was over 15 years after the expiry of the extended ordinary limit.
The court disapplied the limitation period, thus allowing the claim, and concluded that the Claimant had been sexually assaulted by her teacher. The school was found to be vicariously liable because the teacher’s access and authority over the Claimant under the guardianship arrangement and as her teacher facilitated the abuse.
Justin Levinson was instructed by Abbey Solicitors to represent the Claimant.
