Nathan Bennett sentencing: Statement by Partou King Street nursery families

A jury previously found Bennett guilty of eight charges, including rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration relating to five children aged two or three, while working at Partou King Street nursery. 

Bennett, of Corston near Bath, Somerset, had previously pleaded guilty to 13 other charges involving four of the five children. He was sentenced today (Monday 16 March 2026) at Bristol Crown Court. 

Specialist abuse lawyers in Leigh Day’s human rights team currently represent a group of 12 families impacted by the actions of Nathan Bennett.

The group of families are represented by Leigh Day partner Andrew Lord and associate Zayna Mahmood. 

In a statement issued by Leigh Day, the families said: 

“Today’s sentence marks the end of a criminal investigation that has been devastating for families, but it does not begin to repair the harm caused to so many children. We entrusted our children to Partou King Street nursery believing they would be safe, cared for and nurtured. Instead, that trust was catastrophically broken by someone who abused his position in the most unimaginable way. 

“Over the months before Bennett’s arrest, a number of parents raised concerns about his behaviour. We know concerns were raised to members of staff – we believe those warnings and complaints were not properly followed up or escalated. Had appropriate action been taken sooner, we fear some of the abuse children suffered may have been prevented. 

“Nothing can undo what has happened. Our focus is now on supporting our children as they grow, and on seeking answers and accountability from those responsible for ensuring their safety. We are grateful to the police and prosecutors for bringing Bennett to justice, and to our legal team for now taking up the mantle in investigating potential systemic failings. We hope that by speaking out, meaningful changes will be made to protect other children in the future.” 

Andrew Lord said: 

“This is one of the most deeply distressing cases any parent can imagine. The families we represent placed their trust in a nursery setting which should have been a place of safety and care. The criminal proceedings have exposed not only Bennett’s appalling abuse, but also serious questions about safeguarding, supervision and the handling of concerns raised by parents and staff prior to his arrest. 

“We have heard of instances where parents dropped their children off and observed that Bennett appeared to be alone with very young children. Others are concerned about the potential missed opportunities given complaints were raised. 

“Today’s sentence is an important step in holding Bennett accountable for his heinous crimes, but it does not address any wider issues that may have allowed him to continue working with very young children despite warning signs. We are continuing to investigate civil legal action on behalf of families who are seeking answers, accountability and assurances that safeguarding has drastically improved.”