Five men charged over historic abuse at Edinburgh Academy private school spanning 24 years

Five men have been arrested in connection with historic abuse at one of Scotland’s most prestigious private schools.

Aged between 69 and 90, the men have been charged over alleged incidents at Edinburgh Academy spanning 24 years.

A sixth man, aged 74, will also be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

Police Scotland said reports would be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

The abuse incidents are alleged to have taken place at what is one of Scotland’s top fee-paying schools between 1968 and 1992.

Detective inspector Colin Moffat said: “We would like to thank everyone who has come forward and assisted our enquiries to date.

“While the investigation of child abuse, particularly non-recent offences, can be complex and challenging, anyone who reports this type of crime can be assured that we will listen and we will investigate all reports, no matter when those offences occurred or who committed them.

“If you have suffered abuse, or you know anyone who may have been the victim of child abuse then please call Police Scotland on 101.”

Edinburgh Academy has been the subject of hearings at the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry this year.

Former pupils who suffered sexual and physical abuse shared their experiences in person and in witness statements.

Broadcaster Nicky Campbell was one of those who has spoken out about the abuse he suffered.

Broadcaster Nicky Campbell was a victim of abuse at Edinburgh Academy. ITV

He has formed the Edinburgh Academy Survivors group last year with 39 former pupils.

The Edinburgh Academy hearings follow similar inquiries into other leading Scottish schools including Fettes College and Loretto.

Campbell previously alleged he was abused while at the school by former maths teacher and rugby coach Iain Wares, who also taught at Fettes College and now lives in South Africa.

Wares, 84, faces more than 80 charges of historic abuse relating to more than 40 victims aged as young as nine.

He also faces separate charges of sexual misconduct in Cape Town.

A South African court approved a UK extradition request in 2020 but the process has been delayed by an appeal against the decision.