KERRY RAMSDEN FROM RADCLIFFE ESCAPES JAIL AFTER RELATIONSHIP WITH SPECIAL SCHOOL PUPIL IN LANCASHIRE

In February 2010, a disturbing case emerged involving Kerry Ramsden, a 23-year-old teaching assistant from Radcliffe, Lancashire, who was involved in a clandestine and inappropriate relationship with a vulnerable pupil at a local special school. The court proceedings revealed that Ramsden, who was employed at the school on a temporary basis, engaged in a romantic and sexual relationship with the boy over a period of just over two months.

According to court records, Ramsden and the pupil, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, shared intimate moments that included cuddling and kissing passionately. The relationship escalated to the extent that Ramsden paid for a hotel in Blackpool, where they spent a day together, indicating a significant level of commitment and planning. The court heard that during this brief affair, Ramsden sent hundreds of affectionate text messages, often traveling four hours daily via public transportation to meet him. Their communication extended beyond texts, with frequent exchanges on Facebook and MSN Messenger, highlighting the extent of her involvement.

Further evidence presented in Preston Crown Court showed that Ramsden used an assumed name and a younger age when she met the boy’s family on multiple occasions between May 2008 and September 2008. This deception was part of her effort to conceal the true nature of their relationship from those closest to the boy.

Prosecutor Andrew Brown emphasized the boy’s special educational needs and behavioral challenges, describing him as emotionally delayed and naive. He stated, “The boy was emotionally delayed and naive,” and added that the breakup of the relationship had a noticeable negative impact on his behavior both at home and at school, as observed by his parents.

Ramsden’s employment at the school was initially on a 10-week temporary contract. She began her role as a voluntary kitchen helper, preparing sandwiches and assisting during lunch, before advancing to a classroom assistant position. During the court proceedings, she admitted to engaging in sexual activity with the boy between May and September 2008, as well as inciting him to participate in sexual activities during the same period.

Judge Michael Byrne, who presided over the case, sentenced Ramsden to a two-year community order and a two-year supervision order. Additionally, she was mandated to complete 50 hours of unpaid work. The judge emphasized the breach of trust involved, noting that Ramsden was a staff member while the boy was a pupil, and highlighted the vulnerability of the young individual due to his condition.

Ramsden, who was visibly emotional and crying in the dock, was also placed on the sex offenders register. Her defense lawyer, Tina Landale, argued that her client was “not a stupid woman,” but acknowledged her foolishness and the shock her actions had caused her family.

Following the sentencing, the boy’s mother, who resides in Chorley, expressed her feelings about the case, describing Ramsden as her son’s “first love” and stating that her son’s innocence had been taken away. She remarked, “This is closure for us and we can now move on.”

Detective Constable Catherine Thomas commented on Ramsden’s character, describing her as “clever and cunning,” and underscored the seriousness of her misconduct in this case, which has left a lasting impact on the young victim and his family.