ALAN AMBLER FROM BARNET ESCAPES JAIL DESPITE SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRL AT PRIMARY SCHOOL IN HOLLOWAY

In a case that has shocked the local community, Alan Ambler, a 66-year-old man residing in Barnet, has avoided imprisonment despite being convicted of sexually abusing a young girl over two decades ago. The incident dates back to his tenure as the headmaster at a primary school in Holloway, where he was accused of abusing a student during his time in charge.

Ambler, who was actively involved in religious and community activities in Barnet, notably ran a Bible club for children under ten at the Dollis Valley Centre located within the Dollis Valley estate until October of the previous year. Following this, until March of this year, he also contributed to an under-fives group at Underhill Baptist Church situated on Elton Road in Barnet. These roles, which involved working closely with young children, have now come under scrutiny following the revelations of his past misconduct.

The victim, now 28 years old, recounted her traumatic experiences, revealing that Ambler had sexually abused her for a period of one year during her time at St Mary Magdalene Church of England Primary School in Holloway. She described how the abuse occurred when she was only eight years old, during school hours, including break and lunch times, and even beneath her desk while she was reading aloud during lessons. Her decision to come forward and report the abuse was prompted by her seeing Ambler on television, where he publicly claimed that none of his staff or employees had ever engaged in inappropriate conduct with pupils at his school.

Staff members at the Dollis Valley Centre expressed their shock upon learning of the allegations. Rosemary Watkins, the centre manager, stated, “It has come absolutely out of the blue. He has always worked in a team, never in an unsupervised role. No-one works alone with the children. He has always acted in an appropriate and correct manner with everyone with whom he has had contact.”

Ambler’s involvement with the community activities ceased in October last year when he underwent knee surgery. The Rev Dick Prior, representing Underhill Baptist Church, commented on the situation, saying, “The moment we became aware of the allegations and the charges, we took steps to put restrictions in place. The church recognises that it has a duty of care to all concerned in these matters.”

On May 20, at Inner London Crown Court, Ambler pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent assault. The court sentenced him to a three-year rehabilitation order, requiring him to undergo treatment sessions and placing him on the sex offenders’ register for five years. Despite the conviction, authorities confirmed that no additional allegations have been made against him since.

While Ambler’s criminal record now includes these serious charges, his sentence did not include jail time, a decision that has sparked debate and concern among community members and advocates for victims of abuse.