Police probe reports of sexual abuse at secondary school in the Scottish Borders
Last updated 17th Mar 2025
An investigation has been launched into reports of sexual abuse at a secondary school in the Scottish Borders.
The incidents are alleged to have taken place in Galashiels between 1969 and 1980.
And police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
Detective Inspector Jim McLauchlan, of Police Scotland’s National Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said: “We take all reports of sexual abuse extremely seriously and ask anyone who believe they may have been a victim to come forward, regardless of the passage of time.
“We know that those with information from this time period may no longer live in the area and we want to encourage everyone with knowledge of this type of crime to reach out.
“If you have any information that could help with our enquiries then please get in touch. Every report is thoroughly investigated, with sensitivity and professionalism, by specially trained liaison officers who will support victims."
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Galashiels Academy was opened in September 1964 by HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, and has taught generations of children from the age of around 10 or 11, through to their adult years.
It's due to be demolished when a new community campus, currently under construction in neighbouring Scott Park, is completed later this year.
Detective Inspector McLauchlan added: “Tackling sexual crime is a priority and we work closely with partners and I am asking anyone who can assist with this investigation to contact us on 101.
“If anyone feels unable to contact Police Scotland direct, they can make an anonymous call to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Help is also available through other organisations such as Rape Crisis Scotland which can be contacted on 08088 01 03 02.”
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Scottish Borders Council has confirmed it’s supporting police with their investigations.
A spokesperson for the local authority said: “Police Scotland are investigating reports of non-recent sexual abuse that allegedly took place at a secondary school in the Scottish Borders, between 1969 and 1980.
“Scottish Borders Council are supporting Police Scotland with their investigations.
“Anyone who can assist the police with this investigation should contact them on 101.”
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