Evil Paedophile Jailed for 24 Years After Abusing Five Children at Bristol Nursery
Nathan Bennett, a 30-year-old early years practitioner, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for sexually abusing five children at the Partou King Street nursery in Bristol. Judge William Hart described Bennett as "evil" and "an incorrigible and dangerous paedophile," noting that he seriously considered imposing a life sentence due to the ongoing risk Bennett poses to children.
Details of the Abuse and Sentencing
Bennett won the trust of two- and three-year-old boys by showering them with affection before abusing them, sometimes in front of other children. The judge emphasized that the children's "extreme youth" made them highly vulnerable, and he condemned Bennett for prioritizing his sexual satisfaction over their welfare. Bennett was found guilty by a jury of eight offences, including rape, and pleaded guilty to 13 other charges related to four of the boys.
Judge Hart imposed an extended determinate sentence of 30 years, comprising 24 years in custody and six years on extended licence. He warned Bennett that if he fails to follow licence terms upon release, he will be recalled to prison to serve the full 30 years.
Impact on Families and Nursery Response
Parents of the victims expressed overwhelming guilt and anger, with one mother stating they had trusted the nursery as a safe place. A father described feeling "dead inside" upon learning of the abuse. In a statement issued by the law firm Leigh Day, 12 families asserted that the sentence does not repair the harm caused and highlighted that concerns about Bennett's behaviour were raised months before his arrest but not properly escalated.
The nursery, part of the Partou group, has implemented measures to strengthen safeguarding, including increased training, policy enhancements, and expanded CCTV use. A Partou spokesperson confirmed ongoing consultations with sector stakeholders and government to improve safeguarding across the industry.
