Teenage Nursery Worker Who Sexually Abused Young Children Jailed for 10 Years

Nursery Worker Sentenced to Decade in Jail for Sexual Abuse of Young Children

A former nursery worker has been sentenced to 10 years in detention after being found guilty of multiple offenses, including rape and inciting sexual activity against young boys. Thomas Waller, now 18, was convicted earlier this year (2025) at Staines Youth Court for exploiting his position of trust to sexually abuse children under his care.

Waller’s victims were two boys as young as three years old, whom he gained the trust of within days of starting work. The nursery worker was responsible for tasks such as taking children to the toilet and helping them get changed during his summer employment at a Surrey nursery in 2024.

The offenses occurred between July and August of that year.

Judge Claire Harden-Frost, presiding over Guildford Crown Court, described the case as “heartbreaking” when sentencing Waller. “It is heartbreaking to see these boys’ parents feeling responsible for what happened,” she said in court. The judge added that the sentences would serve as a deterrent to other individuals who might consider abusing their positions of trust.

Impact on Victims and Community

The emotional toll on the victims was evident through statements from their families. Jonathan Hulley, father of one of the boys, shared in a victim impact statement that his son had “gathered a collection of memories that I would never wish on a human being.” This statement underscores the severe and lasting psychological damage inflicted upon the children by Waller’s actions.

Children’s services within Surrey County Council also played a crucial role in addressing these disclosures. According to Jonathan Hulley, as a cabinet member for children, families, and lifelong learning, “I am appalled by the crimes committed by Thomas Waller and extend my deepest sympathies to the children and families affected.” He highlighted the immediate actions taken by Surrey County Council upon receiving information from safeguarding partners and regulatory bodies like Ofsted.

Immediate Actions and Future Implications

The nursery where the offenses took place responded promptly, taking “immediate action” as soon as concerns were raised about Waller. However, the judge’s sentence serves a dual purpose: it aims to protect future children from similar abuses while also serving as a warning to the wider community and institutions responsible for safeguarding young people.

“Our role has included co-ordinating information-sharing and actions between relevant bodies,” Hulley stated. “As the local authority, our absolute priority is the wellbeing and safeguarding of children and young people.” He urged anyone with concerns about individuals working with children to contact their designated officer for further assistance.

This case highlights the critical importance of robust child protection measures within nurseries and other childcare settings. It also serves as a reminder that even those entrusted with the care and safety of young children can pose significant risks if not properly vetted or monitored.