Former East Sussex Schoolmaster Jailed for 20 Years Over 1970s Child Sex Abuse
Predatory Teacher Preyed on Vulnerable Boys
Raymond Langley, 76, has been locked up for two decades after a chilling spate of child sex offences at a school in East Sussex during the late 1970s. Langley, once housemaster and bursar at the now-defunct Tylehurst School in Forest Row, abused boys between 1977 and 1979.
Victims Brave Decades of Trauma to Speak Out
The gut-wrenching probe began in 2021 when a man reported being molested by Langley back in 1979. Sussex Police uncovered two victims, now in their 50s and 60s, who revealed repeated assaults. One said Langley forced boys to shower with him and sleep in his room to “avoid bullies” before abusing them. Another recounted being shown pornography prior to attacks.
Both received specialist support, leading to a full investigation. In June 2024, charges were brought against Langley, including:
- Four counts of buggery of a boy under 16
- Four counts of indecent assault
- Eight counts of indecency with a child
Swift Justice Delivered at Lewes Crown Court
On 22 September 2025, the jury took just two hours to find Langley guilty on all counts. On 10 October, Recorder Ms Q Whitaker labelled him a “coward” who preyed on vulnerable boys and forced victims to relive their nightmare during court proceedings, while he refused to testify. She praised the victims’ bravery for coming forward.
“Raymond Langley targeted vulnerable young boys who sought his help, abusing their trust in the most despicable ways. Both of these victims have carried the trauma of his crimes throughout their lives, and the bravery they have shown in reporting to the police cannot be overstated. I would like to thank both of them for coming to us, supporting this investigation, and giving the evidence at court that has brought a predator to justice.”– Detective Constable Jo Gledhill
“This outcome should send a message to victims and offenders that no matter how long ago offences took place, we will take action. It is never too late to report – if you are a victim, please come forward.”– Detective Inspector Steve Shimmons
