Ex-Teacher Struck Off for Assaulting Student Launches Controversial Kids’ Party Biz

A teacher dismissed for sexually assaulting a schoolgirl has controversially launched a children’s party business aimed at toddlers as young as one. Jeremy Cotton, 40, previously employed at Perins School in Hampshire, engaged in sexually inappropriate behavior with a student, including sending over 100 emails and lewd messages, and physically assaulting her during a school event. The allegations were serious enough to prompt a comprehensive investigation, despite police opting not to charge him.

Cotton’s misconduct echoes through his career, with claims he used encrypted messaging to communicate with students, ultimately leading to his resignation in 2020 amid ongoing investigations. His wife currently directs Trainmaster, the party business he co-founded, which offers train-themed celebrations for young children nationwide.

The Teaching Regulation Agency found sufficient evidence to support the claims against Cotton, asserting it was “more likely than not” that he had assaulted the pupil as alleged. His case raises alarming questions about safeguarding practices in schools and the responsibilities educators hold. Now permanently barred from teaching, his new venture casts a troubling shadow as communities seek to protect their youngest members.